24 Askifou – Impros – Kallikratis
The village of Askifou in the regional unit of Chania, in Crete, is located just 24 km from Georgioupoli to the north and 20 km from Hora Sfakion to the south. There are five settlements in Askifou, including Petres, Ammoudari, Stravorachi, Goni and Kares. Ammoudari is probably the busiest centre and where visitors can find the most amenities. This part of the E4 trail is mostly on dirt and paved roads and while long (18 km), takes just over 6 hours to accomplish, depending on your fitness level.
The E4 route from Askifou to Kallikratis
From Ammoudari (1), we follow the paved road in a southerly direction and after 4 km we come to a turn on our left (2) which we ignore. This part leads north to the western region of the Prefecture of Rethymno towards Argiroupoli, passing through the mountains of Chania (instead of the coastal area, via Frangokastello).
Following on, we continue on the uphill road, continuously climbing on the slope of a nameless summit, for about 3 km. When we reach an altitude of 1.100 m, we follow a right-hand, descending turn (3). Down below to our left, the rough and almost deserted landscape of the Asfendou (4) region opens up. We arrive at the settlement which bears the same name, after 7,5 km in total from the Askifou junction. From the almost deserted village of Asfendos, we continue on the same road which passes by the southern foot of the mountain Kimbos through pine-forested slopes and small plateaux.
We ignore any turn-offs, constantly following the main road. After 6 km of pleasant walking, the plateau of Kallikratis (5), as well as the settlement which stretches out on its northern slope, appear in the distance. The vegetation in the area is dominated by old, large oak trees. From here we can carry on towards the village of Patsianos to the south and reach Frangokastello. You will be rewarded with stunning coastal views towards the South Cretan Sea and a swim at the waters of Frangokastello beach with the ruins of the Venetian castle.
You can also reach Kallikratis from another section of the E4 hiking path, from Argiroupoli and Asia Gonia.
Path Length | 17.5 km |
---|---|
Hiking Duration | 5 hour |
When to hike | Spring, Autumn, Summer, Winter |
Path Region | Chania |