Described as a walker's paradise by many, the island combines a mild, dry climate with spectacular high mountains, coastal paths and, in places, wonderful isolation. A huge network of ancient walkways and traditional trails used by shepherds links together hundreds of small villages which provide places to stop and gather refreshments as well as places to stay overnight.

The biggest mountain range on Crete is Lefka Ori, or the White Mountains, and can be found in the west of the island. The mountains gain their name from their year-round whiteness caused by snow in the winter and the limestone rock that becomes visible once the snow has melted in the spring.

There are several main peaks here that reach over 2000m with the highest being the Pachnes at 2453m ( compare that to Mont Blanc in the Alps at 4808m ). The difference between the White Mountains and a similar UK range such as the Cairngorms is the gorges that are to be found between the peaks. These dramatic features were created by millions of years of eroding flood waters and are certainly worthy rewards for walkers who venture far enough into the mountains to find them. Possibly the most famous is the Samaria Gorge, which claims to be the longest gorge in Europe at 18km and has spectacular sheer walls reaching up to 600m in height. A day trip walking the entire length of the gorge is a popular choice.

For climbers there are also plenty of challenges on Crete with recognised routes in several of the gorges and also on the coastal areas. The use of a local guide and sticking to well documented routes is advised. Also the climbs here will use the UIAA system of grading not the typical British ratings. Popular climb areas include the Agiofarago gorge, Kapetaniana and the Therissos gorge located a short distance from Chania. ( picture by Erik Przekop)