Gorges and canyons on Crete: once you have been reading about the numerous walks we organize, you will quickly come to the conclusion that there are many gorges on Crete. It is not only the Samaria gorge or the Imbros gorge. Crete even has the nickname “the island of the 100 canyons”. Anyone who reads more into it, will come to conclusion that this is no exaggeration.
The formation of gorges
All in all, it is nevertheless quite remarkable that there are so many gorges on one island. Therefore, it might be interesting to understand how Mother Nature created these on Crete. The gorges are formed mainly in calcium carbonate rocks, like limestone and marble. Scientists have concluded, that the formation of a canyon is the result of a long process of geological weathering of rocks by water erosion. But on Crete this has not been entirely the case. There is even evidence that after heavy rainfall and water flows the bottom of a canyon hardly changes.
So, the only other explanation of the existence of gorges on Crete is the tectonic activity. Rocks were initially formed in the sea by the collision of the African plate with the European. These rocks were slowly pushed upwards. Through this geological upward lifting of the island there was too much pressure on some rocks. Making them so to speak ripping apart. These fault lines became wider as a result of erosion. Whether it was because of a river flowing through or by big changes in temperature. Limestone and generally all calcium carbonated rocks are extremely hard and durable, but dissolve easily in rainwater, just like butter melts in the heat. Other factors will eventually also have played a role, such as prehistoric fauna and much later the presence of humans.
Uplifting pressure
When one studies the rocks in the gorges, it shows that the formation dates at least back to the Pleistocene period. The uplifting pressure on the rocks began around 13 million years ago, and was 5 million years ago the most intense. This means that the Minoan population has seen Crete in more or less the same form as we see it today. Another nice fact is, that even today you can still find fossils of animals from the sea, high up in the mountains.
Crete News: On this page, we give updates of all our activities in Crete. We upload our weblogs during summer and winter.
Excursions on Crete: Here you find a lot of information about excursions during your holiday on Crete like: car and bike rental, car and accommodation, diving, cycling, hiking, hiking combinations on Crete, Greek cooking lesson, playing golf, boat trips, horseback riding, outdoor activities, sailing, jeep safari, fishing, group excursions, active holiday on Crete, weekly excursion programs or fly-drive.
Holiday information
Current weather situation Crete
The weather forecast for Kokkini Hani shows a consistent picture for the next ten days. During the day, the mercury rises to values between 27 and 30 degrees, supported by warm night temperatures.
Evening sky over Kokkini Hani
Those staying at Zorbas Island this month will be treated to a daily spectacle. June is known for its clear, colorful skies around the island of Dia. As soon as the sun sets, the coastline transforms into a living painting of purple and warm orange.
Flight and accommodation Kokkini Hani, Crete
Enjoy a relaxing holiday at Zorbas Island. We offer comfortable accommodations right on the coast and select the right flight to Crete for you. Be surprised by the competitive price and request a no-obligation quote.
Organic olive oil from Crete with 0.3% acidity
Looking for the very best olive oil from Crete? Zorbas olive oil is an absolute top oil with an extremely low acidity of just 0.3%. This organic olive oil is pure and natural, artisanally produced, and free from additives. An authentic product from the island that you can order directly online.
Zorbas Island 2026 Crete Greece Newsletter: your holiday in Crete in 2026 – The new Zorbas Island programme: dear holidaymaker, we are delighted to present the first details of our brand new programme for 2026! At Zorbas Island, everything revolves around an unforgettable holiday on beautiful Crete.
Holiday Crete 2026 agenda – Agenda Zorbas Island, Crete – Season 2026: our new agenda is ready with the excursions for 2026, including many new excursions. You are probably curious about the activities we will be organising at Zorbas in the coming year, and this agenda provides an overview of all the activities that will interest you.
Holiday information Crete Zorbas Island: Apartment rentals and accommodation on Crete for most of the year. The right place for family apartments and holiday homes, all your excursions and cheap flights to Crete. A comprehensive overview of the latest holiday news from Crete, including lots of photos. Crete is the southernmost holiday island in Europe.
To give you an impression about your holiday at Zorbas Island on Crete, we created a short “Zorbas Island” Movie for you: If you got 5 minutes for holidays to Crete.
More information
Gorges and canyons on Crete
📱 WhatsApp: +30 697 6788022 📧 E-Mail: Zorbasisland@gmail.com