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Key Points
- Price and Duration: The tour costs $104 per person and lasts 8 hours, offering a full day of exploration.
- Core Activities: Includes hiking in Sarakina Gorge, swimming in Myrtos waters, and off-road drives through Kroustas Pine Forest.
- Cultural Highlights: Visit the traditional Kritsa village and enjoy panoramic views of the Mirabello Gulf.
- All-Inclusive: Hotel pickup and drop-off, transport, lunch with wine, and 4WD adventure are included.
- Suitable for Travelers: Best for those comfortable with light hiking and outdoor activities; not recommended for people with heart problems.
Explore South Crete with a Full-Day Adventure
The Sarakina Gorge tour is a comprehensive day trip designed for those eager to see the natural beauty and authentic villages of Southern Crete. For $104 per person, travelers receive hotel pickup, transportation, and an experience packed with hiking, swimming, scenic drives, and cultural stops. The 8-hour itinerary balances active outdoor fun with moments to relax and take in the views.
What truly makes this tour appealing is its variety of highlights: hiking in the impressive Sarakina Gorge, swimming in crystal-clear waters at Myrtos village, and traversing the Kroustas Pine Forest via an off-road journey. Plus, the visit to Kritsa village offers a glimpse of traditional Cretan life, with guided tours bringing the area’s charm to life. This tour is well-suited for those who enjoy active outdoor experiences and want a mix of nature, culture, and leisure.
While the tour covers multiple sights in one day, it remains accessible for most travelers, providing transport, lunch with local wine, and small group or private options. A key advantage is the flexibility in timing and the ease of logistics, with hotel pickup from 12 different locations across Crete.
Planning more time in Kritsa? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
From the Old Town to the Mountain Forests of Kroustas
The journey begins with pickups from various locations such as Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, and Malia. Once on board, travelers can relax during scenic drives through the mountains and pine forests before reaching the Kroustas Pine Forest. Here, a photo stop offers a chance to admire the lush landscape, and guests can enjoy a scenic off-road drive in a 4WD vehicle.
This part of the tour emphasizes the diverse terrain of southern Crete, with the off-road adventure providing an exciting alternative to traditional sightseeing. The scenic drive through the forest and surrounding mountains allows plenty of opportunities for photos and a breath of fresh pine-scented air. The Kroustas Pine Forest stop lasts around 15 minutes, giving enough time for a quick look or a quick photo session.
The drive through remote roads showcases Crete’s rugged beauty, making the journey as memorable as the destinations. This segment suits guests who appreciate nature scenery and want a bit of adventure behind the wheel.
Hiking through the Spectacular Sarakina Gorge
The main highlight of this tour is the hiking experience in Sarakina Gorge. The hike lasts about 1 hour, which involves walking through a stunning canyon surrounded by towering rock formations and lush greenery. The terrain includes rocky hills and narrow paths, and the guide provides tips on navigating potentially slippery spots, ensuring safety and enjoyment.
The gorge features natural pools that invite the more daring to take a swim—a refreshing way to beat the warm Crete sun. While swimming is season-dependent, the natural pools are a key feature that adds a splash of fun and adventure to the hike. The rugged landscape and impressive rock formations make Sarakina Gorge a real visual treat.
This activity is perfect for those who enjoy light trekking and want to experience Crete’s natural scenery firsthand, with the added thrill of exploring a dramatic canyon.
Traditional Kritsa Village and Its Mountain Charm
A visit to Kritsa village is a cultural highlight of the tour. During a guided 30-minute tour, travelers stroll through narrow streets lined with local shops, cafes, and traditional houses. The guide shares insights about the village’s history and its popularity among both locals and travelers.
Kritsa’s mountain setting and authentic atmosphere provide a relaxing break from the outdoor activities. It’s also a great spot for photos of stone houses and colorful alleyways. Visitors often enjoy a drink in local cafes, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this quaint Cretan town.
This stop offers a taste of traditional Cretan life and complements the natural scenery with cultural richness, making it a well-rounded part of the overall tour.
More Great Tours NearbyPanoramic Views of Mirabello Gulf from a Viewpoint
A photo stop at a scenic viewpoint reveals stunning views of Mirabello Gulf and the surrounding coastline. Lasting around 15 minutes, this stop provides perfect photo opportunities for capturing the vast blue waters, mountain ranges, and coastal villages.
This viewpoint is a favorite for many because it offers a breathtaking panorama that highlights the natural beauty of eastern Crete. The spectacular vistas make it an ideal moment to pause, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful environment.
The viewpoint is accessible and adds a visual climax to the journey, giving travelers a chance to appreciate Crete’s diverse landscape from a high vantage point.
Lunch and Swimming at Myrtos Village
The lunch break at Myrtos village lasts around 1.5 hours and features a delicious Cretan meal with local wine and water. The meal is served at a family-run restaurant, emphasizing authentic flavors and home-style cooking.
After lunch, guests have free time for about 1 hour to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Myrtos. The beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and clean waters, perfect for relaxing and cooling off after the morning’s activities.
Whether enjoying a leisurely swim or just soaking up the sun, this stop combines culinary delights with refreshing waters, making it a delightful way to recharge.
Scenic Drive to Ierapetra and Return Journey
Following the beach, the tour continues with a scenic drive to Ierapetra, where the landscape transitions from lush coastlines to rugged terrain. This part of the journey provides additional photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the diverse scenery of southern Crete.
The tour then concludes with drop-offs at various locations across Crete, including Heraklion, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos, making logistics convenient for travelers staying in different areas.
The return trip caps the day with a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and outdoor activities makes this tour a well-rounded choice.
Practical Details: Logistics, Inclusions, and What to Bring
The tour begins with hotel pickup from 12 different locations across Crete. The transport is in a 4WD vehicle, suitable for the off-road segments and scenic drives. The lunch includes local wine and water, providing a relaxed dining experience.
Participants should bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, flip-flops, and closed-toe shoes for hiking. The package excludes private expenses, drinks in the vehicle, and food in the vehicle.
The hiking is about 40-45 minutes and is considered responsible activity—suitable for most, but not recommended for people with heart problems. The route may change for safety or weather conditions, ensuring a secure experience.
Who Will Appreciate This Crete Tour?
This tour appeals most to outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of hiking, swimming, and scenic exploration. The small group or private options make it adaptable for travelers seeking a more personalized experience. The cultural visits and panoramic views also suit those interested in local villages and beautiful landscapes.
While the tour offers stunning visuals and fun activities, it requires a moderate level of physical activity. It is a great choice for active travelers looking to experience the natural and cultural highlights of Southern Crete in one fulfilling day.
Sarakina Gorge – Southern Crete Hiking & Swim Adventure: Final Thoughts
The Sarakina Gorge tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and local culture. For $104, it provides hotel pickup, transport, a hearty lunch, and opportunities to explore iconic sites like Kritsa and Myrtos. The hiking in Sarakina Gorge stands out as the centerpiece, complemented by scenic drives and a cultural village.
This tour suits travelers who want an active day with diverse experiences rather than just sightseeing. The small group or private options enhance the experience, making it more comfortable and personalized. The main limitations include the seasonal variability of water in the gorge and the moderate physical activity involved.
This adventure captures the essence of southern Crete—its untamed nature, traditional villages, and stunning vistas—delivering a well-rounded and memorable day out.
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Sarakina Gorge – Southern Crete hiking & swim Adventure
“It was a thoroughly enjoyable tour. Our guide George was extremely friendly and explained everything to us. We started our trip with a stop in Krit…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves about 40-45 minutes of hiking in Sarakina Gorge, which is generally manageable for most active individuals. However, it may not be suitable for people with heart problems or mobility issues due to the nature of the terrain.
What should I bring for the hike and swimming?
It’s best to bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, flip-flops, and closed-toe shoes. These items ensure comfort and safety during outdoor activities.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.
Are there options for private groups?
Yes, the tour offers private or small group options, making it suitable for those seeking a more tailored experience or traveling with a small group.
What are the main highlights I should expect?
You’ll enjoy hiking Sarakina Gorge, swimming at Myrtos, exploring Kritsa village, taking in views of Mirabello Gulf, and experiencing an off-road drive through Kroustas Pine Forest.
