Greece · Hiking

Half-Day Private Hiking Tour to the Akrotiri Peninsula

5 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Chania. Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit the 17th-century Holy Trinity Monastery on the Akrotiri Peninsula
  • 02 Hike through Avlaki Gorge to the historic Katholiko Monastery
  • 03 Pass Saint Anthony church and the Cave of Panagia Arkoudiotissa
  • 04 Relax, swim, or stroll at scenic Stavros Beach
  • 05 Enjoy a private experience with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Chania
  • 06 Includes entrance tickets to the Holy Trinity Monastery

Discover the spiritual and scenic side of Crete on this private half-day hiking tour across the Akrotiri Peninsula. Visit the beautiful Holy Trinity Monastery, where Venetian architecture, peaceful courtyards, and sacred spaces offer a memorable introduction to the island’s religious heritage.

Continue on foot through the dramatic landscape of Avlaki Gorge toward Katholiko Monastery, passing historic religious sites along the way and exploring one of Crete’s most atmospheric monastic settings. After the hike, unwind at Stavros Beach, where calm turquoise waters and a relaxed coastal setting provide the perfect finish to the day.

Stavros Beach is a picturesque destination located on the northern coast of the Akrotiri Peninsula.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
City Chania
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada)

Explore the beauty of Holy Trinity Monastery, also known as Agia Triada Monastery, nestled on the picturesque Akrotiri Peninsula near Chania. Step into a world of serenity and spirituality as you discover this magnificent 17th-century Orthodox monastery, adorned with stunning Venetian architecture and adorned with intricate frescoes. 

Join us on a journey through history as we delve into the rich cultural heritage of Crete, exploring the elegant courtyards, majestic domes, and sacred chapels of this iconic religious site. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment or simply wish to admire the architectural wonders of the past, Holy Trinity Monastery promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. 

It is strongly recommended to adhere to the dress code when visiting the monastery: For women: Please wear a skirt or dress that covers your knees and ensure your shoulders are covered. For men: It is advised to wear trousers and a T-shirt with long sleeves.

Katholiko Monastery

Situated within the Avlaki Gorge, Katholiko Monastery, it's accessible via a winding path originating at Gouverneto Monastery. Along the route, encounter the quaint Saint Anthony church and the revered Cave of Panagia Arkoudiotissa before reaching Katholiko Monastery. Founded upon Saint John the Hermit's cave, the monastery holds a rich history. 

Initially an ascetic center, it provided refuge for hermits before evolving into monk cells. Today, visitors can explore the cave-temple, marvel at the ruins of hermit cells, the bell tower, and an impressive bridge spanning the gorge's river. Despite the challenging terrain, visitors flocked to Katholiko, highlighting its allure. Yet, piracy threats led to its abandonment, with monks seeking refuge at the Gouverneto Monastery. 

Legend has it that a large rock formation at the gorge's exit resembles a ship, believed to be a petrified pirate vessel cursed by the monastery's abbot.

Stavros Beach

Stavros Beach is a picturesque destination located on the northern coast of the Akrotiri Peninsula. Renowned for its natural beauty and calm turquoise waters, Stavros Beach offers visitors a serene retreat amidst stunning surroundings. The beach is characterized by its unique crescent shape, with soft golden sands gently sloping into the clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Framed by rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops, the bay provides a sheltered and tranquil setting for swimming and relaxation. 

During the excursion, you will have the opportunity to relax on the beach, sunbathe and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water. Enjoy delicious Greek cuisine at one of the local taverns while admiring panoramic sea views. After lunch, there will be ample time for strolls along the shoreline or additional swimming before returning to the hotel. 

Overall, Stavros Beach promises a memorable experience, combining relaxation, natural beauty, and authentic Greek hospitality.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Chania. 1 city · 5 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Pick-up / Drop-off at your hotel.
  • Comfortable Vehicle with a professional driver.
  • Wi-fi on board and Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles.
  • Accompaniment by a professional guide.
  • Hiking sticks, umbrellas, towels, and beach mats.
  • Entrance tickets to the monastery of the Holy Trinity.

What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses, drinks, lunch / dinner.
  • Customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts.

Know before you go

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • No public transportation nearby
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Not recommended for people with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for people with heart conditions
  • To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
  • It's important to have: Sporty comfortable footwear, Comfortable clothing, Sunscreen (plenty of it!), Sunglasses and a hat, Long-sleeved shirt for sensitive skin, Swimwear and a beach towel, Money for drinks, lunch/dinner.
  • Health issues: If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated, and we exercise all discretion.
  • Moysidis Travel is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before traveling to Crete.
  • Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other point in the region of Chania. Pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Chania.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Chania.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 hours finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Chania..

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