The Gorge of the Dead (Greek: Φαράγγι Νεκρών Farángi Nekrón), also known as the Gorge of Zakros (Φαράγγι Ζάκρου Farángi Zákrou) or Valley of the Dead, lies below the town of Zakros, west of the Minoan palace near Kato Zakros in eastern Crete. During the summer months, the gorge is one of the most popular hiking destinations in eastern Crete.

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Peter

November 27, 2025

Hiking

A well-maintained hiking trail, accessible year-round, leads through the Gorge of the Dead. It can be started either in the village of Zakros or at the Palace of Zakros in Kato Zakros. If undertaken as a loop, allow four hours for the hike. The gorge is a section of the European long-distance hiking trail E4.

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Peter

November 27, 2025

Hiking

At the mouth of the gorge are the Minoan palace Kato Zakros and a coarse sandy beach.

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Nearby routes

Best routes near Valley of the Dead and Zakros Palace

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1. Water Pipe Trail (Crete) – Zakros Gorge Trail loop from Zakros

13.2km

04:05

330m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

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2. Zakros Gorge Trail – Water Pipe Trail (Crete) loop from Kato Zakros

10.8km

03:26

270m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 220 m

Weather

Saturday 14 March

17°C

8°C

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Most visited during

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Take Me There

Location: Lasithi, Greece

Other Popular Places to Check Out

View of the Gorge near Oregano and Spurge Plants

Trail Sign to Kato Zakros, Zakros, and Azokeramos

Plant Diversity in the Gorge

Red Cliffs of Eastern Crete

Valley of the Dead Gorge (Zakros Gorge)

View of Zakros Gorge (Gorge of the Dead)

Valley of the Dead (Zakros Gorge) on the E4 Trail

Dense Macchia Trail

Start of the Gorge of the Dead

View of the Libyan Sea from Kourtaliotiko Gorge

View of Kato Zakros

View of Zakros Gorge and Coastal Landscape

Valley of the Dead and Zakros Palace

1. Water Pipe Trail (Crete) – Zakros Gorge Trail loop from Zakros

2. Zakros Gorge Trail – Water Pipe Trail (Crete) loop from Kato Zakros

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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