Patsos George Park

The gorge of Patsos or Agios Antonios is located 8 km southwest of the Monastery of Arkadi, in the beautiful province of Amari. The water of the gorge is gathered in the dam of Potami. Hiking in the canyon up to one point is very easy, as a well-designated path has been formed by the forest service ending at its narrowest point with a unique waterfall falling into a cave. From there the gorge gets narrow and forms several small waterfalls and the descent to the lake of Potami requires considerable attention, especially in winter and spring. Another trail ascends to the watchtower of avifauna above the river.

Patsos Gorge is known for the cavernous temple of Agios Antonios (Saint Anthony), which in ancient times was a sacred cave dedicated to Kraneos Hermes. Water comes out from the rocks, while water drops from the temple roof, which is concentrated as holy water. It is interesting to see the thousands of prayer papers that the faithful have placed in the rock cavities around the temple. Underneath the temple and by the river are large plateaus with wooden benches and tables, ideal for a picnic.

The name of the gorge comes from the village Patsos built at the foot of mount Soros at an altitude of 490 meters, around 30 km south of Rethymnon. The area has rich flora due to the numerous springs in the wider area with water all over the year.