We are very lucky to live in a place where there is ample good hiking country, around Paleochora, our small town in South west Crete.
We have a wonderful coastline as well as dramatic mountains and picturesque gorges to explore and hiking seems be more and more popular.
There are two broad types of hiker; the experienced, well-equipped type and the hopelessly equipped tourist who decides to take to the trails or joins an excursion.
So it is the latter group who I wish to address in this article as hiking in extreme weather conditions and extreme terrain can be extremely dangerous.
But there are some commonsense tips to follow if you are not an experienced hiker and you want to explore while on vacation.
In the summer months we have extremely hot weather.
There are certain steps to take and things to check which are essential for safety when going off into the wilderness.
There are also some absolute 'do nots'.
The first question you should ask yourself is 'Am I fit enough?' If the only walking you ever do is to the local pub and back, you may be in for a bit of an unpleasant surprise when attempting more than a couple of steep kilometres in 35 degree heat.
In fact, if you have any history of heart disease or problems with legs or joints, it is most advisable to get a check up from your doctor before going on holiday if you are hoping to do something strenuous.
So lets say you pass the 'fitness test', what are the basic, common-sense things to remember when embarking on a walk or hike? 1.
Suitable clothing and footwear.
It never ceases to amaze me that I meet people who expect to do long hikes over difficult terrain in flip flops.
I kid you not! A good, comfortable pair of training shoes are a minimum requirement.
Hiking or walking boots (lightweight and breathable if possible) are ideal.
Also wear a lightweight shirt or T-shirt which covers shoulders and possibly arms too.
Sunglasses are useful and a wide-brimmed hat is essential as is a high factor sun cream.
If you have problems with knees or hips, walking poles can be an immense help and are not very expensive.
2.
Take plenty of water.
Ask if there are springs or water sources along your chosen route and take enough to see you through.
It is also a good idea to dissolve some rehydration salts into the water before setting off.
Also take some lightweight but energy-rich food.
3.
Take a charged up mobile phone and store in it a couple of local numbers, perhaps the police station and a taverna which will be open all day long, so there will be someone on the other end if you need to call.
Also take a whistle and a small torch, just in case you get lost and the sun goes down.
4.
Tell someone where you plan to go, what time you are going and what time you are expected to be back.
Give them your mobile telephone number and remember to have theirs.
Oh and do check in with them when you finish your walk.
5.
Get as much local knowledge as possible.
Buy a map.
Buy a guide book or a specific walking guide.
Here in Paleochora, there is a local author, Bob Tait who, together with his wife Lynne have produced two fabulous books of walks in the vicinity detailing the routes and giving helpful hints and tips.
See if there is a local book like this for sale at a bookstore where you plan to hike.
There is no better way to explore and appreciate the countryside than on foot.
You will meet locals, see things the car driver will never see and get immense satisfaction and enjoyment from the activity.
Just remember the common-sense tips and do it in safety.