From Rethymno: Imbros Gorge & Libyan Guided Sea Tour

The From Rethymno: Imbros Gorge & Libyan Guided Sea Tour offers a full day of outdoor adventure and relaxation in Crete. For just $31.11 per person, this tour provides a 9 to 10-hour experience that combines a scenic hike through one of Crete’s most famous gorges with a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea and a traditional meal. The tour is ideal for those who want an active day with manageable walking, guided commentary, and opportunities to unwind by the sea.

Starting early with a hotel pickup around 7:30 AM, the journey takes you from Rethymno to the Imbros Gorge in the White Mountains. The tour then moves to the southern coast for a beach swim and a local lunch. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 107 reviews, this outing attracts travelers who appreciate a well-organized trip that balances physical activity with leisure. However, the entrance fee of €5 for the gorge and the need to bring comfortable shoes are important considerations.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $31.11 includes guided transportation, a tour guide, and hotel pickup.
• Enjoy an easy 3-hour hike through the scenic Imbros Gorge, the second longest in Crete.
• Visit famous spots like the narrowest part of the gorge (Stenada), Mesofarango, and Xepitira Arch.
• Relax with a swim in the Libyan Sea at a beautiful southern beach.
• Savor a traditional Cretan lunch, often enjoyed overlooking the sea.
• The tour runs from early morning to late afternoon, with flexible start times based on availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Imbros Gorge: Crete’s Second Most Popular Hiking Destination

The tour kicks off with a bus transfer to the Imbros Gorge, located in the eastern part of the White Mountains. The 3-hour hike covers about 8 kilometers of easy terrain, making it accessible for most travelers. The gorge’s rock formations and narrow passages, including the famous Stenada, create a striking landscape that’s both dramatic and manageable in length.

During the descent, visitors encounter Mesofarango, a wider section, and the Xepitira Arch, a natural stone arch that makes for fantastic photo opportunities. The walk is described as enjoyable and not overly difficult, though the terrain consists of stones and gravel rather than paved paths, which is worth keeping in mind when choosing footwear.

Visiting Komitades Village and Chora Sfakion

After completing the hike, the group travels by bus to Komitades Village. There, buses are waiting to take everyone to Chora Sfakion, a small town overlooking the sea. This stop offers free time to relax at local taverns or cafés, providing a chance to enjoy sea views and perhaps a cool drink before heading to the beach.

Swimming in the Libyan Sea at a South Coast Beach

From Chora Sfakion, the tour continues to the south coast of Crete, where a beautiful beach awaits. Here, travelers can swim in the Libyan Sea to cool off after the hike. The chance to relax on the sand and enjoy the refreshing waters is highly praised, often described as a perfect way to unwind and balance the active morning.

Traditional Lunch on the Crete South Coast

Following the swim, the tour includes a traditional lunch. Although specific menu details are not provided, the meal typically occurs overlooking the sea, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy local dishes. This meal rounds out the day nicely, giving travelers a chance to savor authentic flavors in a scenic setting.

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Practical Details: Transportation, Guides, and Accessibility

The transportation during the tour is included, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel or the closest accessible point. The tour guide leads the group, providing commentary in English, German, and French. The guide explains the history, fauna, and geological features of the gorge, enriching the experience.

It’s important to note that an entrance fee of €5 applies for the gorge itself, payable on-site. The tour is suitable for children, with the walk being relatively easy, but it is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Timing, Pacing, and Tour Length

The tour begins with hotel pickups around 7:30 AM and concludes back in Rethymno around 5:30 PM. The itinerary offers a balanced pace, with ample time allocated for each activity—hiking, relaxing, swimming, and dining. Travelers should be prepared for a full day, but the experience remains manageable and rewarding.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience

With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5, reviews emphasize the scenic beauty, engaging guides, and enjoyable walk. Guests appreciate guides like Pia, who explain mountain details, history, and fauna, making the hike both informative and pleasant.

Travelers also value the easy walking route suitable for families, including those with young children, and the opportunity to swim in a wonderful location. Some note that the terrain requires comfortable shoes and that the 8 km walk can take longer than expected due to the rocky path.

Comparing to Similar Tours

This tour offers a more accessible alternative to the Samaria Gorge treks, with a shorter walk and a more relaxed pace. The inclusion of free time at Chora Sfakion and the beach swim adds a leisure element not always present in more strenuous hikes. The price point and reviews suggest good value, especially for those wanting a mix of activity and relaxation.

The Best Fit for This Crete Tour

This Imbros Gorge and Libyan Sea tour suits travelers who want a manageable outdoor experience with beautiful scenery, guided commentary, and time to relax by the sea. It’s ideal for families, casual hikers, or anyone looking for a full-day outing that combines walking, sightseeing, and swimming.

The price, duration, and positive reviews make it a compelling choice, especially for those staying in Rethymno who prefer a well-organized, scenic day without the intensity of longer hikes like the Samaria Gorge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the hike through Imbros Gorge?
The hike covers approximately 8 kilometers and takes around 3 hours, depending on pace and breaks.

What is included in the tour price?
The price of $31.11 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a guide. Entrance fees for the gorge are paid separately (€5).

Is the walk difficult?
The walk is considered easy and suitable for children, with a terrain of stones and gravel. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, or those with back or heart issues.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable and protected during the day.

Can I swim in the Libyan Sea?
Yes, the tour includes free time at a beautiful south coast beach specifically for swimming and relaxing.

What language does the guide speak?
Guides lead in English, German, and French.

Are meals included?
The tour features a traditional lunch overlooking the sea, but it does not specify included drinks or additional food.

What happens if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the walk is manageable for children, and the overall experience is family-friendly.

How do I know where to be collected?
You will receive email confirmation with pickup details based on your hotel or nearest accessible point.

Are there any restrictions or limitations?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users.

How does this tour compare to other Crete gorge hikes?
It offers a more accessible alternative to longer, more strenuous hikes like the Samaria Gorge, with the added benefit of swimming and relaxing stops.

This From Rethymno: Imbros Gorge & Libyan Guided Sea Tour provides a well-rounded, scenic day for those wanting a mix of gentle hiking and beach relaxation, all at an attractive price with positive reviews backing its quality.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby