Hike Kampos Gorge

Kampos is a village on the western side of the island on the road linking Sfinari to the world famous beach of Elafonisi. Kampos is built at an altitude of approximately 250m above sea level and from the central square of the village starts a trail that crosses a gorge and eventually reaches a secluded beach, Platanakia.

The gorge is the westernmost gorge in the island of Crete. The trail follows the bed of a river that has water throughout the year. It is clearly marked and for its most part, you will be walking in shade, under the shadow of large plane trees. The walls of the gorge have impressive formations and in general the trail is a joy to hike.

The gorge exits when you meet a small water spring. At this point, a dirt road can be found and following it, you will eventually reach the beach of Platanakia. The beach is wonderful, with peddle stones and crystal clear waters and it is totally isolated. It is highly likely that you wont find anyone else there.

The overall distance from the start of the trail in the village to the beach is approximately 2.5km and you wont need more than one hour to reach the beach. The descent is roughly 250m. For your return you have two options: you can either walk back the gorge or you can follow the dirt road till you eventually reach the village. The road is used by farmers, so you may try your luck and take this road hoping that you meet one with a pickup truck to hitch hike. This is what we did and it was really fun.

The trail is easy so there are no technical requirements and anyone reasonably fit can hike it. A significant part of the trail is covered in shade as already mentioned, however both at the beginning and after the exit of the gorge, there is not much shade, so you will be hiking under the sun. Be well prepared and wear a hat and sunscreen.

In the trail and on the beach you wont find any facilities or places where you can replenish your water. Therefore plan accordingly and carry enough water and snacks.

The village of Kampos can be approached by paved road. You can park your car at the main square of the village, which is also the starting point of the trail.