The Agia Irini Gorge has some narrow sections but overall feels more like a deeply incised ravine. It is by far not as heavily visited as the Samaria Gorge and is also significantly shorter, so it is no problem to hike there and back.
The well-marked path partly runs directly along the dry riverbed, where large stones must be climbed over; partly it runs on narrow gravel terraces, and there are also several detours to avoid narrow sections and large rocks. Those who enjoy bouldering can also stay continuously in the riverbed in the lower half of the gorge.
The middle section is dominated by gnarled, old tree shapes whose roots often now hang high in the air after the surrounding ground has eroded.
In the uppermost area, the vegetation is very dense and resembles a jungle-like forest.
To spot wild goats, you should walk through the gorge very early or before the other visitors.
Author’s recommendation
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
This route presents no particular safety risks.Tips and suggestions
Gingilos and VoulakiasRoadbook
From the parking lot, walk uphill into the valley to a small tavern, where a sign points left toward the gorge. You enter the riverbed and follow the numerous blue markers there. The path partially runs directly on the block terrain of the dry riverbed, where there are also wooden bridges and ladders and you occasionally need to use your hands, and partially also along side gravel terraces. It passes several rest areas, at least one of which offers water year-round. The distance to the starting point is marked at every full kilometer.
At the end of trail kilometer 2, the path turns right uphill along the slope; this junction is easy to overlook. You can also continue straight on in the gorge without a path, which is more strenuous and somewhat difficult.
At trail kilometer 4, the path leaves the valley floor and runs along the slope on the left side; at kilometer 5, the path first deviates right uphill along the slope and then crosses to the other side of the slope to the left. Immediately after the rest area at the kilometer 5 mark, it goes up to the right in switchbacks to reach a viewpoint offering a beautiful view into the gorge.
At km 7 lies the fourth rest area. Here or shortly afterwards at an old warden's hut, turn around and hike back to the starting point on the same path.
Old Building
Public transport
Taxi from SougiaDirections
Coming from Chania, follow the signs to Sougia on the south coast and drive via Prases to Moni. Halfway between Moni and Sougia, turn toward Livadas and follow the signs to the "Irini Gorge," which lead to the visitor parking lot at the lower end of the gorge.Parking
Visitor parking lot at the lower entrance to Agia Irini GorgeCoordinates
Book recommendations for this region:
Recommended maps for this region:
Equipment
Hiking equipment.
Every backpack should include: rain, cold, and sun protection, a first aid kit, sufficient fluids, and a hiking map of the region.
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions