Lissos Gorge Hike in Sougia, Crete

Lissos Gorge is located in Sougia along the southwest coast of Crete. While it does not rival the gorges of Samaria, Aradena, and Katholiko, it marks the beginning of a highly gratifying circular hike—full of shifting landscapes and adorable, vocal, and playful goats.

The serpentine mountain road connecting Chania on the north coast with Sougia on the south coast is excellent and sufficiently wide. This was our first day driving across Crete and we were unjustifiably apprehensive about the road conditions. Rest assured, Crete’s road network is excellent. However, it’s important to drive cautiously, because goats and sheep roam about freely and even sleep on the roads. 

The tiny seaside village of Sougia was almost entirely shut down during our March visit, apart from the Smaragdus taverna (Google Maps), where we savored a delicious lunch after our hike. 

Though this hike is moderate in fair weather, sturdy hiking boots and sufficient water are essential. The owners of Smaragdus taverna informed us that people have died in the gorge from heat stroke (and stupidity).

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Lissos Gorge Hiking Map

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Lissos Gorge Hike Description

From the trailhead car park (Google Maps), walk west along the coast in the direction of the sheltered harbor. When the road divides, bear right along the E4. The left road leads to the Sougia pier, where taxi boats and ferries connect Sougia to Paleochora and Agia Roumeli. 

Aftering passing the Sougia harbor, the trail turns to gravel and you’ll see a “Lissos” trail sign. Pass through the livestock gate and be sure to secure it after. The trail crosses the upper part of a pebble beach, inhabited by goats, and then turns inland. 

The entrance of Lissos Gorge couldn’t be more obvious, thanks to the plethora of signs. 

Trace the clear and easy-to-follow path through the gorge. You’ll see white-red and black-yellow painted waymarks. 

The path meanders between boulders (very light scrambling needed) and then smooths out quickly. 

The highlight of Lissos Gorge is walking beneath the smooth, ochre-colored overhanging wall. 

When the trail divides, bear right. The left trail leads to the ancient city of Lissos and Lissos beach (optional detour). 

The right trail, signed Sougia Round Walk, continues to follow the gorge bed and then climbs up to a rocky plateau, strewn with pine. Always follow signs to Sougia.

With time, the trail develops into a high coastal path with sweeping views of the Libyan sea and the rugged coastline. 

The Sougia-bound trail runs parallel to a livestock fence and then bends to the right and later to the left. Pay attention to the signs and painted waymarks.

When the trail intersects with a gravel road, turn left and follow the road down to Church of St Irene (Agia Eirini Church), where a wonderful outlook towards Sougia awaits.

From the chapel, it’s a 40-minute return to the seaside village. Follow the gravel farm road, bordered by a fence on one side. After passing through another gate, turn right, joining the paved road down to the coast. 

We really enjoyed this short hike, because of the ever-changing scenery and of course the many goats.

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Where to Stay

Sougia

Sougia is a down-to-earth seaside village with a nice pebble beach, a row of beachfront tavernas, and modest accommodations. Among the best-rated are Syia Hotel, Idomeneas Apartments, and Irtakina. 

If you’re willing to stay further away from the coast, 3-star Monastery Estate Retreat offers a restorative stay in the Cretan Countryside. The property is made-up of 8 rooms, each equipped with its own private swimming pool. They also manage the next-door Monastery Estate Guesthouse.

On the other side of the Chania-Sougia road, you’ll find To Spiti Mas offers lovely, air-conditioned apartments.

All accommodations in Sougia.

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Chania

Crete’s second largest city is full of life and character—a place that pulls you in. Spend a few days exploring its maze-like streets, tasting bold local flavors, and soaking up the energy of charming Chania.

For the best experience, stay at a hotel just a short stroll away from Chania’s historic center—where the magic of the town is right at your doorstep. However, if you’re renting a car and you want to stay in a seafront location, take a look at Tanneries Hotel & Spa and Elia Sea Suites.

Where We Stayed – Budget/Midrange | Theta Seaside Boutique Hotel is a modern boutique hotel located between the Venetian Port and Koum Kapi neighborhood. We loved the location, our stylish sea-facing room, equipped with a nespresso machine and kettle, and the hospitality. We parked across the street in the free car park. 

Midrange | Set in the heart of the Old Town, 3-star Malmo Historic Hotel offers tastefully-furnished rooms and breakfast, served on the terrace. 

Midrange-Luxury | Aisha Hotel offers a prime location in the Old Town with suites either facing the city or the Venetian Harbor (book a deluxe suite with sea view). During high season, the area can get lively due to nearby clubs—something to keep in mind if you’re seeking a quieter stay.

Luxury | Monastery Estate Venetian Harbor offers minimalist design suites–some with private terraces and hot tubs–along with spa facilities and a delicious breakfast, served in the hotel courtyard. The hotel is housed in a restored 16th-century mansion of a Venetian nobleman that later served as the residence of a senior Ottoman official and his harem. During the restoration process, archaeologists uncovered ancient Roman walls, which are visible today under a glass display. 

Luxury | Nestled inside a lovingly-restored 17th-century Venetian villa, AZADE Chania enchants with its beautifully designed rooms and delicious Cretan breakfast—an irresistible retreat in the heart of the Old Town.

All accommodations in Chania.

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More Crete Travel & Hiking Guides

Chania:

• Chania Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Chania

Hiking:

• Best Hikes in Crete
• Aradena Gorge Hike
• Loutro – Sweet Water Beach Hike
• Katholiko Bay and Gorge Hike
• Kourtaliotiko Gorge
• Red Beach Trail in Matala

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