Nestled in the rugged landscapes of southern Crete, the Sarakina Gorge beckons adventure-seekers with its breathtaking beauty. This 8-hour excursion promises an immersive journey through the region’s natural wonders, from the charming village of Kritsa to the thrilling hike through the gorge itself. Discover towering rock formations, lush vegetation, and the chance to cool off in the crystal-clear pools of Myrtos. With a guided tour and 4WD transfer, this experience offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and outdoor exploration. Prepare to be captivated by the hidden gems that await you in this enchanting corner of Crete.
Key Points
- An 8-hour excursion that includes a guided tour of Kritsa village, a scenic drive through Kroustas Pine Forest, and a 1-hour hike through Sarakina Gorge.
- Opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear natural pools at Myrtos after the hiking event.
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from 12 locations across Crete, including Hersonissos and Agios Nikolaos.
- Pricing at €89 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Emphasis on showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of southern Crete through this well-rounded adventure.
Overview and Pricing
The Sarakina Gorge hiking and swim adventure offers an 8-hour excursion priced at €89 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now, pay later option available.
Guests can choose from 12 pickup locations across Crete, including popular destinations like Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos, and Heraklion.
The experience includes a guided tour of Kritsa village, a scenic drive through Kroustas Pine Forest, a break in Males village, and the highlight – hiking through the Sarakina Gorge and swimming in the natural pools at Myrtos.
Lunch with wine and water is provided, while personal expenses, drinks, and food in the vehicle are excluded.
Itinerary Highlights
Pickup locations span 12 options across Crete, including popular destinations like Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos, Stalida, Gouves, Heraklion, and Elounda.
The first stop is the charming village of Kritsa, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and learn about the local culture.
Next, you’ll drive through the scenic Kroustas Pine Forest for a photo opportunity.
After a break in Males village, the main event begins – exploring the impressive Sarakina Gorge on a 1-hour hike.
The adventure concludes with a relaxing 2.5 hours at Myrtos, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch and refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
At the end of the day, you’ll be dropped off at your original pickup location.
Experience and Activities
Hikers frequently explore Sarakina Gorge‘s towering rock formations and lush vegetation during the 1-hour hike.
Visitors can then cool off with a refreshing swim in the natural pools at Myrtos, where crystal-clear waters invite them to unwind after the trek.
Plus, the scenic 4WD drive through Kroustas Pine Forest offers a thrilling off-road adventure, while the guided tour of Kritsa village provides a culture into the local way of life.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled excursion or a serene escape, this excursion promises a well-rounded experience that showcases the natural beauty and cultural richness of southern Crete.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
With a range of pickup locations spanning from Hersonissos to Heraklion, this excursion caters to visitors across southern Crete‘s bustling coastal towns.
Guests can conveniently access the tour from 12 different points, including popular destinations like Agios Nikolaos, Stalida, and Elounda.
Whether you’re staying in the lively resort of Hersonissos or the charming fishing village of Elounda, you’ll be able to join the tour with a hassle-free hotel pickup.
The return journey follows the same route, ensuring a seamless door-to-door experience.
With this extensive coverage of pickup and drop-off locations, the Sarakina Gorge adventure is accessible to travelers across the region.
Included and Excluded
The tour package covers a range of inclusions to enhance the experience, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation between sights, a 4WD adventure, and a hearty lunch with wine and water.
However, personal expenses, additional drinks, and food consumed during the journey are excluded. This ensures that the focus remains on the breathtaking natural surroundings and immersive cultural elements, without the hassle of managing extra costs.
Guests can simply sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the Sarakina Gorge hiking and swimming adventure, without worrying about the finer details.
The carefully curated inclusions provide a comprehensive and stress-free experience, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in this stunning corner of southern Crete.
What to Bring
Visitors should pack sunglasses, a sun hat, and swimwear to make the most of the Sarakina Gorge hiking and swimming adventure.
A towel is a must-have for drying off after a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen to protect your skin from the Mediterranean sun.
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for the hiking portion through the gorge.
It’s also a good idea to pack some water to stay hydrated during the day’s activities.
While food and drinks are provided during the lunch stop, you may want to have some snacks on hand for the vehicle ride.
Following this packing list will ensure you’re prepared to fully enjoy the Sarakina Gorge experience.
Safety and Regulations
Safety is paramount during the Sarakina Gorge hiking and swimming adventure. The hiking portion lasts approximately 40-45 minutes, and participants should exercise caution on the trails. Water availability in the natural pools depends on seasonal conditions, so visitors need to be mindful of this. Smoking, bringing drinks, and consuming food are not allowed inside the vehicle to maintain cleanliness and safety. Following these regulations ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
| Safety Regulations | Importance |
|---|---|
| No Smoking | Prevents fire hazards and ensures clean air |
| No Drinks/Food in Vehicle | Maintains cleanliness and prevents spills |
| Caution on Hiking Trails | Prevents accidents and injuries |
| Awareness of Water Levels | Ensures safe and enjoyable swimming experience |
Booking and Cancellation
Booking the Sarakina Gorge hiking and swim adventure is straightforward, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility in planning their excursion.
The activity is priced at €89 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours, covering a guided tour of Kritsa village, a scenic drive through Kroustas Pine Forest, a break in Males village, hiking in the Sarakina Gorge, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Myrtos.
Pickup and drop-off can be arranged from 12 different locations, making it convenient for guests across Crete.
With these booking options and cancellation policies, planning this outdoor adventure has never been easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for This Activity?
The tour has no minimum or maximum group size. Participants can book individually or in groups of any size. The pricing and experience remain the same regardless of group size.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate in This Tour?
You don’t need to know how to swim to participate in this tour. However, swimming is an optional activity at Myrtos beach. Those who can’t swim can still enjoy the scenic hike through Sarakina Gorge.
Is This Activity Suitable for Families With Young Children?
This activity may not be suitable for families with young children. The 1-hour hike through Sarakina Gorge and 2.5-hour swim session at Myrtos could be challenging for young kids. Parents should consider their children’s abilities before booking this tour.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements to Do the Sarakina Gorge Hike?
The Sarakina Gorge hike has no strict age or fitness requirements, but it’s best suited for moderately fit individuals aged 8 and above who can handle a 1-hour moderate hike. Children under 8 may struggle with the terrain.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Any Extra Stops Along the Way?
While the itinerary is set, the tour operator may allow minor customizations or additional stops upon request. Travelers should discuss any special requests with the operator in advance to ensure feasibility and availability.
Recap
Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Sarakina Gorge on this unforgettable Southern Crete adventure.
Explore the charming Kritsa village, trek through the picturesque Kroustas Pine Forest, and hike the breathtaking gorge before refreshing yourself with a swim in Myrtos’ crystal-clear pools.
This 8-hour excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Crete’s captivating landscapes and culture.
