Richtis Gorge

Richtis Gorge is a valley with a waterfall and a walking trail that passes through platanus trees, wild berries, and herbs, leading visitors from drier terrain into a green environment. The path follows the stream and features old stone bridges and water mills along the way.

The gorge was shaped by thousands of years of the stream eroding rock and soil, carving out the valley that exists today. People used the valley for generations, building mills and water channels to harness the flow, evidence of which remains visible.

The name Richtis comes from the Cretan dialect and means waterfall, showing the local connection between people and water that shaped this landscape. Walking through the gorge, you notice how the stream and its vegetation have always been central to life here.

The trail is most pleasant in early morning when fewer people are around and temperatures stay cooler. Wear sturdy footwear since you will walk over wet stones and stream beds throughout the path.

The gorge stays green year-round with rich vegetation, which is unusual for Crete where most landscapes appear dry and brown. This constant moisture creates a cool refuge that stands out in a region that is generally parched.