Those who want to holiday in Greece and who like staying active should definitely browse our villas in Crete as there are lots of things to keep you busy on the island. From hanging out on the powdery white sand of the island's picture-perfect beaches, kayaking and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters that lap the shores, exploring cave systems and archaeological sites, and more, there are all sorts of outdoor pursuits to enjoy. Hikers, in particular, will be happy to note that a vacation in Crete means lots of excellent hiking destinations and trails to choose from. One of the most and unique of Crete's hiking trails has to be Imbros Gorge, an 11km long canyon that is located near Hora Sfakion in the south of the island.
Running parallel to another fascinating canyon route, Samariá Gorge, Imbros Gorge was once a mule trail that acted as the sole path connecting Chania and Hora Sfakion before a proper road was built. Today, it is largely just used by hikers and is accessible all year-round, except during occasions of heavy rain or snow. Less lengthy than Samariá Gorge, with a walking distance of around 8km and an average walking time of around two and a half hours, Imbros Gorge is much more approachable for those who don't want to spend a whole day hiking or those bringing children along. It is also easier to access as the road to Hora Sfakion and South Crete runs along the upper part of the gorge and there is parking readily available at Imbros.
Boasting some spectacular scenery, particularly in the areas where the gorge narrows and the rock formations and walls either side become more elaborate and fantastical, the hike along the Imbros Gorge makes for a wonderful way to spend a few hours enjoying the majesty of the incredible natural beauty of Crete. Just head to the village of Imbros and enjoy a nice lunch either before or after your hike in one of the several cafés and tavernas in town, then follow the clearly marked signage to the entrance of the gorge, next to which there is a little house with a ticket office inside of it where you can pay the few euros that it costs to enter. From here, you follow a path that gently slopes south into the gorge. It is not an overly steep or difficult route but it is stony so sneakers or comfortable closed shoes are required. Along your walk you are likely to spot lots of interesting plants and lovely flowers (particularly in spring) and maybe even some animal pals like goats and mules. The walls of the canyon and regular trees afford plenty of shade that will be welcome if you are hiking during the warmer months and ensure that hiking here in summer is actually rather pleasant.
After about 90 minutes to 2 hours (if you are really taking your time), you should spot an impressive stone arch to the right. If you are immediately returning all the way back to Imbros, then this is a good place to turn around. If you are continuing to the village of Komitades, it should take another 15 minutes on foot and then you'll have tavernas to choose from, pickup spots for those who have chosen to undertake the hike as part of an organised bus tour, and where you can get a, “taxi”. These taxis are largely locally run and unofficial, with many taking tourists in the back of pickup trucks, which is fun for those have found a villa in Crete and have a bit of a sense of adventure.
As noted, Imbros Gorge can be hiked pretty much right through the year. However, if you come during spring you'll get to enjoy beautiful wildflowers. Do keep in mind, though, that as Samariá Gorge is not yet open again to the public in April, tour organisers flood Imbros Gorge with bus-loads of tourists and you will need to plan your trip for after noon if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds.
So, if you are a hiker considering a holiday in Greece, be sure to find a villa in Crete and come enjoy the incredible hiking routes that the island has to offer, including Imbros Gorge.
Boasting some spectacular scenery, particularly in the areas where the gorge narrows and the rock formations and walls either side become more elaborate and fantastical, the hike along the Imbros Gorge makes for a wonderful way to spend a few hours enjoying the majesty of the incredible natural beauty of Crete. Just head to the village of Imbros and enjoy a nice lunch either before or after your hike in one of the several cafés and tavernas in town, then follow the clearly marked signage to the entrance of the gorge, next to which there is a little house with a ticket office inside of it where you can pay the few euros that it costs to enter. From here, you follow a path that gently slopes south into the gorge. It is not an overly steep or difficult route but it is stony so sneakers or comfortable closed shoes are required. Along your walk you are likely to spot lots of interesting plants and lovely flowers (particularly in spring) and maybe even some animal pals like goats and mules. The walls of the canyon and regular trees afford plenty of shade that will be welcome if you are hiking during the warmer months and ensure that hiking here in summer is actually rather pleasant.
After about 90 minutes to 2 hours (if you are really taking your time), you should spot an impressive stone arch to the right. If you are immediately returning all the way back to Imbros, then this is a good place to turn around. If you are continuing to the village of Komitades, it should take another 15 minutes on foot and then you'll have tavernas to choose from, pickup spots for those who have chosen to undertake the hike as part of an organised bus tour, and where you can get a, “taxi”. These taxis are largely locally run and unofficial, with many taking tourists in the back of pickup trucks, which is fun for those have found a villa in Crete and have a bit of a sense of adventure.
As noted, Imbros Gorge can be hiked pretty much right through the year. However, if you come during spring you'll get to enjoy beautiful wildflowers. Do keep in mind, though, that as Samariá Gorge is not yet open again to the public in April, tour organisers flood Imbros Gorge with bus-loads of tourists and you will need to plan your trip for after noon if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds.
So, if you are a hiker considering a holiday in Greece, be sure to find a villa in Crete and come enjoy the incredible hiking routes that the island has to offer, including Imbros Gorge.
Photo credit: Andloukakis / CC BY-SA 4.0