For adventure-seekers exploring the stunning island of Crete, the ‘From Chania: Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour‘ offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture. Set out on a guided hike through the breathtaking Imbros Gorge, followed by a leisurely visit to the picturesque seaside village of Sfakia, where you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the sparkling Mediterranean and savor local cuisine. With convenient pickup locations, a knowledgeable escort, and insights into the region’s rich history, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you longing to discover more of Crete’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Sfakia.

Key Points

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Key Points

  • This full-day hiking tour from Chania explores the Imbros Gorge and the seaside village of Sfakia, with a duration of approximately 7 hours.
  • The tour offers a range of pricing options, with advance booking providing up to 10% savings and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option available.
  • The guided hike through the Imbros Gorge, known for its dramatic scenery and historical significance, takes around 2 hours and is suitable for beginner hikers and families.
  • After the hike, visitors have 2.5 hours to explore Sfakia, including swimming in the Mediterranean waters and experiencing the local culture and cuisine.
  • The tour includes luxury air-conditioned bus transportation, an English-speaking escort, and all applicable taxes and admission fees, with pickup and drop-off at 16 locations around Chania.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day hiking tour from Chania offers visitors the chance to explore the renowned Imbros Gorge and the scenic seaside town of Sfakia, with prices ranging from $38.23 to $34.41 per person.

Travelers can save up to 10% by booking in advance and take advantage of the ‘reserve now, pay later’ option.

The tour lasts 7 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

Pickup and drop-off are provided at 16 locations around Chania, ensuring convenient access.

With an expert hiking escort, travelers can look forward to a leisurely trek through the picturesque Imbros Gorge and time to swim and relax in the traditional Cretan villages of Sfakia.

Itinerary and Locations

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Itinerary and Locations

Departing from 16 pickup locations around Chania, the tour begins with a 1-hour bus journey to the Imbros Gorge, where visitors embark on a 2-hour guided hike through the stunning natural landscape.

After the hike, the group travels to the seaside village of Sfakia, where they’ll have 2.5 hours to enjoy lunch, swimming in the warm Mediterranean waters, and free time to explore the traditional Cretan town.

The tour then concludes with a 1.5-hour bus ride back to the original drop-off points.

With a variety of convenient departure locations, the tour offers a seamless and immersive experience exploring the natural beauty and historical significance of this region of Crete.

Highlights of the Tour

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Highlights of the Tour

The tour offers several highlights, starting with the Imbros Gorge – a 9 km long canyon that’s the second largest on the island of Crete. The gorge is suitable for beginner hikers and families, providing a leisurely trek through picturesque scenery. The narrowest point of the gorge measures just 1.6 meters, adding to the dramatic atmosphere.

Along With the hiking experience, the tour also includes a stop in the traditional Cretan village of Sfakia, where travelers can enjoy swimming in the warm Mediterranean waters.

The historical significance of the area is also noteworthy, as it was the site of the evacuation of British soldiers during World War II.

Hiking Experience

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Hiking Experience

Hikers can expect a leisurely trek through the picturesque scenery of Imbros Gorge, with the guided tour typically taking around 2.5 hours to complete the 9 km hike.

The narrowest point of the gorge measures just 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) wide, providing a truly immersive experience.

Throughout the hike, a knowledgeable escort will be on hand to ensure the safety and comfort of participants.

The leisurely pace of the hike makes it suitable for beginner hikers and families alike, allowing them to fully appreciate the stunning natural surroundings.

With its historical significance as the site of the British evacuation during World War II, the Imbros Gorge hike offers a unique opportunity to connect with Crete’s rich cultural heritage.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off transportation in a luxury air-conditioned bus, as well as an English-speaking hiking escort to provide guidance and assistance throughout the excursion.

Plus, all applicable taxes (VAT inclusive) and admission fees to Imbros Gorge (€2.5 per person, free for children under 11) are covered within the tour cost.

However, the tour excludes personal expenses, extra beverages or meals, and customary tips for the driver and escort.

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the narrow passages and uneven terrain within the gorge may pose accessibility challenges.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Pickup and Drop-off Locations

With a wide range of pickup locations across Chania, travelers can conveniently access this Imbros Gorge and Sfakia hiking tour from 16 different spots throughout the region.

Some of the easily accessible pickup points include:

  • SanSal Boutique Hotel in Halepa
  • Feidias cafe bar in downtown Chania
  • Maleme and Agia Marina on the western coast
  • Kolymvari and Platanias, popular tourist villages

At the end of the day, the tour bus will drop participants off at these same locations, ensuring a seamless start and finish to the hiking adventure.

This flexibility allows visitors to join the tour directly from their accommodations or chosen meeting point in Chania.

Swimming and Free Time

After the guided hike through Imbros Gorge, the tour offers ample time for travelers to enjoy the charms of Sfakia. They’ll have 2.5 hours to swim in the warm Mediterranean waters, explore the picturesque Cretan villages, and relax at their leisure.

The coastal town of Sfakia is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear sea, indulge in delicious local cuisine at traditional tavernas, or simply stroll through the charming streets, taking in the unique Cretan architecture and atmosphere.

This free time allows travelers to enjoy the local culture and make the most of their Crete adventure.

Historical Significance

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Historical Significance

Imbros Gorge holds historical significance as the site of the Evacuation of British soldiers during World War II, when thousands of troops were successfully withdrawn from Crete amid the German invasion. This dramatic event, known as the Battle of Crete, was a pivotal moment in the war.

The gorge’s remote and rugged terrain made it a crucial escape route for the retreating Allied forces. Today, visitors can still see remnants of the wartime evacuation, including discarded military equipment and supplies.

The historical importance of Imbros Gorge adds depth and meaning to the hiking experience, allowing travelers to connect with the region’s past while enjoying its natural beauty.

  • Site of the Evacuation of British troops during WWII

  • Part of the pivotal Battle of Crete

  • Remote terrain served as an escape route for Allied forces

  • Remnants of wartime equipment and supplies remain

Recap

From Chania:Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour - Recap

The ‘From Chania: Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Full-Day Hiking Tour’ provides a captivating blend of natural beauty, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Travelers can explore the stunning Imbros Gorge, relax in the picturesque seaside village of Sfakia, and savor local cuisine, all while benefiting from convenient transportation and a knowledgeable escort.

This tour is an ideal choice for beginner hikers and families seeking to discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: