Rescue operation in a hard-to-reach location.
Lassithi’s got a reputation for its scenic hiking trails and wild, natural landscapes. The area draws in plenty of visitors who want to get out and explore outdoor paths.
Many trails snake through the Sitia region, with routes that range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. There’s something for just about every level of walker—though, honestly, some of those paths aren’t exactly a walk in the park.
Tourists tend to enjoy the quiet, winding walks, but the terrain can be tricky. Local hospitals and clinics are pretty important out here, especially when someone gets hurt on these rocky trails.
A 44-year-old Italian tourist was injured while hiking in Richtis Gorge near Sitia. Emergency services—firefighters, ambulance crews, and rescuers—jumped into action for a coordinated rescue operation in a pretty inaccessible spot.
He’d suffered a head wound and needed urgent help. The rescue team took their time getting in, handing out water and giving first aid as soon as they reached him.
A helicopter was waiting on standby in case things went south. There was a lot of back-and-forth between the different teams to get the tourist out safely.
The tourist slipped during a family hike in a rocky section of Richtis Gorge and hurt his ankle. He couldn’t go on, getting stuck just before the waterfall—about halfway along the trail.
Someone called emergency services right away. Seven firefighters from the local station and four volunteers from a crisis team rushed to help.
They gave him first aid on the spot. Then they carried him out on a special stretcher to where the ambulance could actually reach him.
He was taken to the nearby hospital for treatment. Richtis Gorge itself is a protected nature park in eastern Crete, starting at the old village of Exo Mouliana and ending at a hidden beach near Kalavros.
The gorge is stunning, no doubt, but some stretches are steep and rocky. Honestly, a little caution goes a long way here.
Key Rescue Details
Step |
Action |
|---|---|
Incident Time |
Sunday, June 22, approximately 13:45 |
Location of Injury |
Rocky part of the trail near waterfall |
Responding Teams |
Firefighters and volunteer rescuers |
First Aid |
Administered at the site |
Patient Transport |
Carried by stretcher, then ambulance |
Hospital |
Sitia Hospital |
Important Safety Tips for Hiking in Richtis Gorge
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
- Stick to marked trails.
- Avoid risky sections during wet or slippery conditions.
- Carry a fully charged phone for emergencies.
- Let someone know your hiking plan and when you expect to return.
It’s worth taking these extra steps, honestly. The gorge can be unpredictable, and rescue teams do get called out when folks slip or get injured out there.
