Imbros Gorge
Crete, Crete
Located in southwestern Crete, Imbros Gorge is the second most popular gorge on the island. A less strenuous and less crowded alternative to the more famous and imposing Samaria Gorge, Imbros Gorge offers beautiful scenery and some spectacularly narrow sections along a 4.9-mile (8-kilometer stretch suitable for hiking.
The basics
Start at the northern end of Imbros Gorge at Imbros village, at around 2,560 feet (780 meters) of elevation. From there the hike is largely downhill (about 1,969 feet (600 meters) until you end up in the village of Komitades, near sea level. At its narrowest point, Imbros Gorge is only 5.2 feet (1.6 meters) wide, with the walls towering 984 feet (300 meters). Depending on the season, you can see wildflower meadows, and pine, oak, and fig trees.
Visit Imbros Gorge independently, or opt for a guided day-tour. Additional stops may include the Castle of Frangokastello and a swim in the Libyan Sea, or the White Mountains and Lake Kournas.
Things to know before you go
- Imbros Gorge is ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and families with children.
- Tickets are required to enter the gorge; hold on to your tickets to show at the exit.
- Wear sturdy shoes, capable of walking over uneven surfaces and loose rocks.
- Bring plenty of water as there may not be a chance to replenish during the hike.
- Expect to spend two to three hours on the hike.
How to get there
Most hikers start at Imbros village. It’s easiest to take a taxi, or drive and park near the trailhead. There are infrequent buses from Chania. At the end of the hike, the options are to walk back to the start, pay for a taxi back to your car, or continue on for another 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers) past Komitades to catch a bus.
When to get there
Imbros Gorge is open for hiking year-round. Spring and fall are the best times to hike, with the most pleasant weather. It can be busy in April, as Samaria Gorge is not yet open. Avoid hiking during and after it rains and snows, as there is an increased risk of rock slides then.
Imbros Gorge During World War II
Imbros Gorge was the main evacuation route for Allied Forces in May 1941. After losing the Battle of Crete, nearly 20,000 troops—mainly from Britain, Australia, and New Zealand—headed south through the gorge to be picked up by ships and taken to Egypt. A monument in Chora Sfakion commemorates these events.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!