The ‘Eleven Gates Hike on The Shepherds Path‘ offers adventurous travelers an immersive experience exploring Crete’s stunning landscapes. Starting from Rethymno, this challenging 8-hour trek traverses shepherds’ trails, treating hikers to breathtaking vistas of Psiloritis peak and vibrant wildflower fields. While the route presents three levels of difficulty, a delightful picnic featuring traditional Cretan cuisine awaits. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a new challenge, this tour promises to connect you with the natural beauty and local culture that make Crete a captivating destination.
Key Points
- The Eleven Gates Hike on The Shepherds Path is a private group tour starting from Rethymno, lasting approximately 8 hours and costing $330.62 per person.
- The hike follows the E4 trail through 11 unique pastures, showcasing the stunning Cretan landscape, including the Psiloritis peak.
- The hike offers three difficulty levels – easy, moderate, and difficult – and includes a picnic with traditional Cretan dishes.
- The tour includes hotel or central meeting point pickup in Rethymno, a 30-minute drive to the starting point, and a safety briefing before the hike.
- The hike gradually ascends through diverse pastures, offering iconic views of the rugged mountains and distant coastlines, with the option to book and pay later.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Eleven Gates Hike in Rethymno, Crete typically costs from $330.62 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours. Participants can choose to explore the route in English or French on a private group tour.
Along the way, hikers will follow the E4 trail through unmarked landscapes, discovering 11 pastures, each with its own unique story. Expect stunning views of Psiloritis peak, the highest in Crete, as well as beautiful Cretan scenery, including springtime fields filled with flowers and visits to abandoned and newly built churches.
Plus, participants can enjoy the flexibility of a refundable booking and the option to pay later to secure their spot.
Hiking Experience
Hikers on the Eleven Gates Hike will follow shepherds’ paths and explore Cretan nature, entering 11 pastures, each with its own story.
They’ll experience the hike in three stages – easy, moderate, and difficult – and enjoy stunning views of Psiloritis peak, the highest in Crete.
The route takes them along the E4 trail through unmarked landscapes, where they’ll enjoy a picnic of snacks similar to those eaten by local shepherds.
Throughout the hike, hikers will be treated to beautiful and wild Cretan scenery, from sweeping views of the sea and mountains to springtime fields filled with flowers, including a visit to an abandoned and a newly built church inside a rock.
Scenic Highlights
Throughout the Eleven Gates Hike, hikers can marvel at the beautiful and wild Cretan scenery, including sweeping views of the sea and mountains.
Springtime fields burst with vibrant flowers, and the route leads past an abandoned church as well as a newly built one nestled inside a rock formation.
The hike showcases Crete’s stunning natural landscapes, from the rolling hills to the rugged peaks of the Psiloritis mountain range.
Trekking through these unspoiled environments provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the island’s untamed beauty.
Whether gazing out over the turquoise waters or meandering through flower-dotted meadows, this hike offers a breathtaking glimpse into Crete’s remarkable scenery.
Local Culture and Cuisine
Typically, hikers enjoy a lunch at a local Greek café (kafeneio) that features homemade, vegetarian-friendly food and showcases the charm and hospitality of the owners. This authentic experience allows visitors to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
The menu often includes:
- Traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, spanakopita, or dolmades
- Freshly baked breads and pies
- A selection of seasonal salads and locally sourced ingredients
- Refreshing beverages like Greek coffee or homemade lemonade
The relaxed atmosphere of the kafeneio invites hikers to savor the flavors, share conversations, and connect with the Cretan way of life, making it an integral part of the Eleven Gates Hike experience.
Preparation and Safety
Visitors must always bring their own drinkable water, as there are no reliable water sources along the Eleven Gates Hike path.
Plus, they should wear comfortable trekking shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun.
The hike is well-marked, but it’s still essential to stay alert and follow the guide’s instructions carefully.
Proper preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
The terrain can be rugged at times, so it’s important to be physically fit and ready for the challenge.
Getting to the Starting Point
The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point in Rethymno, making it easy for travelers to get to the trailhead.
From there, guests are driven to the scenic starting point of the Eleven Gates Hike, where the guide provides a brief overview and equipment check before setting off on the adventure. The drive to the trailhead takes approximately 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Once at the starting point, you’ll:
- Meet your knowledgeable guide who’ll provide an overview of the day’s hike.
- Ensure you have the necessary gear, such as proper hiking shoes, sun protection, and water.
- Receive a safety briefing and instructions on the trail ahead.
- Begin your journey into the beautiful Cretan landscape.
What to Expect on the Hike
As you set off on the Eleven Gates Hike, you’ll gradually ascend through a series of pastures, each with its own unique charm and story to tell.
The path winds through diverse Cretan landscapes, offering stunning views of the island’s rugged mountains and distant coastlines.
Along the way, you’ll experience three distinct stages of difficulty – easy, moderate, and challenging – allowing you to push your limits and fully learn about the natural beauty around you.
Keep an eye out for the iconic Psiloritis peak, the highest mountain on Crete, standing tall in the distance.
Your guide will provide a delightful shepherd-style picnic, fueling you for the adventure ahead.
Booking Information and Policies
To book the Eleven Gates Hike, travelers can easily reserve their spot and pay later, ensuring a flexible and stress-free booking process. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing ample opportunity to adjust plans as needed.
The pricing for this private group hike starts at $330.62 per person and is available in both English and French.
Here’s a quick overview of the booking information and policies:
- Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the hike.
- Private group tours available in English and French.
- Total duration of the hike is 8 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogs Allowed on the Hike?
No, dogs are not allowed on this hike. The tour information does not mention pets as part of the experience. Participants are advised to bring only necessary hiking gear and supplies for themselves.
Is This Activity Suitable for Children?
The activity may not be suitable for young children. The hike involves three difficulty levels, and the longer duration could be challenging for kids. However, older children may enjoy the scenic views and cultural experience if properly prepared and supervised.
Can We Stop for a Swim During the Hike?
Unfortunately, there is no mention of stopping for a swim during the hike. The tour focuses on exploring the Cretan nature and culture, with a picnic lunch and scenic highlights. Swimming is not included in the scheduled activities.
What Should We Bring for the Picnic Lunch?
The guide will provide a picnic lunch with snacks similar to what local shepherds eat, so hikers don’t need to bring anything. The guide will prepare the picnic, which may include fresh local produce and traditional Cretan dishes.
Is There an Option to Extend the Hike Duration?
The tour operator offers an 8-hour hike, but doesn’t advertise an option to extend the duration. Customers would need to inquire directly about the possibility of a longer hike and associated costs. The standard package includes a picnic lunch.
Recap
The ‘From Rethymno: Eleven Gates Hike on The Shepherds Path’ offers an immersive adventure through Crete’s stunning landscapes.
Hikers will traverse shepherds’ trails, enjoy breathtaking views, and savor traditional Cretan cuisine.
With flexible booking options and a scenic route, this hike promises both challenge and beauty in nature, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with the local culture.
