About
About Cretan Wild
Explore Crete Differently — One Trail at a Time
Cretan Wild is about more than just running.
It’s about connection — with nature, with others, and with yourself.
We create outdoor experiences that show you the real Crete.
From peaceful coastal paths to wild mountain trails, every route is chosen with care and love for this island.
What We Offer
We offer trail running tours, guided hikes, multi-day retreats, and custom outdoor adventures across Crete.
Whether you’re looking for a short morning run, a full-day hike, or a week of movement and rest, we can tailor it to your pace and style.
Our trails take you from the sea to the summit.
You’ll move through gorges, wander into hidden villages, discover quiet beaches, and stand on mountaintops.
We welcome all levels — from curious beginners to experienced runners and adventurers.
Why Choose Cretan Wild?
Crete is full of natural beauty — but much of it remains untouched by tourism.
We’re here to guide you off the beaten path.
At Cretan Wild, we combine movement with meaning.
We believe that nature is a powerful place for healing, joy, and discovery.
Our trips are built around trail running, hiking, and outdoor wellness — but also local culture, traditional food, and authentic connection with the land and its people.
Every experience is designed to be safe, supportive, and personal.
Custom Adventures & Retreats
We offer a selection of our most popular tours online, but there’s so much more to discover.
Looking for something unique?
We can create a custom plan just for you — from multi-day running retreats to private wellness escapes.
Want to come solo, with your family, or with a group?
We’ll make it work for you.
Let’s create your next Cretan adventure.
Reach out to start planning
We’d love to help you explore the wild side of Crete.
ABOUT ME
Hi, I’m Helen — founder of Cretan Wild.
I spent 20 years working in the corporate world — in finance, in cities, in stress.
Running changed everything.
I started at 39.
Three years later, I ran across the entire state of Arizona — 840 miles in 17 days — and set a women’s world record.
But more important than the record was what I found on the trail:
Freedom. Peace. Purpose.
I moved to Crete to be closer to nature, to my roots, and to a life that felt more real.
Here, I created Cretan Wild to share the joy and healing I found in movement, mountains, and community.
What Drives Me
I believe movement is medicine — for the body, the mind, and the spirit.
I believe we all have the power to change our lives, no matter where we start.
And I believe that trail running (or walking, or hiking) in nature can open a path back to joy.
My goal is to help others reconnect with themselves — one trail at a time.
Who I Work With
You don’t need to be an athlete.
You don’t need to be fast.
You just need to be open.
I guide people of all levels — from curious beginners to seasoned runners — through Crete’s wild landscapes.
Whether it’s a sunrise run, a multi-day retreat, or a silent walk at sunset, I’m here to help you move, breathe, and feel alive again.
Let’s explore Crete together.
I’d love to meet you.