Private tour in Chania Vangelis S
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Vangelis S.
5.0
Guide rating
50
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Tours delivered
11 hrs
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Your Guide: Professional Bio I was born and raised in the Old City of Chania, Crete. I am a professional mountaineer and mountain instructor with an IFMGA certification. Throughout my professional career, I have had the honor of guiding people of all ages, from beginners to experienced mountaineers, as well as well-known public figures such as politicians, journalists, and artists. The Prime Minister of Greece, Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has on occasion entrusted me with his personal safety for mountain climbing, hiking, and ski tours. Professional Experience I have over 30 years of experience as a mountain guide, having worked for companies and organizations such as: Trekking Plan Outdoor Activities & Mountain Services The North Face Europe (3 years) Various tourist offices and Alpine Clubs For the past two years, I have also served as a hiking leader instructor at the DIEK public school in Chania. I have summited well-known peaks in the Himalayas, including: Baruntse (7,161m) Mera Peak (6,470m) Island Peak (6,186m) Tharpu Chuli (5,800m) Naya Kanga (5,844m) I have also worked as a mountain guide in Greece, France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Nepal, Tibet, Pakistan, and the western USA. Credentials & Expertise Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education and Sport Science from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Mountaineering and Ski Touring Instructor for the Hellenic Federation of Mountaineering & Climbing UIAGM/IFMGA Candidate for Professional Mountain Guide French Avalanche Rescuer Training Member of the Alpine Clubs of Chania, Athens, and the French Club Alpin de Chamonix My Philosophy My love for nature, mountains, and adventure began in childhood. At 12, I took my first alpine skiing lessons, and at 14, I started competing in ski and road cycling races. For me, engaging in mountain activities is not just a hobby, but a way of life that I want to share with people. Through contact with the wild beauty of the mountains and as members of a team, we learn to operate with companionship and solidarity, setting and achieving new goals. Safety is of primary importance, which is why I carry a satellite phone and a first aid kit on all my hiking trips. Services I offer weekly programs, daily trips, and courses for all fitness levels and ages, in private small groups or for families. My programs combine safety and enjoyment, as we walk through gorges, on hidden paths, and alongside rivers. I am active in mountaineering, ski touring, rock and ice climbing, hiking, trail running, and swimming. Disclaimer: I am a professional mountain guide, but I am not a licensed guide and will not be able to guide you inside historical monuments.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Vangelis S.
As an IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide with decades of international expedition experience from the Alps to the Himalayas, I designed this private tour to share the profound spirit of Psiloritis. It is my pleasure to guide you along my favorite quiet trails, ensuring world-class alpine safety and rich local storytelling. While this hike is not as technical as Samaria, it is a real mountain environment with rocky, uneven terrain. Proper footwear is mandatory. Think of it this way: You wouldn't drive a highway car on a rough 4x4 track. Your feet need the right tires. Highly Recommended: Technical approach shoes or trail-running shoes with deep rubber lugs for a secure grip. Strictly Prohibited: Standard, flat-soled tennis shoes or fashion sneakers. They have zero traction on mountain rock, making slips highly likely. Choosing the right shoes ensures we move safely and comfortably toward the highest peak in Crete!
Morning Meeting & Drive: We meet at your accommodation. The drive to Migeros Plateau takes about 1 hour from Rethymnon or 2 hours from Chania. Coffee & Supply Stop: Along the way, we’ll make a brief stop for coffee and to buy sandwiches and snacks for the mountain summit. The Ascent: At Migeros, we gear up and begin our trek. Climbing to the highest peak of Crete, Timios Stavros (2,456m), takes about 3 hours with short breaks for panoramic views. Summit & Descent: At the peak, we rest, take photos, and eat our snacks. Afterward, we begin our 2 to 2.5-hour descent safely back to Migeros. Optional Meal: On our way back, we can optionally stop at a traditional local tavern if you wish to enjoy a meal before returning (not mandatory). Return: Our mountain day concludes with a relaxing drive back directly to your hotel (1 hour to Rethymnon / 2 hours to Chania).
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Transportation Options & Extra Fees Please note that private transportation is not included in the baseline guiding fee. You can choose one of the following options based on your group size and preferences: Option A (Full Transfer Service for 1-4 Guests): €180 extra fee (payable on-site). This covers a private rental vehicle for the day, comprehensive insurance, fuel, and hotel pickup/drop-off. Option B (Self-Drive): No extra fee. If you have your own rental car, we will meet at your accommodation, and I will join you in your vehicle to navigate and guide you to the mountain. Option C (Groups of 5+ Guests): If your group is larger than 4 people, a private mini-bus transfer can be arranged for an additional fee. Please contact me before booking to calculate the custom cost.
Chania, Greece
Your Hotel or Accommodation in Chania or Rethymnon. For safety and logistical reasons, there is no alternative meeting point. We always meet directly at your doorstep (hotel, villa, or Airbnb) so I can personally greet you and verify your gear/apparel before we depart for the mountain. Note: When booking, please ensure you provide the exact name and address of your accommodation in the required fields so we can instantly finalize our morning schedule.
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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
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