EXPLORE THE UNIQUE NATURE OF CRETE
Adventures
to get you inspired
Welcome to NECTAR | Cretan Alternative Routes | Trekking in Chania
About Us
Nectar was born from our passion to explore the uncharted areas of Crete, to clear our minds and mindfully reconnect not only with ourselves, but also with our cultural and natural heritage. We summit mountains, explore gorges, sleep under the stars and swim in the deep blue sea. We seek simplicity, choose to live in the moment and challenge ourselves every day to experience something new…
We have chosen the most scenic places in Crete to create unique trips, most of which are for all levels of experience.
Our team comprises highly experienced certified Mountain Guides dedicated to guiding at the highest standards. Our main goal is to provide you with the best possible journey that is unique to you; to this end, we tailor all hikes to the appropriate skill level and enhance your experience by bringing a local flair to the trip. As we are very familiar with the area, we will share our expertise and show you all the secret, hidden spots!
Benefit from a private hiking trip by walking at your own pace, away from large groups, and enjoy the tranquility of nature!
Now it's your turn
(historic places - beekeeping - agriculture)
The second biggest gorge in Europe.
- 18.5 km
- 5 - 6 hours
A white mountains miniature.
- 6 hours
A challenging hike οn the east side of the White Mountains that will reward your effort with breathtaking views!
- 8.5 km
- 6 hours
The highest peak of the "white Mountains desert".
- 3 hours
A family affair.
- 8.5 km
- 2 - 3 hours
Thematic Excursion
The starting point of the tour is the historical village of Askyfou, built on one of the White Mountain plateaus! We will begin with a beautiful hike towards “Kastra” where we will take a break to enjoy the panoramic scenery, an ideal location for photography lovers! While heading back we will make a stop on a field to learn about the production process of honey. Moving on, we will reach our next destination, the garden. There you will learn about how to organically grow vegetables and try it out yourself. According to the time of year you visit, you will be able to help with tasks including planting, harvesting or weeding.
Moving forward, you have the option to continue the tour and visit a traditional Cretan house for a cooking lesson, or leave us and continue your beautiful day. We can get to the house either by foot or by car. Using all the products that we have gathered from the garden, we will make a delicious meal together to enjoy and discuss our amazing experience!
Lefka Ori, the White Mountains of Crete
Lefka Ori (or White Mountains) are a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserve site, located in the region of Chania in western Crete. They consist mainly of limestone, varying in palette from light gray, to a bluish or black color. The “White Mountains” got their name from the white color of their peaks during the summer and fall, as well as from the snow that covers the peaks during the winter.
The White Mountains are a paradise for biodiversity and form a landscape of unique geological value and beauty which attracts many hikers and bird lovers all year round. The unique geomorphology of the White Mountains includes stunning peaks, gorges and plateaus that provide an ideal habitat for many species of birds, such as eagles and vultures.
The highest summit is Páchnes at 2,453 m (8,048 ft) and the range has more than 50 summits that are over 2,000 m (6,562 ft). About 50 gorges can also be found in the White Mountains, the most famous being the Samaria Gorge. The center and southern part of the White Mountains lies at an altitude of 1800m and above is a moon-like landscape technically called a high desert, which is unique in the northern hemisphere.
There are only a few roads leading into the White Mountains: the road to Omalos and the entrance of the Samaria Gorge and the road to Chora Sfakion through the plateau of Askifou. There are also a few dirt roads leading to a higher altitude but if you really want to experience the mountains you will need to walk.
