Elounda is a small coastal town on the northeastern shore of Crete, Greece, set on Mirabello Bay about 70 km east of Heraklion and a short drive north of Agios Nikolaos. Elounda grew from a fishing village into a resort town known for seafront tavernas, boat trips to the fortress island of Spinalonga, and the sunken ancient city of Olous just offshore. The town works as a base for beach days, ancient sites, and short drives across the Lasithi region.
Elounda sits in the Lasithi region on the sheltered water of Mirabello Bay, about 70 km east of Heraklion and roughly 10 to 12 km north of Agios Nikolaos, the regional capital. The community is made up of seven villages and had 2,254 residents at the 2021 census, with the seaside village of Schisma serving as its centre. Heraklion International Airport, about 60 km away, is the nearest airport to the town. A hire car makes the salt-pan road, dirt tracks, and inland sites far easier to reach than public transport, and you can compare options through the cretelocals car rental directory.
The easiest way to reach Elounda is by car. From Heraklion Airport the drive takes about 1 hour 15 minutes along the E90 road through Hersonissos and Malia, then up and over the coast road above Agios Nikolaos. KTEL buses also run from the Agios Nikolaos bus station to Elounda and stop at the main square next to the port and beach, and some services continue north to Plaka. There is no direct bus between Heraklion and Elounda, so bus travellers change at Agios Nikolaos.
Elounda has several beaches within a short walk or drive of the harbour. Closest of all, about 0.3 km from the centre, the town beach of Schisma Elountas has golden sand, a playground, water sports, restrooms, and showers, which makes it the easiest choice for families. About 1.7 km along the coast toward Plaka, the Agia Paraskevi beaches mix sand and scattered rock and suit snorkelling. Roughly 2.7 km out, the white-sand cove of Kolokytha faces the Spinalonga peninsula and stays undeveloped, so you reach the sand on foot from a church car park and should pack your own water and shade. Read the full guides to the Schisma Elountas town beach, the Agia Paraskevi beaches, and the secluded Kolokytha cove.
Swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing fill most days in Elounda, and the calm bay also supports sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, and diving through local centres. Boat tours cross Mirabello Bay to Spinalonga and the sandy bay of Kolokytha, often with a swim stop and a barbecue lunch on board. In the town itself you can watch the fishermen land the daily catch and eat fresh seafood at the harbour tavernas. Day trips also reach Agios Nikolaos and its Lake Voulismeni, and a longer mountain drive climbs inland to the Lasithi Plateau.
Spinalonga is a fortified islet about 4.1 km from Elounda at the mouth of Mirabello Bay, on an island officially named Kalydon. Venetians fortified Spinalonga in the late 16th century, and the islet later held a leper hospital that operated from 1904 until 1957. The site was declared an archaeological site in 1976 and now draws visitors to its Venetian walls, Ottoman-era houses, and preserved streets. Spinalonga is the setting of Victoria Hislop’s 2005 novel The Island and its Greek television adaptation, and the nearby coast featured in the 1964 Walt Disney film The Moon-Spinners, so the island reaches visitors through books and screen before they arrive. Boat tours reach it from both Elounda and nearby Plaka, and you can read the history and departure details in the guide to Spinalonga.
The sunken city of Ancient Olous lies about 0.9 km from Elounda, beside the old Venetian salt pans, with most of its remains submerged just off the shore. Olous was inhabited from Minoan times and grew into one of the larger city-states of ancient Crete, reaching a population above 30,000. The Monastery of Panagia Kera and the ruins of Ancient Naxos at Oxa, around 2.4 km away, add more history within a short drive. Further inland, about 11.1 km from town, Ancient Lato is one of the best-preserved classical and Hellenistic towns in Crete and looks out over Mirabello Bay. Read the guides to the submerged city of Ancient Olous and the hilltop ruins of Ancient Lato.
Elounda kept a salt industry for generations, and the old salt pans still edge the road south toward the Kolokytha, or Kalydon, peninsula. Seawater collected in the shallow pans and evaporated in the sun, leaving the salt behind to be harvested. Stone windmills that once helped work the pans still stand by Schisma beach and along the salt-pan road, and they are a familiar landmark on the walk south out of town.
The hills around Elounda hold several gorges for walkers. The Mavrogiannis Gorge, also called Skinias, runs about 3.5 km through rocky terrain and ends near Avlaki beach. The quieter Kouroukoulos and Skotini gorges give less-travelled routes through wild, rocky country. Cycling and inland walks round out the outdoor options, and you can check the trail before you set off in the guide to the Mavrogiannis Gorge.
Small settlements around Elounda keep an older pace of life. Plaka, a fishing village about 5 km north and directly across from Spinalonga, is the departure point for many boat trips and a spot for lunch or a swim. Kato Elounda and other hamlets in the hills show the farming side of the area away from the resorts.
The Elounda harbour is lined with fish tavernas that serve Cretan meze and locally produced raki, along with cafes and bars around the main square. Most tables sit close to the water and look out over the bay and the fishing boats. Dining stays within a short walk of the town beach and the port.
Elounda is on the northeastern coast of Crete, in the Lasithi region of Greece, on Mirabello Bay. The town lies about 70 km east of Heraklion, roughly 10 to 12 km north of Agios Nikolaos, and about 60 km from Heraklion International Airport.
The easiest way is by car, about 1 hour 15 minutes from Heraklion Airport along the E90 road through Hersonissos and Malia. KTEL buses run from the Agios Nikolaos bus station and stop at the main square in Elounda, with some continuing to Plaka. There is no direct bus between Heraklion and Elounda, so bus travellers change at Agios Nikolaos.
Elounda is known for its seafront fish tavernas, boat trips to the fortress island of Spinalonga, and the sunken ancient city of Olous just offshore. Spinalonga is the setting of Victoria Hislop’s 2005 novel The Island, which draws many visitors to the area.
The closest beach is Schisma Elountas, the town beach about 0.3 km from the centre, with golden sand, a playground, and water sports. Agia Paraskevi, about 1.7 km away, mixes sand and rock and suits snorkelling, while the undeveloped white-sand cove of Kolokytha sits roughly 2.7 km out, facing Spinalonga.
Yes, boat tours run to Spinalonga from both Elounda and nearby Plaka across Mirabello Bay. Spinalonga is a Venetian fortress island that held a leper hospital from 1904 until 1957 and became an archaeological site in 1976.
The sunken city of Ancient Olous lies about 0.9 km from Elounda, beside the Venetian salt pans, with most of its remains under the sea. Ancient Naxos at Oxa sits around 2.4 km away, and Ancient Lato, one of the best-preserved classical and Hellenistic towns in Crete, is about 11.1 km inland.
Elounda offers swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling on nearby beaches, plus sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, and diving through local centres. Visitors can also take boat tours to Spinalonga and Kolokytha, hike the surrounding gorges, and eat fresh seafood at the harbour tavernas.
Yes, Elounda is known for luxury resorts and hotels alongside smaller apartments and studios near the town beach. The range of stays makes it a common choice for both high-end holidays and self-catering trips.
The summer months of June to September bring the warmest weather and the largest crowds in Elounda. Spring and autumn stay quieter, with milder temperatures and fewer visitors, which suits walking and sightseeing.
Yes, Elounda suits families, with the shallow, organised town beach of Schisma Elountas and its playground close to the centre. Calm bay water, boat trips, and easy access to tavernas make it manageable with children of different ages.
Elounda, a serene and picturesque resort town in Crete, is a magnet for those seeking luxury and tranquility. Known for its upscale hotels and villas, it caters to travelers looking for an opulent escape. Despite its small size, Elounda offers an array of amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable stay for its guests. From lavish hotels to cozy guesthouses, Elounda provides diverse accommodation options suitable for every preference. Explore below for a comprehensive list of stays in Elounda Town.
Set in Elounda, 300 metres from Elounda Beach and 500 metres from Skisma Beach, Boho Sea View Apartments offers air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free WiFi.
The apartment comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with sea views.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Boho Sea View Apartments.
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Situated in Elounda, 300 metres from Elounda Beach and 500 metres from Skisma Beach, Elounda Square Home offers air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment features 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a terrace with sea views.
A bicycle rental service is available at the apartment.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from Elounda Square Home, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from the accommodation.
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€77
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Boasting city views, Elounda Port Apartment features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 300 metres from Elounda Beach. It features mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views has 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower.
Skisma Beach is 500 metres from the apartment, while Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Elounda Port Apartment.
Located in Elounda, 300 metres from Elounda Beach and 500 metres from Skisma Beach, Artemis apartment first floor provides air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. This apartment is 14 km from Agios Nikolaos Port and 37 km from Lixnostatis Folk Museum.
The apartment comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with city views.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Artemis apartment first floor.
Set 300 metres from Elounda Beach, 500 metres from Skisma Beach and 11 km from Lake Voulismeni, Cute apartment in the centre of Elounda offers accommodation located in Elounda. This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free WiFi.
With direct access to a balcony, the air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom. Offering a terrace with quiet street views, this apartment also has a flat-screen TV, a well-equipped kitchenette with a fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware, as well as 1 bathroom with a bath and a hair dryer.
Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km from the apartment, while Agios Nikolaos Port is 14 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Cute apartment in the centre of Elounda.
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€59
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E.Berdufi Apartament Sea View has a balcony and is situated in Elounda, within just 500 metres of Elounda Beach and 700 metres of Skisma Beach. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.
The air-conditioned apartment is composed of 1 separate bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom. A flat-screen TV is offered.
Cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from E.Berdufi Apartament Sea View.
In Elounda, adventures await for all – from lounging on hidden beaches to snorkeling in Mirabello Bay’s crystal waters. Explore the quaint fishing village, dive into history at ancient Olous, or visit the Monastery of Panagia Kera. Don’t miss Spinalonga Island, famed for its Venetian fortress and intriguing past as a leper colony. See our list below for more captivating experiences in and around Elounda.
Before heading to Spinalonga the first visit is an olive oil park where you can experience first-hand the standardization of extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and olive paste.
You will be able to taste the authentic Greek product, which is famous worldwide for its great taste and nutritional value, as well as other authentic Cretan products like “raki” and honey.
After your first stop, you reach the capital town of Lasithi, Agios Nikolaos. You can discover the pretty city on your own, stroll through the shops, or relax in one of the countless cafes next to the picturesque bottomless lake of Voulismeni.
You continue your journey to Plaka, a small fishing village directly opposite Spinalonga. Here you will have plenty of free time to enjoy lunch or a refreshing swim. Moreover, from there you can take a 15-minute boat ride that takes you to the well-known island of Spinalonga.
The history and the culture of the island of Spinalonga became one with human tragedy over time. It has been an important place throughout history for the ancient Greeks, as a natural protection for the city of Olous, for the Saracens as a hiding place for their pirates, for the Venetians as a fortress, for the Turks as a settlement and for a long time the island served as a leper colony.
After your self-guided tour at Spinalonga, approximately 90 minutes, you’ll return to Plaka. There you have plenty of time to enjoy a coffee or your lunch, before going back to the hotels. An amazing trip with many destinations that you definitely should not miss!
Additional important information about the pickup and drop-off handling:
Pickup areas and times are as follows:
Ammoudara Beach road at 8 a.m.
Heraklion center 8:05 a.m.
Karteros 8:20 a.m.
Kokkini Chani, Gournes 8:25 a.m.
Kato Gouves 8:30 a.m.
Analipsi 8:40 a.m.
Anissaras 8:50 – 8:55 a.m.
Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari 9 – 9:05 a.m
Stalida, Stalis 9-9:10 a.m.
Malia 9:25 a.m.
Sissi 9:40 a.m.
Journey back in time and explore the ancient civilizations of Crete on a private full-day tour to Spinalonga. Drive along the north coast of the island and get an amazing view of the Selinari gorge on the way to the small fishing village of Elounda, known for its gorgeous beach.
Board a boat to the small island of Spinalonga, and learn the local history dating back to Ancient Greece. Take a guided tour of the island to explore how it served as a natural defense for the ancient city of Olous and was later used by the Saracens as a hide-out for their pirates. Discover the remains of the Venetian fortifications and learn more about the period of Ottoman rule.
Proceed to the sandy Bay of Kolokitha where the boat will be anchored. Enjoy some free time to swim in the crystal clear waters and feast from a BBQ lunch. Return to Elounda to take the bus to the pretty town of Agios Nikolaos, where you can browse the shops and visit the bottomless lake.
Enjoy a walking tour of the island of Spinalonga during a full-day excursion from Elounda to the island. Visit Agios Nikolaos and Elounda and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch.
Leave from Heraklion, in a spacious, comfortable bus and travel to the designated locations, along the coast through the St. George Gorge to Elounda, a tranquil coastal resort.
Board the boat around 10:00, and visit the bay and the beach of Kolokytha, a secluded haven that offers a respite from daily life. You can swim and eat a delicious BBQ on board.
Take the boat to Spinalonga around 12:45, traveling across Mirabello Bay. Learn about Spinalonga’s complex history guided by a professional tour guide as a natural barrier for Olous in Ancient Greek times, a Saracen pirate refuge, a Venetian fortification, and a Turkic settlement. Depart from Spinalonga at appr. 2:45 pm.
As you head towards our last destination from Elounda by bus, you will have the opportunity for a quick olive oil tasting, before arriving at the capital town of Lassithi, Agios Nikolaos at around 3:45 pm.
Relax in a café next to the bottomless Lake of Voulismeni and enjoy your walk to the local shops.
Return to Heraklion after the excursion, at approximately 6:30 pm.
Chart your own course from Agios Nikolaos on a private half-day cruise to destinations like Dianiskari and Kolokutha beach or visit towns like Plaka and Elounda. Sip on complementary soft drinks and have access to showers and snorkeling equipment.
Choose an option that meets your group size and space needs with options for a 4.3-meter RIB boat for up to 4 people, a 5.3-meter motorboat for up to 6 people, or a 9-Meter RIB boat for up to 9 people. Hop aboard the ship at the port of Agios Nikolaos and begin your sailing adventure.
Listen to music on board with a Bluetooth connection and craft your own itinerary to destinations like Skistra Bay and San Fwkas beach. Have the option to snorkel through crystal-clear waters or stop to purchase lunch at a seaside restaurant in the charming resort town of Elounda.
Head to the island of Spinalonga where you can admire natural beauty and historical ruins on this island that was once a leper colony. Return to your starting point at the end of your tour.
Relax and enjoy a 4-hour long boat trip to some of Crete’s most famous sites. Explore the lagoon of Elounda, see Kolokitha’s beautiful sandy beach, and sail arround Spinalonga, a former leper colony and Venetian fortress.
Begin the tour at Elounda Port at 2 p.m. where you get on board the boat.
Set sail towards Spinalonga Island, a picturesque islet known for its stunning scenery and rich history. Approach the island, where you will get to see the Venetian fortress, which was once used as a leper colony.
Head towards the Barbarossa cave, a natural wonder that will take your breath away. Learn more about the cave, named after the famous pirate Barbarossa, who used it as a hideout in the past. Enjoy a chance to take photos and explore the cave before you move on to the next stop.
Move on to the next destination, Skistra Beach, where you will get to swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun. Admire the beach, known for its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Take a refreshing swim before heading towards Kolokytha Beach, where you’ll get to enjoy the pristine sand and turquoise waters of the beach, surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a stunning backdrop for your photos.
Indulge in a salad and fruit bar on board, where you can enjoy healthy snacks and refreshments. Order cocktails at an additional cost and sip on delicious drinks as you take in the stunning views.
Rent your own motorboat or RIB boat and discover the picturesque islands and scenic views around Crete. Create your own itinerary and explore islands such as Agioi Pantes or Spinalonga, or the beaches of Agriomantra and Kolokytha.
After check-in, set off from the port of Agios Nikolaos on your adventure. Choose a route that interests you and explore lesser-known areas off the coast of Crete.
You can sail to the uninhabited island of Agioi Pantes. Spot the former church which is located at the top of the island. You may also see the endangered species of Cretan mountain goats, called “Kri-Kri”.
Sail to the beautiful island of Spinalonga located 800 meters off the coast. Admire the views of the 16th-century Venetian fortress, which also served as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957.
Make a stop for swimming at Kolokytha, one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. Hike along the pathway that takes you from the beach to the church of Agios Loukas and the Byzantine chapel of Agios Fokas.
You may also choose to sail towards Agriomantra, a beach that is found at the end of Agriomantra’s gorge and is of outstanding natural beauty. Relax beneath the Tamarisk trees which offer natural shade, while there are barbecues and benches to have a picnic on the beach.
Elounda’s Skisma Beach is a picturesque sandy enclave, perfect for families. Its cleanliness and organization make it especially welcoming.
Little ones delight in its flat sandy terrain and the playground, while older kids gravitate towards the available water sports. Occasional winds result in bigger waves, offering simple surfing opportunities.
With convenient facilities like restrooms and showers, coupled with an array of nearby taverns, it’s an ideal spot for families with children.
Beginning your journey from Elounda and heading towards Plaka along the coastal road, you will soon encounter a series of small pebble and stone beaches at the Mavrikiano and Agia Paraskevi settlements. In certain spots, you’ll see olive trees rooted on the beach itself, unharmed by the tranquil and saline waters of the lagoon. Occasionally, you’ll come across beach bars perched on platforms. The charming sight of fishing boats docked nearby undoubtedly tempts you to pause your journey for a photo op. As you move further north, the beaches of Tsifliki and Plaka unveil themselves, offering breathtaking views of Spinalonga, the famous leper island, and one of Greece’s most renowned attractions.
Armos, the northern area of the Spinalonga Peninsula, opposite the Spinalonga fort’s islet, Kalydon, is a unique site. It’s dotted with deserted old farms and is relatively unexplored due to a lack of roads leading to it. Besides the renowned Kolokitha beach at the peninsula’s southeast base, several hidden beaches are located in the northern part, which are well worth a canoe trip from Plaka to explore.
Vathi, one of these beaches, is found two kilometres northeast of Elounda port, on the peninsula’s northwest side. This small, sheltered cove boasts calm waters, a southeast orientation, and stunning views of Elounda town and its mountains. The beach at Vathi is a mix of pebbles and sand with relatively shallow water. Old farm remnants are scattered next to the beach, and a nearby boat platform serves as a stop for excursion boats from Elounda. Tamarisk and carob trees offer shade for resting beachgoers.
At the Spinalonga peninsula’s northernmost point, opposite the Spinalonga fort, lies the area known as Oxo Harakia or Skourgeto. The name Oxo Harakia refers to the rocks (haraki in Cretan dialect) that jut out above the sea surface at the narrow pass between the islet and the peninsula. Skourgeto, a Cretan term, describes the sharp, salt and sea-eroded rocks that are unwalkable without shoes. Two secluded, sandy beaches with crystal clear waters are ideal for snorkeling. Pottery fragments scattered around hint at ancient habitation.
Further northeast lies the sandy beach of Pelekiti, situated at a narrow ravine’s exit. The entire northern Spinalonga area, including all limestone-covered places, was previously used to extract boulders for building the Spinalonga fort. From Pelekita to Skourgeto, the area served as a limestone quarry, leading to large stair-like formations and distinctive rock shapes. In some places, the carvings extend into the sea. The name Pelekiti is Greek for “chiseled.”
The Mavrogiannis Gorge, also known as Skinias Gorge, originates from the vicinity of the Skinias village in the Mirabello province. Following a winding path, it culminates at the stunning Avlaki beach in Vlychadia. This dry canyon is characterized by magnificent rock structures throughout its length. Although the gorge transports water from the Areti Monastery region, it is predominantly dry.
The undiscovered Kouroukoulos gorge originates from the abandoned village of Agalianos, located in the Merambelo district of Lasithi prefecture. The old trail from the village leads us to the Lagos stream, which is suitable for hiking along its entire length. Initially, the terrain is dominated by oak trees, but as we get closer to the sea, the vegetation changes to brushwood and oregano.
To the west of Kouroukoulos lies the Patsopoulos Gorge, separated by a thin strip of rugged, rocky land known as Spathi. From the peak of Spathi, one can enjoy views of both canyons. Just before reaching the sea, the two canyons merge into one. The Kokkinos Detis (Red Cliff), a spot of exceptional beauty in the gorge, is home to a variety of rare, mostly endemic, plants that thrive in rock crevices.
Close to the sea exit, there is a quaint chapel dedicated to St. Luke, a local hermit who was fatally struck by an arrow in the canyon. Beneath the chapel lies St. Luke’s cave, from which “holy” water drips. A little further on from the chapel, the gorge opens out onto the pebble-filled Kouroukoulos beach, boasting a captivating underwater landscape. On the beach’s eastern side, a sea cave beneath the cliff leads to the delightful pebble beach of Kakia Naspa (Evil Landslide), an excellent spot for swimming.
The Skotini Gorge cuts through some of the most secluded and untamed regions of Crete. A research station for the study of aerosols, established by the University of Crete, is situated in this isolated location, far from the pollution of urban areas and devoid of human activity. From the village of Finokalias, a brief journey northward will lead you to the gorge. As you traverse this path, you’ll encounter a stunningly wild terrain characterized by bare rocks, sparse vegetation, and a variety of spices and herbs. Within the gorge, you’ll find 2-3 wells filled with water and numerous caves nestled within its towering walls. One such cave is said to have been the dwelling of a mysterious woman known as Datserolenia, according to local lore. This cave is guarded by a stone wall at its entrance. A small beach, Skotini, is situated just a short distance away.
Alternatively, you can take the dirt road from Finokalias to the Saint Andrew Monastery, situated at Cape Drepani. A section of this church is constructed on the mountain rock, with an inscription indicating that its repair was funded by patients from Spinalonga. To reach the beach from here, you’ll need to head eastward along the shoreline.
The name Skotini, meaning ‘dark’ in Greek, likely originates from the high, closely spaced walls of the canyon which, along with the tree canopy, significantly diminish the light, giving the gorge a ‘dark’ appearance. Another theory suggests that the name is derived from the numerous dark caves found within the canyon.
The Adrianos Gorge originates from the Adrianos village. There are areas within the gorge where large rocks obstruct the pathway, making navigation challenging, but achievable (it takes approximately 3 hours to traverse). In close proximity to the gorge, you can explore the Maridon and Atziganospilios caves.
The river that courses through the gorge is a segment of the Skoulikaris or Xeropotamos River. This river collects water from the Potami village valley and, after covering several kilometers, it finally drains near the Agios Nikolaos town stadium.
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