From Rethymno: Imbros Gorge & Libyan Guided Sea Tour

Set out on a captivating journey from Rethymno to the enchanting Imbros Gorge and the serene Libyan Sea. This guided tour offers a chance to take in Crete’s stunning natural wonders. Hike through the 8km gorge, marveling at its geological features, before exploring charming villages and indulging in a traditional lunch. The adventure culminates with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, leaving you with memories that will linger long after the excursion ends.

Key Points

• Full-day excursion from Rethymno that includes a 3-hour hike through the 8km Imbros Gorge and a swim in the Libyan Sea.
• Highlights of the hike include the Stenada passage, Mesofarango, and Xepitira Arch, followed by free time in Komitades Village and Chora Sfakion.
• Pickup from hotel or vehicle-accessible point, with a scenic bus ride to the trailhead where the guide provides an overview of the route and highlights.
• The relatively easy hike through the stunning Cretan scenery is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart issues, or wheelchair users.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 104 reviews, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable swim.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Imbros Gorge & Libyan Sea Tour is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on a captivating journey through one of Crete’s most stunning natural wonders.

Lasting 9-10 hours, the tour includes a 3-hour hike through the 8km Imbros Gorge, the second-longest in Crete.

Highlights include the narrow Stenada passage, the wider Mesofarango, and the Xepitira Arch.

After the hike, guests enjoy free time in Komitades Village and Chora Sfakion before swimming in the Libyan Sea and savoring a traditional lunch.

The tour ends with return to Rethymno around 5:30 PM and includes hotel pickup, transportation, a guide, and all entrance fees.

Itinerary Highlights

After morning pickup around 7:30 AM, the tour begins with a bus journey to the trailhead of Imbros Gorge.

The 3-hour hike covers 8 km through the second longest gorge in Crete.

Key locations along the way include:

1. Stenada, the narrowest passage

2. Mesofarango, a wider section of the gorge

3. Xepitira Arch, a natural stone arch

4. Komitades Village, where the hike ends.

With free time in Chora Sfakion, participants can then swim in the Libyan Sea and enjoy a traditional lunch on the south coast before returning to Rethymno around 5:30 PM.

Getting to the Gorge

As part of the tour, participants are picked up from their hotel or the closest vehicle-accessible point in the morning, with specific details provided via email.

The bus journey to Imbros Gorge takes around 90 minutes from Rethymno. Along the way, travelers admire the rugged Cretan landscape, passing through small villages and olive groves.

Once at the trailhead, the group gathers and prepares for the 3-hour hike through the 8 km gorge. The guide provides an overview of the route, highlighting key locations like the narrowest passage at Stenada and the wider Mesofarango section.

Hiking Through Imbros Gorge

Hikers begin their journey through the Imbros Gorge, second-longest in Crete at 8 km in length.

Hikers embark on an 8-kilometer trek through the second-longest gorge in Crete, the Imbros Gorge.

They encounter several key locations along the way:

1. Stenada, the narrowest passage at just 2.5 meters wide.

2. Mesofarango, a wider section offering views of the dramatic limestone walls.

3. The Xepitira Arch, a natural stone arch formation.

4. The final descent to the charming Komitades Village, where hikers can rest and refuel.

The terrain is relatively easy, but the rocky path and steep inclines may prove challenging for some.

Trekkers are rewarded with stunning Cretan scenery and a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea.

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Exploring Komitades Village

What awaits visitors as they arrive at the charming Komitades Village? The small, traditional settlement nestled at the base of the Imbros Gorge offers a glimpse into authentic Cretan life.

Travelers can wander the quaint streets, admiring the whitewashed buildings and blooming bougainvillea. The main square is a hub of activity, with locals gathering at the cafes and tavernas.

Visitors may even catch a glimpse of elders playing backgammon or sipping Greek coffee. After the hiking expedition, guests can relax and soak in the tranquil, laid-back atmosphere of this unspoiled village before continuing their journey along the stunning Libyan Sea coastline.

Relaxing at the Libyan Sea

After exploring the charming Komitades Village, the tour continues along the stunning Libyan Sea coastline.

Travelers are invited to take a refreshing swim in the clear, turquoise waters of the Libyan Sea. The experience offers:

A chance to cool off in the clear, turquoise waters of the Libyan Sea after exploring Imbros Gorge.

1. A chance to cool off after the hike through Imbros Gorge.

2. Spectacular views of the rocky, mountainous terrain framing the coastline.

3. An opportunity to relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

4. The option to simply wade in the shallow waters or venture out for a more invigorating swim.

Following the swim, the group enjoys a traditional local lunch, savoring the flavors of the region.

Lunch on the South Coast

Following the refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea, the tour group heads to a local eatery along the southern coast. Here, they’re treated to a traditional Cretan lunch. The menu features a variety of homemade dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

| Dish | Description | Price |

| — | — | — |

| Dakos | Barley rusk with tomatoes, feta, and oregano | €4.50 |

| Musaka | Baked eggplant, minced meat, and bechamel sauce | €8.00 |

| Dolmades | Stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs | €6.75 |

The meal is a chance to savor the flavors of the region and enjoy the stunning seaside views. After lunch, the group departs for the return trip to Rethymno.

Participant Information and Feedback

Who are the suitable participants for this tour?

The Imbros Gorge & Libyan Sea Tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users.

However, it’s suitable for children, as the hike is relatively easy.

Recommended items for participants include:

1. Comfortable shoes

2. Sunglasses

3. Sun hat

4. Sunscreen and water

Based on 104 reviews, the tour receives an overall rating of 4.5/5.

Customers praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable swim, though some found the hike challenging due to the terrain.

Things To Know

What Time Is the Return to Rethymno?

According to the tour overview, the tour is expected to return to Rethymno around 5:30 PM. The exact return time may vary slightly depending on the day’s events, but the itinerary indicates a return in the late afternoon.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Hike?

There are no restroom facilities available during the 3-hour hike through Imbros Gorge. Hikers will need to plan accordingly and take advantage of the breaks in Stenada and Mesofarango to use the restrooms at those locations.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the Imbros Gorge & Libyan Sea Tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals due to the nature of the activities and for the safety and comfort of all participants.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch or Is It Provided?

The tour includes a traditional lunch on the south coast, so participants don’t need to bring their own lunch. The tour provides all food and drinks during the activity.

Is There an Option for a Shorter Hike Duration?

There’s no option for a shorter hike duration. The Imbros Gorge tour includes a 3-hour, 8 km hike as a key activity. The tour doesn’t offer an alternative route or shorter timeframe for the gorge portion.

Sum Up

This guided tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and culture. Trekking through the stunning Imbros Gorge, discovering the charming Komitades Village, and swimming in the Libyan Sea’s crystal-clear waters create an unforgettable Cretan adventure. With an experienced guide leading the way, participants can fully enjoy the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage, making this a must-do excursion from Rethymno.

You can check availability for your dates here: