The best hikes in White Mountains are a great way to chase summer vibes in Crete. Lithari Stone Villa is a stone house in the small village of Kampoi, near Chania. You can drive 20 km to the center of Chania, 33 km to the airport, and 16 km to the nearest beach in Kalives. We can host up to 6 guests in a quiet spot with a big view of the White Mountains and the sea. In this blog, we share 7 top hikes near our home. These trails will help you feel fresh air, cool shade, and warm sun this summer.
Table of Contents
Top Hikes in the White Mountains of Crete
1. Samaria Gorge Trail
Start at Omalos Plateau, just 16 km from Lithari Stone Villa. Samaria Gorge is Europe’s longest gorge. You will walk 16 km down steep walls and end at the sea in Agia Roumeli. The trail shows tall cliffs, rare birds, and wild goats.
Key Details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5
- Fee: €5 per person
- Location: Omalos Plateau, Samaria National Park
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM in summer
- Transport: Ferry from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion
Learn more about Samaria National Park.
2. Imbros Gorge Trail
Just 19 km from Lithari, start at Imbros Village. The trail is 8 km long and takes about 3 hours. It is wide and smooth so it is great for families and dogs. You follow a stream and walk between high rock walls. The hike ends at Komitades, where a van or bus will take you back.
Key Details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5
- Fee: Free
- Location: Imbros Village, Sfakia
- ⏰ Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Dog-friendly: Yes (on leash)
Learn more about Imbros Gorge.
3. Agia Irini Gorge Trail
Drive 30 km south to the Xilo Faneromeni car park. Agia Irini Gorge is 7 km long and takes 3–4 hours. The trail is full of pine trees and cool shade. It ends at Sougia, a quiet coastal village with beach tavernas.
Key Details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5
- Fee: Free
- Location: Xilo Faneromeni, Sougia
- ⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Return: Bus from Sougia to Omalos
Learn more about Agia Irini Gorge.
4. Aradena Gorge & Bridge
Aradena Gorge starts at a stone bridge high above the sea. It is 45 km from Lithari. The one-way trail is 6 km and wild. You follow a river bed and see steep cliffs. The old bridge was built by local workers long ago. The end is in Marmara Bay, where you can rest by clear water.
Key Details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5
- Fee: Free
- Location: Aradena Bridge, Sfakia
- ⏰ Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- ⚠️ Note: No shade and loose rocks in places
Learn more about Aradena Gorge.
5. Omalos Plateau to Pachnes Summit
For a mountain top view, hike from Omalos Plateau to Mt. Pachnes, the second-highest peak in Crete (2,453 m). It is 16 km from our villa to Omalos. The trail is 6 km one way, with 1,000 m of climb. Expect loose stones and wire mesh on slabs. From the top, you see 360-degree views of White Mountains, the sea, and mainland Greece.
Key Details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5
- Fee: Free
- Location: Omalos Plateau
- ⏰ Hours: 5:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- ⚠️ Gear: Hiking poles, good boots, and wind jacket
6. Livaniana Waterfall Loop
Livaniana is a village 35 km from Lithari. The loop trail is 7 km and takes 2–3 hours. You walk past old waterwheels and waterfalls. The path is in the shade of chestnut trees. In summer the cool water is perfect to rest by.
Key Details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5
- Fee: Free
- Location: Livaniana Village, Askifou Plateau
- ⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Facilities: Small cafe in the village
7. Gonia Monastery & Sfentoni Cave Walk
This easy 4 km loop is 20 km from our stone villa. Start at Gonia Monastery and head up a stone path to Sfentoni Cave. Inside the cave, you see stalagmites and old carvings. The path then loops back through olive terraces and offers a view of the White Mountains.
Key Details:
- ⭐ Ratings: 4.4/5
- Fee: €2 donation at monastery
- Location: Gonia Monastery, near Omalos
- ⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Family-friendly: Yes
Tips & Tricks from Lithari Stone Villa
- Start hikes early (before 9:00 AM) to avoid midday heat.
- Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and a sun hat.
- Rent a car: most trailheads need a car for easy access.
- Check trail and weather conditions at local offices.
- Bring snacks: local cheese pies and fruit are great energy boosters.
- For more local trail stories and guides, visit our Hiking Stories.
- Need help or have questions? Visit our Contact page—we are here 24/7.
Final Thoughts
Hiking the White Mountains near Lithari Stone Villa is a top summer adventure.
Each trail has its own charm, from cool gorges to high peaks.
After a day on the trail, relax by the fireplace, enjoy our stone terraces, and watch the stars.
Book your stay now and make your summer hike a memory you will never forget: https://www.litharistonevilla.gr/
What is the most scenic hike in the White Mountains?
In Crete’s White Mountains, the Samaria Gorge Trail is the most scenic hike. Tall cliffs rise on both sides, wild goats roam free, and the trail ends by the Libyan Sea.
What is the terrifying 25?
The Terrifying 25 refers to New Hampshire’s rugged trails, not Crete’s. Here we have our own bold climbs, such as the Pachnes summit route with steep ridges and loose rock.
What is the most popular hike in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire the Franconia Ridge Loop is the top choice. On Crete you can try the popular Samaria Gorge instead for a full-day adventure with ferry ride included.
What is the easiest hike in the White Mountains?
Imbros Gorge is the easiest in Crete’s White Mountains. The path is wide and smooth, and the 8 km walk takes about 3 hours with plenty of shade.
What is the best time to hike the White Mountains?
In Crete, the best time is late spring (May) and early summer (June) before the peak heat. Mornings and late afternoons are cooler for a safe, cool hike.
How do I book my stay at Lithari Stone Villa?
You can book online on our https://www.litharistonevilla.gr/reservations/ or email us at info@litharistonevilla.gr. We look forward to hosting you!
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