EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION IS OPEN TILL THE END OF NOVEMBER.
Your Challenge
Join us for this demanding 50km challenge through Crete's wild southwest, where coastal trails, dramatic gorges and the White Mountains provide an unforgettable backdrop. Following the success of our 2025 Crete trek, we're thrilled to be bringing this unforgettable challenge back in 2027! You'll tackle the spectacular Samaria Gorge, trek beneath towering limestone cliffs, before taking on the ascent of Mount Kaouloule.
As we trek, we learn that this region was the focal point of the Battle of Crete from World War II, where fierce fighting occurred between Allied forces and German paratroopers.
The final day is spent finding out more about the Battle, with a military expert, visiting the important sites where we can pay our respects.
Your itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Historical Exploration
We arrive in Chania, a picturesque town on Crete's northwest coast. Chania's port was a key Allied supply point during WWII, especially in the Battle of Crete. On May 20, 1941, German paratroopers landed here as part of Operation Mercury, their last major airborne assault of the war. After meeting our local team, we head to Hora Sfakion, stopping at the privately-owned Historical War Museum in Askifou, filled with WWII memorabilia. After checking into our hotel, we’ll have time for a quick swim before dinner.
Day 2: Coastal Trek to Anopoli
Our trek begins in Hora Sfakion, a village between the sea and the White Mountains. We hike along the coast following a narrow cliffside path, with the option to clip onto an embedded wire for a short distance, mini ferrata style. Mid point we reach Loutro, a remote village once a pirate lair and later a hideout for Cretan resistance and British intelligence during WWII. We continue to Anopoli, passing ancient ruins, Venetian fortresses, and Byzantine churches. Approximate distance: 11 km; ascent: 900 m; descent: 350 m.
Day 3: Coastal Walk to Agia Roumeli
After leaving Anopoli, we take a short transfer to Agios Ioannis and follow a coastal track with stunning sea views. We rest at the ancient chapel of St. Paul, enjoying a cold drink and a swim. The trek ends in Agia Roumeli, one of Crete's wildest regions, where we can relax on the pebble beach. Approximate distance: 10 km; ascent: 14 m; descent: 779 m.
Day 4: Samaria Gorge Adventure
Starting in Agia Roumeli, we trek through the 16 km-long Samaria Gorge, famous for its breathtaking scenery and towering limestone cliffs. The gorge was a critical escape route during WWII. We’ll pass the "Iron Gates" and the Samaria Village, where the King of Greece hid in 1941. We finish at Xiloskalo and transfer to our guesthouse. Approximate distance: 16 km; ascent: 2222 m; descent: 987 m.
Day 5: Summit of Kouloule
Our challenge peaks as we ascend to Kouloule, 1631 m above sea level. The rocky path requires careful footing, but the panoramic views are worth the effort. After reaching the summit, we continue along the ridgeline to Kalergi Refuge for lunch, then descend to Samaria for our transfer back to the guesthouse. Approximate distance: 9 km; ascent: 1009 m; descent: 1009 m.
Day 6: Battle of Crete Sites & Final Day in Chania
We visit key WWII sites, including Maleme and the Allied War Cemetery at Souda Bay, gaining a deeper understanding of the Battle of Crete and its lasting impact. Last-minute exploring and shopping in Chania’s picturesque Venetian harbor before our final lunch together.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Trek 50km of Crete's rugged coastline .
- Listen to our dedicated, military historian who will be your personal tour guide at all sites and battlefields.
- Conquer Samaria Gorge beneath its towering limestone cliffs
- Reach the summit of Mount Kouloule and savour the views you've earned.
- Uncover the story of the Battle of Crete-the airborne invasion, Allied defence and island resistance
- Stand where history happened visiting Maleme and paying your respects at Souda Bay War Cemetery
- Get your Frontline Walk medal as you cross the finish line.
The Details
Where is it?
Crete, Greece.
When is it?
6-11th September 2027
How much is it?
Fundraising target: £2,800pp (£2,000 due by 30th June 2027)
What's included?
- Accommodation in a 3* hotel in Crete
- All meals, snacks and refreshments
- Expert battlefield historian and guided visits
- Entry to museums and key historical sites
- A commemorative finisher's medal and exclusive merchandise.
- A special celebratory meal at the end
- A dedicated Frontline Walk community and support network
- We set up a Facebook Page for our Frontline Walkers to swap advice and information every year.
- Not only that, our team will be on hand every step of the way, offering guidance with both your event preparations and fundraising journey.
Flights to Crete
Please note that flights to Crete are not part of the package. However, we will provide guidance on which flights to book and confirm the meeting arrangements at the Crete airport.
BATTLE OF CRETE TREK VIDEO:
PERFECT TEAM BUILDING WEEKEND
Swap the office for the rugged cliffs of Crete and give your team an experience they'll be talking about for years to come!
Reaching the summit of Mount Kouloule, you'll take on a physical challenge while discovering the stories of the airborne soldiers whose determination and sacrifice shaped history.
Have a question?
Contact us on events@armybenevolentfund.org or 0127 653 5971
