Wild West Tour – Gorges and Sea in Western Crete

The Wild West Tour heads into the south-west of the island – to where Crete is at its wildest. On the programme are the Potamon reservoir, the mountain village of Spili, two spectacular gorges and, to finish, lunch right beside the Libyan Sea. A full day that combines mountains, water, village life and coast in a single drive.

The Potamon Reservoir near Amari

The first major stop is the Potamon reservoir in the Amari valley – a turquoise-green lake set between bare mountain flanks. When the water is low the half-submerged chapel of Agios Nikolaos rises out of it, one of the most unusual photo subjects on the island.

Spili and Its Venetian Lion Fountains

The mountain village of Spili lies on the slopes of the Kedros range and is famous for its fountain: 25 stone lion heads pouring ice-cold spring water. The narrow lanes, the whitewashed houses and the bougainvillea on the walls make it one of the most beautiful villages on Crete.

Kourtaliotiko and Kotsifou Gorges

After that we pass through two of the most impressive gorges on the island. In the Kourtaliotiko gorge the rock walls drop over 600 metres almost vertically; the river rushes through below and birds of prey nest in the cliffs. The name comes from the clapping of the wind between the walls. The Kotsifou gorge is narrower and more dramatic: a slim road, a tunnel through the rock and, right in the middle, a small chapel set into the cliff face.

Lunch by the Libyan Sea

At the end of the gorge the view opens onto the south coast. Here, looking out over the Libyan Sea, we stop for lunch: fresh fish or grilled meat, meze, wine and a raki to finish. Anyone who wants to can go for a swim beforehand – so swimwear and a towel are worth packing for this tour. Afterwards we drive you back to Heraklion at an easy pace.

Tour Highlights

• The turquoise Potamon reservoir with its half-submerged chapel
• Spili and its fountain of 25 stone lion heads
• The Kourtaliotiko gorge with 600-metre vertical walls
• The Kotsifou gorge with a chapel set into the rock face
• Lunch on the south coast overlooking the Libyan Sea

At a Glance

• Duration: approx. 7 hours
• Available: daily
• Type: private tour
• Guide: English-speaking
• Start: pick-up directly at the Heraklion cruise terminal

Good to Know

• Pick-up at the Heraklion cruise terminal once your ship is cleared; we agree the exact time with you in advance.
• We plan around your ship’s actual port time and bring you back in good time.
• Bring sturdy shoes, sun protection and a hat in summer, plus a jacket in the cooler months.
• There is little walking involved – the tours work well with small children or limited mobility. A walking aid or rollator is no problem, just tell us when booking.
• Vegetarian, vegan and allergy-friendly meals are available on request.
• Bring swimwear and a towel – there is a chance to swim before lunch on the south coast.

Booking the Wild West Tour

Tell us which ship you are on and how long you are in port, and we will fit the Wild West Tour around your day ashore. You are under no obligation until everything is confirmed.

This tour is one of our shore excursions in Crete.