Hiking in Messonas Gorge

Total Duration

• ~5 Hours

Full description

Experience a breathtaking circular hiking route encompassing stunning natural landscapes, historic settlements, and captivating vistas. This remarkable excursion is ideal for those staying in or near Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Istron, and Ierapetra in southern Crete.

The hike covers approximately 14 km and begins at an elevation of 130 m, ascending to 730 m. It is regarded as one of the finest trails in Eastern Crete and comes highly recommended.

Please be aware that if you have a fear of heights, some sections of the trail may be moderately exposed.

During the hike, we will explore the ancient settlement of Azorias, first excavated by renowned American archaeologist Harriet Boyd-Hawes in 1900.

ABOUT AZORIA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

While the site boasts a rich history, with evidence of occupation during the Final Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Early Iron Age, the most prominent remains are the houses and communal buildings dating back to the Archaic period (600-500 BC).

The Archaic-era public buildings cluster near the peak on the western and southern sides of the South Acropolis, spanning an area exceeding 0.60 hectares. Each structure reveals signs of destruction and abandonment in the early 5th century BC, marking the end of the city’s existence and an extended period of habitation.

The Archaic rebuilding phase expanded the settlement to its maximum size of approximately 15 hectares, establishing a zone of communal buildings on the upper western slope of the South Acropolis. This included the development of civic architecture, encompassing communal spaces beyond individual households, designed to accommodate various activities and group configurations.

We provide complimentary transportation from Heraklion and near Agios Nikolaos. In some cases, we may be able to arrange pick-up from other locations along our route. If you require transport and are unsure, please contact us. Kindly provide the precise location of your hotel, not just its name. Transfer service is provided free of charge.

What to Bring

• You will need to pack your lunch.

• 1.5lt of Water ,Sunglasses, Hat, Sunscreen.

• Good hiking shoes are recommended as the terrain is rocky and quiet sleeper in some parts.

• During winter you will need a waterproof jacket and pant plus a fleece jacket.

Limitations

• Minimum 4 person

Itinerary

• Starting Time 10:00
• EndingTime 15:00

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Flexible

• Whenever you cancel 4 days or earlier than the confirmed activity starting date, your fee will be refunded for the entire activity charge.
• In case of cancellation within 48 and 96 hours before the scheduled activity starting date, you'll get 50% reimbursed.
• Those who cancel 48 hours or beyond are considered last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds