Imbros Gorge
Hike through an 11-km rocky canyon on Crete, offering dramatic geological formations and a less crowded alternative to Samaria Gorge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Imbros Gorge
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through an 11-km rocky canyon on Crete, offering dramatic geological formations and a less crowded alternative to Samaria Gorge.
"The Imbros Gorge is a stunning experience, but be warned: the paths are extremely rocky and require careful navigation."
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Don't underestimate the rocky path! Hiking boots are a must for grip and comfort.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is key. A shop halfway offers drinks, but it's a long way to get there.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rocky Canyon Trails
Imbros Gorge
Navigate an 11-km rocky canyon with stunning geological formations and occasional goat sightings.
The Narrowest Pass
Mid-gorge
Experience the dramatic squeeze through the gorge's narrowest point, a truly impressive natural feature.
Goat Encounters
Throughout the gorge
Keep an eye out for the local mountain goats that often roam the gorge's rocky slopes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key!
Timing & Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Don't underestimate the rocky path! Hiking boots are a must for grip and comfort.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is key. A shop halfway offers drinks, but it's a long way to get there.
💰 Confirm Return Transport
Shuttle bus prices can vary. Clarify costs to avoid surprises at the end.
☀️ Start Early for Shade
Beat the heat and enjoy more shade by beginning your hike in the morning.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Don't underestimate the rocky path! Hiking boots are a must for grip and comfort.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is key. A shop halfway offers drinks, but it's a long way to get there.
💰 Confirm Return Transport
Shuttle bus prices can vary. Clarify costs to avoid surprises at the end.
☀️ Start Early for Shade
Beat the heat and enjoy more shade by beginning your hike in the morning.
💰 Reasonable Entrance Fee
A small fee grants access to this stunning natural wonder.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery and unique geological formations of Imbros Gorge, calling it a worthwhile experience. However, many caution that the 'easy' label is misleading due to the extremely rocky and uneven terrain, emphasizing the absolute necessity of proper hiking footwear. The cost of return transport can also be a point of contention if not clarified beforehand.
"Really glad we went to hike the gorge, a stunning experience! €5 per person entry fee - very reasonable.
Just be warned, the paths throughout the entire gorge are extremely rocky and you'll need to be able to navigate some tricky areas. Many said its "beginner/easy" but note that its still a trek and you need to be very careful where you're walking.
Hike took us (a couple) about 3-3.5 hrs and that was with very limited stops (maybe max of 15 mins total) because you need to go so slow in some areas. If you have hiking shoes highly recommend using, I was slipping a lot wearing trainers and you can also feel the rocky stones on the bottom/sides of your feet depending on the footwear). Bring plenty of water and a hat too. There is a shop halfway but it's a long way to get there. If you start at 9am during the summer you'll be in shade for most of the time but still very very hot.
Sights were still lovely!
You will also see a sign towards the end of the hike that says beach is 7km away, don't worry there's a cafe shortly after the sign where you can get the shuttle bus up to the start where you would have parked. You're highly likely to have people to share the shuttle with (the cafe staff just give you a ticket for €5 per person) and they arrange it all.
There's plenty of parking spaces at the start, recommend using the toilets nearby as there doesn't seem to be any actual toilets along the way."
NessaBlume21
"Great place to walk ! Entry cost was 5’euro which was a shame as other gorges are free!
Magnificent views and definitely worth the walk . We were told by the ticket office that the walk was roughly 5 km but it turned out to be 10 km!
We were not well prepared ,with no walking boots and this is definitely needed! But we managed the walk / hike anyway !
The ticket office told us that the taxi back would be 5 euros pp! It turned out to be 25 euros for s taxi . The 5 euros was for a bus of 10 people or more pp
! So Watch out of you don’t want to spend to much!"
Matt
"Really pretty gorge! There are a some cool formations and lots of goats. The day we were there it was very quiet and we came across just a few people which was lovely. The hike is along a trail of rocks so wear appropriate shoes. Halfway through the gorge is a stand offering cold drinks. At the end is another stand (the orange juice is great!) and a person selling bus tickets back to village where we started. Highly recommend if a shorter hike (vs. Samaria) is what you’re looking for."
Barb Skupien
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Imbros Gorge is accessible by car. There is free parking available at the start of the gorge, often associated with local tavernas. Many visitors rent a car to reach the trailhead.
Yes, Imbros Gorge is generally open earlier in the season than Samaria Gorge, making it a good option for early spring hikers.
While possible, it's less convenient. Public transport might be limited, so renting a car or joining a guided tour is often recommended for easier access.
Most people start at the upper entrance and hike down. This is the most common route and allows for easier transport arrangements at the end.
Public transport options are limited. Renting a car is the most popular and flexible way to reach the gorge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically €5 per person. Children may be free. It's a reasonable price for the experience.
No, tickets are usually purchased at the entrance. It's not typically necessary to book in advance, especially outside of peak season.
While not widely advertised, children are often free. It's always worth asking at the ticket office if any discounts are available.
The gorge is generally open daily during daylight hours, but it's best to check locally or online for the most up-to-date information, especially during shoulder seasons.
Most visitors find the €5 entrance fee to be very reasonable for the stunning scenery and unique hiking experience.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike typically takes between 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop. Some sections require slow navigation.
While shorter and less challenging than Samaria Gorge, Imbros is still rocky and requires careful footing. Sturdy shoes are essential.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip. Comfortable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are also recommended.
There are no toilets along the trail itself. It's best to use the facilities at the start of the gorge before you begin your hike.
No, Imbros Gorge is a dry canyon and does not have water for swimming. The landscape is primarily rocky.
🍽️ 🥤 Food & Dining
Yes, there's a drink stall about halfway through the gorge and another at the end. The orange juice at the end is highly recommended.
You can buy drinks and some snacks at the stalls located roughly halfway and at the end of the gorge. Bringing your own snacks is also a good idea.
Yes, there are tavernas and cafes at the starting point of the gorge where you can eat before or after your hike.
Prices for drinks are reasonable, especially considering the remote location. Expect to pay a few euros for a bottle of water or soda.
It's highly recommended to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. While drinks are available, bringing your own ensures you stay hydrated.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for dramatic rock formations, the narrowest pass, and the interplay of light and shadow. The entire gorge offers stunning photographic potential.
Absolutely! The unique geological features and rugged beauty make it a fantastic spot for photographers.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds. The way light filters through the narrow sections can create dramatic shots.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for great shots, but a camera with good dynamic range can capture the dramatic contrasts of light and shadow.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. Be mindful of other hikers and respect the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Aim for morning light to capture softer tones and fewer crowds. Don't miss the narrowest pass, the towering rock walls, and any resident goats for captivating shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Imbros Gorge Experience: What to Expect
Many visitors highlight the importance of wearing sturdy hiking boots, as trainers can lead to slips and discomfort on the uneven ground. The hike typically takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, with the pace dictated by the challenging path. Starting early in the morning is a common recommendation to take advantage of the shade and cooler temperatures, especially during the summer months. Along the way, you'll find a couple of refreshment stops offering drinks, but it's wise to carry ample water.
Upon reaching the end of the gorge, transport options back to the starting point are available, usually in the form of shuttle buses or taxis. It's crucial to confirm the prices for these services beforehand, as they can vary. The overall experience is highly rewarding, offering magnificent views and a sense of accomplishment, making it a must-do for those exploring Crete.
Navigating Imbros Gorge: Practical Tips for Hikers
For transportation, most visitors arrive by car and park at the trailhead. At the end of the hike, you'll find options for returning to your vehicle. Local cafes often arrange shuttle buses for a fee (around €5 per person, but confirm this), or you can opt for a taxi, though these tend to be more expensive.
Remember to pack essentials like plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. The sun can be intense, even with the shade provided by the gorge walls. The rocky terrain means that comfortable, supportive footwear is non-negotiable. While some may manage in trainers, hiking boots offer superior grip and protection, significantly enhancing your comfort and safety throughout the trek.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit