The largest of the Greek islands is not merely a place for beach holidays. The landscape here is both varied and challenging once you move inland. Crete is also the location one of Greece's Biosphere Reserves. UNESCO's World Network of 553 Biosphere Reserves are recognised as places which innovate and demonstrate approaches to conservation and sustainable development. There are only two Biosphere Reserves in Greece, the other being Mount Olympus on the mainland and the highest mountain in Greece. Both sites became part of the scheme in 1981.

Single day walks and longer trekking trips are organised by various groups that take visitors into some of the remotest parts of Crete and the Gorge of Samaria is one of the most popular places. This area in Eastern crete is home to the White Mountains, a range of over 50 summits that are 2000m or higher. The highest peak of the range is Pachnes at 2453m although Mt. Psiloreitis (also known as Mt. Ida) is the highest point on the island, a mere 3m higher and where, legend has it, Zeus was born.

The Samaria Gorge is a very well protected area, with official checkpoints in various places to ensure the safety of visitors. If you arrive early enough it is easily possible to walk the entire 16km length of the gorge but if you arrive later in the day officials will only allow you to go so far. They want to ensure no-one gets left in the gorge overnight. Walkers in the gorge typically start at the inland point and walk (downhill) towards the sea. Starting early, especially during peak season, is recommended because there could be up to 3000 people walking the route on a busy days.