Myli Gorge (Valley of the Mills)

Myli Gorge, also known as the Valley of the Mills, is a lush, historical canyon located approximately 7 kilometers southeast of Rethymno. This verdant oasis is renowned for its 30 Venetian-era watermills that once supplied the entire region with flour; today, these stone ruins sit nestled among dense vegetation, fruit trees, and running streams. The roughly 4-kilometer trail (90 minutes to 2 hours one-way) is a moderate, family-friendly hike that winds past abandoned villages, such as Ano and Kato Mili, and several picturesque cave chapels like Agios Ioannis. Notable for its shaded paths and small waterfalls, the gorge offers a refreshing retreat where visitors can even dine at a traditional taverna located in the heart of the ravine, famous for its unique zip-wire delivery system for supplies.