Hiking - Messonas Gorge

This breathtaking round route passes through amazing natural settings, historic towns, and breathtaking vistas. Anyone staying in or close to Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Istron, or further south in Ierapetra can make this excursion.

The hike is roughly 14 km long, with an elevation gain of 130 m to 730 m. It is highly rated as one of the best walks in Eastern Crete.

Please be aware that a significant portion of the trail is relatively exposed if you have a fear of heights.

On our hike, we'll stop by the historic Azorias settlement. American archaeologist Harriet Boyd-Hawes first investigated Azoria around 1900.

Concerning the Azoria Archaeological Site

Although the site has a lengthy history of occupation dating back to the Final Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Early Iron Age, the homes and communal structures from the Archaic period (600–500 BC) are the most obvious remains.

Covering an area of more than 0.60 hectares, the public buildings of Archaic antiquity are concentrated at the summit on the west and south sides of the South Acropolis. They all yielded proof of devastation and abandonment during the first part of the 5th century BC. After a protracted period of occupancy, the city's life comes to an end with its annihilation.

The settlement was expanded to its maximum size (roughly 15 hectares) during the Archaic rebuilding. It also established a zone of communal buildings on the upper west slope of the South Acropolis and formalized what is known as civic architecture, which is essentially supra-household communal spaces that can accommodate a range of possible activities and group configurations.

Where do we start?
We will meet in Kavousi village.
An email with the exact spot will be send over email.

What to bring?
You will need to pack your lunch. Other than that you will need at least 1.5lt of water,sun glasses, hat and sunscreen. Good hiking shoes are recommended as the terrain is rocky and quiet sleeper in some parts. During winter you will need a waterproof jacket and pant plus a fleece jacket.

What about transfer?
We pick up clients from Heraklion and near Agios Nikolaos. Many times we are able to pick up clients from other locations as well but it needs to be on our way to the starting point. If you need transport and you are not sure get in touch with us. Remember to send us the exact location of your hotel, not just the name. Transfer is provided for free.

Join Enjoy-Crete on a Mesonas Gorge Hike

Join Enjoy-Crete for a hiking experience that will open your eyes to the mesmerizing beauty of Mesonas Gorge. Whether you're seeking a challenge, a cultural immersion, or a serene communion with nature, this adventure has it all. With experienced guides, stunning landscapes, and the rich history of Crete, your Mesonas Gorge hike will be an unforgettable journey into the heart of the island. Unearth the secrets of Crete, one step at a time, with Enjoy-Crete.

Activity info