White Mountains: Day Trips and Tours from Chania

Discover the allure of Crete’s as you embark on an unforgettable day trip to the White Mountains from Chania, nestled along the Mediterranean coastline.

The majestic White Mountains towering in the distance has contributed to the charm of Chania, along with its rich history and vibrant culture. These treeless limestone peaks, also known as Lefka Ori, provide the perfect backdrop for exhilarating day trips and tours.

Here's all you need to know about the White Mountains, one of the most exciting day trips from Chania.

How to get to White Mountains from Chania?

The White Mountains are located in the west of Crete. Depending on your route, you can travel anywhere from 50 to 110 kilometers to reach your destination.

From Chania to White Mountains by car

To reach the White Mountains from Chania by car, drive southwards for approximately 1-1.5 hours. The route heads towards Souda Bay before turning onto the winding mountain roads.

From Chania to White Mountains by bus

To get closer to the mountains by public transport, the local bus service travels to destinations like Omalos Plateau or Sougia, both of which are gateways to the White Mountains.

Guided tour to White Mountains from Chania

Guided tours are a great way to reach the White Mountains. With shared, semi-private and private tours offered, there are trips and day tours departing Chania to suit every budget and interest.

Typically, tours are full day excursions, but a multi-day hiking itinerary of the White Mountains is an option for intrepid adventurers.

What is the typical itinerary?

Typical tour itineraries of White Mountains day trips begin with a morning pickup in Chania. As many tours use 4x4 vehicles, even small group or semi-private tours are usually limited to no more than 10 people.

Your tour will travel south towards Souda Bay, allowing you to enjoy panoramic landscapes and coastal views. On your ascent, you may stop for a coffee break at villages such as Vryses and Alikianos.

The Omalos Plateau in the heart of the range offers vistas of the dramatic peaks and valleys spread below.

More adventurous tours might include some of the best hiking tours in Chania, a walk along the Samaria Gorge or the Agia Irini Gorge. On more leisurely trips, you can immerse yourself in Cretan life and cuisine. In the late afternoon, you will begin the journey back to Chania.

What kinds of tours are available to go to White Mountains?

Three types of day tours are primarily offered from Chania to the White Mountains.

Small group guided tour to White Mountains from Chania

Join a small group for a journey away from the coast and into the mountains of Crete. Traveling with an experienced driver/guide, your tour begins with an early morning pickup at a central meeting point or from your hotel in Chania.

Travel through traditional villages as you learn about local history and culture. Wine tastings in Chania, olive oil production tours, the fertile Omalos Plateau and the Samaria Gorge are typically included in the itinerary of this scenic full day excursion.

Semi-private guided tour to White Mountains from Chania

If you would prefer a more personal experience, you can secure the use of a private vehicle if you reserve four or more seats on your tour. This type of tour can accommodate up to eight people per vehicle.

During the summer months, your journey may include a drive to the Kallergi Refuge with its stunning views from 1,680 meters above sea level. A traditional Cretan lunch and some refreshments are included in the tour price.

Private tour to White Mountains from Chania

Private tours are great for families traveling together. You can experience an adventure tour that includes a 2-hour hike to the Pachnes summit – Crete’s second highest peak at over 2,450 meters above sea level.

A picnic lunch, an experienced guide and comfortable vehicle are all included on this memorable day trip.

Multi-day hike in the White Mountains from Chania

Crete is a hiker’s dream destination and on an 8-day hiking tour. On one of the famous multi-day trips from Chania, you will join a small group of no more than 12 participants on a trip that departs from Chania.

After an introductory dinner on the first night, you set off for the White Mountains to explore the peaks, gorges and magnificent scenery. After a full week of adventure and exhilaration, you can return to Chania with a great sense of achievement and a lifetime memory.

How much does a day trip to White Mountain from Chania cost?

A small group guided tour to White Mountains from Chania starts at €90 per person or you can upgrade to a semi-private guided tour at around €100 per person, with a minimum of four people booked in your group.

Private tours to White Mountains from Chania start from €500 per family group of six people, including a picnic lunch and 2-hour guided hike.

A multi-day hike in the White Mountains from Chania costs from €1,000 per person including meals, double-occupancy lodging, transportation during the tour and entrance fees.

What will you see and do?

A tour from Chania to White Mountains is an awe-inspiring journey from the coast into the heart of the island. Your tour will meander through picturesque villages with their traditional stone houses.

Day tours let you immerse yourself in the warmth of Cretan hospitality and its mouth-watering local cuisine.

Samaria Gorge

The world-famous Samaria Gorge is one of the highlights of many tours. Europe’s longest gorge provides a challenge for moderately fit and confident walkers.

The lesser known Agia Irini Gorge is an equally enchanting site, where you can enjoy a less challenging natural experience.

Omalos Plateau

The Omalos Plateau lies on the northern fringe of the White Mountains about an hour south of Chania. The fertile soils and cooler climate are ideal for agriculture and offer visitors access to some of the region’s delicious local produce.

The Olive Tree at Ano Vouves, the Olive Mill at Anoskeli and monasteries at Agia Triada and Gouverneto might be included in your tour.

As you travel, you will learn more about the myths and mysteries of the island that is considered the cradle of Europe’s earliest civilization and birthplace of Zeus.

When is the best time to visit White Mountains?

Late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit the White Mountains. At these times of the year, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing, hiking and exploring. Peak season for visitors to Crete is during the summer months of July and August.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable clothes and supportive hiking boots.
• Carry a weather-proof jacket in case of rain or cold weather.
• Bring bottled water and a few snacks along.
• Advise your tour operator if you have any food allergies or specific dietary needs.