• Hike the lush Sarakina Gorge near Meskla – short, wild, and perfect for a morning walk.
  • Climb to Zourva for peaceful forest trails, sea views, and a traditional taverna lunch.
  • Cross the stunning Theriso Gorge and end in quiet Mpoutsounária with Ottoman ruins.

➡️ Want the freedom to explore Crete’s best hikes? Book a car with AUTOWAY and start your journey today.

Start your hike in Meskla’s Sarakina Gorge.

 Just 35 minutes from Chania or Agia Marina, Meskla is a peaceful village where the Sarakina Gorge trail begins. This short, scenic walk follows the Knopotamos River through a narrow canyon filled with greenery and shallow streams. It’s an easy introduction to Crete’s inland beauty-bring sturdy shoes for rock crossings, especially in spring.

Head up to Zourva for forest paths and lunch.

From Meskla, drive uphill to Zourva, a mountain village at 572 meters. A well-marked trail above the Tromarisa Gorge offers panoramic views of the sea and the White Mountains. The loop takes about an hour, making it a great pre- or post-lunch activity at a local taverna. You’ll likely have the trail all to yourself-just forest, goats, and mountain air.

Drive through Theriso Gorge, a road through nature.

 Continue south to the historic village of Theriso. Before heading into the gorge, visit the village dairy (open since 1928) to sample fresh yogurt and cheeses. Then either walk or drive the 6 km Theriso Gorge-a dramatic canyon lined with chestnuts, oaks, and a bubbling stream. Late afternoon is ideal for soft light and cool shade.

Finish in peaceful Mpoutsounária with Ottoman history.

A short drive from Theriso, Mpoutsounária is a quiet village with a hilltop fountain built in Ottoman times and the remains of a small fort. There are no signs or tickets-just raw history and sweeping views. It’s a calming final stop before returning to Chania.

Why you need a rental car for this route.

Public transport doesn’t reach these villages or trailheads. With a Car Rental from AUTOWAY, you can explore at your own pace, stop when you want, and reach places buses can’t. Whether you’re starting from the airport, Chania, or Agia Marina, same-day delivery makes it fast and easy. Every rental includes full Insurance, and our Top Rated service has More Than 3000 Reviews.

Discover more hidden gems across Crete.

Love off-the-path nature? Don’t miss the surreal cliffs at Paligremnos Rock in Plakias or the crystal waters of Vorvoulitis Pond-both perfect day trips with your AUTOWAY car.

Crete is yours to explore-on your schedule.
Book your rental now with AUTOWAY and build your own adventure through Crete’s forests, gorges, and villages.