Platania Gorge

Geosite 

The gorge located just north of the homonymous settlement is somewhat different from the other gorges in Crete. Initially, it develops as an open streambed in loose Miocene rocks and then forms a small but very steep and narrow gorge in the Triassic limestone to end in a large and open meadow with rocks of the same group.

A very beautiful trail ascends from the settlement to the northern edge of the gorge where visitors can admire various wildflowers (orchids, bellflowers, etc.), old olive groves with ancient olive trees, and the impressive view of the Amari Valley offered from above. It is part of the Platania Geo Trail. 

The geosite description is a result of the deliverable of the research project Joint Innovative Activities for Outdoor Tourism-JoinOut. The project entitled "Partnership of Innovative Rural Tourism Actions" and distinctive title: "JoInOuT", is implemented within the framework of the Action "Cooperative Innovation Formations/SCC" - 2nd Call: Businesses" and is financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and by National Resources in the context of the Operational Program "Competitiveness, Entrepreneurship and Innovation (EPANEK)" of the NSRF 2014-2020" (Project code: ΓΓ2CL-0359457).