Hold onto your hiking boots, folks!
I’m about to let you in on a secret that’ll make Zeus himself jealous.
Ever heard of a gorge that was created by a giant’s beard?
Welcome to Sarakina Gorge, where Greek mythology meets Mother Nature’s own sculpture garden!
Sarakina Gorge is this incredible slice of nature right near the traditional village of Mythi and the seaside town of Myrtos in Crete.
Legend has it that this gorge was born when Sarantapihos, a giant son of Zeus, stopped for a drink from the Kryos River (also known as Myrtos River).
His long beard was so epic, it slashed the mountain in two, creating this amazing canyon.
Now, I’ve seen some impressive beards in my time, but this takes the cake!
Sarakina is often called the nicest hiking gorge in Crete, and let me tell you, it lives up to the hype.
It’s only 1.5km long, but don’t let that fool you – it’s like nature decided to pack all its best features into one compact package.
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Picture this: you’re walking between towering walls that reach up to 150 meters high.
It’s like being in nature’s own skyscraper city, but way cooler.
The gorge gets so narrow in some places, it’s barely 3 meters wide.
Talk about a tight squeeze!
But here’s the best part – Sarakina is accessible to pretty much everyone.
You don’t need to be Bear Grylls to enjoy this place.
There’s water, ponds, and yeah, a few spots where you need to do some light climbing, but nothing too crazy.
What really blew my mind was the amount of water.
Even in the height of summer, there are beautiful waterfalls and ponds perfect for a refreshing dip.
In winter, you’re definitely getting wet – it’s impossible to cross without taking an impromptu shower.
As you make your way through, you’ll be climbing over huge boulders and crossing rocky bridges.
It’s like nature’s own obstacle course, but with better views.
And get this – in the tougher spots, there are stairs carved right into the stone and tree trunks to help you climb.
It’s like the ancient Greeks left behind their own version of an escalator.
Sarakina Gorge is perfect for everyone from families looking for a fun day out, to nature lovers wanting to see some of Crete’s best scenery, to mythology buffs who want to walk in the footsteps (or beard-steps) of giants.
Sarakina Gorge Key Information
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Lassithi Prefecture, near Mythi village |
| Type | Hiking gorge, Signed trail |
| Water | Water all year round |
| Length (km) | 1.5 km |
| Altitude difference (m) | 70 m |
| Difficulty | 2/10 (Easy) |
| Hiking Hours | 1 hour |
| Surrounding Region | Coastal, near Ierapetra |
| Atmosphere | Natural, adventurous |
| Dining | No options in gorge |
| Accessibility | Paved road to entrance |
| Period to Visit | Year-round (caution in winter) |
Sarakina Gorge Trail Overview
The Sarakina Gorge trail is a hiker’s dream come true.
It stretches for 1.5 km through a stunning natural corridor.
The path follows the Kryos River, with plenty of water features.
Expect to navigate between towering walls up to 150 meters high.
The trail includes some light climbing and boulder hopping.
Amenities
Sarakina Gorge is a natural, mostly undeveloped area.
There are no facilities within the gorge itself.
Some stone stairs and tree trunk bridges aid in difficult spots.
The nearby village of Mythi may offer basic services.
It’s best to bring water and snacks for your hike.
Nearby Accommodations
While there are no accommodations in the gorge, options are available nearby.
The seaside settlement of Myrtos offers various lodging choices.
Ierapetra, a larger town, has a wide range of hotels and apartments.
Camping is not recommended within the gorge area.
It’s advisable to book accommodation in advance during peak season.
Geological and Historical Significance
Sarakina Gorge showcases millions of years of water erosion.
The narrow walls are a result of the river cutting through limestone.
It’s part of the larger Kryos River system, shaping the local landscape.
The gorge plays a role in local mythology and cultural history.
Its formation is linked to the geological evolution of eastern Crete.
Activities
Hiking through the spectacular narrow gorge.
Swimming in natural pools and under waterfalls.
Photography of unique rock formations and water features.
Nature observation, including local flora and fauna.
Light climbing and boulder hopping along the trail.
Dining
There are no dining options within Sarakina Gorge itself.
The village of Mythi may have small tavernas or cafes.
Myrtos offers more diverse dining options by the sea.
It’s recommended to bring snacks and water for the hike.
Try local Cretan specialties in nearby villages when possible.
Ideal For Hikers and Visitors
Sarakina Gorge is perfect for:
Nature enthusiasts looking for a compact but impressive geological site.
Families with children who enjoy adventurous but manageable walks.
Photographers interested in capturing dramatic landscapes.
Mythology buffs exploring sites linked to Greek legends.
Summer visitors seeking a cool, refreshing natural experience.
To discover more hidden gems across Crete, from beaches to mountain villages, visit Cretorama.
Sarakina Gorge Map โ Getting There
Sarakina Gorge is located near Mythi village in the Ierapetra region of Crete.
The closest major town is Ierapetra, about 15 km away.
Access is via a paved road that leads close to the gorge entrance.
A regular car can easily reach the starting point of the hike.
Public transportation options may be limited; consider renting a car.
Distances from Major Cretan Cities to Sarakina Gorge:
- Ierapetra: Approximately 15 km (9 miles), about 20 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: Around 50 km (31 miles), about 55 minutes drive
- Malia: About 75 km (47 miles), roughly 1 hour 15 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: Approximately 80 km (50 miles), about 1 hour 20 minutes drive
- Heraklion: Around 105 km (65 miles), about 1 hour 40 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: About 165 km (103 miles), roughly 2 hours 20 minutes drive
- Chania: Approximately 225 km (140 miles), about 3 hours 10 minutes drive
Note: These are approximate distances and times.
Actual travel times may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
The most convenient way to reach Sarakina Gorge is by car.
Public transportation options to Mythi village may be limited, so renting a car is advisable.
The road to the gorge is paved and in good condition, suitable for all types of cars.
Always check local road conditions before setting out, especially after rainy periods.
Before planning your hike, it’s a good idea to check the official Crete government website for any updates on trail conditions or local regulations.
Tips and Recommendations
1. Wear water-friendly shoes with good grip for wet and rocky terrain.
2. Bring a change of clothes as you’re likely to get wet, especially in cooler months.
3. Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
4. Bring a waterproof camera or phone case for great shots without worry.
5. Pack a small first-aid kit for any minor scrapes from climbing.
6. Check water levels with locals before attempting the gorge in winter.
7. Respect the environment and take all trash with you.
For more amazing gorge experiences in eastern Crete, check out our guide to Lassithi Gorges.
For stunning photos of Sarakina Gorge and other Cretan wonders, follow us on Instagram!
Discoveries Around Sarakina Gorge
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pirgos site at Myrtos | 0.7 km (0.43 miles) | Ancient ruins near beach |
| Kryopotamos Bridge | 0.8 km (0.50 miles) | Historic bridge over river |
| Archaeological Collection of Myrtos | 1.1 km (0.68 miles) | Local history museum |
| Church of Saint Anthony at Mirtos | 1.1 km (0.68 miles) | Religious site in town |
| Myrtos beach | 1.2 km (0.75 miles) | Beautiful coastal area nearby |
| Sarikambos beach | 1.6 km (0.99 miles) | Another nearby beach option |
| Fournou Korfi settlement | 2 km (1.24 miles) | Ancient Minoan archaeological site |
| Lower Mythi Gorge | 3 km (1.86 miles) | Another gorge for exploration |
| Vatos beach | 3 km (1.86 miles) | Secluded beach nearby |
| Kalikovrechtis beach | 3.7 km (2.30 miles) | Another coastal spot |
| Holy Apostles church at Kato Karkassa | 4 km (2.49 miles) | Historic church in village |
| Panagia Karydiani Monastery in Mythi | 4.3 km (2.67 miles) | Religious site with views |
