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Crete: Natural history meets ancient history Hiking, wildlife and culture

A shadow sweeps across the trail as you pick your way carefully down the gorge. Glancing up, you spy the angular contours of a lammergeyer – which is immediately distinct from the broad-winged griffon vultures you’d watched earlier.

This enormous raptor enjoys a special place in the history of Ancient Greece, having reputedly dropped a tortoise on the distinguished dome of playwright Aeschylus, with fatal results. Truth or myth, it’s an impressive bird.

Few places offer such a pleasing blend of antiquity and wildlife as Crete. Famed for its monasteries and Minoan ruins, Greece’s largest island is also home to a rich fauna – from raptors and wild goats to tortoises, chameleons and such fabulous butterflies as the wonderfully named Cretan Festoon.

In summer, the sun-drenched hillsides abound with cyclamen and other unique local flora.

Away from the resorts you’ll find fabulous hiking, with wild gorges, tiny villages and invariably a beach at the end. Top tip Keep an eye on the skies How to book Responsible Travel (01273 823700; responsibletravel.com) offers an eight-day wildlife holiday exploring the mountains and trails of western and southern Crete, also taking in local food, historic sites and some secluded beaches. From £908 per person, including transport, accommodation, breakfasts and inners, with an expert guide.