Imbros Gorge is an 11 km long canyon located near Hora Sfakion in southern Crete, the Mediterranean island. It is the third most visited gorge in Crete, following Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini by Sougia, all belonging to the E4 European hiking path. It runs parallel to Samariá Gorge, its narrowest part has 1.60 m and it ends at the village of Kommitádes. The initial part of the gorge, which is quite wide, is called Porofarago. Initially the course is descending and the sidewalls are relatively low. But while descending, the canyon narrows continuously, the sidewalls raise higher and the scenery is impressive. Soon the sides of the canyon start approaching and getting higher, We see various caves, The rich fauna of the area to keep an eye out for include the threatened Bearded Vulture, the European Kestrel, the Partridge, the Golden Eagle, Bonelli’s Eagle, Griffin Vulture Gyps fulvus (above and below), doves and martins, also partridges, alpine choughs, thrushes, hawks, ravens, eagles and other species of wild birds. Mammals include shrews, hedgehogs, weasels, martens and badgers, mice and bats, but these are hard to see in the day time.
The colourful flora of Crete can be seen in the gorge including Trachea pine, Mediterranean cyprus, plane trees and Kermes Oaks. The delicate pink and white flowers of the Oleanders line the gorge after rain. On the sides of the cliffs grow wild herbs such as sage and dittany.
Imbros Gorge may not have the fame of Samaria Gorge, yet it is a very intriguing hike, with amazingly beautiful nature and narrow passes.
Imbros Gorge is one of the many gorges that can be found in the White Mountains sierra at the south-western part of the island of Crete, Greece. The gorge is part of the E4 European hiking path and it is easily accessible and properly marked.
However, it should be noted that despite being easy to cross, it does not lack interest, beauty or excitement. While the initial part of the gorge is quite wide, it soon narrows down by high sidewalls and the landscape becomes impressive. The narrowest part is just 1.6m wide with sidewalls that are more than 300 m high.
The scenery is beautiful and the low difficulty makes the descent of Imbros ideal for families with children.
The route starts from Imbros village is located at an altitude of 780 meters and is at the South end of the fertile plain of Askyfou. We follow the sign to the gorge entrance and soon arrive at a ticket counter.
After this we reach the most impressive part of the Gorge, Stenada. Here the gorge walls approach at 1.6m, while their height reaches 300 m! The rocks are carved with very beautiful formations. After this narrow point, the canyon widens and we meet a resting place at position Mesofarango. Here is a Venetian water cistern and the hut of the guard of the gorge.
After a few meters we cross a landslide and immediately after the impressive narrow at Gremnaria. Immediately after that, we meet another trademark of the gorge, the stone arch Xepitira. Continuing our journey, we pass through some narrow passages and soon reach the exit of the gorge by village Komitades. Just at the exit there are some taverns and in the village there are more options. In the middle of the gorge, the 'mesofarago' is a historic Venetian water cistern. Along the way, you will see stunning rock formations in the weathered limestone rock and at some points, very close dramatic canyon walls. Then you will continue south to the village of Komitades. Experienced walkers will join this walk with other White Mountain walks and walks from the Askifou Plateau. The E4 European Walking Path through Crete includes the Imbros Gorge.
The hike starts at approximately 700m above sea level and descents towards the south at approximately sea level. The exit of the gorge is at the village Komitades. From there you can find a taxi to take you back to your car if you have left it at the entrance of the gorge.
Like us and Join us at Xtreme Collections for more fun and knowledge.
Информация по комментариям в разработке