Discover Patsos Gorge with a guide!

Hiking Experience at the nature of Rethymno CRETE – hosted by Vassilis

Hiking tour: 4 hours
Hosted in English and Greek

What you’ll do during the: HIKING TOUR TO PATSOS GORGE – AN AMAZING HIKING EXPERIENCE IN RETHYMNO CRETE !

When you arrive at the square of the historical and picturesque village of Patsos , you will enjoy a traditional treat of Mrs. Maria, the owner of the traditional Patsos Taverna (operating since 1933). Next to the Taverna is the village fountain with spring water. Five minutes down the road, we arrive at the byzantine church of 13th century A.D. We continue enjoying the mosaic formed by the contrasting colours. After 1.5 km we stop at the cave chapel of St.Antonios. Here, Hermes was worshiped thousands of years B.C. The beauty is truly wild with rich flora and fauna. As we hike, we will cross 2 wooden bridges and ladders to assist us. After about 2 hours, we arrive in front of another magical landscape. It is a huge lake surrounded by tall and shaded trees. After enjoying the fantastic water lands, all your senses will be stimulated. There are more optional hikes or we can drive back. At the end of the tour we return to Maria’s Tavern, to relive the dream once again of delicious, organic traditional dishes of fresh vegetables, meat & virgin olive oil all produced in family fields. NOTE:The water level at this time is still high making it impossible reach all the way to the lake by foot but we can complete the majority of the gorge and enjoy the spectacular cliffs, soaring birds and beautiful wild flowers.

Other things to note

An “Escape to Patsos” is always a family and warm setting, which feels like-at-home miles away and its a pleasure to find for my friends every time new things for this experience!

What’s included

Food:

Delicious traditional dishes including fresh vegetables, meat, virgin olive oil, all organic produced in family fields.

Drinks:

we will welcome you with a traditional treat from our local Cretan kitchen.

Meet your host, Vasilis

I was born and live in Patsos, a picturesque and historic village in Rethymnon, Crete. I served in the Hellenic Special Forces for 23 years ( Lt. Colonel retired ),graduate and certified of all schools, such as parachuting ,climbing and diving. I also have a keen interest and lots of knowledge about historical and cultural events. All the above, in combination with the genuine and lively Cretan hospitality, the real Cretan food will take you back to the taste of our grandmothers. If you want to see, feel, taste and touch the REAL Crete…you must visit Patsos and Patsos gorge.

Where you’ll be

We start from the village fountain with clear and cool waters. Walking through the magical landscape we will be able to see the Byzantine church (14th century A.D), the old cave chapel of St. Antonios which is pinned under towering and imposing cliffs. Then, we cross the incomparable natural beauty of Patsos gorge, following a perfect path. At the end we enjoy the unique spectacle of a huge lake feeling an incredible euphoria and self confidence.

It will be our pleasure to have you as our guests…

Maria and her son, Vassilis

MAP OF CRETE – where is Patsos in Rethymno, Crete – how to arrive to Patsos

HOW TO DRIVE TO PATSOS (Rethymno CRETE)

GPS Coordinates (PATSOS – RETHYMNO – CRETE) : 35.246829461919155, 24.57300906207306

GOOGLE MAPS – check for: “Patsos Escape” – Ecotourism & Outdoor Activities RETHYMNO CRETE: Tavern, Accommodation, Activities

Things to Know

Cancellation policy

Any experience can be canceled and fully refunded within 24 hours of purchase, or at least 7 days before the experience starts.

Have your plans changed? Our standard cancellation policy is that you can get a full refund for any experience if you cancel at least 7 days before the experience is scheduled to start, or within 24 hours of purchasing the experience. Easy enough!

If you want to reschedule the date and time of your experience (or change the number of guests), you can do that within 24 hours of booking, and up to 72 hours before the experience starts.

What to bring

You will need solid footwear, water, hat Sunglasses Sunscreen and wear comfortable long trousers.

Guest requirements

Up to 10 guests ages 18 and up can attend. All participants (and the host) must wear a protective face covering.
Keep a safe physical distance between yourself and other people. When you meet your host(s) and other guests, don’t shake hands or hug—try a no-contact greeting instead.

Tour Price: €65 / person

The surrounding area of the small traditional tavern PATSOS

Fresh spring water - Pine tree (300 years old)