Crete offers a wide range of landscape and variety of terrain, rarely found in one area. Away from the over-frequented tourist areas, the customs and lifestyle of centuries continue. Walks and treks can be planned well off the beaten track, over the foothills and High Desert of the White Mountains and the numerous south coast gorges and paths. Exploring the lesser known reaches of the area and avoiding the over-frequented gorges will enable you to enjoy to the full the Cretan culture, lifestyle and landscape.

Walking is most enjoyable in the cooler months of spring and autumn. Some walking routes are through rough, maquis-type terrain in the foot-hills of the White Mountains and along old paths and mule tracks, which are not always well-maintained. It is advisable to arrange for a mountain leader with knowledge of the area and experience of walking and trekking in Western Crete as navigation can be challenging. Crete is also ideal for those in search of winter conditions; both snow and sea can be enjoyed during the same day. Throughout the year, one or two day, week-end walks, of varying degrees of difficulty, are arranged by the Mountain Club in Xania.

In springtime, the abundance of wild flowers on the hillsides and high mountain pastures is an unending source of delight for those interested in botany - meadows carpeted with crown anemones and dotted with wild tulips and sand crocuses.

Birdwatchers, too, can enjoy the varied birdlife of the area - breeding birds include blue rock thrush, Rüppell's warbler, black-eared wheatear and woodlark, while the high mountains feature various raptors, including the majestic golden eagle and, outstandingly, lammergeiers or bearded vultures (known locally as ta kokkala), one of the last refuges in Europe of this immense bird.

Other activities available include horse-riding, rock-climbing and diving.