Private Imbros Gorge Hiking Tour with Lunch Askifou Village

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and want to step away from the busy tourist spots, this private tour of Imbros Gorge combined with a visit to Askifou village might just be the experience you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, the detailed descriptions and glowing reviews make it clear that it offers a genuine taste of what the island has to offer—beautiful scenery, authentic local life, and delicious food.

What really catches our eye are two standout features: the personalized attention of a private guide and the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch in a mountain village. These elements promise an authentic, relaxed experience that’s tailored just for your group. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the moderate level of fitness required—the hike is not for those with mobility issues, and it’s about 8 km mostly downhill on rocky terrain.

This tour seems best suited for active travelers who love nature, good food, and local culture. If you’re comfortable with some physical activity and want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, it could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private SUV, dedicated guide, and exclusive group means tailored attention and flexibility.
• Authentic Village Life: Wander through a mountain village, meet locals, and see traditional crafts and farms.
• Scenic Hike: An approximately 8 km mostly downhill trek through Imbros Gorge offers stunning views and a manageable challenge.
• Culinary Highlights: Enjoy a homemade, all-fresh Cretan meal paired with local wine and perhaps raki.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share stories about local traditions, hospitality, and everyday village life.
• Well-Organized Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off, flexible booking, and clear safety guidelines make planning straightforward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Want to Consider This Tour

Crete is full of beautiful landscapes and historic sites, but this tour offers something that many standard excursions don’t—an immersive experience in local mountain life. Traveling in a private SUV with a local driver-guide means you won’t be stuck in a large group, and you can enjoy a more intimate glimpse of Crete’s authentic side.

The highlight for many travelers is the combination of a scenic trek and a hearty, traditional meal. The review from a traveler who went in October 2025 describes the experience as “absolutely beautiful, peaceful, and full of amazing views,” with a guide who was “friendly, knowledgeable, and made sure we were comfortable.” That kind of personalized attention can make all the difference when exploring remote, less-touristy parts of the island.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Scenic Drive from Chania or Rethymno

Your day begins with a comfortable, private SUV transfer from your hotel, whether in Chania or Rethymno. The drive takes you away from the city’s hustle into the countryside, winding through olive groves and picturesque villages. This part of the journey alone is worth it for the views—rolling hills, terraced fields, and glimpses of mountain peaks.

The Imbros Gorge Hike

The core of the experience is the 8 km hike through Imbros Gorge. The trail is mostly downhill and on rocky terrain, so sturdy hiking shoes and a hat are highly recommended. The beauty of the gorge lies in its natural ruggedness—towering cliffs and lush greenery surround you as you walk. The pace is relaxed and guided, so you’ll have opportunities to stop, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

This hike is described as suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, which makes it accessible to many, but not for everyone. It’s not recommended for guests with mobility issues or those prone to dizziness, given the rocky paths and downhill slope.

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Visiting a Traditional Mountain Village

After the hike, you’ll arrive in a small, peaceful village where time appears to stand still. Here, you can wander through narrow alleys, admire stone-built houses, and meet locals who are proud to share their way of life. Depending on the day, some might visit a family-run olive oil mill, cheese maker, or honey farm, with tastings that showcase Crete’s culinary delights.

Lunch in Askifou Village

The highlight for many is the home-cooked Cretan lunch served in a family-run taverna. You can expect fresh ingredients straight from the garden, with dishes like stuffed vegetables, slow-cooked meat, and homemade bread. The meal is served under a shade tree, accompanied by local wine and perhaps raki—a traditional Cretan spirit.

Guests consistently praise the meal as “delicious,” with one reviewer noting it as a “perfect end to the tour.” It’s a chance to relax, chat with locals, and enjoy the tranquil mountain atmosphere.

Post-Lunch Stroll and Local Interactions

After the meal, a short walk around the village square offers an opportunity to meet more locals, enjoy a coffee, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. This part of the experience underscores Crete’s genuine hospitality—the kind of connection you don’t get on crowded tours.

Return Journey

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to your hotel. The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, ensuring plenty of time to unwind and reflect on your day.

Transportation and Logistics

Travel in a private SUV means comfort and convenience. The tour is designed for a private group, so you won’t be sharing with strangers, and your driver-guide will tailor the experience to your pace and interests. Pick-up and drop-off are available from most hotels in Chania and Rethymno, which simplifies planning.

The flexible booking options—reserve now and pay later—are a plus, giving you peace of mind as plans can sometimes shift. Importantly, the tour includes a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What the Experience Feels Like

Travelers have described this tour as a “fantastic day,” with the guide making a real difference through their friendliness and knowledge. The views during the hike are said to be “scenic,” and the sense of tranquility in Askifou village offers a genuine escape from typical tourist crowds.

The combination of nature, local culture, and food creates a well-rounded, memorable day. The small details—like tasting local honey or olive oil—are what elevate this from just another hike to a full immersion in Cretan life.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences, enjoys moderate physical activity, and loves tasting local food and wine, then this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for travelers looking to connect with Crete beyond its beaches and historic sites.

However, if you have mobility issues, require wheelchair accessibility, or dislike rocky paths, you might find this tour less suitable. It’s best suited for those who are reasonably active and want a mix of scenic hiking, cultural interaction, and culinary delights.

The private nature of this experience offers an intimate, relaxed way to see a side of Crete few visitors explore. The positive reviews and thoughtful itinerary suggest it will leave you with lasting memories of the island’s natural beauty and genuine hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour involves an 8 km mostly downhill hike on rocky terrain, so it’s generally better suited for older children or teenagers who are comfortable with hiking. The physical demands and the walking pace should be considered.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, water, sunscreen, a jacket for mountain weather, and a camera are recommended. The terrain is rocky, so sturdy footwear is important.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible booking options also allow you to reserve now and pay later.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickup and drop-off are available from most hotels in Chania and Rethymno. Specific times will be communicated after booking.

What kind of guide will I have?
You’ll be accompanied by a live guide speaking English or Romanian, who will share insights about the landscape, local culture, and traditions.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a homemade, traditional Cretan lunch with local wine is included in the tour, set in a family-run taverna in Askifou village.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions are poor or the gorge is closed by local authorities, an alternative itinerary will be offered. The tour provider prioritizes safety and comfort.

If you’re craving a day that combines adventure, culture, and authentic Cretan hospitality—without feeling rushed—this private Imbros Gorge tour hits all those marks. It’s a chance to see a quieter, more personal side of Crete that many visitors miss, and to do so at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here: