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Kounaviano Gorge

Gorge description

The Kounaviano gorge, known for its lush vegetation, is the greenest canyon in the entire Heraklion prefecture, serving as a verdant oasis in the heart of Pediada province. The gorge is named after the village of Kounavi in its district, even though it actually begins from the village of Peza, hence it could be referred to as Pezzano Gorge. This gorge is a tributary of the Karteros river and runs parallel to the Astrakiano gorge. The Astrakiano and Kounaviano gorges converge at the Kaki Rachi area near Skalani, forming the Karteros Gorge. Kounaviano’s entrance is situated at the northernmost point of the fertile Peza plain, collecting all the area’s water. It has numerous springs along its bed, some of which retain water throughout the year.

In recent years, the gorge’s trail has been marked and cleared, with the addition of small bridges, wooden railings, and informational signs. Walking along this trail is a delightful and easy experience, shaded by perennial plane, oak, and other trees. The riverbed walk is simple, without significant altitude changes or difficulties. At the gorge’s starting point, two small waterfalls can be seen. Old watermills, once used to grind the area’s cereals, can be found at three different points along the trail. This region has always been one of Crete’s most productive. Additionally, limestone kilns and various fruit tree gardens can be spotted. A walk from the gorge’s entrance at Peza to its exit at Kaki Rachi near Skalani takes approximately 2 hours.

Location

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Most frequent asked questions

What is Kounaviano Gorge?


Kounaviano Gorge is a hiking gorge located in the region of Heraklion.

What type of gorge is Kounaviano Gorge?


Kounaviano Gorge is a hiking gorge with a signed trail.

Is there water in Kounaviano Gorge?


Yes, there is water in Kounaviano Gorge until the spring.

How accessible is Kounaviano Gorge?


Kounaviano Gorge is accessible via a dirt track.

What is the length of Kounaviano Gorge?


Kounaviano Gorge is 4 km long.

What is the difficulty level of Kounaviano Gorge?


Kounaviano Gorge has a difficulty level of 1 out of 10.

How long does it take to hike Kounaviano Gorge?


It takes approximately 2 hours to hike Kounaviano Gorge.

What is the altitude difference in Kounaviano Gorge?


The altitude difference in Kounaviano Gorge is 100.

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