From Rethymno: Imbros Gorge & Libyan Guided Sea Tour

Discovering the Imbros Gorge & Libyan Sea Tour: A Practical Look

If you’re eyeing a day trip in Crete that combines light adventure with relaxing seaside moments, this From Rethymno: Imbros Gorge & Libyan Guided Sea Tour might be exactly what you need. We haven’t personally been on this tour, but based on the details and reviews, it offers a pretty balanced mix of natural beauty, accessible hiking, and leisure.

What we really like about this experience is how it caters to travelers looking for a relatively easy walk through one of Crete’s most scenic gorges, and then gives you a chance to cool off in the Libyan Sea. Plus, the traditional lunch sounds like a lovely way to end the day, soaking up some local flavors and unwinding. The downside? The entrance fee to the gorge isn’t included, so you’ll need to factor in a small extra expense.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a full, varied day without intense physical demands or complicated logistics. It’s a good fit if you’re traveling with folks who enjoy light hikes, appreciate beautiful settings, and want a taste of local cuisine without too many complications.

Key Points

• Moderate, accessible walk: The 3-hour hike through Imbros Gorge is manageable and enjoyable for most people.
• Scenic highlights: Expect to see narrow passages, rock formations, and natural arches, making for some stunning photo opportunities.
• Relaxing seaside stop: A refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea provides a perfect cool-down and a break from hiking.
• Taste of local cuisine: The traditional lunch on the south coast adds a genuine touch to the experience.
• Group size and guide: The tour includes a live guide speaking English, German, or French, and can be a friendly, informative experience.
• Cost and extras: The price is quite reasonable at around $31.11, but remember to budget for the gorge entrance fee and any additional snacks or drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Morning Pickup and Journey

The day begins early—around 7:30 AM—when you’ll be picked up from your hotel or a nearby accessible point. The pickup time can vary slightly depending on your hotel location, so it’s important to check the specific details provided beforehand. From there, a comfortable bus ride takes you eastward across Crete’s White Mountains to the start of the gorge.

This transfer is a good chance to relax and get your bearings before the adventure begins. Expect the ride to be scenic, with views of Crete’s rugged landscape, giving you a taste of what’s ahead.

Exploring Imbros Gorge

Once arrived, your group will take on what’s described as an easy 3-hour hike. The route covers about 8 km, which isn’t overly long but does require comfortable walking shoes—think of sturdy sneakers rather than sandals. The gorge itself is less crowded than the famous Samaria Gorge, but no less beautiful. Expect to walk through narrow passages, see distinctive rock formations, and visit spots like the Stenada, known as the gorge’s narrowest part, and Xepitira Arch, a fascinating natural stone arch.

From reviews, it’s clear that the trail isn’t a smooth path—there’s a lot of rocky and uneven terrain, especially since it follows an old riverbed. As one reviewer mentioned, “The gorge is not a walking path but just the former riverbed with stones and gravel,” which means you’ll want to watch your step. The interesting formations and the feeling of walking through a natural corridor are well worth the effort, though. The guide’s explanations about the mountains, fauna, and local history add a layer of depth to the walk, making it more engaging.

Visiting Mesofarango and the Narrowest Pass

Along the route, you’ll visit notable landmarks such as Mesofarango, a wider part of the gorge, and the Xepitira Arch—a natural formation resembling a bridge. These are perfect spots for photos and taking in the scenery. The narrowest part, Stenada, provides a bit of a thrill as you walk through a tight, rocky passage.

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Lunch in Komitades Village

After your descent, you’ll arrive at Komitades Village, a charming spot where buses will be waiting to whisk you to your next destination. Here, you’ll have some free time to explore local taverns or cafes overlooking the sea—an ideal place to relax, sip a drink, and soak in the views.

Afternoon Swim and Lunch

The highlight of the afternoon is a visit to a beautiful beach on the south coast, where you can enjoy a dip in the Libyan Sea. The water is described as refreshing and perfect after the hike. This is a great chance to unwind, especially if you’ve found the trek a bit more demanding than expected or just want a relaxing break.

The included traditional lunch offers local flavors—think fresh seafood or Cretan specialties—giving you a satisfying finish to your active day. According to reviews, the food is a lovely way to end, and many visitors note the overall value of enjoying authentic Crete cuisine in a scenic setting.

Return Trip and Drop-Off

The bus departs around 5:30 PM, heading back to Rethymno. Expect to arrive back around that time, tired but full of good memories. The entire experience lasts about 9-10 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Practical Details and What to Bring

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a live guide. It’s priced affordably, but keep in mind you’ll need to pay an additional entrance fee of around 5 Euros for the gorge itself.

What you should pack is straightforward: comfortable shoes are essential (think sturdy sneakers), along with sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The walk is described as suitable for children, which suggests it’s not overly strenuous, but it’s good to be prepared, especially for the rocky terrain.

Note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users. Also, pickup isn’t available from remote hotels like the Grand Rimondi, so plan your collection point accordingly.

Value and Who This Tour Is Best For

At just over $31 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering the variety of experiences packed into the day. For travelers who want a light trek through scenic surroundings with the bonus of swimming and local food, this is a solid choice. The presence of a guide adds a layer of insight that enriches the experience, making it more than just a walk.

While it’s not a strenuous adventure, the terrain can be rocky and uneven, so comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended. Families with children as young as five, based on reviews, seem to have enjoyed it, making it suitable for those traveling with kids who are comfortable walking.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day with manageable physical activity, beautiful views, and the chance to cool off in the sea, this tour hits the right notes. However, if you’re after a challenging trek or an exclusively relaxing day, you might want to explore more demanding options or purely leisure-focused activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the hike through Imbros Gorge?
The hike is approximately 3 hours, covering about 8 km. It’s considered easy but rocky, so sturdy shoes are advised.

Is the entrance fee to the gorge included?
No, you’ll need to pay around 5 Euros on the spot for the gorge entrance, so remember to bring some cash.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended. The terrain is rocky, so proper footwear matters.

Can children participate in this tour?
Yes, the walk is described as suitable for children, and reviews mention traveling with a 5-year-old. Just ensure they’re comfortable walking on uneven ground.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect the full day to be about 9 to 10 hours, including pickup, travel, hiking, swimming, lunch, and return.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the live guide speaks English, German, and French, providing explanations and insights along the way.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Crete’s weather is usually pleasant from spring through fall. Be sure to wear sun protection and stay hydrated.

To sum it up, this tour of Imbros Gorge and the Libyan Sea offers a balanced mix of light adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Crete’s stunning landscapes without tackling overly challenging hikes. The inclusion of a traditional meal and the swim in the sea make it feel like a full, satisfying day out. If you’re after a manageable yet memorable experience that showcases some of Crete’s best scenery, this could be a great pick.

You can check availability for your dates here: