Sfakiano Gorge
The Sfakiano Gorge, also known as Gorge Vartholoma or Gorge Lago, concludes around 2km east of Chora Sfakion within the Sfakia province. It originates from the Trikoukia area of the White Mountains at a height of 1200 meters and culminates at the Fylaki Caves of the South Cretan Sea. The gorge spans 6.5km and it’s a breeze to traverse along its riverbank.
The suggested hiking trail within the gorge initiates from the Niato plateau (close to Askifou Plateau) and heads towards the abandoned village of Kali Lakki. The gorge, one of Crete’s greenest, begins just before reaching Kali Laki and boasts an incredibly diverse plant life. Oaks, cypresses, and pines are the dominant trees within the Sfakiano Gorge.
The gorge’s starting point is home to the Byzantine church of Saint Paul (Agios Pavlos), constructed by the locals in 1407. The gorge meets the main road to Chora Sfakion near the exit, at the Porolago location. It’s certainly worthwhile to continue your adventure towards the sea, as the gorge bed leads to the breathtakingly beautiful Fylaki fjords, some of the most captivating beaches in the Sfakia region.
Location
Sfakiano Gorge is located at Sfakiano Gorge, in the Chania region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sfakiano Gorge?
Sfakiano Gorge is a hiking gorge located in the Chania region of Greece.
What type of gorge is Sfakiano Gorge?
Sfakiano Gorge is a hiking gorge with a signed trail.
What is the water situation like in Sfakiano Gorge?
Generally, Sfakiano Gorge is dry.
How accessible is Sfakiano Gorge?
Sfakiano Gorge is accessible via a dirt track.
How long is Sfakiano Gorge?
Sfakiano Gorge is 6.5 km long.
On a scale of 1-10, how difficult is Sfakiano Gorge?
Sfakiano Gorge has a difficulty rating of 2 out of 10.
How many hours does it take to hike Sfakiano Gorge?
It takes approximately 4 hours to hike Sfakiano Gorge.
What is the altitude difference in Sfakiano Gorge?
The altitude difference in Sfakiano Gorge is 1200.
