A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Explore the charm of "unspoiled Crete" as you traverse scenic walking trails adorned with wildflowers, meander through lush valleys, and explore stunning gorges. Immerse yourself in the local culture by connecting with residents, sharing a glass of wine, and savouring the renowned Cretan cuisine at authentic taverns.
Crete
Landscape
March - October
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Expertly planned, flexible walking itineraries, led by you, with accommodation, route plans, and luggage transfers all taken care of by us.
Overview
Discover the unspoiled beauty of Crete by following walking paths through wildflowers, lush valleys, and breathtaking gorges. Connect with the locals, enjoy a glass of wine, and savor the famous Cretan cuisine in local taverns.
This tour takes you from the fertile green agricultural area of Apokoronas, through the White Mountains, to the astonishing south coast with its renowned gorges. Begin in Vamos, a traditional village east of Chania. Meet the locals at the "kafeneion," share a "raki" with them, and stay in a beautifully restored old house with views of the White Mountains during breakfast. Explore the White Mountains, walking at an altitude of 1,300m surrounded by the stunning white peaks.
On the south coast, traverse two beautiful gorges: the Imbros Gorge and the Aradhena Gorge, experiencing the diverse landscapes of Crete.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
65110
After a stay in Athens, visit two contrasting Greek islands, close to the Greek mainland, where blue waters meet tranquil shores and the walking is superb
Experience the beauty of two Cyclades gems in one trip: Santorini and Naxos. Santorini, shaped by ancient volcanic activity, captivates with its dazzling whitewashed houses, vivid sea, and stunning sunset-lit caldera.
Explore a lesser-known Greece as you follow cobbled mule paths and marvel at the dramatic views of Greece's "Grand Canyon", the Vikos Gorge
The lush green mountainous peninsula of Pelion, on mainland Greece, offers walks from village to village via old cobbled paths, sometimes through forest, sometimes along the sea shore. Picturesque, turquoise bays that invite you to swim. This is the land of the mythical Centaurs, half human, half horse.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Accommodation
Arrive in Vamos either by pre-arranged taxi or public transport from Chania or Heraklion Airport. Enjoy an afternoon leisurely walk through the charming and picturesque village of Vamos. Transfer Vrysses Bus station to Vamos included, please make us aware if needed at the time of booking.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Embark on a delightful stroll through the agricultural scenery of Apokoronas. Traverse various villages, encounter a monastery, come across scattered churches, and witness the oldest olive press in Western Crete. This pleasant walk serves as an introduction to the area on the first day of your walking tour.
Meals
Accommodation
Transfer Vamos to Nippos, Nippos to Askifou included.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Commence your journey in Nippos, a village nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of the Apokoronas District. The hills are adorned with cypresses and olive groves, creating a picturesque scene against the snowy summits of Lefka Ori in the background. It feels like stepping into a beautiful painting. Following your route, a convenient taxi transfer awaits to take you to the next accommodation, located on the expansive Askifou Plain beneath the appropriately named 'White Mountains.'
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Prepare for a demanding mountain hike ascending to 1300 meters, providing breathtaking views of 2000-meter-high peaks blanketed in spring snow. In this secluded expanse, devoid of villages, you might encounter a shepherd tending to their flock of goats or sheep. The appeal of the heart of Sfakia as a hideout over the centuries becomes evident. On your return journey to Askifou, descend along a picturesque old woodland trail that meanders through dense forests, occasionally offering stunning vistas across the plain.
Accommodation
Transfer Askifou to Imbros Gorge, luggage to Chora Sfakion included.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
A brief transfer brings you to Imbros, where you gather lunch provisions before embarking on a journey through the island's second most renowned gorge. It's a challenging two-hour trek across rugged terrain along a rocky riverbed, punctuated by occasional easier stretches to lift your spirits. The landscape here feels otherworldly, and at its narrowest point, the Imbros Gorge narrows down to a mere 1.60 meters! Take a moment of quiet contemplation during lunch, trying to fathom the immense forces that shaped this remarkable scenery.
Komitades awaits at the gorge's end, featuring inviting taverns for a well-deserved break. Once refreshed, traverse cultivated fields to reach Chora Sfakion, a charming cluster of whitewashed buildings nestled beside the deep blue waters of the Libyan Sea. Conclude your day with a revitalizing and well-earned swim.
Meals
Accommodation
Luggage transfer on morning ferry to Chora Sfakion to Loutro included. Luggage at reception at 09:30am latest.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Ascend through the Ilinga Gorge to reach the genuine village of Anopolis, where you engage with locals at the 'kafeneion' and indulge in the delightful Sfakiana pitta—a delicious type of pancake filled with cream cheese and honey. Reinvigorated with newfound energy for the rest of your journey, meander along a splendid path descending to the village of Loutro, concealed beside a small, perfectly round bay. This idyllic, car-free enclave is accessible solely by ferry or foot.
Meals
Accommodation
This walk is at the top of Grade 6, please read the route notes thoroughly to ensure you are able to complete the walk.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Ascend to the village of Anopolis via a steep zig-zag path. Continue your journey towards Ancient Aradhena, situated on the outskirts of the impressive Aradhena Gorge. Walk a a spectacular path that descends into the Aradhena Gorge, following it until you reach the coast. In 2024, a minor adjustment to the track will provide slightly easier access to the gorge. In the final segment of today's trek, follow a coastal path back to Loutro. Alternatively, opt for a shorter 4-hour walk today via Livaniana, a quaint village, descending through the Aradhena Gorge to the sea.
Meals
Catch the morning ferry returning to Chora Sfakion and then make your way to Chania or Heraklion Airport via public transport or a pre-arranged taxi transfer. Bid farewell as you leave behind one of the most enchanting areas on Crete.
From (GBP)£599
Arrival in Vamos
The nearest airport is Chania (CHQ). There are direct charter flights from most UK airports directly to Chania, as well as domestic flights from Athens (ATH). From Chania to Vamos, there is a public bus which runs but it is not a good connection. The best way to reach Vamous is through pre booking a transfer, please enquire with out reservations team if you would like to pre-book.
Heraklion airport (HER) also has direct flights from some UK airports. From the bus station in Heraklion city (6km from the airport, accessible by bus or taxi) there are direct buses to Chania (duration trip 2 hours). The bus also stops in the village Vrysses, near Vamos, and a taxi transfer from Vrysses to Vamos is included in this package. Please let us know at the time of booking if you need this transfer.
You may travel via Athens (ATH) and take the night ferry from Piraeus to Chania, leaving daily around 9 pm and arriving in Chania at 6 am the next morning. There are cabins with comfortable berths on board and all cabins are en-suite.
Departure from Loutro
From the last overnight location, Loutro, you travel per ferry to Chora Sfakion in 20 mins and continue by public bus to Chania or Heraklion. In case your flight departs in the morning you have to either book an extra night in Chania or Heraklion or book a private taxi transfer from Chora Sfakion to the airport.
You can also take the daily overnight ferry from Chania back to Piraeus to fly back from Athens.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the type of accommodation you will be allocated on this holiday. Your final accommodation list will be confirmed on your travel documents, these will usually be with you around two weeks prior to departure.
Typically, the houses are divided into smaller, self-contained units. Within these dwellings, you'll encounter distinctive architectural elements, including traditional sofa beds often placed on a loft within the room. The furniture, while adhering to traditional styles, caters to modern comfort standards. The inclusion of handmade traditional embroideries enhances the authentic feel, allowing you to immerse yourself in the ambiance of a local Cretan resident in a rural village. Each house is unique, featuring a kitchen or kitchenette, a well-appointed bathroom, a TV, and a terrace or garden. Some houses even boast fireplaces for added cosiness.
Nestled at an elevation of 800 meters in Askifou Village, Panorama boasts an outdoor pool and accommodations with captivating views of the White Mountains. The on-site restaurant specializes in Cretan cuisine and local delicacies, while complimentary WiFi is accessible in public spaces.
The units at Panorama Askifou are luminous and spacious, each opening to a furnished balcony. Amenities comprise a mini-fridge, dining table, and TV. Additionally, some units feature a kitchenette and a fireplace in the seating area.
Situated along the waterfront of Chora Sfakion, merely 10 meters from the Libyan Sea, Livikon by the Sea hotel presents 10 rooms, each equipped with a balcony offering scenic sea views. Complimentary WiFi is accessible throughout the entire property.
All air-conditioned accommodations provide direct views of the Libyan Sea and the encompassing mountains. They are equipped with a TV featuring satellite channels, as well as a refrigerator. Additionally, each unit includes a bathroom with a shower and complimentary toiletries.
Guests can kickstart their day with a Greek Continental breakfast served in the hotel's outdoor terrace restaurant area. The hotel's restaurant also features a bar, offering snack options for guests.
Nestled along the stunning waterfront of the picturesque village of Loutro, on the southwest coast of Crete, Kyma Hotel is positioned 75 km south of Chania.
As a small and welcoming establishment, Kyma Hotel provides rooms and studios, each featuring balconies that offer captivating views of the beautiful turquoise bay and mountains. The hotel is complemented by a well-liked taverna situated at the water's edge, where guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring local specialties and Mediterranean dishes.
Trip Information
Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.
Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
If your holiday does not include dinners (see itinerary) we recommend budgeting an additional £25-30 per day.
The currency in Greece is the euro.
Tipping
Tips are not included in the holiday price. Although entirely at your own discretion, tipping is an important aspect of tourism and hospitality life and expectations are fairly high. We strongly recommend when receiving good service you make a tip to the local supplier.
Arrival in Vamos
The nearest airport is Chania (CHQ). There are direct charter flights from most UK airports directly to Chania, as well as domestic flights from Athens (ATH). From Chania to Vamos, there is a public bus which runs but it is not a good connection. The best way to reach Vamous is through pre booking a transfer, please enquire with out reservations team if you would like to pre-book.
Heraklion airport (HER) also has direct flights from some UK airports. From the bus station in Heraklion city (6km from the airport, accessible by bus or taxi) there are direct buses to Chania (duration trip 2 hours). The bus also stops in the village Vrysses, near Vamos, and a taxi transfer from Vrysses to Vamos is included in this package. Please let us know at the time of booking if you need this transfer.
You may travel via Athens (ATH) and take the night ferry from Piraeus to Chania, leaving daily around 9 pm and arriving in Chania at 6 am the next morning. There are cabins with comfortable berths on board and all cabins are en-suite.
Departure from Loutro
From the last overnight location, Loutro, you travel per ferry to Chora Sfakion in 20 mins and continue by public bus to Chania or Heraklion. In case your flight departs in the morning you have to either book an extra night in Chania or Heraklion or book a private taxi transfer from Chora Sfakion to the airport.
You can also take the daily overnight ferry from Chania back to Piraeus to fly back from Athens.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
Should you have decided to book any overseas flight arrangements through us, details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
After booking your holiday, expect to receive a confirmation and holiday information sheet soon after.
Once you've settled your balance, about 2 weeks before your holiday, you'll get instructions on how to log into your ActiveNav or GUIBO App. Grab your Apple or Android smartphone and head to the app store for a quick download. Once installed, the app grants you access to all route information and provides guidance on how to navigate it.
Around 2 weeks prior to your departure, you'll also get a destination manual & road book. This comprehensive guide includes detailed information on your walking route and interesting facts about the areas you'll stay in. Alongside, a trip voucher will confirm all the services booked for you, complete with the names and addresses of your hotels and other service providers. Be prepared to present this voucher as confirmation at your accommodations, and don't forget to bring along a valid form of ID.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
In general all of our self-guided holidays are on a bed and breakfast basis with breakfast provided at your accommodation. Depending on the route you are walking and access to local services such as restaurants, cafes and supermarkets, your itinerary may include packed lunches, dinners or a mix of both. Please refer to the individual itinerary and what is included for accurate information.
Footwear
Footwear is a walker’s personal choice; however, we suggest lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support and may be essential for some walks.
Luggage Transfers
On a self guided holiday, the days you walk from one property to another, your main luggage will be transferred for you as part of your holiday arrangements. This leaves you free to just carry what you need for the day. Please refer to your individual itinerary for which days your luggage will be transferred. Before you leave your accommodation in the morning, please speak with your host for where the luggage should be left and by what time.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Greece
Electricity in Greece is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Greece
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Greece.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
You may also wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.
There is a low to no risk of malaria in Greece. Malaria risk is from May to October and is very limited; confined to the villages of the Evrotas delta area in Lakonia district. Please seek advice from your doctor or travel clinic.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Reviews
Useful Information
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Currency
Language
Time Difference
Flight duration
Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 91mm
February
Avg. Rain: 78mm
March
Avg. Rain: 65mm
April
Avg. Rain: 43mm
May
Avg. Rain: 29mm
June
Avg. Rain: 15mm
July
Avg. Rain: 10mm
August
Avg. Rain: 11mm
September
Avg. Rain: 28mm
October
Avg. Rain: 71mm
November
Avg. Rain: 94mm
December
Avg. Rain: 106mm
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