In Crete, adventure isn’t a hobby — it’s a way of life. It’s that moment when you leave behind the city, the obligations, the habits — and meet something more real. Yourself, in a version you’ve never met before.

Valia Andreadaki and Thomas Viskadourakis know this path well. With Crete on the Rocks as your guide, they’ll lead you along routes where “I can’t” simply doesn’t fit — and through landscapes where nature looks you straight in the eye. Here, the peaks aren’t there just to be admired from a distance — they’re there to be conquered.

Up next, a Q&A with Valia and Thomas — a conversation about the adventure-side of Crete.

A weekend in Crete — what’s the perfect getaway for you?

For us, it’s helmets, ropes and rock! The perfect getaway is one that takes you outside the city — and a little outside yourself. Whether it’s canyoning, via ferrata, or climbing with a view over the Libyan Sea. Wherever it happens, what matters is that you meet nature, other people — and the best part — a new version of yourself.

What’s the most special experience you offer — and why does it stand out?

(a) For Groups:

Without a doubt, canyoning. Why? Because in the gorge, there are no roles: no bosses, no colleagues. There are only people who literally and metaphorically support each other. It’s the ultimate team-building: everyone learns to communicate, trust, laugh through awkward moments, and applaud the most fearful person who dared to try. And this connection doesn’t end at the exit of the gorge — it stays with them, back at work.

(b) For a More Personal Challenge — Climbing or Via Ferrata:

The via ferrata at Kapetaniana or climbing at Agiofarago are transformative experiences. You don’t need to be “fit” or “athletic.” You just need the intention to climb a few meters above “I can’t.” Climbing leaves you genuinely proud of yourself.

And the look in their eyes stays with us. Not only for the stunning routes — but because we see people who started with doubt and reached the finish line with a smile stretching ear to ear. Somewhere between those emotions, something deeper is born: self-confidence.

Does someone need previous experience to join your activities?

Absolutely not. If you know how to walk and listen to instructions, we’ll take care of the rest. These experiences are for everyone!

Are these activities safe for kids or people who aren’t very fit?

Completely safe. Safety is non-negotiable. We use certified equipment, and our approach is always tailored to the abilities of each group. Families often join us — and it’s no secret that kids are often braver than their parents!

When someone connects with nature — do they also learn to respect it?

There’s no other way. When you’re diving into crystal pools, walking through narrow gorges, abseiling down waterfalls, smelling wild oregano and thyme from the cliffs, and hearing nothing but the sound of birds — something inside you whispers, “Don’t ruin this.” You learn to move respectfully — not because someone told you to — but because you felt it.

How important is teamwork and human connection in your experiences?

Huge. On the descent, someone holds your rope. On the climb, you offer your hand. The group is built out of necessity — but stays because of connection. People who didn’t know each other end up sharing snacks, stories, and phone numbers.

How do you combine adventure with Cretan gastronomy and culture?

There’s no such thing as “Cretan adventure” without raki, good meze, and dolmadakia. After the action, the culture continues at the table — in villages where they still cook with wood and love. We share the gorge — and then we share the most authentic food Crete has to offer.

What are the most common worries people share with you?

“What if I’m afraid of heights?”
“What if I can’t do it?”

And the answer is usually:
“You can. You just don’t know it yet.”

How do you reassure people so they feel ready to try?

First of all, we listen. We don’t dismiss any fear as “small” — because for the person carrying it, it feels like a mountain. We explain step by step what will happen, what equipment they’ll use, why they can trust it, what they’ll do, when, and how — and above all — that they will never be alone.

Whatever they feel, they share it with us — and move at their own pace. We don’t push. We encourage.