Agia Irini Gorge — Attraction in Municipality of Kantanos-Selinon

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...

The second most popular Cretan Gorge after Samaria, although far less crowded due to its location! I call it 'the Dark Gorge' because if you start early (e.g. catch the 7am morning bus from Sougia to take you to the gorge's entrance), you will not see the sunlight directly until the end of it! And that's during the summer days! It is a very enjoyable hike: it is narrow, descending in altitude but with lots of up and downs, exquisite flora (the smell of aromatic plants is very distinctive in some areas), and some stunning views of rock formations and old dead trees (check my photostream!). It's not really comparable to Samaria, it's a different gorge, a different experience. Do them both if you can! At the end of it there's a lovely little tavern (Oase). The hike to Sougia is a few kms down the paved road. Most people take a taxi ... just walk it if it's not too hot, you will be accompanied by the scent of wild oregano at least for the first couple of kms. Fantastic overall...

Great gorge walk. We really enjoyed it. Done early Oct. We only did the 7km starting from Agia Irini down to the Oasis Taverna and then walked the 7km back. The guardians of the trail have done a great job with the trail marking and maintaining the trail. You can’t get lost. The trail is mainly gravel or stony with plenty of rock hopping. Wear good walking shoes or boots. The section from the 1km mark to the 3km mark is the steepest. It is slightly quicker going up the gorge than down, as the slip risk is reduced. We’re moderately fit 60 year olds and it took 2hr 20 down and 2hr 10 up, NOT including stops. Toilets are provided at the start, 1km and 2km points. Picnic benches at 1,2 &3km points. Take a drink and snack. Water is available at these points but not sure on whether it is potable or not. The Oasis is a good point to refuel if you are walking back up to Agia Irini or continuing another 4.9km on to Sougia (as...