Explore one of Crete’s undiscovered treasures. If you plan to visit Kourtaliotiko Gorge but are unsure how to get there, you’ve come to the right place!
Swimming under the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall is an unforgettable experience. And if you are adventurous and willing to swim in frigid water, it will also be yours.
The gorge is extremely easy to find. However, locating the waterfall’s entrance can be challenging without some insider information. So, we are here to show you how to get to Kourtaliotiko Gorge, the best time to visit, and other travel tips to help you make the most of your adventure in Greece.
Why a Visit Here Is Essential in Crete
There are innumerable stunning locations to explore in Crete, but discovering the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall is an experience no one can forget.
It is a breathtaking, magical place, likely one of Crete’s best-kept secrets. According to locals, the waterfall in Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a must-see.
Where is Kourtaliotiko Gorge?
Southwest Crete’s Kourtaliotiko Gorge is close to Preveli Beach, a well-known palm tree forest beach. Rethymno is the nearest central town to this hidden gem, about a 40-minute drive (25 km) away. Still, it’s also possible to get to Kourtaliotiko Gorge from Chania with one of our cars and experienced drivers.
The drive to the gorge from Chania is 80 km, or about 1 hour and 30 minutes (one way). Kourtaliotiko Gorge is breathtaking, and its waterfalls are otherworldly. You can also swim beneath the crashing waterfalls.
Kourtaliotiko Gorge is breathtaking, and its waterfalls are from another world. You can also swim beneath the thundering cascades.
How High Is the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall?
The waterfall is 40 meters high!
How To Get To Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall?
There are two options: The first is to view the waterfall from above. The second (and more adventurous) option is to see and swim under the cascades below.
Which option do we suggest?
We have the exact directions below if you want to see options 1 or 2 (or both! ). Following Google Maps to see the Big Waterfall of Kourtaliotiko Gorge may be tempting. However, this will only take you on the first option hike, which involves viewing the waterfall from above and admiring the view, which is undoubtedly beautiful!
However, if you want to fully immerse yourself in this breathtaking natural wonder and hear the thunderous waterfall, choose option 2.
Hiking Route: Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall
You’ll see one Kantine, and then you have to walk towards the Stone Arch entrance; this is the starting point of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall hike. Descend the steps until you reach a fork in the path.
If you want to see the waterfall from above (Option 1), turn left. You’ll know you’re on the right track when you pass a small church, the Church of Agios Nikolaos.
If you prefer to see and swim under the waterfall (Option 2), turn right and continue descending until you reach the turquoise blue waters of the river.
Once you arrive at the river, turn left to head towards the entrance of the waterfall. You must walk and climb over slippery rocks and water to reach the entrance.
We highly recommend wearing non-slip (or hiking) shoes to complete this part of the hike. Although this section of the trail can be difficult, it is only a few meters long and leads to the waterfall’s entrance.
Once you reach the entrance to the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall, the real fun and adventure begin! To get to the gorge’s inner sanctum and see the waterfall’s full force, you must swim 10 to 15 meters in freezing (crystal-clear) water. This is some of the coldest water you will ever swim in. However, the waterfall and double rainbows inside make it well worth the effort.
What is the difficulty level of hiking at the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall?
The hike from the entrance to the gorge is relatively easy. The stairs are mostly paved or treated, and the descent takes about ten to fifteen minutes. Scrambling over the rocks and pipes to reach the entrance to the waterfall is slightly tricky, but it’s manageable with the correct shoes. The most challenging part of this hike is swimming in the frigid water.
Although the crystal-clear, turquoise-blue water may look inviting, it is so cold that it will take your breath away. Luckily, you won’t have to swim very far – just 10 meters before it becomes shallow again. Then, you can enjoy the majestic views of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall from within until you’re ready to leave.
Bonus Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for your phone or camera. The inside holds some seriously Instagram-worthy shots.
Kourtaliotiko Gorge to Preveli Beach Hiking Trail
Set out on an unforgettable hiking adventure from Kourtaliotiko Gorge to Preveli Beach. This scenic route promises breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature, making it an experience you won’t want to miss.
The hiking trail spans approximately 10 kilometers and typically takes the average hiker around 2 hours and 30 minutes to finish. Once you have descended the gorge and reached the river, follow the path along the river heading south. Google Maps offers a general guideline for the hike from the waterfall to Preveli Beach. Hiking in Crete can be challenging, so we recommend this trail only for experienced hikers.
Pro tip: There is no phone signal at the bottom of the gorge, so download Google Maps for offline use before the hike.
Is Kourtaliotiko Gorge Safe for Kids?
Kourtaliotiko Gorge waterfall is safe for kids older than 14. Younger children may struggle to scramble over the large rocks and water pipes to the waterfall’s entrance. Once they reach the entrance, they must swim in icy water to see the waterfall.
What is the exact temperature of the water?
We don’t know the exact temperature of the water, but our best guess is between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius (41 and 50 Fahrenheit).
Items to Bring for the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Hike
Here’s a short packing list for visiting Kourtaliotiko, which is very well prepared:
• Water shoes
• Waterproof bag (or waterproof smartphone pouch)
• Swimwear
• Beach towels
• Waterproof camera
• Water and snacks
What is the best season to visit the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall?
The ideal months are May to September. The best time to visit is on a warm, sunny day. The water temperature is freezing, but we’re not exaggerating.
This destination is going to stay in your memories forever!
Book a private transfer from Chania to anywhere in Crete with us today. Select your destination from our organized excursions, choose your vehicle type, and provide your travel details. Our team will take care of the rest, ensuring you enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable holiday experience. Enjoy your trip while we handle everything for you! Just focus on making memories.
