Agia Irini Gorge - Agia Irini Gorge

If you do not want to go for the more commercialized Samaria Gorge, then this is a perfect alternative. Just a beautiful and quiet gorge, lovely nature with some good stops and viewing point on route. And is possible to walk the gorge up and down within 5 hours, back to the starting point.

Nice walk, about 8km, good for summer - before afternoon it was almost all in the shadow . Not too though, it is good to have good covered hiking shoes due to rocks. Toilets and water fountains are on the way. Unfortunately Oasis tavern was closed today when we passed it (we hoped for some breakfast).

Nice family friendly hike, but still a challenge. We started at the top and did a few KM and headed back.

Great gorge near Omalos. Free entrance (although seems like sometimes there s someone charging fee at the entrance) Met only 3 people on trail that day, so not crowded at all. Approx 8km trail with small caffee at the end where you can take taxi (35€) back to car or hike back up. Only problem is when it is a hot day, there s no river running which makes it challenging to cool down during heat waves :)

Very beautiful gorge full of shades and trees. We went this gorge because Samaria was closed due to heat. The gorge was quite comfortable even during heat wave if you start early (~8:00). There was a few water points but not all of them working so bring your own supply. Taxi from Sougia back to Irini cost 30€ which was quite much. We walked slow and with many stops so it took us 4hrs through the gorge and one more hour to Sougia. The tavern Oasis after the gorge had a nice service and you can order taxi also from there.

A warning for anybody planning to hike in late march: there's lots of water in the riverbed with a strong current. You have to jump across the river about 30 times and climb around rocks because parts of the way are submerged. Nevertheless it is possible to hike down, if you're experienced and you are rewarded with great views to the cliffs.

This walk took us 2.5 hours to complete, including two ten minute stops along the way and some photos opportunities. I completed it in walking boots and my partner wore trainers. The rocks were fine but due to the dust/sand we would both recommend any comfortable footwear with good grip. Mostly downhill with some small uphill sections requiring some careful negotiation of rocks. We came here due to Samaria being closed for high winds - it cost 2 euros to enter. Water is available along the route although not all were functioning so it's a good idea to bring a good supply. Also two toilet opportunities along the route. We parked in Sougia and arranged a cab to the top of the gorge for 30 euros from Sougia taxis. They offered great service and were very helpful. After completing the walk you can either stop at oasis taverna for a cold drink or some food , or continue the walk back onto Sougia to the car. The walk to Sougia from the exit of the gorge took 50 minutes and is all well paved roads which are mostly flat. Overall it was a great alternative to Samaria and the route felt very quiet. It never felt like we were walking with other people although we did pass some other couples along the way. Some amazing views to see. Be sure to stop and take it all in in-between working out where to put your foot next! Three quarters of the route is in shade so no real problems having to tackle the mid day heat.

Great hike- about 6km, could feel like 10km. You’ll walk mostly in the gorge and see the amazing cliffs just next to you raising up. We really enjoyed the hike and also had a little lunch at the taverna in the end! Worth all little climbs!