📍 Greece

SOUTHWEST CRETE ADVENTURE: GORGES, BEACHES AND MOUNTAIN TRAILS

Caves echoing with Minoan whispers, pink sand beaches, quiet harbors. Adventure in southwest Crete.

≈ 6
Days
262
Km
5
Stops
📖 3 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Explore Matala and its red sandstone cliffs, then return to Rethymno and its vibrant seafront. Let Chania anchor the west with its Venetian grace, then go to Kissamos, quiet fishing and preserved coves. End at Elafonisi and its pink sand, soft light and transparent sea.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Matala

cave cliffs where minoans once dwelled

Matala - Photo 1Matala - Photo 2Matala - Photo 3Matala - Photo 4Matala - Photo 5Matala - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 1
🔍

Discover

1
Matala beach and its famous caves carved into the cliff, former hippie hideout from the 1960s
2
Stroll through Matala village, colorful streets and bohemian atmosphere
🎯

Activities

→
Snorkeling around Matala rocks to observe marine life
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 62 km
Travel time: 1h15
2
Day

Rethymnon

Rethymnon - Photo 1Rethymnon - Photo 2Rethymnon - Photo 3Rethymnon - Photo 4Rethymnon - Photo 5Rethymnon - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 2
🔍

Discover

1
Saint Nicholas Chapel of Georgioupolis, accessible by a stone path in the sea
2
Walk at Lake Kournas, Crete's only freshwater lake, surrounded by green hills
3
Discovery of the Venetian port and old town of Rethymnon
🎯

Activities

→
Pedal boat rental at Lake Kournas to observe turtles and relax on the water
→
Fish pedicure in Rethymnon for an unusual local experience
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 99 km
Travel time: 1h59
3
Day

Chania

venetian fortress guarding western crete

Chania - Photo 1Chania - Photo 2Chania - Photo 3Chania - Photo 4Chania - Photo 5Chania - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 3
🔍

Discover

1
Elafonisi Lagoon, famous for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters
2
Exploration of the island connected by a sandbar, exotic and peaceful landscapes
3
Samaria Gorge hike, from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli, 13 km of spectacular landscapes
4
Chapel of Agios Nikolaos and ancient village of Samaria
+1 Places visited
🎯

Activities

→
Swimming and rest on Agia Roumeli beach before the return ferry
→
Ferry crossing to Chora Sfakion
4
Day

Kissamos

fishing harbor spreads quiet tradition

Kissamos - Photo 1Kissamos - Photo 2Kissamos - Photo 3Kissamos - Photo 4Kissamos - Photo 5Kissamos - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 4
🔍

Discover

1
Venetian fortress of Rethymnon and panorama over the city
2
Strolling through the picturesque streets of the historic center
3
Panoramic hike to Balos Lagoon, one of the most beautiful natural sites in Crete
4
Observation of the lagoon from the heights then swimming in its turquoise waters
🎯

Activities

→
Sea bathing and lounging on Balos beach before returning
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 35 km
Travel time: 42min
5
Day

Elafonisi

pink sand beaches coral lagoon

Elafonisi - Photo 1Elafonisi - Photo 2Elafonisi - Photo 3Elafonisi - Photo 4Elafonisi - Photo 5Elafonisi - Photo 6Elafonisi - Photo 7Elafonisi - Photo 8Elafonisi - Photo 9Elafonisi - Photo 10
10 photos
Day 5
🔍

Discover

1
Phalassarna beach, famous for its white sand and clear waters
2
Discovery of the coastal village of Elafonisi and scouting the lagoon at sunset
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 66 km
Travel time: 1h19

🗺️ Itinerary map

🗺️ Nearby itineraries

MYTHICAL TREASURES AND PARADISE BEACHES OF CRETE

📅 6 days 🛣️ 369 Km

ETERNAL CRETE: MINOAN PALACES, GORGES AND TURQUOISE BEACHES

📅 5 days 🛣️ 136.8 Km

AUTHENTIC GREECE: AGIOS NIKOLAOS ELOUNDA SPINALONGA LEPER COLONY LASSITHI ZEUS CAVE

📅 5 days 🛣️ 146 Km

🛡️ Travel advice - Greece

Check official recommendations

UK Foreign Travel Advice →

❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-June): Perfect weather, blooming landscapes, ideal temperatures, fewer crowds, excellent value, Easter celebrations, optimal conditions.

Summer (July-August): Warmest weather, peak tourist season, highest prices, crowded attractions, perfect for islands, vibrant nightlife, festival season.

Fall (September-October): Warm seas, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, excellent weather, good value, harvest season, ideal photography.

Winter (November-March): Mild weather, lowest prices, minimal crowds, rainy season, ski season mountains, cultural focus, cozy atmosphere.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 5 and 7 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in Greece?

Ancient civilization birthplace with stunning islands, incredible history, and Mediterranean lifestyle. Experience mythology sites, beautiful beaches, and authentic Greek culture. The country offers cultural depth with natural beauty and culinary excellence. Greece provides historical significance with island paradise and cultural authenticity in Mediterranean setting.