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Trekking is not only a kind of sport, it is also a good way to get to know about a country and its people. In the villages, when you stop at a kafenion you will always be welcome as a xenos (stranger). On your journey when you visit a chapel or talk with a farmer or a shepherd you will get a feel for the Cretan traditions and way of life.
Trekking means to get in contact with nature. Some regions in the Cretan mountains are still untouched, wild gorges and ancient forests and in between fertile valleys and plains offer a rich alternative. Springtime is a real paradise for botanists, countless plants, some of them very rare, in bloom. Many species of orchids and lillies grow only on Crete. The fragrance of the aromatic herbs is unforgettable, many of which have healing powers. There is little wildlife on the island when compared to the vast variety of plants. However, it is possible to do some bird watching and find some interesting species of insects.
Trekking trails on Crete are not easy to find, maps are often inaccurate and the trails badly marked or sometimes not marked at all. Always try to find the latest edition of hiking books as the landscape is constantly changing through human influence. In particular the land close to villages change with for example trees being felled, new fields and roads created and fences being constructed. A good and safer alternative therefore is to walk in a small group with a guide. |
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IN SPRING AND AUTUMN 2010 ARE OFFERED EVERY TUESDAY AND SATURDAY GUIDED WALKS IN THE REGION OF MIRTOS AND EASTERN CRETE!
Some examples:
Roundwalk in Anatoli
The region above the village of Anatoli is very interesting because of its special rock formations and some rare flowers in spring. It is an easy walk on dirt tracks except a short part of approx ½ hour downhill through the fields. On some spots are beautiful views to both sides of the island, to the north and south coast.
Walking time: approx. 3½ hours
High distance: approx. 250 m up hill and down hill
Difficult: easy
Richti Gorge
After a drive from approx. 1 ¼ hours we start the walk at the edge of the village Exo Mouliana at the north coast. The first 2 hours we walk at dirt tracks up hill and then slowly down to a picnic place at the sea side. After all this great view to the cliffs and the sea we start now to enter a total different world. The small river in the gorge has the whole year water and we are walking in a jungle of trees, bushes and climbing plants back to our start point.
Walking time: 5 hours
High distance: approx. 300 m
Difficult: middle
Round walk in Kato Simi
Today we will walk in a forest region at the south side of the Dikti Mountain range.
A steep path leads up to a view point with great views over the surrounding villages and the sea. We continue on dirt tracks through the forest, pass an archeological site and return via an almost abandoned settlement back to the starting point.
Walking time: approx. 4 hours
High distance: approx. 400 m up hill and down hill
Difficulty: middle
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Angela Panagopoulou, born in Austria, lives on Crete since twenty five years and for the last thirteen years she has worked in tourism, first as a tour guide escorting organized excursions and later as a trekking guide. She is fluent in German, Greek, English and Dutch.
Trekking is also her private passion, especially in eastern Crete. During her time as a trekking guide she has discovered many old paths and trails which are not mentioned in any trekking books. Her favourite subject are plants and herbs.
Having lived on Crete for many years and speaking Greek she has built up good relationships with the people of the island which has helped her to learn a lot about their history, traditions and way of life
You may contact her to arrange an individual program for a group. Through her years of experience she can tailor walks to suit all needs and for any period of time, providing you with details of suitable accommodation and route and also assist you with the arranging of accommodation.
mobile number: 0030 6974 127305
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Important Information for Participants of a Walk:
You should have an average level of fitness and be in good health.
The terrain is partly rough so it is important to have good comfortable walking boots so that you can gain the maximum enjoyment from the walk.
Basic Equipment Required:
walking boots;
sun hat;
sun protection cream;
light waterproof jacket; and
a small backpack.
The average time of a walk is 3 to 5 hours, the routes are partly old cobbled paths or dirt tracks. The altitude is dependent on the walk and varies between 300 and 600 metres. There will be breaks during the trek to rest, observe plants, wildlife and enjoy the beautiful views. Trekking is no race through nature but more an opportunity to be part of nature.
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