
Posted on: 03/04/2012
There are two ways to access Agiofarago. The first and most popular one starts from Odigitria Monastery and ends at the beach crossing the beautiful gorge. The second one starts from Kali Limenes and ends at the beach crossing a marvelous coastal path.
You will not be disappointed with either of the above routes, both are great. The first one, offers a great view to the sea all the time while the second one will allow you for a short break at the monastery of Odigitria.
The monastery of Odigitria is a monastery of great importance and historical value and one of the oldest in Crete. It is located at the west edge of the Asterousia mountains at an altitude of 250 meters just 2km before the starting point to Agiofarago. The monastery was built like a fortress and part of its wall is still visible. The buildings of the complex surround the central two-aisled church of the monastery, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the Apostles Peter and Paul. There was a third aisle, dedicated to St. Fanourios, but it has been demolished.
Photo: A panoramic view of the beach located at the end of the gorge

As the group approaches to the gorge a small church of St Antonios surrounded by the rocks of the gorge as it can be seen from the highest point of the route from Kali Limenes to Agiofarago and also from the second route (the one from the monastery). From that point and 200-300 m at the back and to the left there is the gulf of Vourvoulitis; descending into it is dangerous and requires special attention. Two meters before the water you can dive! Ascending is much easier. For the bold ones there is the possibility of free diving!
In summer the temperature can be quite high (30-42oC), so you'd better avoid moving in the afternoon. Start walking early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In winter things are quite better with much lower temperatures comparing to summer.
Price Includes: Local guide.
Not Included: Transport to and from Crete, picnic lunches during the walks and everything that is not listed above.
Enjoy-crete is not responsible for any accidents or mishaps directly or indirectly related to the tour.
Period: All year long.
Transport: You will need to use your own car. We can always recommend a rent-a-car company if you like (prices starting usually from 30€ per day). Due to Greek law we are not allowed to transfer you with our vehicles. This is allowed only from companies registered with the Greek Tourism Organization (called EOT) which Enjoy-Crete is not part of it as we offer only the guides & equipment in our trips.
Group Size: 2-15 participants.
Difficulty: The Agiofarago hike offers an easy hike for everage and fottnes level including children. The total hike including the return is about 2-2.5 hours.
Participants should be in very good physical condition. Experience is essential during the winter but not during the summer.
Equipment: Daypack (approx. 25-35lt), trekking shoes, water bottle (at least 1.5lt of water during the summer), hat, sun cream, sun glasses.
Price: 60€ or 100€ for a private hike, just you and the guide. Book now!