Hiking in South Chania

Tips and Information

Hiking Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge is a fun and relaxing way to experience nature with friends and family. Walking in South Chania, you will discover places in nature that roads cannot reach. So leave your worries about time, work, and other stressors behind you and wake up to your amazement. There’s nothing like being out in nature to reconnect with a friend or loved one.

If you’ve never hiked, you might be intimidated by the idea. You may be worried you’re not in the right shape for hiking. Perhaps you think you may need help finding your way back. Rest assured – everyone can hike here. There are many hiking trails in Sougia of varying difficulty. Hiking is not a race to the finish line. Instead, it’s a gentle exercise designed to enjoy good company and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Tips for Hiking

These tips and tricks will help you get the most out of your trip to Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge:

1. Plan and be prepared: Research the terrain and weather in your hiking area. Bring the right gear, food, and water to stay safe and comfortable.
2. Stay on the trail: this way, you will avoid getting lost and damaging delicate vegetation. These trails are easier to follow and are less likely to lead you astray.
3. Tell someone where you are going: Tell a friend or family member which way you plan to go and when you expect to return.
4. Limited cell phone signal: Be aware that there are few or no phone signals at some low points along the trail. Not panic. Just stay on the path. Follow the marks or other people, and soon you will get a mobile signal to contact us.
5. Take a break: Get plenty of rest and drink water to stay hydrated.
6. Watch out for wild animals: Be aware of your surroundings and respect animals you may encounter.
7. Bring a map and compass: Even if you know the area, a map, and compass can help you find your way if you get lost.
8. Bring a first aid kit: Preparing for possible accidents or injuries is important.
9. Wear suitable clothing: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the trail can be slippery in places. As temperatures in the canyon can vary, protect yourself from the sun by wearing layers and bringing a hat and sunscreen.
10. Bring plenty of water and snacks: There are not enough facilities along the trails. So it is important to bring enough water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the trek.
11. Start early: It is best to hike early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds. Samaria Gorge opens at 7 am, and we recommend starting at 9 am.
12. Hire a guide: Unless you’re an experienced hiker, hiring a guide is best. A guide can help you navigate the trails and provide information about the canyon’s flora, fauna, and history.
13. Take your time: Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge are stunning natural attractions. It would help if you took your time to enjoy the scenery and tranquility of the area. Take time to finish the hike, take a break and enjoy the beautiful view.
14. Respect for the environment: It is important to respect the environment and not disturb flora and fauna. Take all your trash and leave nothing behind.

Safe Hiking

Hiking has many health benefits, including helping with weight management and reducing stress. Physical activity also reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. So when you’re ready to start hiking, you’re making an excellent choice for your overall health. Plus, getting started is easier than you think. You can have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable hike with some planning.

We hope these hiking tips and tricks help you have a great experience at Samaria Gorge, Agia Irini Gorge!

Book your taxi or tour to South Chania now and discover all these beauties.

Activities and Beaches in Paleochora

Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services

E. Vittorakis

As we said in our previous article, Paleochora is located 70 kilometers south of Chania. It is indeed a quiet town and it will impress you from the first moment you arrive. This is because there is a great variety of activities and beaches in Paleochora to spend the most carefree and unforgettable vacation.

Beaches and Activities in Palaiochora

First and foremost, visit the Akrites Museum, located within the town, and explore the history of Paleochora. Just next to it and south of Paleochora is Fortezza Hill. There you can walk among the ruins of a small and historical building, the Venetian Castle of Celino or Selino. Also this is the perfect place where you can enjoy the beautiful sunrise or the amazing sunset.

Travel

An excellent activity in Paleochora is also to take the ferry ANENDYK and visit the other south coastal villages. So you can visit villages like Sougia, Agia Roumeli, Loutro, Chora Sfakion. Αnother additional interesting destination from Paleochora is Gavdos, the island of Calypso. Besides, from Paleochora on the south coast you can discover other beautiful beaches in Crete that are not accessible by car.

E4 path

We don’t forget to mention that the E4 European hiking trail passes through the area. That gives the opportunity to those who love hiking to admire beautiful and unique natural landscapes in an envy-free and clean environment. Starting from Paleochora, you can go west to Elafonissi through Lake Krios and Kedrodassos. From the east you can reach Lissos, Sougia and Sfakia as well as via Cape Crocodile.

Samaria Gorge

Ιn case you have not crossed the Samaria Gorge yet, it is time to do so. First, you need to reach Omalos and the entrance of Samaria Gorge. After the hike, you will reach Agia Roumeli, where you can take the ferry ANENDYK and go directly back to Paleochora.

Agia Irini Gorge

If Samaria Gorge seems difficult for you, there is also the alternative of Agia Irini Gorge. This one ends in Sougia and is also a great activity in Paleochora, whether you have a car or not. You just have to give it a try. For more details on how you can do it, check out our related article.

Explore

Explore the municipality of Kantanos Selinos with your vehicle and discover small and traditional mountain villages. After leaving Paleochora on the way to Kantanos, turn right and go straight to Azogyres Village. There you can visit the War Museum and the cave of the Holy Fathers. Otherwise you can drive to the east of Paleochora. There is a great road through the mountains and you will reach Anydroi. Don’t miss the famous “Cafe at School” with delicious food. Walk through the gorge of the same name and you will reach the beach of Gialiskari. Otherwise, take your car to Voutas, Kantanos and Plemeniana. There you turn right to Temenia, Rodovani, Kampanos, Koustogerako and Sougia. There are many small beauties of history and nature hidden there. Admire also many Byzantine churches that you will encounter on these wonderful routes.

Cretan adventure

Also for adventure lovers, Paleochora is ideal for water games, fishing, diving, trekking and hiking.

Beaches in Paleochora

Beaches in Paleochora has a total length of 18 km. Of these, everyone can choose between beaches with golden sand, with thick pebbles, for nudists, organized beaches or even for independent excursions or camping.

Taxi Transfer to Paleochora

The nymph of Libyan Sea

Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services

If you are planning your holidays or if you are already in Crete, you must travel to Paleochora. Is a small cosmopolitan town and is located 70 km South West of Chania city. Therefore you need a 1 hour drive to reach the area and its built on a peninsula that extends into the Libyan Sea.

You will be enchanted by its white and colorful houses that smell of cleanliness in your passage in Paleochora. Is a small seductive town with its beautiful narrow alleys and streets which all which all end in coastal roads.

Everyone can enjoy the harmony between Cretan culture and the modern changes in shops observed in recent years. Paleochora is also a great combination of the wild beauty of the surrounding mountains and the endless blue of Libyan Sea. So it’s a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Libyan Sea. Besides that someone can enjoy the paths for walking among the trees and nature.

Paleochora is a hospitable cosmopolitan village whose 2500 inhabitants do not miss the opportunity to welcome in the well-known Cretan traditional way the visitors of the area. Onsequently they call her “Nymph of the Libyan Sea” or “Land of the Sun”.

Besides that the experiences it offers are many and pleasant as an area with all kinds of shops inside and its sandy or pebble beaches. So you can enjoy the endless summer parties besides with the traditional hospitality or “cretan filoxenia / philoksenia”.

Life in Paleochora is more lively than in Sougia, especially in the summer months and in the afternoon when the approximately 2500 permanent residents and visitors of the area make their excursion for coffee, food and night life.

Travelling with Taxi or Minivan E. Vittorakis in Sougia teaches you a little about the world and a lot about yourself.!

On a deep winter day, we took a ride from Chania airport to Sougia. We already turned up the heat before the pick up and we began our trip after loading the luggage. There were thick white clouds on the sky but no rain. Soon after, about a half hour driving, we saw some of them at the side of the road and our guests loved it 

They had come for winter vacation so they hoped to see snow those days. When it was about time to arrive to our destination, Sougia, we also saw a small fox family crossing the road and one of our guests caught a very fast picture of them.

It was a fun ride  We love to see the smiles on your faces when you first visit our beautiful place.

Turtle in Sougia beach

Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services

Last night, through photos posted by a friend on Facebook, a turtle was found, which trusted the hospitable east side of Sougia beach, apparently to lay her eggs. This area was immediately restricted and temporarily marked to protect the eggs.

Greece hosts the largest number of sea turtle nests in the entire Mediterranean. Especially hosts the most important species, the Caretta Caretta. One of the most important areas for their survival is our island, Crete.

Turtles in Crete

The beaches of Messara, Rethymnon and Chania are part of the Human Ecological Network Natura 2000 in Greece. The codes which are corresponding are GR4310004, GR4330004 and GR4340003 as they host the spawning of sea turtles.

In Greece the species of sea turtle Caretta (Caretta Caretta) is strictly protected by Greek law. There are 2 organizations that are active for the sea turtle doing an excellent and commendable work.

A major obstacle to the completion of the life cycle of turtles is the fact of degradation and destruction of the beaches where they are born.

This makes them incapable of reproduction as they only give birth on the same beach.

For this reason in the areas where the turtle is found:

• The use of lighting and speakers is prohibited
• Driving is prohibited
• We avoid night wanderings
• If we find a nest we inform ARCHELON
• Mark the area temporarily so that no one approaches and the eggs break. ARCHELON will then place metal cages above the nest.
• We participate as volunteers in ARCHELON to support its work

A new life cycle of Mediterranean sea turtles begins with the nests that are probably starting to make on the beach of Sougia.

In order to protect this special visitor, we must all together, permanent residents, businessmen and visitors of Sougia, contribute to this purpose, each in his own way.

Relevant articles about Sougia

Sougia village

Accommodation in Sougia

Nightlife in Sougia

Restaurants and cafes in the area

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your transfer and your trip to and from Sougia with the Audi Q7 Taxi or the Black Minivans in the following ways:

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Our well-trained and experienced staff will serve you with consistency, honesty and professionalism.

The legend of Anthomallousa

What Can I Do In Sougia

Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services

It all started when the two best young men of Sougia claimed a beautiful daughter, Anthomallousa, with long blond hair.

In those years such disputes were settled by duel. But Anthomallousa, who deeply loved both young men, asked from each one of them to make a project. From the first young man had been asked to bring the road to the village and from the other young man had been asked to bring the water and the one who would finish his work first would make her his wife. But both young people worked equally hard, each with his own people from the village who helped them and showed great will for the immediate perfection of their work. However, both young men finished their work on the same day and the fear of a duel and the threat of a general conflict between the villagers began to prevail.

So one morning, Anthomallousa made the big and bad decision and after that was lost forever in the deep blue waters of the Libyan Sea.

Sougia is a destination of calm, serenity, and has a large beach with pebbles and crystal clear waters. It is about 70 km from Chania and we get there from the route Alikianos, Skines, Nea Roumata, Prase, Ag. Irini, Kampanos, Agriles, Rodovani, Moni, Sougia crossing a unique natural landscape full of fascinating images.

You can visit Sougia by Minivan or Taxi now making a reservation by phone, sending a message or filling out the contact form.

If you are wondering what you can do in Sougia, we answer you in this article collecting many and wonderful activities in the area with passion and a lot of love for our place.

For more information about our peaceful Sougia you can read our other articles about :

Sougia

Accomodation in Sougia

Sougia’s Restaurants, Cafes and Night Life.

If you want to visit Sougia alone, with friends, relatives, accompany an elderly member, or have various mobility problems or special needs, contact us now.

Call us now on the phone

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Fill in the contact form.

Our specialized and experienced staff will help you organize a day trip or just your Minivan or Taxi ride in Sougia enjoying all the beauties and magic that the area can offer you with our unique services.

Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services from/to Chania Airport – Chania International Airport

Western Crete

At a distance of 15 km (20 minutes) from the city of Chania is the International Airport of Chania “Ioannis Daskalogianni” CHQ on the Akrotiri peninsula, above the Souda bay and has been operating there since 1967. Historically, its operation began in Maleme in 1954 as civilian but also as a military airport while at its current location was moved in 1959.

It was named in honor of the Cretan revolutionary Ioannis Daskalogiannis, who fought in the 18th century against the Ottoman Empire.

Chania Airport is a small but modern station, which can satisfy your every need when you land in Crete. It is not as crowded as Heraklion Airport but annually serves about 2.5 million visitors. Its organization is such as to serve large volumes of passenger traffic and the experience it will leave you when traveling in Western Crete is that of a small but fully functional Airport with very friendly staff.

In International Chania Airport domestic flights serve all year round mainly to Athens but also some to Thessaloniki. Charter flights are available mainly from the end of April – beginning of May to the end of October.

For Check-in on domestic flights you need to be at Chania Airport 30-60 minutes earlier than the scheduled departure of the plane while for check-in on charter flights you will need to be up to 2 hours earlier depending on the company which are you traveling.

After a long and stressful flight, it is not worth waiting in queues outside Chania Airport for a taxi to Sougia, Paleochora or Elafonissi. Our prices are not different from the prices of a taxi outside Chania Airport and in addition the services provided to you are reliable and of high quality at the most affordable prices.

All you need to do is book your taxi in Sougia early before you can even board your flight. Our professional drivers will be waiting for you in the arrival area and you will recognize them immediately just outside your luggage collection area. There after a warm welcome will be at your disposal to help you for the easiest and safest transfer of your luggage to our vehicles.

All our partners have the necessary equipment and modern technological means which allow them at any time to be informed of the exact time of arrival and departure of the aircraft and any delays.

In case you wish to book your departure with a Sougia Minivan or Sougia Taxi to Chania airport, do not worry at all. Your driver will be earlier than the time you have stated, at your predetermined departure point to Chania Airport. With a warm smile he will help you to collect and load your luggage, he will lead you safely, consistently and professionally with the Taxi and Minivan from Sougia to Chania Airport and he will help you to unload your luggage in the building.

Make your reservation now by calling us on the phone, sending a quick message on our mobile or just fill out the contact form.

We are well aware of the importance of reliability, comfort and professionalism. If your concern is the same as ours then you are in the right site. If you travel to and from Chania Airport, our experienced drivers will always make you feel at home. They are professionals well trained and polite and are always close to you to transport you to / from Chania Airport on time and on a regular route. Do not delay anymore. Book now with us your Minivan or Taxi in Sougia for your safest transfer to and from Chania Airport.

112 – Health Care from

Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services E. J. Vittorakis

The main target of Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services company in Sougia is to provide high quality taxi services and meet basic needs in Sougia area so that our guests feel safe and confident about their holiday destination in Sougia.

That is why from the beginning of our operation we provide additional transportation services with our Minivans and Taxi from Sougia to Kantanos Health Center, to the General Hospital of Chania “Agios Georgios” and to Private Primary Medical Clinics in the prefecture of Chania in Crete. This procedure is done only in cases where it is not necessary to be transfered by ambulance, without additional charges.

For your best service we would advice you to keep the European Health Insurance Card with you.

We also inform our customers of Sougia Taxi & Minivan Services and all the visitors of Chania and Crete that there is the European Emergency Number 112 that they can call when they need any help in any country of the European Union they are.

There are many European travelers in the countries of the European Union and every year they are increasing. However, only a small percentage are aware of the existence of the European Emergency Number 112, through which they can immediately receive assistance in case of any need during their travel or vacation.

If you want more information please visit www.112.eu

For cases of immediate medical care, your transfer to Kantanos Health Center, at a distance of 30 kilometers from Sougia or to the Chania General Hospital “Agios Georgios” is recommended. Ιn case you wish to have Private Primary Medical Care, please contact us threw a phone call, an instand message or filling the Sougia Taxi contact form so that we can immediately transfer you safely with Sougia Taxi to a cooperative Private Primary Medical Clinic in Chania without extra charges.