Agia Irini Gorge, located near Sougia, is a popular hiking destination known for its natural beauty. The gorge offers a picturesque trail surrounded by lush vegetation, towering cliffs, and a peaceful river flowing through the valley. Enjoy a leisurely walk accompanied by the smell of sage and the sound of cicades taking in the sights and sounds of this serene outdoor paradise. The hike is 7km long. Although it is the second most visited gorge after the gorge of Samaria, it remain very beautiful and less crowded. During tourist season (april-october), there is a small fee (2 euros), which is used to pay for the maintenance of the path.

Agia Irini gorge is part of the Nature 2000 area, the ministery of agriculture has also designated it as a wildlife refuge. The gorge is part of the habitat of the cretan wild goat, and contains a variety of micro-environments which are refuge and habitat for many species of fauna. It is the second most visited gorge from Chania prefecture.

Good to know

Park your car at ther parking spot just before entering Agia Irini:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/AyGutA2V6cQoc8Y87

Be sure to bring enough water with you and wear good sturdy shoes. It is considered as an easy gorge. During the hike you will have the possibility to rest and go to the toilet at the designated areas.

Once you arrive at the end of the gorge you will arrive at the Oasis taverna where you can enjoy a bite and drink afther the hike. For going back you can decide to walk everything back or to call a taxi at the taverna. You should ask the people from the taverna to call a taxi to bring you back at the car park.

The descending is around 500 meters and most of the walk is in the shade.

Open almost all year round, fee is 2 euros

Do not visit during or after rainy days