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Join us as we discover the beautiful north-western region of Crete – the largest and most varied of the Greek Islands, on this sociable walking holiday for solo travellers. Marvel at the views of the Cretan coastline and look forward to social taverna evenings – the perfect way to finish off a day’s walking!
Extras
We arrive into Crete and transfer to our hotel. This evening, we gather together to enjoy a welcome drink and information meeting at the hotel, followed by dinner at local taverna – The Cellar.
After breakfast, we drive to the archaeological site of Polyrrinia and the day begins with a fascinating tour around the picturesque village of Polyrrinia discovering the culture and history of this important archaeological area. After taking in the panoramic views of the sea and mountains, we descend on paths through fertile agricultural land and olive groves to Kissamos (Kastelli) where we enjoy a late lunch. The afternoon is free for relaxation or exploration.
Walking Distance – 9 km approx.
Today our walk encompasses wonderful scenery as well as a real insight into traditional Cretan life. We begin with an informative tour around a typical village house where a Cretan welcome awaits, and hear tales of Cretan past and present. Passing from the small hamlet with its abundance of trees – walnut, orange, lemon, cherry and olive, we follow a path through the mountainous countryside with amazing mountain and sea views, up to the traditional village of Milia, continuing through the beautiful hillsides to appreciate fantastic views.
Walking Distance – Approx 9km
Our walk today encompasses beautiful scenery over to the far west coast of Crete. Our route takes us through a pretty village, olive groves, along a path with stunning sea views which overlook the west coast of Crete. We end up at the stunning sandy beach of Falassarna. Here, we have time to swim in the crystal-clear ocean.
Walking Distance – Approx 6 km
Today can be spent at leisure to rest at the hotel or take an excursion such as the Gramvousa Boat Trip. This is a full day excursion to the island where you can see the ruins of an ancient fortress and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the wonderful lagoon of Balos. Approx €38
Today we take the main road leading from Ravdoucha to the beach, where we meet the Byzantine church of Agia Marina. This location has a unique sea view, and the temple is built in the rock recess. The church has a frescoed wall painting. As in many chapels on the Rhodopes peninsula, we also see inscriptions from the various travellers of the time. We follow a coastal path to the villages of Ravdoucha and Nopigia. We pass remote pebble beaches, such as the creeks of Choni and the quay of the Dark. Also on the path is the restored Byzantine church of St. Basil. We finish with a delicious Cretan lunch at the village taverna.
Walking Distance – Approx 8 km
Our final walk is along the spectacular gorges from Sirikari to Polyrinnia. This stunning walk will certainly not disappoint and takes in fantastic views. You may even spot Griffon vultures circling overhead. A beautiful way to finish our week of Cretan walking. In the evening, we meet for our final evening dinner together.
Walking Distance – 7 km approx.
Check-out and transfer to the airport for our flight home.
We stay at the comfortable family-run Sunny Bay Hotel, situated directly on a shingle beach and a short stroll to a seafront taverna.
Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and delightful terrace area, pool/snack-bar open all day and into the evening, breakfast room and a small mini market.
All rooms have satellite TV, a hairdryer, safe, air-conditioning (both at extra charge), fridge and balcony or terrace with a partial sea view.
Frequently Asked Questions
The transfer time from Chania Airport to the hotel takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on weather and traffic.
We suggest a Group Collection to cover guides, transfer drivers, and hotel staff of €20.00 per person. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, or taxi fares, your Tour Leader can advise of an appropriate % add on.
Five guided walks are included in the programme. The walking programme is graded Easy-Medium and you can expect to walk between 6-10 km per day with some ascents/descents, rough underfoot terrain and high altitudes involved
Below are the distances for each walk, however please bear in mind these are approximate and subject to change due to local conditions
Polyrinnia to Kisamos
Length approx 9km, Altitude: 160m ascent, 410m descent
Village Life Walk
Length approx 9km, Altitude: 245m ascent, 245m descent
Falassarna Walk
Length approx 6km, Altitude: 210m ascent, 240m descent
Deliana Gorge
Length approx 6km, Altitude: 210m ascent, 330m descent
Sirakari Gorge
Length approx 7km, Altitude: 75m ascent, 330m descent
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in your chosen activity holiday. If you are unsure as to whether the walks are within your capabilities, please contact the office to discuss this matter, thus making sure you appreciate the terrain that you will be walking.
You could be walking across uneven ground in some areas and extreme care must be taken, especially if wet. If used to using a pole/stick, it is advisable to bring it. Please appreciate the route and content of the holiday may change at the time and at the discretion of the guide/organiser, should conditions require. Solo’s Holidays Ltd cannot be held responsible for personal injury, accident or damage to property whilst on these walks other than incidents arising out of the company’s negligence. The guide has the right to refuse to guide a walk with anyone not properly attired.
It is of paramount importance that you have the correct footwear. It is essential to wear walking boots that are comfortable and preferably lightweight, with some ankle support and a good grip. If you already have a pair of boots that you are happy walking in (including during hot/wet weather and on hard ground), then bring these along. However, if you are bringing new footwear, do make sure they are well broken in before you arrive. Experience has shown that wearing 2 pairs of woollen socks adds to comfort.
Whilst we would hope for good weather during your holiday, it is of course impossible to guarantee this. We would therefore recommend you travel with clothing suitable for all conditions, and suggest you use the following checklist as a guideline of what to take:
A full 10-year passport is required, valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay.
A visa is not required by holders of passports endorsed “British Citizen” for stays of upto 90 days in any 180-day period.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct visa, a valid passport and any other travel documents for your holiday. All information provided relates to British citizens who hold or are entitled to apply for a British passport. For the most up-to-date visa information please visit; Greece Foreign Advice
If you are not a British citizen and do not hold a British passport, you must make your own enquiries as to the applicable requirements. Alternatively, you can apply for your Visa with our preferred partner the Travel Visa company by selecting the following link; Travel Visa Company
Euro
Please note:- Optional excursions are not guaranteed and are based on minimum numbers. The prices quoted are guideline only and may involve other non-Solos holidaymakers.
Average Temperatures
| Month(s) | Highest temperature | Lowest temperature |
|---|---|---|
| January - February | 16 °C | 8 °C |
| March | 17 °C | 10 °C |
| April | 20 °C | 12 °C |
| May | 24 °C | 15 °C |
| June | 28 °C | 18 °C |
| July - August | 29 °C | 21 °C |
| September | 27 °C | 19 °C |
| October | 24 °C | 16 °C |
| November | 21 °C | 13 °C |
| December | 17 °C | 10 °C |
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”
