Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Waterfall

Following pick-up at your hotel. Sit back and enjoy the dramatic scenery of the Kourtaliótiko Gorge as you make your way to the beautiful beach of Preveli.
Get breathtaking views of the blue waters of the Aegean Sea contrasting with the lush green of the palm forest and lagoon.
The first stop is Damnoni beach. From here you will take the boat over to Palm beach. Take some free time to soak in all the beauty of the clear blue waters combined with the lagoon and palm forest.
Enjoy time to purchase lunch and refreshments in Damnoni and admire its beautiful clean beach. After Damnoni we will visit the small fisher village Plakias. Journey back to Rethymno and get dropped off at your hotel on arrival.

Start your day at Spili, a small and beautiful village very popular for the lion head fountains, by relaxing under the trees while enjoying a Greek cup of coffee. Try honey and olive oil from local producers. Visit the folks museum and learn about the Cretan history.

Then explore the breathtaking Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Walk through the rising rock walls and admire the incredible natural scenery, before you reach the lonely chapel of Agios Nikolaos. Listen to the ethereal sound of the wind, created by its movement through the gorge. Reach the springs of Kourtaliotis, where you swim under the waterfalls.

Arrive at the exotic coastal resort of Kalypso, an old pirate shelter. Relax on Karavos beach, which has recently become a national park. Walk across the towering rocks and dive into the turquoise water of the Libyan Sea.

Set off on an enthralling expedition across the splendid landscapes and ancient marvels of Crete, beginning in the lively city of Rethymno. This full-day escapade merges the island’s profound historical roots with its breathtaking scenic vistas.

Arkadi Monastery: A Testament to Independence
The journey commences at Arkadi Monastery, a pivotal symbol of the island’s fight for freedom. We explore the moving history of 1866, with its vivid imagery and symbols that recount the sacrifices made for independence. The monastery’s design and relics epitomize the spirit of perseverance and the struggle for liberty.

Enchanting Path to Fragma Potamon
We proceed along an off-the-beaten-path to the captivating Fragma Potamon dam. Here, the sweeping vistas promise awe-inspiring tranquility, presenting an ideal chance for creating lasting memories with fellow travelers.

Saint Antonios Gorge: A Secluded Haven
A brief but magical off-road journey leads us to the tranquil Saint Antonios Gorge, a haven for rare natural ecosystems. Explore the trail to a hallowed temple set against a backdrop of remarkable geological formations. We pause to take in the lush visuals and hues, indulging in authentic local treats and coffee in this magical locale.

Spili: A Village Carved in Harmony
Our adventure navigates through charming hamlets to reach Spili, famed for its natural springs. Wander through its idyllic alleyways, under the shadow of ancient plane trees, and past the celebrated lion head fountains, where the cool spring waters flow incessantly.

Gastronomy in a Traditional Setting
The journey pauses for a gastronomic delight in a classic tavern, where an assortment of Cretan appetizers, entrees (with vegetarian alternatives), and local wines are served to tantalize your taste buds.

Preveli: Echoes of an African Vista
Our route takes us to the Preveli palm forest, offering landscapes akin to those of Africa. Marvel at the ancient stone bridge and follow a short trek to experience the dominance of palm trees among incredible rock structures, a river blending into the Libyan Sea, and expansive views of the coastline. The trail concludes at a pristine beach, perfect for swimming and unwinding.

Kourtaliotis Gorge: A Spectacular Natural Wonder
We then explore the majestic Kourtaliotis Gorge, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and a river nourished by five springs, allegedly formed by the touch of St. Nikolaos. Descending to the river’s edge, we immerse in the gorge’s invigorating atmosphere, observing its flora and fauna, and possibly sighting the elusive vultures.

On our return, we traverse the imposing Kotsifos Gorge and pass through a series of traditional villages, each contributing to Crete’s rich historical narrative.

This exploration into the heart of Crete transcends a mere journey; it’s an immersive voyage that intimately connects you with the essence of the island, leaving behind a collection of cherished memories and a refreshed sense of awe.

Embark on a thrilling river trekking through the biggest gorge in Rethymnon, right in the center of the island of Crete.

Follow the river’s shore through special paths away from crowds with our experience guide and get the chance to explore the hidden forest of the gorge, splash into natural pools, and witness the huge waterfall that falls into the canyon.

Once we arrive above the gorge we will provide you with neoprene suits, helmets, walking sticks and after a short briefing about the route that we follow, we immediately start the adventure!

The first part includes an amazing view of the great waterfall! The flow never stops and the amount of water coming down from the mountains is simply amazing!

A small and safe jump will cool you up as the place is perfect for some instagramik pictures

We continue down the river by splashing into natural pools and having fun next to the river’s shore. Passing by the amazing route down the gorge, you will see some plane trees around us, which create the perfect scenery – A place away from crowds – you will love.

After walking for about 2 more hours into the gorge, we finally reach an old olive grove, which is our exit point from the gorge. There we will go at a hidden paradise on earth called “Banana Garden” to have a refreshment and talk about our experience!

Overall, the Kourtaliotiko Gorge trek is a moderate hike that is suitable for most fitness levels. It offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most stunning natural wonders of Crete and is sure to leave you with lasting memories.