Usually, we associate the island of Crete only with the sea, beaches, yachts, and, of course, its vast historical heritage. Quite undeservedly, another opportunity offered by this incredible island remains far back in our minds - to explore its mountains and coastal hiking trails.

Crete's terrain is mountainous, and the rocks are mainly composed of sandstone. Rivers have carved through the mountains, forming deep gorges. On the southwest side of the island, the shores are steep and therefore untouched by the mass construction of roads, hotels, and resorts. The wild nature, combined with beautiful views of the sea, is what attracts many hiking tourists from around the world.

One of Europe's hiking routes also passes through Crete. It's the International Tourist Path E4 (Ευρωπαϊκό Μονοπάτι Μεγάλων Αποστάσεων Ε4). In Crete, the section of the E4 starts from the west, from the town of Kissamos or Kastelli (Κίσσαμος ή Καστέλι) heading east, crossing the island's most important mountain ranges until reaching the town of Kato Zakros (Κάτω Ζάκρος).