Walking With The Wounded's Crete Challenge: £15k raised, and a powerful journey from sea to summit

11 Jun 2026

Tantse

Discover how participants conquered the Tribal Tracks Sea to Summit Crete Challenge, trekking from sea to summit while raising vital funds for Walking With The Wounded.

**Edit, the team have now raised over £25,000!**

The latest Crete Sea to Summit Challenge was a huge success, with participants describing the experience as 'a magnificent trip' that perfectly balanced challenge, camaraderie and remembrance.

This six-day Tribal Tracks charity fundraising trek took participants across some of Crete's most spectacular landscapes. From rugged coastal paths and remote mountain villages to the dramatic White Mountains and the summit of Kouloule at 1,631m, the challenge offered an unforgettable adventure while raising vital funds for wounded veterans and their families.

Alverne Bolitho, who sits on the WWTW Board of Trustees, praised the experience, saying: 'The walk itself was ideal. Not easy – it had to be thought about, and concentration as well as fitness were required. The distances were correct for our age and level of fitness.'

The full itinerary, including trekking distances and stats can be found here. The trek is around 45km in total over 4 days.

A key highlight was the exceptional leadership provided by our carefully chosen local guide and Tribal Tracks leader Ben. Participants consistently praised their professionalism, knowledge and ability to manage the group's pace perfectly. "What can I say? A brilliant leader. Great pace and timing. He was a joy to be with and gave us great confidence throughout," commented trekker Andrew.

The team loved ascending the Samaria Gorge, too, going against the grain of most people who choose to walk downhill. "Ascending the Samaria Gorge will live long in the memory."

"The best guide I’ve ever come across. His language skills and attention to logistical detail were top drawer. He shared his extensive knowledge very generously. Most importantly, he led us at a perfect pace and with confidence. Ben was also brilliant. He played his role to perfection. Please do thank your team. It was an absolute pleasure to take part in such an adventure. Regards, Peter"

Beyond the physical challenge, the trek explores the history of the Battle of Crete, visiting key wartime sites before concluding with a moving visit to the Souda Bay War Cemetery. For many participants, this proved to be a fitting and emotional end to the adventure. The group also praised the accommodation, local hospitality and organisation throughout the trip.

Most importantly, the challenge continues to make a difference. Every pound fundraised goes directly to Walking With The Wounded, with the group now closing in on an impressive £15,000 fundraising total. They are hoping to hit £20k over the next couple of weeks. Do consider donating if you have the means to. Walking with the Wounded provides bespoke services dedicated to getting those who have fallen the furthest, physically or mentally, back on track and to move forward with their lives.

This charity fundraising trek was such a success that we've already got dates in the diary for the next one. We will return for another Cretan adventure September 26, 2027 - October 01, 2027. There are 16 spaces available. We're 'officially' launching this in September, but if you're especially keen, email charlotte@tribaltracks.co.uk to register your interest.