Fitness Retreats for Busy People

Fitness Retreats in Crete

Coastlines drenched with sunshine and stretches of sandy beaches, coupled with crystal clear blue waters and an abundance of fresh Mediterranean food. Welcome to Crete, an island where adventure and relaxation go perfectly hand in hand. 

As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete not only boasts beautiful landscapes and incredible food, but it’s also steeped in a rich history and culture, as well as more spots for outdoor adventures than you could possibly imagine. From hiking to swimming to simply unwinding under the sun or stars, this island has something for everyone and is the ultimate setting for a sun-filled fitness retreat.

UPCOMING FITNESS RETREATS IN CRETE

Angle Up

Why Choose a Fitness Retreat in Crete?

In Crete, our fitness retreats include a range of experiences and activities to suit everyone, because we believe that fitness retreats aren’t bootcamps with multiple workouts per day that require pushing yourself to the max. 

Perhaps a beachside yoga class is how you like to start your morning? Or maybe a sunset paddleboarding session is your ideal way to round off the day? Or it could be that you’re training for Hyrox, so you want the combination of a gym and beautiful running scenery? 

That’s the wonder of Crete – think of the activity, and you can likely find it (you can even ski in Crete in the winter!). If you love the outdoors, then the diversity of the terrain makes the island your natural playground, with tonnes of adventure activities like rock climbing or canyoning on offer, or you could venture out on a trail run through ancient olive groves. 

Crete is also home to one of Europe’s longest canyons, the Samaria Gorge, a must-visit 16km trek that leads through towering cliffs and stunning scenery. If you’re more of a water creature, snorkelling, windsurfing and diving in the clear blue waters are forever at your disposal. And for the adrenaline seekers out there, you can mountain bike in the White Mountains or go coasteering along Crete’s dramatic and beautiful cliffs. 

When choosing a fitness and wellness retreat abroad, most people will be looking for a place that sits in opposition to their regular environment at home – somewhere that offers not just a change of scenery, but also a change of pace. 

Crete provides just that. 

The island’s blend of quiet beaches, vast mountains and long days allows you to fully disconnect from the norm and reconnect with yourself and people just like you. The slower-paced Mediterranean lifestyle, coupled with the fresh cuisine and endlessly welcoming locals, makes for a real break from reality whilst still allowing you to balance your need for fitness and adventure. 

The Best Time to Visit Crete

The best time to visit Crete is from late April through to the end of October or early November. August is when the locals like to vacation, so it can be incredibly busy, and it’s advisable to steer clear of travelling during August to avoid the crowds. 

That said, if you do decide to travel in the height of summer, there’s a national holiday on August 15th where you may get to see local festivals pop up in some of the smaller towns, showcasing local music and dance. 

  • May is a wonderful time to visit Crete, especially if you’re looking for a fitness retreat in Europe. If you love hiking, running or lots of outdoor training, you’ll be pleased to hear that temperatures range from 20 to 25 degrees, so it’s a comfortable heat for longer outdoor movement sessions. Nature on the island is also in full bloom at this time, and there are fewer crowds, meaning you can make the most of relatively quiet trails or beaches.

  • Like most spots in the Mediterranean, Summer is high season in Crete, with temperatures regularly above 30 degrees in July and August. If you love sunrise workouts, training on the beach and water-based activities like swimming or paddle boarding, Summer is a great time for a fitness retreat in Crete.

  • Like May, Autumn is another great time to visit Crete, as the summer crowds begin to ease but the temperatures sit between 20 and 30 degrees. People who love hiking, cycling and outdoor training can really make the most of visiting Crete at this time of year, particularly as a lot of the popular spots will be much quieter than in the summer, making for a more peaceful outdoor adventure. 

The Best Things to Do in Crete

Culture

Crete is steeped in as much history and culture as it is adventure. So whilst you’re visiting, you may want to explore an ancient civilisation to really experience the island’s history and culture. 

Crete’s history dates back over 4,000 years, so if you love history, you’ll love wandering through the traditional villages where time slows down and you almost feel like you’ve stepped into another era. Knossos Palace and the Arkadi Monastery are two of the most-visited historic spots on the island, but our number one recommendation – not least because we can pair it with a stunning boat journey – is Spinalonga. 

Just off Crete’s northeastern coast sits Spinalonga, an island that from 1903-1957 was used to isolate people affected by leprosy. Inhabited since 1962, it is one of the most visited tourist sites both in Crete and Greece overall, with the abandoned, winding streets creating a deeply moving atmosphere full of history. It’s not just the island itself that is worth the visit, but the boat journey to and from Agios Nikolaos across turquoise waters and with stunning views is a peak Crete experience.

Adventure

If you’re heading to Crete for more adventurous explorations, then take your pick from one of the many activities the island offers.

For watersports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, head to Kouremenos Bay next to Palekastro for the best winds on the island – you’ll find rental shops dotted around this area too.

Paddle boarding is great in one of the quieter spots, such as our hometown of Plaka Beach, where you can take a yoga class on the beachfront before a calm paddle in the clear waters.

Samaria Gorge is an iconic Crete hike with the most incredible mountain views, as well as the opportunity to swim in the clear blue waters and take in traditional villages along the way.

Crete really is an endless source of opportunities to make the most of getting out in nature; whether that’s for a walk, a workout or a watersport, you won’t be short of things to do.

Local Cuisine in Crete

We also can’t talk about what to do in Crete without mentioning the food. No trip to Crete is complete without experiencing local Cretan cuisine and its delicious culinary traditions. The farm-to-table philosophy that spans the Mediterranean makes it a paradise for food lovers. 

Seek out traditional tavernas for locally sourced olives, cheese, honey and fresh seafood. Or for a more immersive experience you can visit the mountain villages to see how locals still make cheese and olive oil exactly as they did hundreds of years ago.

TESTIMONIALS

  • “Had the best time ever during the July trip to Crete! Tyla was an amazing host, everything was planned really well and the villas were amazing. You have a gym in the backyard and are literally 50 meters from the sea! Would highly recommend!”

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • “Best time EVER!! This a must on one's bucket list. From yoga in the morning to after-dinner fun and everything in between.”

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • “More Life Adventures and Stella are the absolute best. This retreat was the week I didn't know I needed but so glad I was a part of it. The villas are homey and welcoming, the gym fully stocked and you are steps away from the ocean, food, hiking, and shops. Stella plans the week with a mix of activities and adventures making these retreats perfect for the person who wants a relaxing vacation that includes some movement and exploration of Crete. I will be doing more with More Life Adventures and Stella in the future. Book with her and you won't regret it.”

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • “Crete with MLA was one of my best holidays!! Perfect location in a not too overcrowded town, comfortable accommodation with a sea view, great workouts and activities combined with enough time to hang out at the beach club and relax, and a fantastic host! Definitely worth repeating!”

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

FAQs

  • A fitness retreat in Crete blends movement, nature and meaningful connection on one of Europe’s most stunning islands. These retreats are designed to meet a range of goals, from strength training and cardio conditioning to recovery and restoration. 

    Our Crete wellness retreats often include a mix of gym-based training, functional fitness, yoga, hikes, paddleboarding, and fresh nourishing meals, all set amongst peaceful beaches, beautiful mountains, and local Cretan hospitality. You might start your day with a sunrise workout overlooking the sea, then head out for a hike through the hills, cool off with a sea swim, or restore with evening yoga. 

    If you’re looking for a fitness retreat, then the daily workouts will serve you well, or if you’re after a more balanced fitness and wellness retreat, you can opt for a slower-paced week. Each retreat and every experience is curated to help you move better, feel stronger, and reconnect with yourself.

  • Whether you’re a regular gym-goer or someone looking to reset your routine, fitness retreats in Crete are suitable for all levels. You don’t need to be an athlete or training for an event – just someone with a willingness to move, explore, and try new things.

    Our retreats are popular with solo travellers, groups of friends, and professionals in their 30s to 50s looking to recharge and feel more connected to their health. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded people who enjoy fitness, the outdoors, and a slower pace of life, making it an ideal wellness retreat if you’re seeking more than just a holiday. Whether you’re after a gentle weekend fitness retreat or a more active fitness bootcamp in Europe, there’s something for everyone.

  • Packing for your Crete fitness retreat depends a little on the season and your itinerary, but generally, you don’t need to bring much. What you’ll need:  

    • Lightweight, breathable workout clothes for at least one session per day

    • Swimwear for beach workouts, paddleboarding, and wild swimming

    • A good pair of trainers, or trail or hiking shoes for outdoor adventures

    • Comfortable casual wear for downtime and dinners

    • A jumper or cardigan for those breezy evenings

    • A refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection

    • A yoga mat if you prefer using your own

    • Any personal fitness gear you love (like resistance bands or massage balls)

    Crete’s climate is warm and sunny for most of the year, so prepare for outdoor workouts and pack layers if you’re joining us during cooler shoulder seasons.

  • Our fitness retreats in Crete typically run for one week, allowing time to reset both physically and mentally. There’s plenty of time to train, as well as explore and unwind.


    You can of course extend your stay to soak up more of what Crete has to offer – whether that’s enjoying more of the island’s food and culture, or making the most of a few more days of rest. As one of the best destinations for a fitness retreat abroad, Crete strikes the perfect balance between activity and relaxation. If you’re searching for an unforgettable wellness retreat in Crete, or looking to experience one of the most immersive fitness retreats that Europe has to offer, this could be your perfect match.

EXPLORE MORE ON OUR BLOG