Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour

The Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour offers an exhilarating opportunity to explore Crete’s stunning natural landscapes. Priced affordably at $68.55 per person, the tour promises a full day of adventure, from trekking through the breathtaking Imbros Gorge to relaxing in the picturesque Frangokastello village. With knowledgeable guides and seamless transportation, this tour provides a chance to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage. Whether seeking an active outdoor experience or a chance to unwind, this day tour seems like a tempting option.

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Key Points

A day tour from Agia Galini or Matala to explore Imbros Gorge and Samaria Gorge, priced from $68.55 per person.
The Imbros Gorge trek is 8km long and 780m high, taking 2-2.5 hours to complete, with a visit to Frangokastello village for relaxation.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and English/German-speaking guides who provide historical context and safety support.
Highlights include discovering the history of Turkish occupation in Imbros Gorge and experiencing the narrowest point where walls can be touched.
Customer feedback suggests room for improvement in group organization and guide support during the hike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The day tour from Agia Galini or Matala offers an opportunity to explore two of Crete’s renowned gorges – Imbros Gorge and Samaria Gorge.

Priced from $68.55 per person, the 8-hour excursion includes roundtrip transportation, lunch, and all entrance fees. Participants can discover the dramatic history of the Turkish occupation in Imbros Gorge and trek through its 8km-long, 780m-high trail in 2-2.5 hours.

After the hike, visitors can relax at Frangokastello village for swimming and leisure. The tour provides a live English and German-speaking guide to offer historical context and safety support during the trek.

Looking for more options in Matala? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Discover the dramatic history of the Turkish occupation in Imbros Gorge. The 8km-long gorge, situated 780m above sea level, can be traversed in 2-2.5 hours.

At the narrowest point, the walls are close enough to touch with outstretched arms. After the hike, relax at Frangokastello village, where you can swim and enjoy leisure time.

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, and entrance fees. Knowledgeable guides provide historical context and safety during the trek, allowing ample time for breaks.

Some reviews suggest room for improvement in group organization and guide support during the hike.

Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, with hotel pick-up and drop-off provided.

Lunch and drinks are included, and all entrance fees are covered – except the €2.50 charge for accessing the gorge. Gratuities are also part of the package.

The guides are available in German and English, providing historical context and safety support during the hike.

The guides are available in German and English, providing historical context and safety support during the hike.

Some reviews suggest a need for better group organization and guide assistance during the trek, but the overall inclusions appear comprehensive.

Tour Guide and Experience

As the tour is led by live guides available in German and English, they provide valuable historical context and ensure the safety of participants during the hike. The guides also allow ample time for breaks, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the trek. However, some reviews suggest the need for better group organization and guide support during the more challenging portions of the hike.

|—————–|——————-|—————–|———————|———————-|

| German & English| ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Room for Improvement |

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Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the overall rating for this day tour is 4 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews.

Positive comments praised the natural beauty of the scenery and the guide’s engagement.

However, some areas for improvement were noted:

Better group organization during pick-up logistics.
More guide support and assistance needed during the trek.
Concerns about the level of safety and preparedness for the challenging hike.
Requests for more information about the historical context and cultural significance of the sites.

There's plenty more to explore in Matala

Exploring Imbros Gorge

Although the Turkish occupation has left its mark on the dramatic landscape of Imbros Gorge, adventurous hikers can explore the 8km-long trail that winds through the towering limestone cliffs. Trekking 780m above sea level, visitors will encounter the narrowest point where the walls can be touched with outstretched arms. Along the way, they’ll discover the gorge’s rich history and natural beauty. The hike typically takes 2-2.5 hours to complete, with ample time for breaks and photo opportunities. Hikers can then relax at the seaside village of Frangokastello before heading back.

| Characteristic | Details |

| — | — |

| Length | 8km |

| Elevation | 780m above sea level |

| Duration | 2-2.5 hours |

| Narrowest Point | Walls can be touched with outstretched arms |

| Highlight | Dramatic limestone cliffs and historical significance |

Relaxing at Frangokastello Village

After the invigorating trek through Imbros Gorge, the tour group can unwind at the picturesque seaside village of Frangokastello.

A peaceful respite at the charming seaside village of Frangokastello after an invigorating trek through Imbros Gorge.

Visitors can:

Cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear Libyan Sea.
Explore the 14th-century Venetian castle, a prominent landmark in the area.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch or coffee break at one of the charming seaside cafes.
Stroll along the scenic beachfront and soak in the tranquil Mediterranean atmosphere.

This relaxing interlude provides the perfect opportunity to recharge before continuing the day’s adventures.

Getting to the Tour

Participants can arrange their own transportation to the tour’s starting point in either Agia Galini or Matala.

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it convenient for those staying in the area. Travelers should plan to meet the group at a designated location, typically a central point in Agia Galini or Matala.

The air-conditioned vehicle then transports the group to the beginning of the Imbros Gorge hike. Those opting to start from Matala will have a slightly longer journey to reach the trailhead.

Since You Asked

What Level of Fitness Is Required for the Gorge Hike?

The gorge hike requires a moderate level of fitness. It’s a 2-2.5 hour trek covering 8km at 780m above sea level. Participants should be able to walk for extended periods and navigate uneven terrain.

Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions, but participants should be in good health and able to hike for 2-2.5 hours through the narrow gorge. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or respiratory conditions that could be exacerbated by the strenuous trek.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Hike?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the hike. The tour includes lunch and drinks, but allowing personal provisions gives hikers the flexibility to pack items they prefer. Bringing snacks and water is recommended to stay nourished during the trek.

Is There an Option to Shorten the Gorge Hike?

Yes, the tour offers an option to shorten the 8km Imbros Gorge hike. Hikers can choose to walk only the first 4km section, which takes 2 hours instead of the full 2-2.5 hours. This allows for more time at the coastal village of Frangokastello.

What Should I Bring With Me for the Tour?

Travelers should bring plenty of water, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and any necessary medications. It’s also recommended to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that can protect against the elements during the gorge hike.

Final Words

The Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour offers an adventurous exploration of Crete’s stunning landscapes and rich history. With roundtrip transportation, lunch, and entrance fees included, the tour features an 8km trek through the breathtaking Imbros Gorge and a relaxing break at Frangokastello village. Guided by knowledgeable English and German-speaking professionals, the tour ensures both safety and engaging insights into the region’s cultural significance.

You can check availability for your dates here: