Hiking at Messonas Gorge, Ierapetra, Crete
Activity Description
This is a spectacular, circular route that includes exceptional natural surroundings, historical settlements, and wonderful views.
The trip is suitable for anyone staying in or near Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Istron, and further south in Ierapetra. The length of the hike is about 14 km, starting from 130 m altitude and going up to 730 m. It is one of the greatest hikes in Eastern Crete along with the hike to Thripti, highly recommended. We will visit the ancient settlement of Azorias during our hike. Azoria was originally explored by the American archaeologist, Harriet Boyd-Hawes, in 1900.
About Azoria Archaeological Site
Although the site has a long history of use — occupied in the Final Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Early Iron Age — the most visible remains are the houses and communal buildings of Archaic date (600-500 BC). The public buildings of Archaic date cluster close to the peak on the west and south sides of the South Acropolis and cover a total area of over 0.60 hectares. Each produced evidence of destruction and abandonment in the early 5th century BC. This destruction marks the end of the city's life and a long period of occupation. The Archaic rebuilding expanded the settlement to its maximum size (c. 15 hectares), created a zone of communal buildings on the upper west slope of the South Acropolis, and formalized what can be called civic architecture - generally supra-household communal spaces accommodating a variety of possible activities and configurations of groups.
Transport
We pick up clients from Heraklion and near Agios Nikolaos. Many times we are able to pick up clients from other locations as well but it needs to be on our way to the starting point. If you need transport and you are not sure get in touch with us. Remember to send us the exact location of your hotel, not just the name. Transport is provided for free.
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Included
Not included
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Cancellation policy
- Cancellation 7 days or more prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are automatically reimbursed for the full activity price.
- Cancellation between 3 and 7 days prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are entitled to a 50% reimbursement.
- Cancellation 3 days or later are what we call last-minute cancellations. No reimbursements will be effected.
* If the activity is canceled by the activity provider (due to weather, non-completion of minimum entries, force majeure, etc.), the price of your activity, is refunded in full.
Unlimited Adrenaline Tips
- Many activities are based on the weather, so it is recommended that you contact the company before the activity.
- It is a good idea to be at the meeting point on time, before the scheduled start time.
- After your reservation it is enough to give your details to the cooperating company so that you can carry out your activity. However, it is recommended that you have the booking confirmed in digital or printed form.
- Read the benefits of the activity carefully to avoid possible extra charges from additional optional services.
- Read the cancellation policy carefully before booking.
Location
Meeting Point
Region: Kabousi, Lasithi
Address: Kavousi, Crete
Notes: We pick up clients from Heraklion and near Agios Nikolaos. Many times we are able to pick up clients from other locations as well but it needs to be on our way to the starting point. If you need transport and you are not sure get in touch with us. Remember to send us the exact location of your hotel, not just the name. Transport is provided for free.