Experiences and Things to do in Ligaria

Listed below are the top activities in Ligaria:
  • Agia Pelagia Bay

Discover the underwater world with the experts of Scuba Diving at the famous bay of Agia Pelagia, where the sea is always calm and clear.
Discover the underwater world and feel as a diver. This program is specifically designed for those who never dived before and know nothing about scuba diving.
You’ll be taught the basics of scuba so that you’ll have a real dive, always following the safety standards of Padi, the leading scuba diving organization in the world. Feel like diver, breathe and move freely underwater and listen to the sounds of silence, always accompanied and supervised by qualified PADI instructors.
You’ll spend one hour in the diving center for basic information and introduction to scuba diving, watch a 20 minutes informational video in your language. Your experienced instructors will teach you all the secrets and the techniques of scuba diving. that makes it easy and simple, and will be continuously with you during your whole activity.
You’ll spend one more hour in the sea where you’ll be practicing the simple techniques you previously learned, while your instructors will guide you to the top experience of your life. You’ll be breathing and moving freely and play underwater games while exploring the house reef and thousands of fish swim around you.
Your instructors will teach you how to be autonomous and enjoy the most, not just hold you and pull you around.
During your first dive, you’re allowed to reach the depth of six meters, but you’ll be taken only where you feel comfortable and safe.
Return to the dive center to watch the footage and HD videos captured during your whole activity.

  • Agia Pelagia Bay

If you are over 8 years old, this day-program offers you the opportunity to discover the feelings of freedom and tranquility that scuba diving gives you. Throughout this program, you will be accompanied by an english speaking instructor.

Without you having particular knowledge and in small groups, STAY WET DIVING CENTER makes you discover what you have dreamed of for a long time already! Lack of experience is not an obstacle, since when you arrive with us, you will follow a briefing (about 30 minutes) given by a diving instructor. He will teach you the basics of diving and introduce you to the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean.

Add this unforgettable experience to your vacation!

Following this theory, you will be divided into groups of 4 people maximum and supervised by 1 instructor from the center. At no time will you be alone in the water! We are waiting for you with firm fins to guide you for 45 minutes through this fantastic world, at a maximum depth of 6 meters (regulatory depth for a first dive, 12 meters for the second). Whether it’s the feeling of weightlessness, discovering the fascinating world of the sea or simply breathing easily underwater – you will quickly develop a taste for diving!

If you chose to come with us, the transfer back to your hotel will leave at 4PM. It will give you time to enjoy our beautiful beach and eat at the delicious restaurants we have at the bay.

Do not miss this day!

  • Agia Pelagia Bay

Mermaid diving is a popular and exciting new trend in the world of diving. Instead of traditional scuba gear, divers wear a mermaid tail, allowing them to swim like a mermaid or merman.
Mermaid diving is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, as long as they are comfortable in the water and have basic swimming skills.The experience of mermaid diving is not just about swimming with a tail. It’s also about exploring the underwater world in a new and magical way. In mermaiding participants use their whole bodies, similar to the dolphin movement. The movement starts in the chest and from there continues like a wave throughout the entire body.

The mermaid tail, adds an element of fantasy and fun to the dive, and many divers enjoy performing tricks and swimming in formation with other mermaids.
Generally, there is no age limit in mermaiding but participants must be experienced swimmers.

  • Agia Pelagia Bay

If you are over 8 years old, this day-program offers you the opportunity to discover the feelings of freedom and tranquility that scuba diving gives you. Throughout this program, you will be accompanied by an english speaking instructor.

Without you having particular knowledge and in small groups, STAY WET DIVING CENTER makes you discover what you have dreamed of for a long time already! Lack of experience is not an obstacle, since when you arrive with us, you will follow a briefing (about 30 minutes) given by a diving instructor. He will teach you the basics of diving and introduce you to the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean.

Add this unforgettable experience to your vacation!

Following this theory, you will be divided into groups of 4 people maximum and supervised by 1 instructor from the center. At no time will you be alone in the water! We are waiting for you with firm fins to guide you for 45 minutes through this fantastic world, at a maximum depth of 6 meters (regulatory depth for a first dive, 12 meters for the second). Whether it’s the feeling of weightlessness, discovering the fascinating world of the sea or simply breathing easily underwater – you will quickly develop a taste for diving!

After learning the basics during this first dive, we invite you to repeat the experience during a 2nd dive during the day. During this, you will discover a completely different universe since you will leave the bay to do a slightly deeper dive (12 meters) where you will be able to observe new types of fish as well as a unique relief.

The second dive will be done around 2PM. The transfer back to your hotel will leave at 4PM. It will give you time to enjoy our beautiful beach and eat at the delicious restaurants we have at the bay.

Do not miss this day!

Visit stunning Beaches near Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest beaches in Ligaria:
  • 170 m
Ligaria beach is located 0.2 km away.

The Ligaria beach, nestled 21km northwest of Heraklion and just 1km east of Agia Pelagia, is shielded by the Bay of Ligaria from the common northwest winds of the region. Not far from here is the Panagia church, a relic from its days as the Panagia Ligariani monastery. The area is named after this monastery, which in turn, derives its name from the abundant osier plant, also known as ‘ligaria’ in Greek, famous for its pliable stems and lovely flowers.

The beach is an enchanting spot with its rough sand and serene, turquoise water. The presence of small boats adds to the charm of the scene. While the eastern part is more exposed to waves and tends to gather more debris, the western side boasts cleaner water and a flat sea. Smooth rocks are found close to the shore except for the western part of Ligaria which has small sandy areas. The beach is well-equipped with facilities like umbrellas, sunbeds, water sports, a diving school, beach bars, restaurants, and accommodations. However, parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends due to the influx of locals.

A trail leading northeast from the west end of the beach takes you to the top of the cape safeguarding Ligaria. Adjacent to this cape lies a secluded little beach named Parasfougario. It has sand and pebbles but is exposed to the wind. A stone pathway starting from a cliffside house leads to this beach, but it is off-limits as it falls under private property.

  • Ligaria beach
  • Rocks in places, Sand
  • Normal
  • Green
  • 380 m
Parasfougario beach is located 0.4 km away.

Parasfougario Beach, situated in the Achlada district of Malevizi province, is approximately 22 km northwest of Heraklion on the island of Crete. Positioned on a steep incline between the well-known beaches of Lygaria and Agia Pelagia, the only access to it is by a 20-25 minute swim from either of these beaches.

A set of stairs from a nearby house lead directly down to this petite beach. Its backdrop of a slope blanketed in crithmum adds to its charm. The ocean floor features pebbles and coarse sand, and a small cave to the east further enhances the picturesque setting.

Unlike its neighbouring beaches, Parasfougario is exposed to the northern winds. As a result, it is advisable to avoid it during windy periods, as it tends to accumulate a significant amount of rubbish during these times.

  • Parasfougario beach
  • Rocks in places, Sand
  • Normal
  • Green
  • 530 m
Madés beach is located 0.5 km away.

Madé, also known as Madés, is a quaint coastal hamlet situated close to Ligaria, 20km to the northwest of Heraklion and 4km towards the east of Agia Pelagia beach. It can be found near the northernmost fringe of the Gulf of Heraklion, at a site known as Cape Bourouni of Rogdia. To reach this spot from Heraklion, you would have to travel along the highway to Chania and then take the Ligaria / Mades exit. A sign for Madé will appear just 1.5km into this route.

The village overlooks a tiny bay with a pebble beach, enveloped by several rocks and the small settlement of Madé. The local hotel manages this area well, offering both umbrellas and sunbeds to its guests. Nearby, you can find a handful of rooms, a mini-market, a beach bar, and a few taverns. The tranquillity of the beach attracts mostly locals who have constructed their summer homes here. Its rocky seabed teeming with fish makes it a perfect spot for fishing and snorkelling. However, the beach’s northern orientation leaves it susceptible to winds.

The signature feature of Mades is a pair of small islets that lie opposite the western end of the beach, which are perfect for snorkelling. The name ‘Mades’ derives from the Greek verb ‘Mado’, meaning ‘break easily’. It refers to the area’s stones, which are prone to cracking and are highly unstable.

  • Madés beach
  • Fine Pebbles, Pebbles
  • Deep
  • Deep blue
  • 1.2 km
Agia Pelagia beach is located 1.2 km away.

Agia Pelagia beach is a sandy, sheltered bay about 21 km west of Heraklion, on the north coast of Crete. Cape Souda shields it from the summer meltemi winds, so the greenish water stays calm and clear for most of the season. The main beach is a several-hundred-metre strip of sand mixed with patches of small pebbles, narrow at the edges where sunbeds fill much of the space.

The bay curves into a natural, protected harbour, which the Turks once called Tsanak Limani, meaning “plate harbour”, after its rounded shape. Agia Pelagia began as a small settlement worked by Achlada villagers, then grew into a busy resort lined with hotels, tavernas, cafes and bars.

Facilities and water sports

The main beach is fully organised. You will find sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, a lifeguard and parking near the seafront, with a row of tavernas, cafes and bars set just behind the sand. The calm, clear water suits swimming, snorkelling and diving, and the bay runs water sports through the summer months. Scuba diving centres operate here from around April to October, so first-timers and certified divers can both get in the water.

Good for families

The sheltered bay makes Agia Pelagia a comfortable choice for families. Cape Souda blocks the strong summer winds, the surface stays calm, and the water shelves gently near the shore, so children can paddle and swim close to the sunbeds while parents watch from the beach.

Getting to Agia Pelagia beach

Regular buses connect Agia Pelagia with Heraklion, and the drive along a paved road takes roughly half an hour, so the beach is easy to reach with or without a car. There is parking near the beachfront, though spaces fill quickly in peak summer, so arriving early helps. Having your own car also makes it simple to reach the quieter coves around the bay, and you can compare options for car rental in Crete before you travel.

History and the name

The beach takes its name from an icon of Saint Pelagia, found centuries ago in the Evresi cave on the northern side of the bay, where a small shrine still marks the spot. The find inspired the nearby Agia Pelagia monastery, once known across Crete: worshippers would gather on the beach during its feast and lie in the sand seeking healing.

Cape Souda itself holds the ruins of ancient Apollonia, the port town that once guarded this coast; the ruins remain open to visitors even though a hotel now stands on the headland. Agia Pelagia stayed an important harbour into the Venetian period, when it supplied the Cretans besieged during the siege of Candia, and later the legendary ship of the Arkadi docked here to land ammunition for the rebels during the Cretan revolution.

Nearby coves

A short walk past the shrine on Cape Souda leads to Fylakes, two small coves of fine sand and green water tucked below the cape’s rocks; reaching them means crossing the rocky shore and wading through deep water, so keep your belongings dry. East of the main beach, below Hotel Diana, lies the small man-made pebble cove of Vlyhada, which you reach by swimming round from Agia Pelagia because the hotel does not allow access by land.

FAQ

Where is Agia Pelagia beach?

Agia Pelagia beach sits about 21 km west of Heraklion, on the north coast of Crete, on the sheltered southern side of Cape Souda.

How do you get to Agia Pelagia beach?

Regular buses run between Heraklion and Agia Pelagia, and the drive along a paved road takes roughly half an hour. There is parking near the beachfront, but it fills quickly in peak season, so arrive early.

Is Agia Pelagia beach sandy or pebbly?

The main beach is mostly sand with patches of small pebbles. It is narrow at the edges, where sunbeds take up much of the space.

Is Agia Pelagia beach good for families?

Yes. Cape Souda shelters the bay from strong winds, the water stays calm, and it shelves gently near the shore, so children can swim and paddle safely close to the beach.

What water sports can you do at Agia Pelagia?

The bay offers swimming, snorkelling and organised water sports, and scuba diving centres run introductory and guided dives through the summer season, roughly April to October.

What facilities does Agia Pelagia beach have?

The beach is fully organised, with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, a lifeguard and parking, plus tavernas, cafes and bars just behind the sand.

Why is it called Agia Pelagia?

The beach is named after an icon of Saint Pelagia found centuries ago in the Evresi cave beside the bay. A shrine marks the spot, and the nearby Agia Pelagia monastery grew from the same story.

What beaches are near Agia Pelagia?

Fylakes, two sandy coves below Cape Souda, is a short walk past the shrine, and the small pebble cove of Vlyhada lies just east of the main beach below Hotel Diana.

  • Agia Pelagia beach
  • Sand
  • Normal
  • Blue, Green

Discover Archaeological Sites near Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest archaeological sites near Ligaria:
  • 9.6 km •
  • Pera Galini Minoan settlement

On the eastern edge of Pera Galini beach, there is a small cape known as Kefali Soudas. This area is home to the ruins of a Minoan settlement, believed to have been one of the most significant ports in the Talea Range region.

At Kefali, you will notice ongoing excavations covered with plastic sheets that resemble greenhouses. These excavations have uncovered a sanctuary, and it is believed that the settlement was destroyed by an earthquake. Please note that entry to the fenced archaeological site is not allowed.

  • 10.6 km •
  • Pyrgos Minoan Peak Sanctuary

To the west of the village Tylisos in Malevizi province, the mountain Pirgos stands tall with its peak reaching an altitude of 684m. In 1963, archaeologist Stylianos Alexiou identified one of the most significant Minoan Peak Sanctuaries in Central Crete at this steep peak. Religious figurines, stone horns, and a rectangular building measuring 13m x 4.50m were discovered. To reach this site, it takes about a 20-minute walk from the nearest parking area, accessible via a rural road.

During antiquity, Pyrgos appears to have held a crucial religious role for the Minoans. Besides the sanctuary, the nearby Pera Korfi site served as a depot for votive figurines and inscriptions, found mixed with ash and vase fragments. Additionally, on the slopes of the same mountain lies the sacred cave of the Trapeza.

  • 13.1 km •
  • Archaeological Area Sklavokambos

The Minoan mansion of Sklavokambos was unearthed in 1930 during the construction of the main road to Anogia, resulting in the destruction of a portion of the structure. This multi-story building features a main room where a clay ox head, a Late Minoan IB period style jug, and a stone rhyton were discovered. The building had at least 17 rooms.

Artifacts found in an upper story include 39 sealings (stamps), a cylindrical vessel, a stone hammer, and a clay foot. Representations from one of the Sklavokambos stamps have been discovered in Zakros, Gournia, and Hagia Triada. Notably, no frescoes or gypsum finishings were found at the Sklavokambos building, which are typically found in Minoan palaces.

  • 11.2 km •
  • Archaeological Area Tylissos

The archaeological site of Tylisos is situated in the village of Tylissos, 16km west of Heraklion, in a strategic location near the east slopes of the Psiloritis range. Tylissos was a Minoan city that flourished between 1650-1450 mainly because it was located along the road that connected Knossos to the Minoan centers of West Crete and Ida Mount. In 1450, it was destroyed but was later rebuilt and prospered until 1200.

Tylisos features three small palaces (mansions) known as Mansion A, B, and C. Their architecture is among the most impressive in Minoan Crete, rivaling that of other major palaces of the era. The best-preserved mansion is Mansion A, which had two floors with a central courtyard, apartments, and warehouses with jars. Mansion B contains very old ruins, while Mansion C housed a central chamber and a system for water supply and sanitation.

Excavations at Tylisos began in 1912 by Iosif Hatzidakis, following the accidental discovery of three large bronze cauldrons – boilers. Later, in 1940, Nikolaos Platon carried out extended restoration and maintenance works. Due to the discovery of the boilers and one impressive bronze figurine of exceptional art, Tylisos is believed to have been a significant center of bronze. Furthermore, archaeologists found several plaques and jars inscribed with Linear A in Tylisos, which is the “language of the palaces” as it has been detected only in palaces and luxurious Minoan mansions. Other impressive items include the murals, which are compared in fine art only with those of Knossos. Additionally, many tombs have been found in the area (many of them already plundered) dating back to 1400-1200BC with painted clay sarcophagi, jewelry, stamps, etc.

Discover Monasteries near Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest Monasteries near Ligaria:
  • 4.9 km •
  • Rodia monastery

The Rodia nunnery, also known as the Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary, was established in 1990 by Bishop Nektarios Papadakis. The land for the monastery was generously donated by Agapi Sbokou to the Archdiocese of Crete for the purpose of founding the monastery.

In the center of the monastery’s courtyard, visitors can find the temple of the Virgin Mary, along with the cells, guest houses, and other facilities. The small, aisle church is constructed in the Aegean style and holds a celebration on November 21.

  • 5.1 km •
  • Pantanassa Monastery near Rogdia

Located on a pine-covered hill by the sea at an elevation of 30m, the Pantanassa Monastery (Panagia Pantanassa) is situated approximately 14km west of Heraklion. This relatively new female monastery is dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, with celebrations held on September 8.

Initially, Pantanassa was established to perform charitable work, similar to the Kalyviani Monastery near Mires. Unfortunately, its founder, Bishop Nikolaos Xenos, passed away before he could realize his ambitious dreams of creating an orphanage, nursing home, kindergarten, nursery, and more.

  • 4.7 km •
  • Monastery of Agia Fotini the Samaritan

Located in Ellinoperamata, Malevizi district, on the road to Rodia village, the Monastery of Agia Fotini the Samaritan was established in June 1991 by Archbishop Timotheos of Crete. Within the monastery, you can find the church of Agia Fotini, the chapel of St. Fanourios, the nuns’ cells, and the tomb of Timotheos, the monastery’s founder.

Martyr Fotini, who originated from the city of Sihar in Samaria, is mentioned in the life of evangelist John (D’1 – 38). Agia Fotini dedicated her life to spreading the Gospel throughout Africa and Rome during Emperor Nero’s reign (54-68 AD). She was ultimately martyred alongside her sons and five sisters.

The church observes celebrations on February 26th and the Sunday of the Samaritan woman.

  • 10.6 km •
  • Saint Theodore monastery

Located along the road to the University Hospital of Heraklion, the Holy Monastery of St. Theodore was established by Timothy Tzannis circa 1980.

Dine at the Best Restaurants in Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest restaurants in Ligaria:
  • 0.1 km •
  • Ligaria 715 00
  • 4 of 5

  • 0.3 km •
  • Ligaria 715 00
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 0.7 km •
  • Lygaria Main Street Lygaria
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 0.9 km •
  • Παλαια Εθνική Οδ. Ηρακλείου - Αγίου Νικολάου
  • 5 of 5

  • 0.9 km •
  • Agia Pelagia 715 00
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 0.9 km •
  • Anemos Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
  • 4.5 of 5

Have a Drink at the Best Bars in Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest bars in Ligaria:
  • 0.3 km •
  • Ligaria 715 00
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 1.1 km •
  • on the beach
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 1.1 km •
  • Main Beach Road
  • 4.8 of 5

  • 1.2 km •
  • Main Beach
  • 4.2 of 5

  • 1.3 km •
  • Agias Pelagias and
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 1.5 km •
  • Kutaiou
  • 5 of 5

Grab a Cup of Coffee at one of the Best Cafes in Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest cafes in Ligaria:
  • 0.3 km •
  • Ligaria 715 00
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 1.3 km •
  • Main Street
  • 4.2 of 5

Discover Museums in Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest museums in Ligaria:
  • 9.2 km •
  • 11ο χλμ Παλαιάς Οδού Ηρακλείου - Ρεθύμνου (Σερβιλί
  • 4 of 5

Go hiking to the nearby Gorges

Listed below are the nearest gorges to hike in Ligaria:
  • 3.1 km

A petite gorge forms to the west of the Rogdia village and opens up at the Paliokastro area. The journey begins from the ancient Koukos watermill, situated on the primary road linking Rogdia to Achlada, and takes you down to its most striking feature, the 10-meter tall Rechtra waterfall, which can be accessed through a relatively steep descent with ropes. As you traverse down the gorge, you’ll encounter several small waterfalls, the cave-like chapel of Panagia Spiliotissa, and finally arrive at the Paliokastro beach.

One of the most astounding sights is a cave situated right in the heart of the gorge, which has been converted into a studio for creating Christian icons by a hagiographer, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. It is highly recommended to stop by this unique site, engage in conversation with the artist, admire the icons, and perhaps purchase a few.

You can also conveniently reach the fall by trekking up the gorge from Paliokastro.

  • Spiliotissa Gorge, Rogdia
  • 6.8 km

Just a stone’s throw away from Heraklion city, near the Agios Panteleimonas Monastery in Fodele, you’ll find the Santorinios canyon. This canyon carries water from the Marathos village and the western slopes of Platani to the Fodelianos river. Although the canyon is relatively short, it remains unexplored due to the challenging access caused by thick vegetation and numerous ponds. Trekking through the riverbed, despite getting wet, simplifies the journey but calls for a change of footwear. The canyon’s name originates from the soil’s resemblance to that of Santorini Island, which was previously used in Crete’s construction.

Upon entering the gorge, you’ll encounter the ruins of a two-room watermill, its walls still standing tall, supported by an ivy branch woven into them. After some time, you’ll reach the first pond, Azilakokolymbos, which appears to be the path’s endpoint. However, if you manage to bypass the lake by either swimming or rock climbing, there’s more to discover. After overcoming this hurdle, the journey continues smoothly until you reach a majestic waterfall that forms a stunning pond at its base.

The adventure intensifies from this point. To proceed, you’ll need to scale the right side of the waterfall, approximately 15 meters, to reach the hilltop. To access the waterfall’s edge from here, a rope is necessary due to the steep and slippery terrain. As you continue up the canyon, you’ll be greeted by two awe-inspiring twin waterfalls.

  • Santorinios Gorge
  • 7.0 km

Almiros Gorge is a 3 km walking gorge in Ellinoperamata, the closest canyon to the west of Heraklion city. The route takes about 1.5 hours, gains 150 meters in elevation, and rates 1 out of 10 for difficulty, so it suits families and first-time hikers who want a short walk close to the city. A paved road reaches the trail, water runs here only until spring, and the path links a 14th-century monastery, three small chapels, a spring-fed lake, and three seasonal waterfalls.

What Almiros Gorge Is?

Almiros Gorge is a small canyon and hiking trail in Ellinoperamata, formed between the Keri hills and the post-Minoan town of Kastrokefala. Almiros Gorge sits west of Heraklion and counts as the closest gorge to the city on that side. The eastern side holds the largest holly wood (Phillirea media) in Crete, and platan trees, carob, and wild olive trees also grow here despite overgrazing.

The gorge carries several local names, each tied to its geography or folklore: Keri Gorge after the neighboring hill, Almiros after the nearby Almiros river, Ellinoperamata after the area where it ends, Porofarago (a common Cretan gorge name), the Three Churches after its three chapels (Santa Marina, St. Antonios, and St. Paraskevi), Strouboulas after the Strouboulas peak near its start, and the Ghosts’ Gorge, a spooky local nickname. Few visitors make the trip despite the short distance from central Heraklion.

Difficulty and Duration

Almiros Gorge rates 1 out of 10 for difficulty, which makes it one of the easiest gorges to hike near Heraklion. The full walk covers 3 km and takes about 1.5 hours, with 150 meters of elevation change along the way. The chapel of Lord Christ at the gorge’s starting point is reached after nearly 1 hour 30 minutes of walking.

The gentle grade and short length make the gorge a good option for a half-day outing rather than a demanding trek. Because the terrain stays easy throughout, most walkers of average fitness finish the route without difficulty.

Getting to the Trailhead

A paved road leads to Almiros Gorge, and cars can reach the location near the canyon exit. The 14th-century monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis stands near that exit, which gives you a clear landmark to aim for on arrival.

The gorge lies a short drive west of Heraklion, so most visitors arrive on their own wheels. Having a car also makes it easy to combine the walk with the nearby villages and coast, and you can compare options on the car rental page.

What You See Along the Trail

Almiros Gorge packs a monastery, three chapels, a seasonal stream, three small waterfalls, and a spring-fed lake into a single short walk. The trail is lined with trees, and the vegetation thickens as you climb.

Chapels and the monastery

The 14th-century monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis (Saint John inside the Gorge) was built near the canyon exit and is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. The monastery gives the gorge much of its religious character and its “Saint John inside the Gorge” name.

The surviving chapel of Saint Marina was used as a cemetery, while the main temple was the two-aisled chapel of Saint Anthony and Saint Paraskevi, which holds significant frescoes. Further along, a shrine dedicated to Saint George appears, and the chapel of Lord Christ marks the gorge’s starting point.

The stream and waterfalls

The gorge is usually dry and turns into a small stream during spring. Water stays in the gorge only until spring, so plan a visit for the wetter months to see the streambed flowing. After prolonged, heavy rainfall, three small waterfalls form at a site with a pinkish limestone hue.

Lake Almiros

Lake Almiros sits beside the gorge and is a wonder in itself. The lake’s crystal-clear water flows directly from the spring-fed mountain cliffs and stays clear enough to see all the way to its bed. For more swimming spots along the coast nearby, the beaches near Heraklion are a short drive away.

What to Bring

Almiros Gorge needs only light hiking gear, because the trail is short and easy. Pack for a half-day walk in a mostly open canyon:

  • Sturdy shoes or trainers for uneven ground
  • Water for the walk, since the stream runs only in spring
  • Sun protection for the exposed sections
  • A light layer for shade near the chapels

Nearby Gorges to Combine

Several gorges sit within a short drive of Almiros, which makes it easy to pair this walk with another. Each of the following canyons lies in the wider Heraklion area:

You can browse the full set of routes on the Crete gorges guide.

FAQ

Is Almiros Gorge hard to hike?

No. Almiros Gorge rates 1 out of 10 for difficulty, one of the easiest gorge walks near Heraklion, and the route gains only 150 meters over its length.

How long is the Almiros Gorge trail?

The trail is 3 km long and takes about 1.5 hours, with 150 meters of elevation change from end to end.

Is there water in Almiros Gorge?

Yes, until spring. The gorge is usually dry and turns into a small stream in spring, and three small waterfalls form after prolonged, heavy rainfall.

Can you drive to Almiros Gorge?

Yes. A paved road reaches the gorge, and cars can get to the location near the canyon exit, where the monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis stands.

Why is it called the Ghosts’ Gorge?

“Ghosts’ Gorge” is one of several local names for Almiros, alongside Keri Gorge, Porofarago, and the Three Churches, each tied to the gorge’s geography, chapels, or folklore.

  • Almiros Gorge
  • 21.6 km

The Zoniana canyon is situated to the south of Zoniana village within the Psiloritis Range. It begins at a height of 950m, gathering water from several streams that flow from the Zoniana mountains, and concludes at the village at a height of 650m. The “serpentine” river Oaxis, which carries water until spring and ultimately drains into the Geropotamos river, flows through this gorge.

This gorge is not only easily accessible but also safe for hiking due to its gentle slope. The rock formations in many areas are truly remarkable, made up of numerous layers, and there are stunning geological structures and trees clinging to the steep slopes and narrow points. As it nears the village, the canyon broadens and morphs into a slender valley.

  • Zoniana Gorge

Accommodations in Ligaria

Listed below are the nearest hotels in Ligaria:
  • 9.9 / 10
  • Lygaria

Boasting garden views, Golden Shell features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around a few steps from Ligaria Beach. It features water sports facilities, a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.

The villa with a terrace and sea views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.

The villa offers a children’s playground. After a day of fishing or hiking, guests can relax in the shared lounge area.

Mades Beach is 1.5 km from Golden Shell, while Agia Pelagia Beach is 1.6 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from the accommodation.

from

€246

/night

    • 50 m
    • 9.4 / 10
    • Lygaria

    Offering sea views, a garden and free WiFi, Apartment Villa Omega offers accommodation ideally set in Agia Pelagia, within a short distance of Ligaria Beach, Agia Pelagia Beach and Mades Beach.

    Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, a fireplace, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, and a private bathroom with bath. An oven, a toaster and fridge are also offered, as well as a kettle.

    The apartment offers a terrace.

    Fishing can be enjoyed nearby.

    Venetian Walls is 19 km from Apartment Villa Omega, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 21 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from the accommodation.

    from

    €235

    /night

      • 120 m
      • 8.8 / 10

      Located in Lygaria and only a few steps from Ligaria Beach, Awesome home in Gazi, Heraklio with 3 Bedrooms, WiFi and Outdoor swimming pool provides accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.5 km from Agia Pelagia Beach.

      This holiday home comes with 3 bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave.

      Mades Beach is 1.7 km from the holiday home, while Theseus Beach is 2.8 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from Awesome home in Gazi, Heraklio with 3 Bedrooms, WiFi and Outdoor swimming pool.

        • 140 m
        • 9.7 / 10
        • Lygaria

        Featuring garden views, Beachfront Orange apt-Ligaria Beach provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around a few steps from Ligaria Beach. It features a private beach area, a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.

        The holiday home comes with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

        Agia Pelagia Beach is 1.5 km from the holiday home, while Mades Beach is 1.6 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from Beachfront Orange apt-Ligaria Beach.

        from

        €282

        /night

          • 150 m

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