Walk through the gorge of Agia Irini
Sougia is located at the end
of the gorge of Agia Irini. This valley starts above the
village of Agia Irini (at the water dividing line between
north and south Crete) and narrows to a gorge a little
south of the village. This is the point where most people
enter the gorge for their walk.
The most convenient way to do this walk from Sougia is to either take the public
bus to Hania in the early morning and get off at the entrance of the gorge (the
driver will know where to stop) or to take a taxi there.
Although the gorge of Agia Irini is less spectacular than
the gorge of Samaria it is far less crowded and very
beautiful.
The walk back to Sougia takes a total of 4 hours and can
be done throughout the year, provided that it hasn't rained
in the preceding days. The path in the gorge was improved
considerably a few years ago and is, for the most, without
difficulties and easy to follow with plenty of shade. There
are several resting places where you can theoretically
get water (but the taps don't always work so make sure
you bring your own supply).
After about 2 hours through the gorge the valley widens
and you will see a sign pointing towards the left to a
cafe. This is where you will meet the road again and it
is probably easier to follow it than continue in the river
bed to Sougia where the walking can get tedious. You can
also eat at the cafe before continuing to Sougia so it
is not necessary to carry food with you on this walk.
Bear in mind that the last part of the walk to Sougia (which
takes about 1 1/2 to 2 hours) offers little shade.
For more information see www.agia-irini.com
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