Zakros Gorge
Hike through the dramatic Zakros Gorge, a scenic trail ending at a tranquil beach with ancient ties.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Zakros Gorge
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through the dramatic Zakros Gorge, a scenic trail ending at a tranquil beach with ancient ties.
"Magnificent hike that we did in a loop from Kato Zagros... It is really very beautiful, we take in the view!"
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for the hike; no water sources inside the gorge.
☀️ Hike Early or Late
Avoid the intense midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Zakros Gorge Trail
Zakros Village to Kato Zakros Beach
A scenic hike through a stunning gorge with impressive rock formations, ending at a charming beach.
Kato Zakros Beach
End of the gorge hike
A tranquil beach with cozy restaurants, perfect for relaxing after your trek.
Gorge of the Dead
Zakros Gorge
Also known as the Gorge of the Dead, this ancient burial site adds a historical layer to the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Options & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for the hike; no water sources inside the gorge.
☀️ Hike Early or Late
Avoid the intense midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The terrain can be rocky; good hiking shoes are a must.
🐐 Watch for Goats
You might encounter local wildlife along the trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for the hike; no water sources inside the gorge.
☀️ Hike Early or Late
Avoid the intense midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The terrain can be rocky; good hiking shoes are a must.
🐐 Watch for Goats
You might encounter local wildlife along the trail.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The rock formations and views are breathtaking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Zakros Gorge for its magnificent scenery and the rewarding hike that culminates at a beautiful beach with charming restaurants. The natural rock formations are a highlight, offering a sense of wild beauty. However, the intense heat and lack of shade are significant drawbacks, making early morning or late afternoon hikes essential.
"Very nice gorge which ends at a beach with cozy restaurants. It can be quite hot so bring sufficient water and walk early in the day."
Zany X ray
"Great hiking area"
Ferenc Hortobágyi
"Magnificent hike that we did in a loop from Kato Zagros: the outward journey via the old road which goes up to Zagros (wide easy track which overlooks the gorges) then descent through the gorges from entry point A. Total 10km, approximately 3 hours. No difficulty on the route, mostly in full sun, well marked. It is really very beautiful, we take in the view!"
Matthieu B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zakros Gorge is located in eastern Crete, Greece. You can drive to the village of Zakros and start your hike from there. Parking is available in Zakros village.
Yes, you can hike the gorge in reverse, starting from Kato Zakros beach and ending in Zakros village. This might involve a steeper ascent.
Most visitors drive to Zakros village. If you're coming from further afield, consider renting a car for flexibility.
Public transport to Zakros can be limited, especially outside peak season. Check local bus schedules in advance.
While possible for experienced mountain bikers, cycling is only recommended for adventurers due to the rocky terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike Zakros Gorge. It's a natural attraction accessible to everyone.
Zakros Gorge is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Kato Zakros beach is a public beach and does not have an entry fee. You can enjoy the beach and restaurants freely.
While not as common as in more popular gorges, some local tour operators might offer guided hikes. It's worth checking with local tourist information centers.
The Gorge of the Dead is part of the Zakros Gorge area. Access is generally open during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike from Zakros village to Kato Zakros beach typically takes 2-3 hours one way, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. It's mostly downhill or along the gorge floor, but the terrain is rocky.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, light clothing, and a hat for sun protection.
There are no facilities within the gorge itself. You'll find restrooms and restaurants at Kato Zakros beach.
The hike can be challenging for very young children due to the rocky terrain and heat. Older children who are used to hiking should be fine.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic rock formations, the winding path, and the final view of Kato Zakros beach offer stunning photographic moments.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light and fewer harsh shadows, enhancing the natural beauty.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the gorge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details and wildlife.
The entire gorge offers scenic views, but look out for wider sections where you can frame the path and rock walls effectively.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the age and stamina of your children. While the hike is generally moderate, very young children might find the distance and terrain challenging. The reward of reaching Kato Zakros beach with its tavernas can be a great motivator. It's a perfect spot for kids to play in the water and enjoy a well-deserved meal.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Carry ample water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the gorge. The hike offers a great opportunity for personal reflection and enjoying the raw beauty of Crete's natural landscapes. The endpoint at Kato Zakros provides a pleasant reward with its beach and tavernas, where you can mingle with locals and other travelers.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Zakros Gorge: A Traveler's Guide
Key considerations for this hike include the intense sun exposure, as large parts of the gorge are open and lack shade. It's highly recommended to carry at least one liter of water per person and to start your hike early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential due to the rocky and uneven terrain. Keep an eye out for the local goats that often inhabit the gorge.
Upon reaching Kato Zakros, you'll be greeted by a charming beach and a few welcoming tavernas, offering a perfect spot to relax and refuel after your trek. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance (as it's known as the Gorge of the Dead), and the reward of a seaside finish makes this hike a memorable part of any Crete itinerary.
+1Exploring Kato Zakros: Beach and Beyond
Several cozy tavernas line the beachfront, providing a delightful setting to enjoy traditional Cretan cuisine. These establishments offer a chance to unwind, savor local flavors, and soak in the serene coastal views. It's the ideal place to rest your legs, enjoy a meal, and reflect on the natural wonders you've just experienced.
Beyond the immediate beach area, Kato Zakros also holds historical significance. It's located near the Minoan Palace of Zakros, one of the four major palaces of the Minoan civilization. While the palace ruins are a separate attraction, their proximity adds another layer of historical interest to the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit