Top Hiking Experiences and Affordable Crete Hotels

Go beyond the beaches and bars and discover the real Crete - a land of mountains, gorges and caves. For walkers and hikers, Crete is a paradise replete with unspoiled areas brimming with native flora and fauna. Whether you want a gentle walk along a hilly path or a challenging hike to the top of one of Crete's mountain ranges, you are certain to find what you are looking for on the island. Complete your stay on the island by booking a room in one of the many comfortable and affordable Crete hotels, where prices start from under £10 per person per night.

Hiking Basics

Crete enjoys a temperate climate with mild temperatures throughout most of the year. Most hikers avoid visiting the island from late October through to April due to colder temperatures and rainy days. The flowers on the island peak in April, when many hikers and walkers enjoy flower-filled jaunts through the countryside. May and June are pleasant times to visit the island due to the slightly warmer temperatures and the uncrowded conditions. Peak tourist season runs from mid-June to early September, meaning high prices and crowded beaches, restaurants and hotels. Many hikers choose to visit the island during the last 2 weeks of September when the warm waters mean they can cool off with a swim after a vigorous hike in the mountains.

When preparing to hike the island, bring sturdy walking boots and a large sun hat to protect you from the island's strong sun. While you are likely to encounter small villages along the way with restaurants and pubs, bring along plenty of water and snacks to ward off hunger in between stops.

Most hikers take day hikes and base themselves out of one of the many Crete hotels located along the beach in resort areas. This allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds - hikes through the mountains interspersed with some relaxing time spent by the pool or ocean.

Where to Go

Samarian Gorge

Internationally renowned as Europe's longest gorge, the Samarian Gorge hike is a must-do for many hiking devotees. The Samarian Gorge National Park is located in the White Mountain range situated in the Western part of Crete. Visitors to the gorge can marvel at over 450 species of plants and flowers and see the wild Cretan mountain goats. Expect the hike to take 4 to 8 hours - grab a snack in the village of Samaria, located at the halfway point.

Asterousia Mountains

Located near the city of Heraklion in the southern part of Crete, this mountain range offer panoramic views of the island. The climb to the top of the highest peak, Mount Kofinas, is quick and easy, but not for the faint-of-heart due to the height of the climb. While in the area, visit the ancient Koudouma monastery, which also boasts breathtaking views of the area. Expect dramatic transformations in the landscape as you hike through the mountains - rocky mountains dotted with pine trees give way to a desert landscape that looks like something straight out of Egypt.

Western Crete Day Hikes

Ancient pathways and shepherds trails criss-cross the western portion of the country--many unused except by wild goats or curious travelers. Ask at one of the Crete hotels located throughout the area for tips on the nearest and most scenic day walks in the area.

For more details on accommodation in Crete and for other top Greece hotels visit Hotels4u.com.