At Pink Sand Crete, we’ve been organizing guided tours around Western Crete since 2018.
Years of working with travelers, exploring hidden corners of the island, and listening to what people truly want gave us the experience and confidence to create this guide.
Until now, we’ve shown Crete mostly in person – through private and group trips, to travelers from Poland and abroad. But we know there’s a growing group of people who prefer to explore independently, at their own pace and in their own style.
This eBook was made for them.
It’s a guide for those who want full freedom but still appreciate a solid plan. No guesswork, no outdated blog posts – just real, tested itineraries and tips that work.
104 pages of practical content – no fluff, no filler
80+ locations with direct links to Google Maps
160 original photos taken by us
7 complete driving routes, perfect for a 7-day trip
Local insights on where to park, eat, and avoid crowds
Written in our voice, based on our years of experience
Delivered as a PDF – ready to use on your phone, tablet, or laptop
Each chapter is a ready-to-use itinerary, including distances, stops, and tips:
Elafonisi – Pink sand and a natural lagoon (pp. 4–20)
A full-day plan including alternative access, viewpoints, and food stops.
Loutro – A village you can reach only by boat or on foot (pp. 21–31)
Ferry tips, hikes, and why this place is worth every step.
Balos & Gramvousa – Untamed beauty and pirate history (pp. 32–48)
Step-by-step instructions on how to get there without a tour group.
Preveli, Rethymno & Lake Kournas – Three worlds in one day (pp. 49–55)
A varied, relaxed route with nature, city vibes and lake views.
Theriso, Botanical Park, Aptera – A mountain loop full of history (pp. 56–64)
A lesser-known route with big views and authentic food stops.
Akrotiri Peninsula – Cliffs, monasteries and sea caves (pp. 65–73)
A calm, local exploration route near Chania.
Chania – The heart of Western Crete (pp. 74–81)
A guide to the city with personal favourites and secret spots.
🎁 BONUS: Santorini – How to plan a self-guided day trip from Crete (pp. 82–102)
All you need to do it on your own – ferry tips, walking plan, and how not to overpay.
Independent travelers who want a plan without being told what to do
Couples, families, and solo adventurers
First-time visitors and those returning to discover more
People who prefer solid local advice over random Google results
📲 The eBook is delivered as a PDF – easy to read on your phone or tablet, even offline.
Get to know Crete the way we show it to our guests – authentic, local, and on your terms.