Two gorges in Eastern Crete that stand out for their wild and unreal beauty. Two of the many wonders of the Cretan land that will take you to heavenly landscapes, hidden in steep cliffs and narrow passages.

The Gorge of Ha: In Search of the Golden Chariot

In Eastern Crete, half an hour from Agios Nikolaos, one of the most beautiful gorges in Europe is revealed to experienced and adventurous visitors. Legends of Saracen pirates are linked to its name and a mysterious legend of a golden chariot drawn by a hundred golden horses well hidden in the heart of the gorge captures the imagination. Starting under the Byzantine chapel of Agia Anna, and having the right equipment, get ready for the most impressive descent of your life, in the gorge of Ha. Ponds and waterfalls, rare plants, migratory birds and mammals make up a unique wetland hidden within its narrow walls. If the descent is not for you, you can get a small taste of its magic by approaching it from the exit – which from a distance looks like a knife, near the village of Monastiraki. Follow the deafening sound of water falling from a height of 215 meters forming the largest waterfall in the canyon. Even if you don’t find the dazzling golden chariot of legend, you will already be dazzled by the rare beauty of Ha.

The Gorge of Richte: From the oasis of green to the embrace of blue

A dreamy landscape with dense vegetation, plane trees, terraces with chestnut trees, ivy, running waters leading to the homonymous waterfall, through a series of winding steps. The gorge of Richti is only 25 km from Sitia and the access to Exo Mouliana is by car. From the village you continue on foot to the single-arch bridge of Lachanas, passing through a lush environment with half-ruined watermills that become one with nature. Wear sneakers, a hat and bring a backpack with water, a towel and a swimsuit as for those who want to go beyond the waterfall, at the end of the gorge, the sea is waiting for you. The beach of Richti, for cool dips in its foamy waters, to get strength for the return. The route from Exo Mouliana to the gorge is about 3 km, and another 3 km to the beach. If you want, of course, you can start in reverse. From the beach you can enter this enchanting paradise on earth. You will sooner find yourself at the waterfall but if you stop there then you will miss the rest of its beauty. The choice is yours.