South Crete. Loutro!

Loutro is a place for those people who want something different. A small picturesque fishing village in south west Crete, not yet spoilt by mass tourism. The only access is by boat or as you wish, by foot (1.5 hour hard trekking from Chora Sfakion).

In Loutro, enjoy walking in the scenic, unspoiled mountain countryside with its valleys and gorges. Firstly, you could visit the Koules of Loutro and admire the old endemic palm trees dispersed in the area. You could also climb to the beautiful village and plateau of Anopolis. You have to climb 2000 feet on a 2000 year old mule track, which you must take very easily, one foot in front of the other, sticking to the zigzag path, taking regular stops, especially if you are not walking in the shade. Allow just under two hours up to Anopolis where there is a very good choice of tavernas. You could also explore the Aradaina Gorge, the Imbros Gorge or the Samaria Gorge or make a day trip by boat to the island of Gavdos, the most southern tip of Europe and try to get a glimpse of escorting dolphins. Moreover, if you are a keen snorkeler, you might meet sea turtles that are very frequent visitors of Loutro.