Gorges
Walk through silence, stone and water
Agio Farango
A nice and easy gorge is Agio Farango, located at the south of the village Sivas. You continue by car direction south and you will see the parking place at the entrance of the gorge (don’t leave your car at the monastery!). Take care here, not to park underneath the trees. The goats that are grazing in the neighborhood prefer the highest leaves, meaning that they will use the car as steps to reach the higher leaves. From there it is a nice walk from 20 minutes up to half an hour to reach the bay. This bay is a beautiful place with a lovely beach and crystal clear water. Off course you have to walk back to the car afterwards. Notice that it is a deserted bay, no sanitation available.
Short hike • easy to moderate
Lake of Zaros - Rouwas gorge
A small wetland was created by the crater of the source Votomos by the end of the 80s, just north of the village of Zaros, right at the base of the mountain. In 1987 they created a small artificial lake there with the interventions of the Forest Service. Nowadays the lake and the area around turned out to be one of the major forest recreation areas of the island. The lake, the green area, they attract visitors from all over the world. This excursion can be easily combined with nice food in one of the taverns there. The place is known for the fresh fish trout (Forelle).
For the hikers, it is the best place to start the Rouwas gorge. Just behind the Lake of Votomos, you will find the entrance to the gorge, marked by wooden steps. You should allow 4 to 5 hours to complete this hike. Of course, you can enter and taste the beauty and return the same path whenever you feel like it.
Steep ascents • rough terrain • demanding
Kourtaliotiko gorge
Kourtaliotiko Gorge is one of southern Crete’s most impressive natural landmarks, located just south of Rethymno.
Steep limestone cliffs, strong winds, and echoing sounds give the gorge its dramatic character.
A short descent leads to the riverbed, where waterfalls and clear pools flow year-round.
Inside the gorge lies the small chapel of Agios Nikolaos, set in lush greenery.
The gorge is easily accessible by car and is often combined with a visit to nearby Preveli Beach.
Very accessible • might be crowded • easy
Imbros gorge
Imbros Gorge is a scenic and relatively easy gorge located in southern Crete, near the village of Imbros in Chania prefecture.
It stretches about 8 km and is known for its narrow passages, towering rock walls, and peaceful atmosphere.
The trail gently descends and is suitable for most visitors with basic hiking ability.
Along the route, hikers pass through shaded sections, stone formations, and traditional resting spots.
The gorge ends near Komitades village and is often chosen as a quieter alternative to Samaria Gorge.
Long but gentle descent • moderate
Good to know
- Uneven terrain & rocky paths – sturdy shoes recommended
- Entrance fee may apply
- Allow extra time and carry water, especially in summer
- Weather conditions can affect accessibility