How to get by car to Imbros Gorge in Crete?
Greece, europe
16.8 km
2 m
extreme
Year-round
# Faragi Imbrou: A Thrilling Canyon Drive in Crete
If you're hunting for one of Crete's most jaw-dropping road experiences, head to the southwest coast and prepare yourself for Faragi Imbrou—also known as Gola Di Imbros. This isn't just any gorge; it's one of the deepest and narrowest canyons the island has to offer, and the drive through it is absolutely unforgettable.
The 16.8 km route stretches north-south between Askifou and Komitades, winding through the dramatic White Mountains range. What makes this journey so intense? Picture towering limestone cliffs so close together that in some spots you're driving through passages just 1.6 meters wide—that's less than 5 feet! The scenery is stunning: wildflowers dot the landscape, and you might spot sure-footed goats casually navigating the rocky terrain like they own the place.
Now, let's talk about the drive itself. Though the road is fully paved (which is honestly a relief), it's got serious personality. You'll tackle 18 hairpin turns, navigate three tunnels, and handle gradient sections up to 10%—the road basically does everything except loop-de-loop. It twists and turns relentlessly, climbing and descending as it hugs the coastline.
Beyond the adrenaline rush, there's real history here. During World War II, Allied soldiers used this very gorge as a critical escape route to reach the sea. There's also a fascinating local legend about two brothers banished from Imbros, Turkey, who settled in the nearby village.
One heads-up: this road can close unexpectedly due to landslides, so check conditions before you go. But if you time it right, Faragi Imbrou delivers one of Greece's most spectacular driving experiences.
Where is it?
How to get by car to Imbros Gorge in Crete? is located in Greece (europe). Coordinates: 39.5855, 22.2580
Road Details
- Country
- Greece
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 16.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 2 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 39.5855, 22.2580
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