Richtis Gorge, Crete – Everything you need to know

Richtis Gorge, Crete - Everything you need to know

A place I will never forget because of its beauty, is Richtis Gorge in Crete. It’s a green, lush waterfall located in the middle of a forest at the east of the island. From a medium long hike from the parking lot, you will reach the waterfall in about an hour. It is a ‘must do’ when visiting Crete. 

Crete is a the biggest island of Greece. Many tourists visit this place every year and I can understand why. From its beautiful nature to blue and clear waters. This island has a lot to offer. 

One of the highlights on this Island is Richtis Gorge, a beautiful waterfall located deep in a forest. Down below I will tell you everything you need to know about visiting Richtis Gorge in Crete. 

How to get there

There are two starting point if you want to visit Richtis Gorge. You can start your way from the beach to the waterfall. This is a trail where you first need to climb up and when you’re done, you need to make your way down. 

However, I did it the opposite route. I started from the head off the trail and made my way down first and later on the way back I had to go up. 

To be honest, I wish I had known beforehand about the route from te beach, because that way is easier and better with parking. 

So I recommend option one by starting form the beach. Type in ‘ Richtis Gorge Parking’ on google maps and it will bring you to the right starting point. 


Entrance fee

If you want to visit Richtis Gorge in Crete, you need to pay a small entry fee of €3,-  You can pay this at a small locket by the bridge. This is the official starting point. You can pay by card and with cash.  

Richtis Gorge, Crete
Richtis Gorge, Crete


How to get around

Richtis Gorge is a populair destination in Crete. Many tourists visit this place each year. The route is clear and easy to follow so you won’t get lost. Just follow the arrows and the stripes with colors on the rocks, and it will guide you where to go. 

Richtis Gorge, Crete
Richtis Gorge, Crete


Extra information

How long does the hike take?

When hiking the Richtis Gorge Trail, make sure you’ve got time. The hike form the parking to the waterfall, takes about 1/1,5 hours to reach. Here you probably want to take a swim or some stunning pictures. After this you need to make your way back. 

Plan about 3/4 hours if you want to visit Richtis Gorge in Crete. 

 

Breaks & toilet

There are no toilets available on this hike trail. Make sure you go beforehand because you won’t find an option during your hike.

If you want to take a break, I suggest you do this by the waterfall, witch is halfway. Here you can find a picnic table to drink or eat something you brought yourself. 

Richtis Gorge, Crete

 

What to bring to Richtis Gorge in Crete?

So when you decide to go to this gorgeous waterfall, I recommend to bring the following stuff:

  • Money
  • Water
  • (Energie) snacks
  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Hiking shoes or good shoes you can hike on
  • Camera
Tip: don’t put any sunscreen on if you want to go swimming by the waterfall. This will bring damage to the nature. 

 

Best time to visit

Crete is a populair destination in Greece. Many people visit the islands of Greece because of its good weather. However, the weather isn’t good all year round. 

The best time to visit the islands of Greece is from the beginning of May to the end of September. During this time, you can expect 20/28 degrees with almost no chance of rain. 

From October to the end of April, the weather will be colder and there is a big chance of rain. 

 

Photo inspiration – Richtis Gorge, Crete

Richtis Gorge, Crete
Richtis Gorge, Crete
Richtis Gorge, Crete
Richtis Gorge, Crete
Richtis Gorge, Crete

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