Escorted Tours
Walking in Western Crete
Far from the crowds and purpose-built resorts, the far west of the island gives you the opportunity to discover a more authentic Crete and its traditional culture.
Our base will be at the provincial town of Kissamos, predominantly an agricultural working town, which offers a glimpse of local life mixed with a touch of tourism. It is situated in the middle of a bay that sits between the ‘fingers’ of two peninsulas, Gramvousa and Rodopos on the north coast.
The itinerary includes 5 guided walks, graded easy to medium, covering a distance of 6 to 9 kilometres a day.
what’s included
At A Glance
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.
Day 1: Fly from London Gatwick to Chania
On arrival, transfer by coach to Kissamos (approx. 45 mins) and the Sunny Bay Hotel. Dinner at the nearby Cellar Taverna.
Day 2: Our first walk takes us from the pretty rural village of Polyrinnia through olive groves to Kastelli
Our day begins with an informative and historical tour around the picturesque village of Polyrinnia after which we walk up to its ancient archaeological site.
After taking in the panoramic views over the Bay of Kissamos to the North and the White Mountains to the South we descend on paths through olive groves to Kastelli where a welcome lunch awaits. Evening at leisure.
Day 3: Walking around the villages of Milia and Topolia to the cave of Agia Sophia
Starting today’s walk in local villages provides a glimpse of a continuing traditional way of life. Passing through a small hamlet with an abundance of walnut, orange, lemon and cherry trees, we follow a track to the village of Milia where the original stone houses have been beautifully restored.
After a refreshment we follow the track high up into the hills for splendid views towards the mountains and the gorge of Topolia. After lunch we return to Kissamos. Rest of the day and evening at leisure.
Day 4: A walk to Falassarna through undulating countryside to one of the loveliest beaches on Crete
There will be an opportunity to swim in the crystal clear sea here and time to enjoy our picnic lunch. Dinner this evening will be in the picturesque Venetian harbour town of Chania.
Day 5: Full day to relax and explore Kissamos at your leisure
We will be happy to offer suggestions for activities – it might be possible to join an organised tour to the infamous Samaria Gorge – 16km in length – that begins high in the White Mountains and descends to the sea on the south coast. Or perhaps a boat trip from Kissamos to the beautiful lagoon of Balos. Alternatively, you might like to return to explore the delights of Chania Town. Breakfast only is included today.
Day 6: Ravdouca Cape to seaside Nopigia
Today’s walk is beautifully picturesque, following paths on the peninsula of Ravdouca, which offers lovely seaside views. The walk winds down to quiet Nopigia, situated next to the sea with the wide beautiful bay of Kissamos in front of you. Enroute we shall visit an ancient church and will finish our walk with lunch at a local restaurant. Evening at leisure.
Day 7: Walking from Sirikari to Polyrinnia
Our walk begins high above the bay of Kissamos with spectacular views. We will pass through the peaceful gorge of Sirikari where Griffon vultures nest in the rock face. There will be time for a welcome rest stop at a beautiful old Venetian stone bridge under the shade of platanos (plane) trees before we begin the descent to Polyrinnia where we will enjoy lunch before returning to Kastelli. Dinner at the Cellar taverna included this evening.
Day 8: Departure
Transfer by coach back to Chania airport for your return flight to London Gatwick.
Important information
The walks will take you over mountain ridges, along secluded coastlines, amongst slopes covered in olive groves, through valleys bordered with chestnut trees and abandoned villages. There is one free day included in the itinerary and our local guide will be happy to suggest places to visit. Walking boots are essential, and clients should be in good health.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“The hotel by the sea in Western Crete was in a beautiful location, and the spring flowers and abundant greenery were truly spectacular. Vangelis was an excellent guide throughout: funny, informative and very adaptable to the needs of the group, which really helped make the experience enjoyable despite the varied walking conditions.”
Anonymous, travelled May 2026
“Vangelis was absolutely superb throughout the trip, keeping everything perfectly organised and handling the group with ease and good humour. The walks were stunning and the hotel was very comfortable, making for a really enjoyable experience overall.”
Mr K, travelled May 2026
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Sunny Bay Hotel
Our base for the week is the friendly Sunny Bay Hotel situated on Kissamos’ small promenande, right next to the sea. The hotel offers simple comfortable bedrooms with private bath/shower, air-conditioning (extra charge payable locally if required), TV, and balcony.
Sunny Bay Hotel Website
Our View Of The Hotels
The hotel offers simple, comfortable bedrooms with private facilities and balconies. Breakfast is taken at the hotel and dinner will be provided at a local taverna, ensuring you have the opportunity to enjoy very tasty local Cretan cuisine, which is situated on Kissamos’ seaside promenade.
our regular tours
Mobility Information
The walks will take you over mountain ridges, along secluded coastlines, amongst slopes covered in olive groves, through valleys bordered with chestnut trees and abandoned villages. There is one free day included in the itinerary and our local guide will be happy to suggest places to visit. Walking boots are essential, and clients should be in good health.
Our walking tours are designed for travellers who enjoy exploring on foot and discovering destinations through their landscapes, streets and pathways. As with all our tours, the grading is intended to help you choose the experience that best matches your interests and comfort level.
This is a moderate, manageable walking itinerary with relatively gentle terrain and limited elevation. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and you should be happy walking for several hours over the course of a day with regular stops to explore.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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