Everyone knows that Ha Gorge, near the village of Monastiraki in eastern Crete, is one of the most impressive and inaccessible gorges in Greece. Carved by nature into a sheer limestone cliff, it's famous for its steep formation and unique geomorphology.

But few people know that about halfway through Ha, the Mastoras Gorge ends with five technical descents before reaching its breathtaking waterfall.

The Mastoras Waterfall stands out as the tallest waterfall in Greece that can be crossed using technical means, with a height of 220 metres. It is internationally recognised by the canyoning community for its uniqueness and the demanding skills needed to descend it.

Descending Mastoras is not for everyone. It's one of the most demanding canyoning routes in the country, accessible only to highly experienced and specially trained canyoners.

Steep rocks, technical rappels and constant rope changes mid-air make the crossing extremely difficult, with the Mastoras Waterfall towering as the ultimate challenge.

Ha Gorge has earned worldwide acclaim, attracting canyoners from all corners of the globe. It’s considered a top destination for those in search of extreme challenges and raw natural beauty.

The combination of Mastoras with Ha Gorge, its steep geology, successive waterfalls and narrow walls, make it a living monument of nature.

In March 2025, a group of experienced and daring canyoners successfully completed the descent of Ha Gorge, finishing with the majestic 220-metre Mastoras Waterfall.
The descent included multiple mid-air rope changes, an extremely demanding technique requiring total precision and composure.

The team consisted of Paolo Bartolozzi, Viskadourakis Thomas, Xenikakis Manos, Xygkis Michalis, and Plaitis Christos.

Info/Photos: Crete on the Rocks