Kournas:
Beaches, Stays, Things to do

Apartments and hotels in Kournas from Crete Island

Kournas Map

Our Selection of Best Accommodations in Kournas

  • 9.8 / 10
  • Kournas Villa

Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a rooftop pool, garden view and a balcony, Sun Stone Villa Heated Whirpool is located in Chania Town. It has barbecue facilities, city views and free WiFithroughout the property.

The villa with a terrace and mountain views features 6 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 5 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.

At the villa guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub. A car rental service is available at Sun Stone Villa Heated Whirpool.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 23 km from the accommodation, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 56 km from Sun Stone Villa Heated Whirpool, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

from

€352

/night

    • 50 m
    • 9.7 / 10
    • Kournas village

    Set in Kournás in the Crete region, O-Cyanea Villa features a balcony. This holiday home features free private parking, free shuttle service and free WiFi.

    The holiday home is fitted with 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with garden views. The air-conditioned holiday home also offers a seating area, washing machine and 5 bathrooms with a hair dryer.

    Guests can enjoy the pool with a view at the holiday home.

    Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 23 km from O-Cyanea Villa, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 55 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

      • 180 m
      • 10 / 10
      • Kournas

      Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a patio, Casa Belvedere Boutique Villa is situated in Kournás. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

      The villa with a terrace and mountain views has 4 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 4 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.

      At the villa guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub. A car rental service is available at Casa Belvedere Boutique Villa.

      Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 23 km from the accommodation, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 56 km from Casa Belvedere Boutique Villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

      from

      €189

      /night

        • 200 m
        • 9 / 10
        • Κουρνάς

        Located 23 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Villa Andreas offers pool with a view, a garden and air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi.

        The villa provides guests with a terrace, mountain views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also featured, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

        Villa Andreas offers a barbecue.

        Hiking can be enjoyed nearby.

        Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km from the accommodation, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 22 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 56 km from Villa Andreas.

          • 250 m
          • 9.5 / 10
          • Kournas village

          Boasting mountain views, Villa Di Giorgio Heated Pool features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 23 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.

          The villa with a terrace and sea views has 4 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 3 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.

          Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa.

          Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km from Villa Di Giorgio Heated Pool, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 21 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 55 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

          from

          €418

          /night

            • 260 m
            • 9.9 / 10
            • Panorama hill

            Boasting garden views, 360 Panorama House – Gazing at Horizon and the Stars of the Galaxy in the night – Fresh Cool breeze most of the time – just 7 min from the beach offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 22 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. It has a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.

            The holiday home has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

            Staff at the holiday home are available to provide information at the 24-hour front desk.

            360 Panorama House – Gazing at Horizon and the Stars of the Galaxy in the night – Fresh Cool breeze most of the time – just 7 min from the beach offers a children’s playground. A an indoor play area is also available for guests at the accommodation.

            Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 46 km from 360 Panorama House – Gazing at Horizon and the Stars of the Galaxy in the night – Fresh Cool breeze most of the time – just 7 min from the beach, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 21 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 55 km from the holiday home.

              • 260 m

              Things to do near Kournas

              Listed below are the things to do near Kournas:
              • Lake Kournas

              Join this unforgettable journey to the West Side of Crete, where you’ll uncover its rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and charming towns that truly make this region unique. First, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Chania Town for 2.5 hours.

              Wander along its picturesque Venetian streets, lined with charming shops, bustling markets, and delightful local restaurants. Don’t miss exploring the famous old port, teeming with activity and offering mesmerizing views. Spend leisurely moments strolling along the coastline or relaxing with a drink at a seaside café. Then continue the bus journey from Chania to the lake, which will take approximately 1 hour.

              Discover the serenity of Crete’s largest natural lake, Lake Kournas, during our 1.5-hour visit. Marvel at the tranquil waters reflecting the majestic White Mountains, evoking an Alpine atmosphere. Choose to enjoy a scenic pedal boat ride, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the charming tavernas (additional cost).

              Explore the captivating charm of Rethymno, a town steeped in Venetian heritage, during your 1.5-hour visit. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the old port, soaking in the picturesque vistas. Wander along the scenic oriental beach road, immersing yourself in the vibrant blend of cultures that define this coastal gem. Expect a return bus journey lasting approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the location of your hotel in the Heraklion Region.

              • Lake Kournas

              Embark on an exhilarating jeep adventure filled with history, culture, and the breathtaking landscapes of Crete. This tour promises a blend of entertainment, fun, and exploration, taking you through the island’s most captivating sights.

              Limni Kournas: Crete’s Natural Lake
              Our adventure begins at Limni Kournas, Crete’s only natural lake. Here, we’ll take a short break to enjoy the panoramic views extending to the Lefka Ori’s northern fringes. The serene beauty of the lake provides a perfect start to our journey.

              Argyroupoli’s Water Sources
              Next, we explore a valley leading to Argyroupoli’s water sources, where nature’s artistry is displayed through lush vegetation and stunning waterfalls. This picturesque setting offers a tranquil spot for a coffee break amidst nature’s splendor.

              Holy Five Virgins Monument
              We then visit the monument dedicated to the Holy Five Virgins, marked by tombs in a cave from which holy water flows. A small church here pays homage to these martyred virgins, adding a spiritual dimension to our tour.

              Mountro Gorge and “To Nisi”: Off-road route
              Our journey takes us off-road to the Mountro Gorge, through dense forest vegetation, and up the mountain to the historical ruins of “To Nisi”. This abandoned settlement whispers tales of a bygone era, inviting us to uncover its secrets.

              Rural Life in Mountros Village
              Passing through the quaint village of Mountros, we delve into Crete’s rural life at the Mitato of Astrinos in Kali Sykia. Here, we’ll experience traditional goat milking, cheese making, and savor the authentic feta of Crete, surrounded by nature.

              In Agkouseliana village, we’ll halt to savor our Cretan lunch. Delight in shared appetizers for every four persons and a main course for each individual, accompanied by wine and water. Indulge in the authentic flavors of “whatever mum has cooked,” with vegetarian options readily available.

              Preveli’s Palm Forest and Beach
              Our expedition leads us to the enchanting palm forest of Preveli. A brief hike reveals a landscape dominated by palm trees, unique rock formations, and a river merging into the Libyan Sea, culminating at a stunning beach for a refreshing swim.

              Kourtaliotis Gorge: Nature’s Majesty
              On our return, we explore the Kourtaliotis Gorge, feeling its refreshing aura and admiring its wildlife, including the occasional rare vulture. This natural marvel marks a fitting end to our journey through the hidden treasures of Crete.

              This day tour is not just a trip; it’s an immersion into the essence of Crete, filled with unforgettable memories, wildlife encounters, and a deep appreciation for the island’s unexplored beauty.

              • Lake Kournas

              Start your day of adventure at your first stop of the trip, a local oil mill. Here you will have the opportunity to see how Crete’s famous olive oil is produced on this fascinating and informative outing.

              Follow on your journey through Crete and make a quick stop at the watersprings of Argyroupolis. These watersprings are responsible for the rich vegetation that surrounds the village, a truly magical and refreshing experience. Your last stop of the tour, lasting roughly 2,5 hours, will give you enough time to enjoy a swim and eat Cretan delicacies at the many taverns that are located around the lake.

              • Lake Kournas

              Argiroupolis – Kournas Lake – Gergioupolis

              Embark on an extraordinary adventure to Kournas Lake, Argiroupoli, and Georgioupoli, immersing yourself in their mesmerizing beauty. Delight in the pristine, transparent waters of Kournas Lake, lose yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Argiroupoli’s traditional village, and unwind on the picturesque golden beaches of Georgioupoli. This captivating journey guarantees awesome inspiring landscapes and treasured memories,a must for families with young children and those seeking to minimize bus travel time.

              • Lake Kournas

              Private Family Full Day Tour to Lake Kournas | Rethymno

              9:00 pick up at your Hotel , coffee stop on the road!
              9:30 arrival at Rethymno old town , so you can explore the Old Town of Rethymno is a maze of narrow streets, alleys, and picturesque squares. Take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets, admire the well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture, and discover hidden gems, such as the Venetian Loggia and Rimondi Fountain.

              12:00 We start our way to Kournas Lake. Kournas Lake is renowned for its natural beauty. The lake’s crystal-clear turquoise waters reflect the surrounding hills and lush vegetation, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The picturesque landscapes, including olive groves and rolling hills, provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

              The surrounding area of Kournas Lake offers several walking trails that allow you to explore the natural landscapes and enjoy scenic views. The trails take you through olive groves, meadows, and hills, providing a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Some paths lead to elevated viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas of the lake and its surroundings.

              15:00 Begin to return at your respective Hotel.
              Any changes to the schedule can be arranged upon contacting us !

              • Lake Kournas

              Embark on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Western Crete, where you’ll experience the region’s rich history, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes. With our expert guide, uncover the authentic Crete and its unique selling points, ensuring a memorable adventure.

              Begin by venturing into the captivating Melidoni Cave, filled with fascinating geological features and ancient legends. Then, wander through the picturesque Margarites village, renowned for its traditional pottery. Participate in a pottery-making show with a local artisan and explore the charming alleys.

              Head to Kournas Lake, Crete’s only natural freshwater lake, and marvel at its serene beauty. Take the opportunity to spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds this unique location.

              Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rethymno, the main western town, boasting stunning Venetian architecture and a rich historical past. Stroll through its enchanting streets, taking in the sights and sounds of local life.

              After a day of exploration, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Crete’s hidden treasures.

              Beaches near Kournas

              Listed below are the beaches near Kournas:
              • 4.3 km
              Kavros beach is located 4.3 km away.

              Located between Georgioupoli and Pyrgos, Kavros refers to the expansive beach situated just 4 km east of Georgioupoli, near the hotel bearing the same name. Though the area has experienced substantial tourist development, it’s somewhat less commercialized compared to the adjacent Georgioupolis. Kavros beach is a sandy stretch with transparent, shallow waters; however, its openness to the wind often results in notable wave activity. The beach provides several facilities for visitors, including an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a perfect spot for an all-day excursion. For those seeking tranquillity, parts of the beach remain unorganized, offering a more serene experience.

              The place at its greatest part is developed and only a very small part of it has been left untouched. Between the remaining virgin parts of the beach, there is an extensive and very important ecosystem of dunes. The dunes of Kavros, like all dunes, host a significant and very fragile ecosystem that is home to its own plants. The most important role of the dunes in Crete is that they protect the inner lands from erosion. In the area, in winter we meet small ponds and the landscape is quite different from the summer.

              • Kavros beach at Kournas
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 5.7 km
              Episkopi beach is located 5.7 km away.

              Episkopi beach is a 3.5 km sandy beach on the north coast of Crete, 14 km west of Rethymno and 45 km east of Chania. Episkopi beach sits in a fertile valley between the Mouselas river and the river that runs out of the Petres gorge. The water is shallow and usually a little wavy, like most beaches on Crete’s north coast, and it takes its name from the village of Episkopi, 2 km inland to the south.

              At a glance:

              • Length: about 3.5 km of sand
              • Water: blue and clear, shallow, usually light waves
              • Family friendly: soft sand and a gentle, shallow entry
              • Organized western section: lifeguard, umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, snack bars, water sports
              • Quiet zone: the eastern end near the Petres bridge
              • Access: coastal road, KTEL bus, and parking at the beach

              The beach and the water

              The sand is soft, with a short pebbly strip at the waterline that turns sandy underfoot as you walk in. Mornings are usually calm and clear enough to see the bottom, while an afternoon breeze can raise small waves. The shallow, gently shelving water suits families with children and makes the beach a good spot for a slow swim or a snorkel.

              Facilities and the organized section

              The western part of the beach is well organized. There you find lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas and sunbeds, snack bars, and water sports. Tavernas and bars line the shore, several renting sunbeds under thatched umbrellas. Because the beach runs for about 3.5 km, you can still find a quieter, less developed stretch toward the eastern end near the Petres bridge.

              Getting there and parking

              The main coastal road between Rethymno and Chania runs parallel to the beach, so access by car is easy. Frequent KTEL public buses connect Chania and Rethymno and stop on the highway beside the beach, and parking is available at the shore. The simplest way to reach Episkopi and explore the rest of the north coast is to rent a car.

              Sea turtles

              Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) nest along this coast between May and September, and Episkopi is a recorded nesting point. If you visit in those months, keep clear of any marked nests and take your litter home with you.

              What is nearby

              Episkopi sits within a short drive of these stops:

              • About 2 km east lie Petres beach and the Petres gorge, with a diving school and a rocky seabed that snorkelers and anglers favor.
              • Argyroupolis, an inland village known for its springs and lush greenery.
              • Lake Kournas, the only natural freshwater lake on Crete, a short drive inland.
              • Further west, the sandy resort beaches of Georgioupolis and Kavros.

              The name Episkopi means “Diocese”: the village was the seat of the local diocese in the Byzantine period, and the old Episcopal church of St Nicholas nearby now stands in ruins. Almost unknown to travelers, the area is also the ancestral home of the Vardinoyannis family.

              FAQ

              Where is Episkopi beach?

              Episkopi beach is on the north coast of Crete in the Rethymno area, 14 km west of Rethymno and 45 km east of Chania. It lies below the village of Episkopi, between the Mouselas and Petres rivers.

              Is Episkopi beach good for families?

              Yes. The water is shallow and the sand is soft, and the organized western section has a lifeguard, so it suits children and less confident swimmers.

              Is Episkopi beach organized, with sunbeds and facilities?

              The western part is organized, with lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas and sunbeds, snack bars, and water sports. The eastern end near the Petres bridge is quieter and less developed.

              Are there water sports at Episkopi beach?

              Yes, water sports are offered in the organized western section, alongside the lifeguard, showers, umbrellas, and snack bars.

              How do I get to Episkopi beach, and is there parking?

              The coastal Rethymno to Chania road runs next to the beach, so you can drive or take a KTEL public bus that stops on the highway. Parking is available at the beach.

              When is the best time to visit Episkopi beach?

              The main season is June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. Late May, June, and September are usually quieter than midsummer.

              Is Episkopi beach good for snorkeling?

              Yes. The water is clear and shallow, and the rockier seabed near Petres beach to the east is a favorite for snorkeling and fishing.

              • Episkopi beach
              • Rocks in places, Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 6.1 km
              Georgioupolis beaches is located 6.1 km away.

              Georgioupolis, a small coastal town located 38km east of Chania and 21km west of Rethymnon, is a seaside resort nestled in a verdant valley crisscrossed by rivers and springs. Situated on the western edge of a sprawling 10km beach, the town’s beach spans 2km to the east, beginning at the Almiros river and terminating at Kavros beach, a natural continuation of the former. The beach in Georgioupolis is sandy, dotted with dunes, and has shallow waters.

              The beach is well-maintained and child-friendly, with lifeguards on duty. Caution is advised during windy conditions due to sea currents. Amenities such as umbrellas, showers, and food and drink stalls are available for beachgoers. Approximately 700m east of the port, the Perastikos river bifurcates the beach, which then widens as it continues eastward. On the opposite end, west of Georgioupolis’s port and near the Almyros river’s exit, lies the picturesque Kalivaki beach.

              • Georgioupolis beaches
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 6.6 km
              Kalivaki beach at Georgioupolis Crete is located 6.6 km away.

              Kalivaki beach is the westernmost beach of Georgioupolis bay, on the north coast of Crete, 38 km east of Chania and 21 km west of Rethymno. Kalivaki sits at the mouth of the Almyros river, where the river meets the sea, so its sandy shore stays sheltered from the wind and its shallow water runs noticeably cool. This sheltered, family-friendly setting makes Kalivaki a good choice for children, especially on days when the wind stirs up the more open beaches nearby.

              Where Kalivaki beach is?

              Kalivaki beach lies at the western edge of Georgioupolis bay, west of the Georgioupolis port and the church of Agios Nikolaos, 38 km east of Chania and 21 km west of Rethymno. Kalivaki sits at the exit of the Almyros river, joined by the smaller Boutakas stream, and both keep a steady flow of fresh water into the sea all year. The beach faces the open north coast, so its surface is calm in the sheltered corner near the river and turns wavy further out when the wind picks up. This position, tucked at the protected western end of the bay, is what sets Kalivaki apart from the longer, more exposed Georgioupolis beach to the east.

              Why the water at Kalivaki is so cool

              The water at Kalivaki is noticeably cooler than the open sea because the Almyros river and freshwater springs push cold water into the shallows. This cool current is strongest at the parts of the beach closest to the river mouth, where the cold river water meets the warmer sea. Many families come to Kalivaki for exactly this refreshing dip, which feels sharper and cooler than a swim on the neighbouring sandy beaches. Swim towards the eastern side of the beach, away from the river outflow, if you prefer warmer water.

              A calm, family-friendly beach

              Kalivaki is a sandy beach with soft sand and small dunes behind the shore, and its shallow, sheltered water suits families with young children. Kalivaki usually stays less crowded than the other Georgioupolis beaches, though visitor numbers rise on summer weekends. The sheltered cove keeps the water calm on windy days, when the longer beaches to the east grow choppy, so Kalivaki works well as a fallback when the wind is up. Where the Almyros river meets the sea the outflow can create a noticeable current and colder water, so keep children in the calmer, sheltered part of the cove and take extra care on windy days.

              Facilities at Kalivaki beach

              Kalivaki gives visitors umbrellas and sunbeds to rent, with beach bars and taverns nearby for food and water a few steps from the sand. Parking sits close to the shore and the beach is free to enter, so a family beach day here needs little planning. Services such as showers, changing rooms and a lifeguard are not a guaranteed feature at Kalivaki, so check what is open on arrival if you rely on them. Most of the beach services run mainly through the summer season, and they thin out in the quieter spring and autumn months.

              Sea turtles at Kalivaki beach

              Kalivaki beach is a recorded nesting point for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), which lays its eggs in the sand in the warm months. Keep clear of the soft dry sand and any marked nests, and avoid digging or pushing umbrella poles deep into the sand near the back of the beach. Take your litter home with you, because a single nest can sit just below the surface. These small steps let the turtles and their eggs stay undisturbed while you enjoy the beach.

              Getting to Kalivaki beach

              Reach Kalivaki beach in a few simple ways from Georgioupolis and the main coast road:

              1. Drive along the paved road that runs to the western end of Georgioupolis bay, then park close to the beach.
              2. Take a local bus to Georgioupolis, which connects to the wider Chania and Rethymno bus network.
              3. Walk west from the Georgioupolis port and the church of Agios Nikolaos, a short stroll to the river mouth.

              Kalivaki sits between Chania and Rethymno, so a beach morning here fits easily with Lake Kournas, the Georgioupolis waterfront, and the quieter coves along the Apokoronas coast. Reaching them all on your own schedule is simplest with your own vehicle, which you can compare on our car rental in Crete page.

              Frequently asked questions

              Where is Kalivaki beach?

              Kalivaki beach is the westernmost beach of Georgioupolis bay, on the north coast of Crete, 38 km east of Chania and 21 km west of Rethymno.

              Is Kalivaki beach good for families and children?

              Yes, Kalivaki beach suits families, because the water is shallow, the cove is sheltered from the wind, and the beach stays calmer than the neighbouring Georgioupolis beaches. Keep children near the calmer part of the cove and away from the stronger current at the river mouth.

              Why is the water at Kalivaki so cold?

              The water at Kalivaki is cold because the Almyros river and freshwater springs feed cool water into the shallows, and the effect is strongest close to the river mouth.

              Does Kalivaki beach have sunbeds and facilities?

              Kalivaki beach has umbrellas and sunbeds to rent, with beach bars and taverns nearby for food and water, and free parking close to the shore. Showers, changing rooms and a lifeguard are not guaranteed, so check what is open on arrival.

              How do you get to Kalivaki beach?

              Drive or take a local bus to Georgioupolis, then follow the paved road or walk west from the port to the river mouth at the western end of the bay.

              When is the best time to visit Kalivaki beach?

              The main season runs from June to September, when the weather is warm and the beach services are open, while late spring and early autumn stay quieter for a calmer visit.

              • Kalivaki beach at Georgioupolis
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue

              Gorge to hike near Kournas

              Listed below are the gorges to hike near Kournas:
              • 6.7 km

              The Twin Ravines, or Kollita Gorges, can be found near the charming village of Argyroupolis, approximately 22km southwest of the city of Rethymnon. The name refers to the two parallel canyons that conclude near the village of Kato Poros. The easternmost canyon, Moundros Gorge, is bordered by the Vigla peak (567m) to the east and the Nissiani hill to the west, where you can find the abandoned settlement of Nissi. Adjacent to Moundros Gorge to the west, is the Vilandredo Gorge, named after the village at its entrance and often referred to as Kollita Gorge.

              The gorges offer an ideal hiking experience for novices due to their ease and stunning surroundings. It’s a perfect outing for groups of friends – park your car in Kato Poros or Argyroupolis, explore the Moundriano canyon, and return via the second Kollita Gorge for a round trip.

              A suggested itinerary for the two gorges starts in the verdant Argiroupoli, built on the site of the ancient city of Lappa. From there, head east to the village of Moundros, known for its springs, fountains, and beautiful Venetian architecture. Don’t miss a stroll through the narrow streets of Moundros and a visit to the churches of Saint Constantine, Saints Anargyri (11th century), and Saint Nicholas. Near Moundros, you’ll find the deserted settlement of Nissi, notable for its impressive stone structures.

              From the village, make your way to the northern entrance of the lush Moundros Gorge, which leads to the village of Velonado. A well-marked path descends to the riverbed, which is typically full of water. The canyon boasts towering plane trees and several freshwater ponds. After about a 1.5-hour walk, you’ll reach the southern entrance of Moundriano Gorge near Velonado.

              Exiting the canyon, head west on the asphalt road to the entrance of the second canyon, Kollita Gorge, near Vilandredo. This canyon is even more impressive than Moundriano, filled with plane trees and a path that runs along the riverbed. The most breathtaking part of the canyon is where its towering walls nearly touch, creating a very narrow passage. Along the slopes of the gorge, you’ll spot numerous fig and holly trees. After a total of four hours, you’ll exit the canyon, which once supplied water to the Roman baths of Lappa, now Argyroupolis.

              Following the old stone path amidst laurels, myrtles, and hollies, you’ll reach Kato Poros and the area of Pente Parthenes (Five Virgins). Here, you’ll find a spring under the perennial plane tree of Pente Parthenes, the chapel of the Five Virgins, and the Hellenistic and Roman tombs of Lappa. From here, the trail broadens and leads back to the lush green Argiroupoli. In Argiroupoli, be sure to visit the Venetian buildings, churches, and picturesque alleyways. The springs of Argyroupolis are a popular attraction, particularly the spring in the cavernous chapel of Agia Dynami. The area is lush with several small waterfalls and numerous restaurants.

              • Kollita Gorges (Vilandredo)
              • 6.8 km

              Situated 13km west of Rethymno, Petres Gorge opens up at the Petres beach. It houses the longest river in Rethymnon province, which is replenished by multiple tributaries that gather the waters of Kollita Gorges from the west to Mount Vrysinas in the east, spanning almost half of Rethymnon Prefecture. The river flows throughout the year and forms a significant wetland of Crete, particularly near its mouth at Episkopi.

              The gorge narrows down to a small section about 1km long, beginning near the village of Karoti. Despite its short length, it is definitely worth exploring. It is easily accessible and perfect for swimming in the ponds that form along its course. However, fences are installed to confine goats, so carrying a cutter might be useful in case the fences are locked. Certain areas with large rocks may require a bit of climbing and extra caution.

              • Petres Gorge
              • 7.7 km

              The Twin Ravines, or Kollita Gorges, are situated near the scenic village of Argyroupolis, approximately 22km southwest of the city of Rethymnon. The name derives from two adjacent canyons that conclude near the village of Kato Poros. The eastern canyon, Moundros Gorge, is bordered by the Vigla peak (567m) to the east and Nissiani hill to the west, which houses the deserted Nissi settlement. West of Moundros gorge lies the Vilandredo gorge, named after the village at its entrance and more commonly referred to as Kollita Gorge.

              These gorges are perfect for casual hikers due to their ease and stunning beauty. They are particularly suitable for groups of friends who can park in Kato Poros or Argyroupoli, explore the Moundriano canyon, and return via the second Kollita Gorge.

              Suggested Two Gorges Route
              Starting from the verdant Argiroupoli, built on the ancient city of Lappa, we journey east to the village of Moundros, known for its springs and fountains. The village is home to many beautiful Venetian structures (old courts, prisons, and noble houses) and the churches of Saint Constantine, Saints Anargyri (11th century), and Saint Nicholas are well worth a visit. Don’t forget to wander the narrow streets of Moundros. Close to Moundros, the deserted Nissi settlement, famous for its stunning stone structures, can be found.

              From the village, the entrance to the verdant Moundros gorge is accessible, leading to the village of Velonado. A well-defined path descends to the riverbed, which is usually filled with water. The canyon is filled with towering plane trees and several fresh water ponds. After roughly 1.5 hours of walking, we reach the southern entrance of Moundriano Gorge, near Velonado.

              Upon exiting the canyon, we follow the asphalt road west to the entrance of the second canyon, Kollita Gorge, near Vilandredo. This canyon, more magnificent than Moundriano, is lush with plane trees, and the path follows the riverbed. The most beautiful section of the canyon is where the high walls nearly touch, forming a narrow passage. Fig and holly trees can be seen on the gorge’s slopes, hanging overhead. After approximately four hours, we exit the canyon, which once provided water for the Roman baths of Lappa, now Argyroupolis.

              Following the ancient stone path through laurels, myrtles, and hollies, we reach Kato Poros and the area of Pente Parthenes (Five Virgins). Here, one can find the spring beneath the perennial plane tree of Pente Parthenes, the chapel of the Five Virgins, and the Hellenistic and Roman tombs of Lappa. From here, the trail broadens and leads us back to the lush green Argiroupoli. In Argiroupoli, the Venetian buildings, churches, and picturesque alleys are worth a visit. A popular attraction is the springs of Argyroupolis, with the most notable spring located in the cavernous chapel of Agia Dynami. The area is lush with several small waterfalls and numerous restaurants.

              • Moundros Gorge (Kollita)
              • 11.9 km

              The Skaloti Gorge, nestled within the extensive area of Fragokastelo, is one of many parallel canyons in the region. This compact canyon spans a distance of 2km, beginning from the picturesque Manikas plateau and concluding at the coastal village of Skaloti. The journey, which takes approximately 2.5 hours, involves hiking along an ancient path paved with stones and surrounded by steep inclines. Initially, the canyon is wide and open, but it gradually narrows and the walls become vertical. Vegetation in the area is primarily composed of bushes and undergrowth. The Perama stream traverses the gorge, finally emptying onto the shores of Lakki beach.

              • Skaloti Gorge

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