Walking in and around Makrygialos

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Whether you are a seasoned walker or Sunday stroller, the area around Makrygialos has walks to suit everyone.

The three gorge walks in the locality offer different levels of walking, but all will give you spectacular views and outstanding landscapes. They are certainly the best way to see the fauna and flora of the region.

Pefki Gorge - part of the European walkways E4 is a 7km walk from Makrygialos to the picturesque village of Pefki, passing by olive groves and lemon trees. The scents and sights of sage and thyme, pine trees and the spring flowers make this well-marked walk a delight from start to finish. Our favourite route is to drive up to and leave the car in Pefki, walking down the gorge, before climbing back up the top track to Pefki, and enjoying traditional Cretan food and hospitality at Yannis Kafenion.

Pervolakia Gorge is the most arduous walk, but the rewards of the stunning views from the top are so worth it. Taking the path from the small car park by the roadside near the Kapsa Monastery, the well-marked path winds its way slowly up through the gorge. Look out for the unusual dark chocolate coloured lilies in spring. You may have to scramble over some large boulders in places but be assured that your prize for all your endeavours will be found in the taverna in Pervolakia - serving home grown, freshly prepared typical Cretan fair. The return journey can be made over the hill via the goat track back to the Kapsa Monastery.

Butterfly Gorge or Koutsouras Gorge links the villages of Koutsouras on the coast and Oreino, high up in the mountains. The walk takes 3 - 4 hours so allow a full day to take in the views, the numerous springs and waterfalls near the top in the springtime, and enjoy a well deserved refreshment break at the kafenion in the village of Oreino. You won't see many butterflies however, unless in early spring, despite the name of this gorge.

Walk the beautiful and imposing Zakros Gorge from the little village of Ano Zakros to the village of Kato Zakros on the far east coast of Crete. Kato Zakros is steeped in history, so after visiting the archealogical remains of the Minoan palace, you can then walk 'The Gorge of the Dead', the other name for this gorge. The Minoan people buried their dead in the caves in the steep cliffs of the gorge - hence the name. Driving to Kato Zakros is an adventure in itself, following the narrow and winding roads but well worth the effort.

Near Agios Ioannis, just a 15 minute drive along the coastroad to Ierapetra, is the Milona Gorge and Waterfall. A short 20 minute easy walk takes you from the small car park just off the bend in the road to the 40m high Milona Waterfall. The best time to visit is in the spring and early summer when the waterfall is more likely to have plenty of water, rather than later in the year, when, although it's a nice walk, the waterfall will be much drier.

Whichever walk you undertake, don't forget your sunhat, sunscreen, some good walking shoes and plenty of water. We can put you in touch with Chris, an experienced walker, who can give you more information and guidance on any of the walks.

Pefki Gorge

Pervolakia Gorge

Enjoying a well deserved drink in the taverna in Pervolakia