Astrakiano - Kounaviano Gorge of Karteros

The consecutive gorges of Kounavi – Astrakiano - Karteros have an overall length of about 21,5km and actually constitute one gorge. The gorge is located east of Heraklion, in the Municipalities of Kazantzakis, Episkopi and Nea Alikarnassos and belongs to the wider area of Giouktas and the gorge of Agia Irini (Natura 2000 protected area) in Arhanes. Astrakiano gorge is one of the largest in the region, with a total route length of approximately 12.5 km in the bed of the river Karteros. It begins north of the position Kolomodi and runs from the Astraki region, Neraidospilios, Kryes Vrysses, Kounavoi, Plaka to Miliara spring (bridge of Aitania) and ends in the district of Karteros.

It is a path rich in physical, morphological, aesthetic, historical and cultural features.

The point of the canyon where the trail ends is a landscape of exceptional natural beauty, with springs, river, small waterfalls and lush vegetation. In this part there is an old aqueduct in use till today, supplying Heraklion with water. In the gorge 10 mills were operating. Locals fished eels and crabs in the water, and from what they say, they still exist.

At the exit of the gorge of Karteros, there is a resting place, landscaped by Authorities and is used for various social events.