Explore the White Mountains of Crete

Embarking on the full-day excursion to the White Mountains of Crete from Chania was an enlightening adventure that combined cultural immersion with the island’s stunning natural beauty. Here’s a detailed recount of our experience:

Pickup and Meeting Point

We were conveniently picked up from our hotel in Old Chania at 8:00 am. The small group size ensured a personalized experience, allowing us to receive more attention from our knowledgeable guide.

Exploring the Valley and Foothills

Nteres Our journey began with a scenic drive through fertile valleys brimming with orange and avocado trees. This drive gave us a wonderful glimpse into traditional Cretan agriculture. We made a stop at Deres village, where we enjoyed panoramic views and a delightful coffee break.

• Drive to Deres village (30 minutes)
• Deres coffee stop (30 minutes)

Venturing Through Authentic Villages

Meskla Next, we ventured through several charming Cretan villages—Vatolakos, Alikianos, Fournes, Meskla, Zourva, and Therisso. Each village revealed unique aspects of mountainous Crete’s rich cultural tapestry. We took a memorable photo stop in Meskla to capture the essence of these authentic locales.

• Drive to Meskla village (45 minutes)
• Meskla photo stop (20 minutes)

Ascending to the Secluded Shepherd’s Hut

Zourva Our adventure took us off the beaten path as we ascended to a secluded shepherd’s hut known as “Mitato.” This drive through uncharted terrain was filled with sightings of wild eagles and goats. At an elevation of 1350 meters, we explored the shepherd’s hut, learning about its historical significance in the production of Cretan “Graviera” cheese.

• Drive to mountain viewpoint (off-road) (35 minutes)
• Mountain viewpoint photo stop (10 minutes)
• Drive to the Shepherd’s Hut (off-road) (35 minutes)
• Shepherd’s Hut “Mitato” visit (30 minutes)

Return Journey via Therisso Village

Theriso Our return journey took us through the historic village of Therisso. Here, we marveled at panoramic views of Chania, strolled through the village’s historic streets, and enjoyed a sumptuous lunch at a charming Cretan family tavern.

• Drive to Therissos village (35 minutes)
• Lunch stop at Therissos tavern (1 hour, 15 minutes)

Conclusion

The full-day excursion to the White Mountains of Crete was a captivating blend of nature, history, and culture. The small group size, knowledgeable guide, and thoughtfully planned itinerary made for an unforgettable experience. This tour is perfect for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and immerse themselves in the heart of Cretan life.