Top 5 gorges on the island of Crete.

The Magnificent Gorges of Crete

The Gorges of Crete are natural wonders that truly capture the essence of this stunning Greek island. Crete's huge Gorges and mountains present several chances for the adventurist traveler. Crete is home to more than 400 Gorges. This makes the island a veritable paradise for hikers and explorers. Here are the top 5 gorges on the island of Crete.

Gorge Samaria

The Samaria Gorge is Europe's longest and most well-known gorge. Part of the European E4 hiking trail, this park may be found in the prefecture of Chania, within the Lefka Ori National Park. The 16-kilometer distance may be covered on foot in around seven to twelve hours. It travels from Xyloskalo (Omalos plateau) to the charming fishing resort of Ayia Roumeli on the coast. In 1962, the area around the gorge was designated as a national park to safeguard the Cretan goat. The gorge is also home to numerous indigenous plant and animal species. Samaria, a small town located within the gorge, was deserted when the park was established. The Ossia Maria Gorge and the nearby settlement both draw their names from the town's historic church. From May to October, visitors can enjoy the canyon. Spring is ideal for a trip to the canyon since temperatures are mild, the landscape is at its most beautiful, and there are fewer people there.

Gorge Imbros

When it comes to Crete's gorges, Imbros is second only to Samaria. You'll need two to three hours to cover the 8 kilometers. Because of its moderate level of difficulty, Imbros Gorge is a popular alternative to Samaria for families with young children. The gorge begins below Imbros hamlet in the prefecture of Chania and continues to Komitades. The E4 European Hiking Path passes through this gorge as well. Wild wig trees, oaks, and cypresses populate a small forest just outside the gorge's entrance. Many strange flora can be found in the gorge as well. In May of 1941, when the Allies had been defeated in the Battle of Crete, they used Imbros Gorge as a means of escape to Egypt. The gorge is accessible year-round, however, it's best avoided on wet days. The greatest time to cross is in the spring, but if Samaria Gorge is closed it could be crowded. The gorge's trees make it a breeze to traverse even in the heat of July, but be sure to bring plenty of water.

Gorge Kourtaliotiko

About 22 kilometers south of Rethymno is the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Beginning in Koxare village, the 7-kilometer-long valley ultimately leads to Preveli Beach. About four hours are needed to complete the tour. Take the stairs on the side of the Koxare - Asomatos Road to descend into the Kourtaliotiko Canyon. The gorge's lowest point is home to St. Nicolas Church. The church is located close to where the Kourtaliotis River originates. According to legend, the river's five springs were formed when Saint Nicholas placed his hand on a rocky outcropping. The one-of-a-kind Agia Triada fresco may be found nearby the church. The Holy Spirit is represented by a dove descending from God's holy mountain. It is possible to hear "claps" in a certain spot in the gorge. This occurs whenever the gorge's lofty caves are exposed to the wind. The local language of Crete has a word for these "claps"; the word "kourtala" is whence the gorge and river get their names.

Gorge Tripiti

South of the town of Lentas in Heraklion lies the gorge of Tripiti. The Panagia Tripiti Church, located in the gorge's cave, is the inspiration for the name of the area. You can drive a car or ride a motorcycle across it because of its short length. The gorge's huge rocks and other landscapes are both breathtaking and enchanted. You may drive there from the nearby village of Vasiliki via the Asterousia Mountains. Because it's a dirt road, the entire journey is both incredible and challenging. However, the stunning natural beauty makes it well worth the trip. Crete Gorges' untamed landscape, which includes steep stone slopes and a few trees, is sure to leave you stunned once more. Once you make it through the gorge, you'll arrive at Tripiti's stunning beach, where the water is as clean as glass. There, you can unwind for the day or set up a tent and sleep under the stars.

Gorge of Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos Gorge, also known as Rouvas Gorge, can be found in the city of Heraklion. The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos (St. Nicholas) is located about 1.5 kilometers from Lake Zaros. Ascend the left-hand trail until you reach the gorge's mouth. Because of the 1994 fire at that point (which consumed almost a third of the gorge), the view is unpleasant. But if you keep on going past this point, you'll reach the true beauty. The gorge is 4 kilometers long, and travelers have the option of going up or down. The gorge's stream continues to run through the winter and into the early days of April. There are benches and water features scattered throughout the gorge.