Sea Kayaking and Hiking Adventure Crete’s Coastal and Mountain Wonders

Set off on an epic five-day journey through Crete’s breathtaking landscapes, combining the thrill of sea kayaking with the beauty of hiking one of the island’s most famous trails. This adventure will take you from the charming town of Paleochora to the exotic sands of Elafonisi, through ancient ruins, along dramatic coastlines, and into the heart of the majestic Samaria Gorge. Along the way, you will encounter untouched beaches, serene villages, and awe-inspiring natural scenery that will leave you in wonder and amazement.

Itinerary

Day 1: Paleochora to Elafonisi and Back

Your adventure begins as you launch from Paleochora, cutting through the calm, crystal-clear waters towards Elafonisi. The scenic beauty unfolds with each paddle stroke, revealing rugged coastlines and secluded bays. Arriving at Elafonisi, you’re greeted by the exotic pink-tinged sands and shallow, turquoise waters. Here, the serenity is palpable, as you relax on the beach, swim in the clear waters, and marvel at the unique landscape. The return journey to Paleochora offers a different perspective, with the late afternoon light casting a golden glow over the coastline.

Day 2: Paleochora to Lissos and Sougia

Setting off from Paleochora once again, you paddle towards the ancient site of Lissos. The journey is marked by dramatic cliffs. While exploring Lissos, you feel the echoes of history in the air, imagining life in the ancient city as you wander among the remnants of temples and baths. Continuing to Sougia, the day’s paddle ends in a tranquil village, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s journey.

Day 3: Sougia to Agia Roumeli via Domata Beach

The next leg of your journey takes you from Sougia to Agia Roumeli, with a stop at the remote Domata Beach. As you paddle along the rugged coastline, the untouched beauty of Domata Beach reveals itself. The crystal-clear waters, pine forests, and dramatic gorges create a pristine natural setting that feels like a hidden paradise. Arriving at Agia Roumeli, the gateway to the Samaria Gorge, you are surrounded by lush pine forests that extend down to the beach. The sense of anticipation builds as you prepare for the hike ahead.

Day 4: Hike Samaria Gorge to Samaria Village

Today, you leave your kayak behind and embark on a hike through the iconic Samaria Gorge. The towering cliffs and narrow passages of the gorge create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Reaching the village of Samaria, nestled within the gorge, you feel a deep connection with the natural world.

Day 5: Agia Roumeli to Sfakia via Marmara Beach, Loutro, and Sweet Water Beach

The final day of paddling takes you along the coast from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia. Your first stop is Marmara Beach, known for its striking marble caves. The cool, blue waters and unique rock formations create a surreal landscape that feels otherworldly. Continuing to Loutro, you paddle into a picturesque village, its whitewashed buildings reflecting in the tranquil sea. The peacefulness of Loutro contrasts sharply with the rugged cliffs surrounding it.

Your last stop before Sfakia is Sweet Water Beach, famous for its remote beauty. As you paddle the final stretch to Sfakia, you reflect on the incredible journey, filled with unforgettable sights and experiences.

Throughout this adventure, you will be immersed in the stunning natural beauty and rich history of Crete. From the thrill of paddling through clear waters and exploring hidden caves to the serene moments spent on untouched beaches and hiking through dramatic gorges, every day offers a new and unforgettable experience. This journey is not just about the physical challenge, but also about connecting with nature, discovering new places, and creating lasting memories.

Itinerary

Day 1: Paleochora to Elafonisi and Back

• Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers (round trip)
• Highlights: Scenic coastal paddling, stunning white sands and pink-tinted shorelines of Elafonisi, crystal-clear waters.
• Details:
  • Kayak set up and briefing before you start your journey from Paleochora, heading west towards Elafonisi.
  • Enjoy the scenic coastal paddling with clear waters and beautiful beaches.
  • Take time to relax, swim, and explore the area.
  • Afternoon paddle back to Paleochora, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
• Overnight: Paleochora

Day 2: Paleochora to Lissos and Sougia

• Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers
• Highlights: Paddle along the rugged coastline, explore the ancient ruins of Lissos, enjoy the dramatic cliffs and clear waters.
• Details:
  • Briefing and depart from Paleochora, paddling along the rugged coastline towards Lissos.
  • Arrive at the ancient site of Lissos, explore the historic ruins, and take a break to swim and relax.
  • Continue paddling to Sougia, enjoying the dramatic cliffs and clear waters.
• Overnight: Sougia

Day 3: Sougia to Agia Roumeli via Domata Beach

• Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers
• Highlights: Paddle past Domata Beach, known for its remote and untouched beauty, clear waters, pine forests, and dramatic gorges.
• Details:
  • Morning: Depart from Sougia, paddling along the coastline towards Agia Roumeli.
  • Pass by Domata Beach, known for its remote and untouched beauty.
  • Afternoon: Arrive at Agia Roumeli, where the pine forests meet the beach and the Samaria Gorge ends.
• Overnight: Agia Roumeli

Day 4: Hike Samaria Gorge to Samaria Village

• Morning: Begin your hike from Agia Roumeli through the famous Samaria Gorge.
  • Reach the village of Samaria in the middle of the gorge, where you can explore the abandoned village and enjoy the nature.
• Afternoon: Hike back down to Agia Roumeli, taking in the unique landscapes and natural beauty.
• Overnight: Agia Roumeli

Day 5: Agia Roumeli to Sfakia via Marmara Beach, Loutro, and Sweet Water Beach

• Distance: Approximately 16 kilometers
• Highlights: Paddle along the rugged coastline, see the marble caves at Marmara Beach, enjoy the charming village of Loutro, and relax at Sweet Water Beach.
• Details:
  • Morning: Depart from Agia Roumeli, paddling along the rugged coastline.
  • Stop 1: Reach Marmara Beach, famous for its marble caves and unique rock formations. Take time to explore the caves and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Stop 2: Continue to the charming village of Loutro, nestled right on the water. Enjoy the picturesque whitewashed buildings and the serene environment.
  • Stop 3: Paddle onward to Sweet Water Beach, known for its remoteness and crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs.
• Afternoon: Continue your journey to Sfakia, completing the adventure.

Good to Know

• Transport: Take an early bus to Paleochora to meet the group or arrange a private transfer.
• Bus Schedule: Check the local bus schedule, as it varies depending on the month. Bus Schedule Information.
• Water Availability: Water can be purchased at Sfakia, Loutro, Agia Roumeli, and Sougia. Your guide will remind you every morning to refuel at each stop.
• Snacks: It’s best to carry some snacks and fruits for your day out paddling. These can be purchased at Paleochora, Sfakia, Loutro, Agia Roumeli, and Sougia.
• Meals: Consider making family-style dinners and lunches to take the opportunity to taste Cretan cuisine.
• Weather Considerations: Depending on the weather, we may start the trip from Sougia towards Sfakia.
• Accommodation: Accommodation is in shared double bedrooms.

Pricing Information

• Cost:
  • €1050 per person (minimum 4 participants)
  • €1350 for groups below 4 participants
  • Single room: +€200
• Starting dates:
  • April 31/03/25
  • May05/05/25, 26/05/25
  • October 20/10/25

Inclusions

• Included:
  • All sea kayak equipment and guide
  • Dry bags
  • 1 overnight in Paleochora
  • 1 overnight in Sougia
  • 2 overnights at Agia Roumeli
• Not Included:
  • All food and beverages
  • Transfers to Sfakia on Day 1 and from Sougia on Day 3
  • Entrance fees for Samaria Gorge

What to Bring

For the Paddling Hours

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Quick-Drying Clothing: Lightweight and breathable materials.
• Lightweight Towel: For drying off after paddling.
• Water Shoes or Sandals: Comfortable and suitable for wet conditions.

Extra

• Hiking Shoes: For land exploration.

Non-Paddling Time

• Evening Clothes: Lightweight and breathable shirts and pants for the evening breeze.
• Beanie or Warm Hat: For cooler evenings.
• Personal Medication: Any necessary medications you may need.

Other Important Items

• Insect Repellent: To ward off bugs during the night.
• Sunscreen and UV Lip Balm: Protect your skin from sunburn.
• Small Towel: Quick-drying for swimming or showers.
• Additional Kit: Toilet paper and hand sanitizer for hygiene.

Good Vibes are important!