The Kourtaliotiko Gorge is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful gorges of Crete. Inside, the Kourtaliotis River flows, crossing its 2.5 km in length and its towering slopes that reach 600 meters in height.

The gorge begins from the village of Koxare in the prefecture of Rethymno and reaches the lake of Preveli. Stone steps begin from the Kokaere - Asomatous road and reach the interior of the gorge, at the church of Agios Nikolaos and the springs of Kourtaliotis. From this point thousands of visitors start each year to cross the gorge and swim in the cool waters.

The gorge is an important biotope, since rare species of birds of prey live in the caves formed on its slopes.

Access

The entrance of the gorge is 25 km from Rethymno, 5 minutes south of the village of Koxare on the road to Asomatos. Besides crossing the canyon on foot, you can admire its beauties from above following the road that passes through the gorge as one point.