Steep descent through the trees

The 10-mile trail starts at the top of the gorge, at an elevation of 1230 meters, taking visitors past towering cliffs, sweeping views, and uniquely Cretan flora and fauna.

After admiring the mountain views atop the trailhead, you’ll descend a steep switchback built in Ottoman times and bordered in the steepest parts by a handrail.

You need to be physically fit to hike the whole gorge, as the first few kilometers descend steeply and can take a toll on the knees.

The hairpin turns last for almost 3 kilometers, at which point your knees will be thankful because the gradient eases and the valley merges into the gorge proper.