Aradena Path, Mountain path near Sfakia, Crete
Aradena Path is a mountain route through steep limestone cliffs near Sfakia spanning 16 kilometers. It connects the sea to the abandoned village of Aradena situated at 650 meters elevation, passing through a dramatic landscape with several distinct sections.
The path contains old stone passages built by shepherds centuries ago, showing how vital this route was for the mountain community. The village of Aradena remained inhabited until the 1940s when a tragic event led to its abandonment.
The path shows how locals repurpose historical routes today while maintaining their connection to the mountains. Visitors can experience this transformation when encountering old stone passages and modern metal ladders during their walk.
The path is marked with blue, green, and red signs allowing travel in both directions. Starting from Marmara Beach is better suited for beginners as it offers a gradual ascent, while the descent involves steeper sections with metal ladders.
A metal bridge constructed in 1986 spans a deep chasm below the trail and now hosts bungee jumping events. This installation transformed an isolated mountain region into a place where thrill-seekers can test their courage.
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