The Rozas Gorge
The Rozas Gorge is an offshoot of the Ambelos Gorge, which you can actually drive through. The gorge got its name from the variety of colors on the rocks (rose, red, brown, and grey). It is a deeply carved gorge rich in flora and fauna. The entrance to this gorge is about 1 mile or 2 km from the village of Gonies (altitude 270 m), but you can also start from the higher entrance and walk downhill to the lower entrance.
The hike offers spectacular views all along the way. Hiking the riverbed is almost impossible and is only for experienced climbers due to steep descents, but there is a well-marked hiking path on the sides. The rock faces are home to many Griffon vultures, and if you come early enough you can watch them take off and spiral up until they are dots in the sky. You can also see nice butterflies around the oleanders at the bottom of the gorge too. The walk is challenging in parts due to narrow paths and steep drops but well worth the effort to see eagles and vultures circling above you. Great to hear the goats’ bells too as you emerge from the gorge. During the hike, you will see impressive cliffs, plenty of birds, and over 120 species of plants. You will also come to a spot where there is kiosk to rest with breathtaking views of the gorge.
The gorge is only about 2 miles each way, but you can extend your hike by hiking the stream of Empasas. This is a circular route that takes about 5 hours to complete. The best time to hike the Rozas Gorge is from May to the end of October. A day trip to the Rozas Gorge can be perfectly combined with a visit to the neighboring villages of Avdou, Gonies, Kera and Krasi as well as with a visit to the artificial lake of Aposeliemi. Reaching the gorge from Heraklion Town is fairly easy. To hike this gorge, you will need water, hiking boots, baton sticks, a hat and suncream to protect yourselves from the hot summer sun, some snacks and a camera for some great shots.