Richtis Gorge
Hike through a lush gorge to a stunning waterfall and secluded beach in Crete. A refreshing escape with natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Richtis Gorge
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through a lush gorge to a stunning waterfall and secluded beach in Crete. A refreshing escape with natural beauty.
"Unexpected to find such a gorge on Crete. It feels like you are walking in a tropical forest. It's beautiful."
🥾 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes are crucial for the rocky and stepped terrain. Sandals or sneakers won't cut it!
🩱 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The waterfall pool is incredibly refreshing, a must-do after your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Richtis Waterfall
End of the gorge trail
A stunning 20-meter high waterfall with a refreshing freshwater pool perfect for a dip.
+1
Lush Gorge Trail
Richtis Gorge
Hike through a surprisingly tropical-feeling forest with shade, mossy rocks, and old water mills.
Richtis Beach
Mouth of the gorge
A secluded beach offering a relaxing end to your hike, with picnic spots and a refreshing sea breeze.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Richtis Gorge
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes are crucial for the rocky and stepped terrain. Sandals or sneakers won't cut it!
🩱 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The waterfall pool is incredibly refreshing, a must-do after your hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
💰 Admission Fee
There's a small entrance fee of around 5 euros per person.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes are crucial for the rocky and stepped terrain. Sandals or sneakers won't cut it!
🩱 Bring Your Swimsuit!
The waterfall pool is incredibly refreshing, a must-do after your hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
💰 Admission Fee
There's a small entrance fee of around 5 euros per person.
⏰ Start Early
Beat the heat and crowds by starting your hike in the morning.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking at the bottom is limited; consider parking near the old bridge and doing a loop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Richtis Gorge for its stunning natural beauty, describing the hike as a journey through a lush, tropical-like forest leading to a breathtaking waterfall and a serene beach. The refreshing swim in the waterfall pool is a major highlight. Some find the trail moderately challenging and advise on proper footwear and carrying water. Parking can be limited.
"Quite an easy hike towards the waterfall and the sea. There are stairs or ropes for the most difficult passes. It’s 80 minutes walk from the bridge to the waterfall. The nature is beautiful and you hike mostly in the shade of the trees. You get to see two old water mills on the way (in ruins).
There is a 5-euro fare."
S Gk
"A beautiful trail I would rate at a medium make sure you have good shoes. Sandals will just make your life miserable and sneakers won’t be any better. Proper hiking shoes will be very helpful and make your life easier. Give yourself a proper two hours starting from the top about an hour if you start from the bottom, but there’s hardly any parking spots on the bottom."
MobyOne50
"Unexpected to find such a gorge on Crete. It feels like you are walking in a tropical forest. It's beautiful. Even on a hot day it's nice to walk, due to the shade of all the trees. Be prepared for the many steps and rocks you have to pass and make sure you do not walk unoticed along the big waterfall.
It's worth it to start from the main road and walk by the old bridge and do a loop through the gorge and olive fields."
Zany X ray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Richtis Gorge is located in the Lasithi Prefecture, between Agios Nikolaos and Sitia on the north side of Crete. The trail typically starts near Exo Mouliana village. While public transport might be challenging for a same-day round trip, having a car offers the most flexibility.
Parking is available, but spots can be limited, especially at the bottom of the gorge. Some visitors recommend parking near the old bridge and starting the hike from there, potentially creating a loop.
Reaching Richtis Gorge solely by public transport for a same-day trip can be difficult. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance or consider renting a car for easier access.
Most visitors access the gorge from the main road, heading towards the bottom. The trail then leads you through the gorge to Richtis Beach.
Richtis Gorge is approximately a 2-hour drive from Heraklion, making it a feasible day trip for those staying in or near the capital.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small admission fee, typically around 5 euros per person, to access the gorge and its amenities.
While there are no strict opening hours posted, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully enjoy the experience. Early mornings are recommended.
Advance booking is generally not required for Richtis Gorge. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
The trail is generally accessible year-round, but it's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially after heavy rain, as paths can become slippery.
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for entering Richtis Gorge, but the hike requires a moderate level of fitness.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from the bridge to the waterfall is about 80 minutes one way. If you start from the bottom near the beach, it can take about an hour. The total trail length is approximately 3 kilometers.
The hike is generally considered moderate, with some steps and rocky sections. It's manageable for most fitness levels, especially with proper footwear.
Absolutely! The waterfall has a refreshing freshwater pool that is perfect for a swim, especially on a hot day.
Expect a lush, green environment with shady trees, moss-covered rocks, and a feeling of walking through a tropical forest. You'll also see old water mills in ruins.
Richtis Gorge is known for having relatively low tourist traffic, making it a great option for those seeking a less crowded experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall itself is a prime photo opportunity. The lush greenery, wooden bridges, and the beach at the end also offer beautiful shots. Capture the contrast between the dry Mediterranean trail and the jungle-like interior.
Early morning light provides soft, beautiful illumination for photos and helps avoid harsh midday sun. It also ensures fewer people in your shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the gorge and waterfall. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you plan to swim.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
Yes, modern smartphone cameras are excellent for capturing the beauty of Richtis Gorge. Focus on composition and lighting for stunning results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the 80-minute one-way hike to the waterfall. If you have very young children, you might opt for a shorter exploration or focus on reaching the waterfall and returning. The beach at the end offers a nice place for a picnic and some playtime.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the rich wildlife and the serene atmosphere. The opportunity to swim in the waterfall pool adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and good hiking shoes to fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor.
+1📸 Photographers
+1Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the gorge and waterfall. A waterproof phone case or camera is recommended if you plan to get close to the water or take a dip. Don't forget to capture the details of the moss-covered rocks and the old water mills for added texture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Richtis Gorge Trail Experience
Many visitors describe the experience as feeling like they've stepped into a different world, a welcome contrast to the typical Cretan scenery. The shade provided by the dense foliage makes it a comfortable hike even on warmer days. The trail culminates at the breathtaking Richtis Waterfall, where a refreshing pool awaits.
+1For those looking for a more complete experience, the trail continues to Richtis Beach, offering a serene spot to relax after your hike. The combination of the invigorating hike, the stunning waterfall, and the peaceful beach makes Richtis Gorge a well-rounded natural attraction.
Swimming in the Richtis Waterfall
+1Visitors are advised to bring their swimsuits and be prepared for the invigorating chill. The natural pool offers a unique and memorable experience, allowing you to feel the power of the cascading water. It's a highlight that many travelers rave about and a key reason to visit the gorge.
While the water is bracing, the sheer beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding natural environment make the swim an unforgettable part of the Richtis Gorge adventure. It's a chance to connect with nature in a truly spectacular setting.
Accessing Richtis Gorge and Parking
Parking can be a bit of a challenge, particularly at the bottom of the gorge near Richtis Beach, where spots are limited. Some visitors suggest parking near the old bridge on the main road and starting the hike from there. This can also allow for a loop hike, incorporating the gorge and surrounding olive fields, offering a more varied experience.
For those relying on public transport, reaching Richtis Gorge for a same-day round trip can be difficult due to infrequent bus services. It's advisable to thoroughly research bus schedules or opt for a rental car to ensure a smooth visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit