If I had to choose an inviting gorge to start with, one that is not too demanding, not too long, offers plenty of excitement and is not too far from Chania, it would be Imbros Gorge.
The gorge (Greek: Φαράγγι Ίμπρου, Faragi Imbrou) is an 11 km long canyon located near Hora Sfakion in southern Crete. It runs parallel to Samariá Gorge, its narrowest part is 1.60 m wide and it ends at the village of Kommitádes (8 km/ 650 m for hiking).
It is a historical fact that The Imbros Gorge was used for the retreat of allied troops during the end of Operation Merkur (20th May 1941 – 1st June 1941). Between 28th and 31st May 1941, allied troops were evacuated from Chora Sfakion before heading to Egypt.
For those who reach Imbros with their own car from Chania (54 km/1h10min), they can leave it in the car park at the entrance , behind the village of Askifou, then pass the gorge and return to the car park with a taxi from Kommitádes or walk through the gorge all the way back again, as it is not so tiring. An additional attraction may be returning to the car park in the back of an open pick-up truck. It’s great fun, and the views are breathtaking.
It takes 2-3 hours to cross the gorge, it does not require climbing or wading, and the route is often shaded. You can safely go with children, both small ones in a baby carrier and older ones, 7-8 years old, they can do it. I know what I’m talking about, I’ve done both! Just do not forget your sturdy walking boots and water.
Photo credits: wandernity.com,cretelocals.com,west-crete.com
