Mili gorge
Located just a few kilometers south of the town of Rethymno, Mili Gorge is an exceptionally green and accessible oasis that combines lush natural scenery with fascinating historical ruins.

The Environment & History:
The gorge stretches for about 4 kilometers and is fed by running water for most of the year, creating a shaded, sub-tropical microclimate packed with plane trees, ivy, and wild flora. The gorge gets its name from the dozens of watermills that operated along the riverbed during the Venetian and Ottoman eras to grind grain for the surrounding region.

The Abandoned Villages & Sights:
A walk along the path reveals the ruins of two old settlements (Upper and Lower Mili) that were abandoned in 1972 due to landslide fears. Hikers can explore old stone houses, overgrown archways, restored watermills, and several small Byzantine chapels built into the rock walls, including Agios Antonios and Panagia.

Rider’s/Explorer's Notes:
The Access: Access to the trailheads is very easy via paved roads running out of Rethymno toward Roussospiti or Xiro Chorio. You can start the hike from either the upper entrance near Xiro Chorio/Roussospiti or the lower entrance near Chromonastiri. The gorge path itself is well-maintained and gentle, making for a comfortable 1.5 to 2-hour walk.