Kritsa Gorge
The Kritsa Gorge, located 9.5km southwest of Agios Nikolaos, begins near the charming village of Kritsa and concludes at Tapes village. This 4 km long gorge, at some points, is only 1.5m wide. It is fairly easy to navigate, with a few areas requiring caution, where large rocks need to be climbed over. However, it is not advisable to visit the gorge following rainfall, as the resulting ponds can obstruct the paths.
The canyon’s entrance near Kritsa is striking. The mountain is split in two, creating the narrow Havgas passage (Havgas is a common term for gorges in East Crete). In addition to the main trail that begins near Kritsa’s stone bridge, there is an alternate path that starts in the village itself.
Close to the trailhead, you’ll find a large rock that can be scaled with relative ease. Beyond this point, the canyon becomes even more breathtaking, with slender passages and towering walls that block out sunlight. This natural wonder is particularly beautiful in spring when flowers are in bloom and water levels are low. The walls eventually recede, revealing a picturesque valley filled with olive groves. If you continue along the riverbed for approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll arrive at the lovely village of Tapes, where you can relax at the local coffee shop.
Location
Kritsa Gorge is located at Kritsa Gorge, in the Lassithi region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Kritsa Gorge?
Kritsa Gorge is a hiking gorge located in the Lasithi region of Greece.
Is there water in Kritsa Gorge?
Yes, there is water in Kritsa Gorge until the spring.
How accessible is Kritsa Gorge?
Kritsa Gorge is accessible via a paved road.
How long is Kritsa Gorge?
Kritsa Gorge is 4 km long.
What is the difficulty level of Kritsa Gorge?
Kritsa Gorge has a difficulty level of 3 out of 10.
How long does it take to hike Kritsa Gorge?
It takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours to hike Kritsa Gorge.
What is the altitude difference in Kritsa Gorge?
The altitude difference in Kritsa Gorge is 150 meters.
