Cretan gorges are the magnificent monuments of nature and will give you a flavor of the beauty of this wonderful Greek Island. If you are a hiking lover, you can check our tours with hiking activities and choose which one you like or visit the gorge you like by private tours!!!
Samaria Gorge
Samaria Gorge is one of the most famous Cretan gorges. It is located in the sierra of White Mountains in Chania. Its length is 18 km and is the longest gorge of Crete and Europe. It has a width from 150 meters to 3 meters, which is the narrowest point of the gorge, called “Doors”. In 1962 it was declared a National Park of Greece and residence of many endemic birds and different species. The most famous of the animals that find refuge in Samaria Gorge is the Cretan goat (Kri Kri). There also herbs and rare plants growing there, such as the wild burning bush and wild flowers.
Ha Gorge
The gorge is located in Ha, north of Ierapetra. The entrance of the gorge is located at an altitude of 370 meters and the output goes down and ends at an altitude of 140 meters. Towards the end of the gorge there is a large waterfall at a height of 215 meters. The gorge has also rich flora and fauna. It is one of the famous and magnificent Crete Gorges. It has been visited by many travelers from around the world since it belongs to the 10 most beautiful gorges of Europe! It is a wild gorge, most appropriate for experienced hikers having all necessary equipment.
Astrakiano Gorge
Astrakiano and Kounaviano are two green canyons that join near Skalani and continue their course together to Karteros.
The total length of the network of the two gorges is 21 km. They are located east of the city of Heraklion and are part of the wider area of Yukhta. It is very easy for hiking, ideal for children and families.
The largest canyon Astrakiano, starts northwest of Kolomodi (Paliardas location) and runs through the area of the desert village of Kato Astrakoi with the ornate Astrakiani Arch. From Kato Astrakous starts a path that leads to the location Neraidospilio with the beautiful lake and the cave through which water gushes.Enchants ”the Fairy Cave with its fairies: Incredible photos from paradise.
From here, the path along the river Karteros essentially begins on a wooded path that has been formed with wooden bridges and railings in difficult places.
Trypiti Gorge
The gorge of Tripiti in Heraklion is located south, near the village of Lentas. It got its name from the church of Panagia Tripiti, which is built inside the cave of the gorge. It is relatively small in length and you can cross it even by car or motorbike. The scenery is magical and the tall cliffs that rise in many parts of the gorge are breathtaking! To get there, you have to cross by your car a part of Asterousia Mountains and passing from Vasiliki village.
The entire route is amazing and quite difficult at the same time, because of the dirt road. But it is worth a visit and the scenery will amaze you! The wild nature of Crete Gorges, once again, will leave you speechless with the few trees that grow inside the stone slopes of rocks and the high mountains surrounding the area! After you have passed the gorge, you will see the beautiful beach of Tripiti with crystal clear waters! There, you can spend a day of relaxation or even to camp under the trees!
Agiofarago Gorge
Agiofarago Gorge, one of the special Crete Gorges, is located in Heraklion, between the Monastery of Odigitria and the seaside village Kaloi Limenes. It will take you about 20 minutes to cross. At the beginning of the route, you will see the church of Agia Kyriaki which is in a cave! In the gorge is also the church of St. Anthony which is also partly in a cave and was the center of the ascetics of the region. The several archaeological findings in Agiofarago, show that there has been activity in the Minoan and Venetian times. Characteristic is the Minoan, circular, domed tomb near the church of St. Anthony. Shortly after, you will find a cave with a low entrance and a large room. The Abbot of the Monastery of St. Anthony lived there.
According to history, Agiofarago was inhabited by hermits since at least the 11th century. When you cross the gorge, you will reach a beautiful beach overlooking the Libyan Sea! We recommend good to keep water with you, as in the gorge there are no sources of water.
Article sourses: https://creti.co/, https://easyliving.gr/