Gorges

The hundreds of gorges in Crete are among the most distinctive features of the island’s natural landscape. Their formation is connected with the geological evolution of Crete and the gradual uplift of its mountain ranges. At the same time, rivers and streams eroded the limestone rocks over millions of years, creating deep ravines, narrow passages and steep vertical cliffs.

The interior of the gorges supports distinctive ecosystems. Plane trees, cypresses, oleanders and other plants grow along the wetter riverbeds, while the steep slopes provide shelter for birds of prey and many other species of Cretan wildlife. Where the riverbed meets abrupt changes in elevation, impressive waterfalls are formed, most of which carry water after heavy rainfall or during spring.

Many gorges are suitable for ordinary hiking, while others are inaccessible without technical equipment. The technical crossing of gorges, known as canyoning, involves the use of ropes, abseiling, swimming and moving through flowing water. It should only be attempted by properly trained people or under the supervision of experienced and certified guides. The difficulty and safety of each route vary according to the season, weather conditions and water level.

Arvi Gorge

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There are several places in Crete that are beautiful, but only a few of them can be described as winders of nature. A place that is a real wonder of nature is the gorge of Arvi that tears Arvion Mount in two, over which the shrine of Zeus Arveios was sited.

Kounaviano Gorge

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Kounaviano canyon is the richest (in vegetation) gorge in the prefecture of Heraklion, a real oasis in the center of the province Pediada. The name comes from the village Kounavi. It is a tributary of the river Karteros and runs parallel to Astrakiano gorge, with which in merges at position Kaki Rachi by Skalani and then form the Gorge of Karteros.

Havgas Gorge (Katharo) at Lassithi Plateau

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Through the gorge passes Havgas river that carries water from the plateau of Katharo to Lassithi. Then the water reaches Chonos (the hole from which waters of the Lassithi Plateau escape the plateau), comes out from Fleves and reaches Aposelemis dam. The river has water for several months a year. Thus, make sure you get properly informed about the weather because the canyon carries a lot of water during periods of rainfall.

Pefki Gorge

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The Gorge of Pefki (Pefki means Pines) is one of the most beautiful small gorges of Crete, with amazing rock formations shaped by the natural forces and with lush vegetation. The length of the gorge is 4.5 km and the elevation difference of the entering point and the exit reaches 300 meters.The gorge starts south of the village Pefki and ends in Aspros Potamos dorp, 2km north of Makrigialos.

Avlaki Gorge at Katholiko

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Avlaki gorge is located near the monastery Gouverneto, 16km east of Chania city. It is one of the most important gorges in Crete with a particular religious value, as many monks and hermits found shelter in its caves. Inside the small canyon there is the deserted Katholiko monastery, perhaps the oldest monastery in Crete. Thus, the gorge is also called Katholiko Gorge.

Kydoni Gorge at Karanou

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The Gorge Kydoni is a small lush green paradise near the village Karanou, which has been adorned with a beautiful trail and information signage. The trail starts from the fountain of the village and is very easy to walk and appropriate for children.

Moundros Gorge (Kollita)

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Kollita Gorges, i.e. Twin Ravines are located nearby the picturesque village Argyroupolis, about 22km southwest of Rethymnon city. They are named so, as they consist of two parallel canyons that end near Kato Poros settlement. Here we refer to the easternmost gorge of Moundros.

Almiros Gorge

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The gorge Almyros is located in Linoperamata, close to Heraklion, between Keri and Kastrokefala. Almiros Gorge is the nearest gorge to Heraklion, a natural oasis close to the bustling city, formed between the hills of Keri and Kastrokefala.