Description of the attraction
Milona Gorge or St. John's Gorge is one of the most picturesque gorges of Crete. The gorge originates near the village of Saint John (Agios Ioannis) at an altitude of 500 m above sea level and belongs territorially to the municipality of Ierapetra (18 km east of the city of Ierapetra) and ends on the southern coast near the beach of Kakia Skala, which is located between the villages of Koutsounari and the Farm. Milona Gorge is famous for its picturesque waterfalls and small lakes, which these waterfalls form. You can swim in these lakes.
The most enchanting waterfall is called Milona and is located at an altitude of approximately 300 m above sea level. The height of the fall of the water of this waterfall is 40 m. The best time to visit the Milona waterfall is spring or the end of winter, since the water flow at this time is most powerful and makes an indelible impression. In the summer, the waterfall partially dries up, but still retains its natural beauty.
There are two ways to get to the waterfall. The first path runs along a special asphalt path, it is not difficult and takes 20 minutes. This road is newly built and has appropriate direction signs. There is also a second path, which is more difficult and is intended for hikers on rough terrain. It takes more than two hours and involves the crossing of mountain rivers and small hills.
The picturesque gorge is covered with pine and plane trees. Access to the gorge is not easy, but the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding nature is worth it. In some places, you can see old concrete ditches that were once used to move mountain water for the needs of local residents.
