Mountains rearing straight up from the sea, deep wooded gorges, ravines and valleys and yet more glorious mountains, standing proud and acting as a magnet to the eye and the imagination - that's western Crete, or real Crete, as some would say. Its strong, dramatic scenery has been the backdrop for heroic deeds, ancient civilisations and constant intrigue for thousands of years, and the home of obdurate, tough people made so by their labours on the land and their experiences. This pocket-size full colour guide describes eight car tours in western Crete, highlighting walks and picnic spots. The accompanying touring maps cover the whole island. But the major part of the book is devoted to 31 main walks and their many variations, all illustrated with 1:50,000 topo maps. Western Crete is real hikers' territory, and this book, the first-ever walking guide to Crete, in print for decades, describes all the best routes. An online update service keeps readers abreast route changes, and GPS tracks can be downloaded free for the walks. Includes plans of Hania and Rethimnon, as well as bus timetables (most of the walks are accessible by bus). NBN International