What you get on this adventure: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 8-day all-women hiking tour in Crete (5 days of hiking) 7 nights in your own en-suite studio/apartment with kitchen facilities Breakfast provided for you each morning at Mertiza Apartments Evening meals in local restaurants for 6 nights Airport transfer to and from Heraklion All local transports required for walks What’s not included: Meals not included in the itinerary Entry tickets/parking Guide gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — mandatory Additional drinks Airport transfer outside the predetermined time (possible to arrange for a fee, let us know in advance) Any excursions not on the itinerary

How fit do I need to be?

For this all-women Crete walking tour, you’ll be walking for 3-5 hours each day of hiking, and gaining no more than 500 m / 1,640 ft of elevation. The trip is rated moderate, and there will be no scary ridges. Paths could be perfect, but they can also be rocky. Good fitness and flexibility is required for this hiking adventure. For more hiking adventures in Greece, click here !

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag) Hiking poles — optional Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your all-women Crete walking tour is Mirtos. To get there, most people fly into Heraklion Airport . There will be a group transport from the airport to Mirtos arranged in the afternoon of arrival day. Additional transfers can be arranged for an extra cost of 120 EUR (130 USD) for the taxi (up to 4 people) for a one way transfer to Mirtos. Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at a predetermined time in a predetermined location. Your guides will provide all the necessary info before the trip starts . The transfer for your departure will leave after breakfast on Day 8, so make sure to book your return flight for after 2pm.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

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MIRTOS | GREECE

Crete Walking Tour: All-Women Hiking in Greece

8 days | 5.00

From $2,599 ()

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For a full week, Crete is our playground—we’ll hike, explore, and taste everything this stunning island has to offer. On this walking tour, the five hikes mix it up: wildflower-strewn trails, dramatic gorges, and forest paths that feel straight out of a myth. It’s not just about walking; it’s about diving into Crete’s rich culture, from mountain villages to local tavernas. Even the rest days are packed with options—hit the beach or wander Europe’s southernmost town. It’s the kind of adventure that lets you truly feel the island, so grab your boots and let’s make this week one for the books!

Angela Sturmayr

Adventure Highlights

Sea breeze and mountain ease: Balance your hikes with time by the coast and in the mountains, soaking up Crete's diverse landscapes
A-maze-ing Minoan paths: Wander ancient trails that lead to secrets from Crete’s past—minus the Minotaur
Cultural and gastronomic immersion: Dive deep into Crete’s culture and gastronomy with village visits, authentic meals, and a chance to catch some live Cretan music in a taverna

Duration

8 days

Season

April and October

Group size

Up to 12 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Join us for an unforgettable all-women walking tour in Crete, where stunning landscapes meet rich culture! We’ll hike through picturesque mountain villages, lush gorges, and vibrant wildflower trails. Later on, it’s time to enjoy leisurely strolls, from the ancient paths of Mithi to the serene coastal views of Mirtos. Each evening, we’ll unwind in charming tavernas, indulging in delicious local cuisine and soaking up the lively atmosphere. With opportunities to connect with the local community and experience their music and traditions, this trip promises not just stunning views but also a taste of authentic Cretan life. Come for the hikes, stay for the flavors—adventure awaits in the heart of Crete!

Day 1: Arrival

The transfer to Mirtos will be waiting for us at the airport around 3pm. We’ll settle into our accommodation, and then have an orientation walk through the village and a welcome dinner in a taverna in Mirtos.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Studio or apartment in Mirtos

Day 2: Anatoli

This walk in the region of Anatoli, a mountain village above Mirtos, leads through a beautiful landscape with special rock formations and great views to both sides of the island. We’ll walk on a dirt road which becomes an easy mountain path to the peak of Estavronmenos. In the evening, we’ll have dinner in a taverna in Mirtos.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking time: 3.5 hours
Elevation: 300 m / 984 ft
Accommodation: Studio or apartment in Mirtos

Day 3: Mithi – Circular walk via the Minoan path

Only 5 km behind Mirtos is the village of Mithi, located in a beautiful landscape. We’ll start to ascend from there via an old footpath, and continue later at a dirt track towards the shepherd’s settlement Karidi and Agia Marina. After a rest, we’ll descend back to Mithi on another footpath. It is an old mountainous footpath uphill with some dirt tracks along the route. Fairly steady underfoot.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking time: 5 hours
Elevation: 500 m / 1,640 ft
Accommodation: Studio or apartment in Mirtos

Day 4: Pefki gorge – village life

Today’s tour brings us quite a bit east of Mirtos to the picturesque mountain village of Pefki. An old path leads us along the scenic Pefki Gorge. After a short descent with great views of the south coast, we will walk back through the gorge to the village.

The path begins as an old footpath which becomes a dirt track to the beginning of the gorge. The path above the gorge is an easy walk but care is needed while going downhill, which is steep and stony. Poles would be needed for those who use them. There’s a meal waiting for us in a local taverna at the end of the walk, where we will be spoiled with delicious local dishes. Evening is free.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking time: 3 hours
Elevation: 350 m / 1,148 ft
Accommodation: Studio or apartment in Mirtos

Day 5: Rest day

On day 5, there’s a chance to spend some hours at the beach of Mirtos, just a few minutes on foot from the accommodation. Another option is to go to Ierapetra to visit the weekly farmers’ market and to explore the southernmost town of Europe.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Studio or apartment in Mirtos

Day 6: Kato Simi — In the forest

Today’s walk consists of 1.5 hours of steep uphill hiking, with the rest of the route on forest paths back to the village. It’s a circular walk in the forest region at the south side of the Dikti Mountain range. A steep path leads up to a viewpoint with great views over the surrounding villages and the sea. We’ll continue along dirt tracks through the pine tree forest, pass an archaeological site, and return via an almost-abandoned settlement back to the starting point.

We’ll have an early evening meal in taverna Aphrodite in Kato Simi with delicious local dishes. The rest of the evening is free to do whatever we want.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking time: 4 hours
Elevation: 400 m / 1,312 ft
Accommodation: Studio or apartment in Mirtos

Day 7: Mirsini — Mesa Mouliana — Villages

Hiking in Crete with sea in the background

Day 7 is reserved for a beautiful circular walk on easy dirt tracks from village to village along an old vineyard hill, with fantastic views to the north coast and the Cretan sea. In the evening, we’ll have a final dinner together and say our farewells.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking time: 3 hours
Elevation: 250 m / 820 ft
Accommodation: Studio or apartment in Mirtos

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, we’ll depart for the airport in Heraklion. Make sure to book your flights after 2pm.

Meals: Breakfast

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Food and accommodation

Food

Cretan cuisine is a blend of flavors that are rooted in tradition and influenced by the island’s natural bounty. At its heart is the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients like olive oil, vegetables, and herbs. Breakfasts and dinners are included in the price of this walking tour, so we’ll have the chance to try lots of tasty dishes while we’re there.

One of the most iconic Cretan dishes is dakos, a savory salad featuring barley rusks topped with ripe tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives—perfectly refreshing for warm days. Moussaka, a rich baked dish of layered eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, showcases the island’s culinary heritage. For a lighter option, try chorta, a mix of wild greens, often dressed with olive oil and lemon, highlighting the simplicity and freshness of Cretan fare. Don’t miss kleftiko, tender lamb slow-cooked with herbs in a sealed pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Apart from that, we can try local wine from barrels on the bar, eat olives picked from the trees, and taste local honey and jams made from the fruits of the trees that grow around the village. With every bite, we’ll savor the essence of Crete’s culture and hospitality.

Accommodation

We’ll experience the charm of Mirtos at the Myrthe and Mertiza apartment complexes, which are run by two sisters. Myrthe offers cozy, well-appointed apartments with a touch of Cretan elegance, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. Meanwhile, Mertiza boasts modern amenities and great views, ensuring a comfortable stay. Both complexes are within walking distance of local tavernas, shops, and the beautiful beach, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant village life.

Each studio (solo occupancy) and apartments (for two or more) are en-suite and with kitchen facilities and a balcony. They are all air-conditioned and have Wifi.

Price of the tour is based on a single occupancy room. In case you’d like to share a double room with your friend/partner, you can get a discount at checkout.

Adventure, packed to go

Crete Walking Tour: All-Women Hiking in Greece

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Angela Sturmayr

Originally from Austria, Angela has lived on Crete since the mid-80s, and she’s always thought of Crete as her second home country. She knows everything about Greek society and its customs, as well as the history and culture of the island. Cretan wild flowers and herbs are her passion. Her experience in different branches of tourism has taught her to provide her guests with a high standard of services. Angela is a licensed mountain walking guide and a member of the Austrian guide association. She speaks German, Greek, Dutch and English fluently.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (4 reviews)

Freda K.

|May 2025

I had the best time in Crete! The town was lovely, the food delicious, and the hikes beautiful. A wonderful experience.

Carol Mayoh

A really great holiday in Crete. All the organisation was seamless, interesting and enjoyable.

Lyn Romeo

I have throughly enjoyed my holidays with Walking Women ! Well organised and responsive and always lovely warm and inclusive groups. The fab accommodation and wonderful places ensure that I will be booking regular trips with them.

Show all reviews

Freda K.

|May 2025

I had the best time in Crete! The town was lovely, the food delicious, and the hikes beautiful. A wonderful experience.

Carol Mayoh

A really great holiday in Crete. All the organisation was seamless, interesting and enjoyable.

Lyn Romeo

Carolyn Hallam

A wonderful holiday with walking women, I wouldn’t hesitate to go again. Extremely well organised from start to finish.

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 8-day all-women hiking tour in Crete (5 days of hiking)
  - 7 nights in your own en-suite studio/apartment with kitchen facilities
  - Breakfast provided for you each morning at Mertiza Apartments
  - Evening meals in local restaurants for 6 nights
  - Airport transfer to and from Heraklion
  - All local transports required for walks
What’s not included:
- - Meals not included in the itinerary
  - Entry tickets/parking
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — mandatory
  - Additional drinks
  - Airport transfer outside the predetermined time (possible to arrange for a fee, let us know in advance)
  - Any excursions not on the itinerary
For this all-women Crete walking tour, you’ll be walking for 3-5 hours each day of hiking, and gaining no more than 500 m / 1,640 ft of elevation. The trip is rated moderate, and there will be no scary ridges. Paths could be perfect, but they can also be rocky. Good fitness and flexibility is required for this hiking adventure.

For more hiking adventures in Greece, click here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Hiking poles — optional
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

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Group sizes and pricing
- - For this all-women Crete walking tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 12:1.
  - This tour typically requires a minimum of six women to run. However, smaller groups can still proceed if participants agree to cover the additional costs. This will usually be discussed with your guide about six weeks before the tour start date. If you’re curious about the current number of participants, feel free to reach out.
  - Price of the tour is based on a single occupancy room. In case you’d like to share a double room with your friend/partner, you can get a discount at checkout.
Hiking in Greece can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your all-women Crete walking tour is Mirtos. To get there, most people fly into Heraklion Airport. There will be a group transport from the airport to Mirtos arranged in the afternoon of arrival day. Additional transfers can be arranged for an extra cost of 120 EUR (130 USD) for the taxi (up to 4 people) for a one way transfer to Mirtos.

Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at a predetermined time in a predetermined location. Your guides will provide all the necessary info before the trip starts.

The transfer for your departure will leave after breakfast on Day 8, so make sure to book your return flight for after 2pm.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

Basic
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 90 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 89 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 90 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled 60-89 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.

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