Mountains of Crete and the Peloponnese
Greece in most people’s minds is almost synonymous with a beach vacation, but the country is mountainous and has loads to offer the intrepid hiker. Criss-crossed by centuries worth of shepherds trails, the mountains of Crete and the Peloponnese offer a low traffic, authentic way to experience this charming land and immerse yourself in antiquity.
The E4 long distance trail tracks the spine of the country from the mainland through the Peloponnese peninsula and across the island of Crete. The White Mountains of Crete are stark and stunning. A series of canyons link the mountains with the Aegean Sea and the pretty coastal towns of Crete’s south-western coastline.
These are rugged, storied mountains populated by hardworking shepherds and their flocks. The tourist hordes of the Greek islands feel a world away.
Across the sea on the Peloponnese peninsula, the E4 and the largely overlapping Peloponnese Way provide a helpful framework as you trek village to village while daydreaming of the adventures and conquests of Achilles, Hercules and Odysseus that scarred these lands.
Food and rest can be found in the numerous villages and hamlets along the way. Or throw up a hammock and sleep among the giant plane trees.
Bon Voyage, and see you on the trail.
