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The Apolychnos Gorge, situated just a few kilometers north of the town of Mires, is nestled in an area abundant with olive groves. This gorge is essentially a narrow valley that traces the path of a river, which in certain areas deepens and is surrounded by thick vegetation. The Tourki stream that flows through it carries water from a valley that begins west of Makres village to the Geropotamos river. The gorge, which is roughly 3 km long, begins near the village of Panagia and concludes at the traditional settlement of Agios Antonios (Vrelis). It’s conveniently accessible, particularly near its exit close to Agios Antonios, as it’s adjacent to the main road from Mires.
The gorge is named after the deserted village of Apolychnos, which is situated within the gorge at an elevation of 220m. This village, enveloped by verdant trees and bubbling springs, is home to the stunning Byzantine church of Saint Panteleimon, located in the village square.
Apolychnos Gorge is located in the Heraklion Region of Crete, Greece.
The difficulty level of hiking in Apolychnos Gorge is moderate to difficult. The trail is rocky and steep in some places, and requires some climbing and scrambling.
The length of the Apolychnos Gorge trail is approximately 3 kilometers long.
The best time of year to visit Apolychnos Gorge is in the spring or fall, when the weather is cooler and the vegetation is lush. It is not recommended to hike in the summer months due to the high temperatures.
It is not necessary to have a guide to hike in Apolychnos Gorge, but it is recommended for safety reasons and to ensure that you do not get lost on the trail.
No, there are no entrance fees to hike in Apolychnos Gorge.
You should bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy hiking shoes, and a first aid kit. It is also recommended to bring a map or GPS device.
