Lissos Gorge

Lissos Gorge is a natural attraction in Sougia, south of Chania, Crete. The gorge is approximately 7.5 kilometers long and is a popular visitor hiking destination.

Gorge Hike: 

Lissos Gorge is a moderately difficult hike that takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The trail is located near Sougia, starting from the harbor west of the village. It follows a path through a narrow gorge and along a riverbed.

Along the way, you’ll pass several exciting spots, including a small waterfall, abandoned watermills, and the ruins of an ancient city-state. The trail is well-marked, but you should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Natural Characteristics: 

Lissos Gorge is known for its outstanding natural beauty. You will be amazed by the sheer cliffs on either side of the path and the crystal-clear waters flowing through the river bed. The gorge is also home to various plants and animals, including rare bird species such as the Vulture and the Golden Eagle.

Ancient History: 

Lissos Gorge is also of historical importance, as it was an important trade route in ancient times and was used by the city-state of Lissos to transport goods to and from Sougia port. Along the path, you can see the ruins of Lissos, including a temple dedicated to God Asklepios.

Visiting the Gorge: 

Lissos Gorge is open to visitors all year round, although the best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild, and the vegetation is lush. There is no entrance fee to enter the canyon, but visitors should be aware that there are no facilities along the trail and should come prepared with water and snacks.

There are also tours of the gorge with guides. So you can learn about the area’s history and natural features.

How can I get to Lissos Gorge?

There are several ways to reach the gorge, depending on your starting point and mode of transportation.

With Sougia Taxi Vittorakis: With us, you will enjoy your trip to Sougia comfortably and safely. This option can be more expensive than the bus but provides more flexibility and convenience.

By car: If you have a rental or own vehicle, you can drive to Sougia and park in a parking lot. From there, the path to the Lissos Gorge is a short walk away.

By Bus: Several daily buses run from Chania to Sougia, with a journey time of about 2 hours. Once you arrive in Sougia, you can follow the signs to the path to the Lissos Gorge.

By boat: In the summer months, there are also daily boats that operate from the town of Paleochora to Sougia. It is a scenic way to reach the village and Lissos Gorge, with stunning coastline views and mountains.

Contact us now and discover one of the ancient cities of Chania and Crete.