The gorge where the wind "speaks"
A few kilometers north of Preveli, between the villages of Koxare and Asomatos, Kourtaliotiko gorge, one of the most impressive natural landscapes of Crete, is opening up. The deep fault extends for about three kilometers. It is crossed by the river Kourtaliotis, which descends from the mountains and irrigates the crops of the area with its precious waters.
The steep cliffs and vegetation of the gorge host vultures and other birds of prey that nest high on the slopes. From the trail that starts near the road, you can descend to the river and enjoy unique landscapes of wild beauty.
The gorge took its name from "kourtala", the name that the locals give to the sounds caused by the wind as it penetrates the stones and the crevices of the rocks. A little lower, near the chapel of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicolas), the five springs of the area join and form an impressive waterfall. According to tradition, the springs were created when the Saint struck the rock with his five fingers, which is why he was named Agios Nikolaos Kourtaliotis.
To safely enjoy the route in Kourtaliotiko gorge, follow the basic instructions of the trail and respect the unique landscape of the Natura 2000 protected area. It is advised to plan your entrance to the gorge early in the morning, taking into account your physical condition, as well as the length and difficulty of the route.
Having been prepared in the right way, Kourtaliotiko gorge will offer you an unforgettable experience of contact with nature.
The steep cliffs and vegetation of the gorge host vultures and other birds of prey that nest high on the slopes. From the trail that starts near the road, you can descend to the river and enjoy unique landscapes of wild beauty.
The gorge took its name from "kourtala", the name that the locals give to the sounds caused by the wind as it penetrates the stones and the crevices of the rocks. A little lower, near the chapel of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicolas), the five springs of the area join and form an impressive waterfall. According to tradition, the springs were created when the Saint struck the rock with his five fingers, which is why he was named Agios Nikolaos Kourtaliotis.
To safely enjoy the route in Kourtaliotiko gorge, follow the basic instructions of the trail and respect the unique landscape of the Natura 2000 protected area. It is advised to plan your entrance to the gorge early in the morning, taking into account your physical condition, as well as the length and difficulty of the route.
Having been prepared in the right way, Kourtaliotiko gorge will offer you an unforgettable experience of contact with nature.
