Richtis Waterfall and North Coast Tour

The Richtis Waterfall and North Coast Tour offers an immersive exploration of Crete’s natural wonders. Traversing the island’s picturesque northern coast, this full-day adventure promises a captivating blend of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and personal discoveries. From the tranquil Mirabello Bay to the enchanting Richtis Gorge, each step of the journey unveils the island’s diverse landscapes and rich culinary traditions. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, participants can expect an engaging and convenient experience that leaves them eager to uncover more of Crete’s hidden gems.

Contents hide

5 Important Information

6 Scenic Drive to Mirabello Bay

7 Hiking to Richtis Gorge and Waterfall

8 Lunch at Local Tavern and Food Tasting

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

This full-day tour takes visitors to Richtis Waterfall and the stunning north coast of Crete, with a duration of 7 hours.
The tour includes a scenic drive, a 40-minute hike to the waterfall, a refreshing swim, and a visit to a local tavern for lunch and food tasting.
The tour is led by live guides available in German, French, English, Russian, and Dutch, and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within 30 km of Elounda.
Highlights of the tour include swimming in the Richtis Waterfall, hiking through a forest to see a 3,250-year-old olive tree, and tasting local Cretan specialties.
The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a towel are recommended.

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Tour Details

The full-day tour to Richtis Waterfall and North Coast lasts 7 hours and is limited to a small group size of 6 participants.

A live tour guide is available in German, French, English, Russian, and Dutch.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for locations within 30 km of Elounda.

The tour begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Mirabello Bay, followed by a 40-minute hike to Richtis Gorge and waterfall.

Participants can swim in the refreshing waters for 30 minutes. An optional 40-minute hike in the Richtis Gorge is also available.

After lunch at a local tavern, the tour includes a visit to Mirabello Bay and food tasting in Agios Nikolaos.

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Itinerary

Commencing with a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Mirabello Bay, the tour then takes participants on a 40-minute hike to Richtis Gorge and its captivating waterfall.

Visitors are treated to a refreshing 30-minute swim in the waterfall’s invigorating waters. For the more adventurous, an optional 40-minute hike through the Richtis Gorge is available.

The tour then heads back to Mirabello Bay with a scenic 1-hour drive. After a 1-hour lunch at a local tavern, participants have the option to visit Mirabello Bay for 45 minutes.

The day concludes with a 30-minute food tasting session in the town of Agios Nikolaos.

Highlights

Visitors can swim in the refreshing waters of Richtis waterfall, a highlight of the tour.

They’ll also get to hike through the forest under a canopy of trees and see a 3250-year-old olive tree, the oldest in Europe.

This scenic tour allows participants to enjoy the natural beauty of Crete’s northern coast.

The hike through the Richtis Gorge offers stunning views, while the chance to taste local specialties in Agios Nikolaos adds a cultural element to the experience.

With a small group size and expert guide, travelers can enjoy an intimate and personalized exploration of this picturesque region.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation by 4×4, an expert driver/guide, a short hike, and lunch with local wine and water.

This ensures participants can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics.

The 4×4 vehicles are comfortable and well-suited for navigating the scenic routes, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the views.

The driver/guide provides valuable insights and historical context throughout the tour, enhancing the overall experience.

The included lunch at a local tavern offers a chance to savor authentic Cretan cuisine and sample the region’s renowned wine.

With these inclusions, the Richtis Waterfall and North Coast Tour provides a seamless and enriching adventure.

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Important Information

While the tour offers an immersive experience, it’s not suitable for everyone. Individuals with mobility impairments may find the hike challenging, so this should be considered before booking.

Comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a towel are recommended, as visitors will hike and swim at the waterfall. Sandals or open-toed shoes aren’t allowed, as they may not provide adequate support on the trail.

It’s important to note that there are no toilets available at the waterfall site, so visitors should plan accordingly.

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Scenic Drive to Mirabello Bay

The tour begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive along the picturesque Mirabello Bay, offering participants breathtaking views of the azure waters and rugged coastline. As the van winds its way through the winding roads, guests can admire the charming seaside villages, lush olive groves, and towering mountains that define the landscape of Crete’s northern region.

Stop	Duration	Highlights
Panoramic Viewpoint	10 minutes	Sweeping vistas of Mirabello Bay
Traditional Village	15 minutes	Quaint streets, local shops, and olive oil tasting
Olive Grove	5 minutes	Observe the cultivation of Crete’s famous olive oil
Coastal Road	Throughout	Dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sparkling waters

The drive sets the stage for the adventurous day ahead, whetting the appetite for the natural wonders that await at the Richtis Waterfall.

Hiking to Richtis Gorge and Waterfall

After the scenic drive, participants embark on a 40-minute hike through the lush forest to reach the Richtis Gorge and its cascading waterfall.

The trail winds its way under a canopy of towering trees, offering a refreshing respite from the Mediterranean sun.

As hikers descend into the gorge, they’re greeted by the soothing sound of the waterfall’s crystal-clear waters tumbling over the rocky cliffs.

The hike provides a chance to take in the natural beauty of the region, with the opportunity to spot local flora and fauna along the way.

Upon reaching the waterfall, visitors can cool off with a refreshing swim in the pool at the base of the falls.

Lunch at Local Tavern and Food Tasting

Following the scenic drive and waterfall exploration, participants enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local tavern along the Mirabello Bay. During this 1-hour break, they savor authentic Greek cuisine and sip on regional wines while taking in the stunning coastal vistas.

Afterward, the tour continues with a food tasting experience in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where participants have the opportunity to sample local delicacies and gain insights into the region’s culinary traditions. The food tasting lasts for 30 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy the flavors and aromas that make Cretan cuisine so unique and renowned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Opportunity to Take Professional Photos During the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention opportunities for taking professional photos. However, the scenic nature of the locations visited, such as the waterfall and coastline, may provide chances for participants to capture photos during the excursion.

Can We Extend the Time Spent at the Waterfall if Desired?

Yes, the tour can accommodate extending the time spent at the waterfall if desired. However, it’s important to note that the overall tour duration is fixed, so extending one activity may require reducing time elsewhere.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues. Children are welcome, though parents should ensure they can handle the moderate hiking required.

Is It Possible to Purchase Additional Food and Drinks During the Lunch Stop?

Yes, participants can purchase additional food and drinks during the lunch stop. The tour includes a 1-hour lunch at a local tavern, but guests are free to order additional items at their own expense.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Beverages for the Tour?

Yes, participants are typically allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages for the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have specific policies or recommendations regarding outside food and drinks.