Samaria Gorge measures 16km, making it one of Europe's longest canyons and its great and raw natural beauty makes it one of Crete's must-see attractions.
Outdoor lovers who have found a vacation rental in Crete are bound to head there to hike its length and take in the wonderful views and surprises along the way.
The White Mountains’ National Park is the only national park on the island and centres around the gorge, off of which a number of smaller gorges branch.
Starting from Xylóskalo, at an altitude of 1,230m and stretching to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, the hike takes about 6 to 8 hours and isn't impossibly difficult but anyone planning it should be somewhat fit and equipped with water and sturdy footwear.
Outdoor lovers who have found a vacation rental in Crete are bound to head there to hike its length and take in the wonderful views and surprises along the way.
The White Mountains’ National Park is the only national park on the island and centres around the gorge, off of which a number of smaller gorges branch.
Starting from Xylóskalo, at an altitude of 1,230m and stretching to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, the hike takes about 6 to 8 hours and isn't impossibly difficult but anyone planning it should be somewhat fit and equipped with water and sturdy footwear.
The best time to trek is in April and May when wildflowers brighten the trail, though the gorge is open from May to October. If at all possible, try and trek it during the off-peak season, as this will give you the most uncongested and pleasant experience.
When ever you go, make sure to keep an eye out for the cliff-climbing agrimi, the wild and elusive Cretan mountain goats.
There is a lazier, easier route beginning at Agia Roumeli, instead, but the original route rewards you by ending at this lovely village where you can go for a refreshing paddle in the bathwater-warm sea, a stroll along the black-sand beach, indulge in taverna lunches or dinners and take in the wonderful views across the Mediterranean.
When ever you go, make sure to keep an eye out for the cliff-climbing agrimi, the wild and elusive Cretan mountain goats.
There is a lazier, easier route beginning at Agia Roumeli, instead, but the original route rewards you by ending at this lovely village where you can go for a refreshing paddle in the bathwater-warm sea, a stroll along the black-sand beach, indulge in taverna lunches or dinners and take in the wonderful views across the Mediterranean.
No matter which way you take the trail, however, it is a stunning adventure and, as many a surprised tourist has discovered, the highlight of their visit to Crete. Check out our private vacation rentals in Greece and experience it for yourself!
Photo credits
picture 1: Jimzoun / CC BY-SA 4.0;
picture 3: Lapplaender / CC BY-SA 3.0
picture 1: Jimzoun / CC BY-SA 4.0;
picture 3: Lapplaender / CC BY-SA 3.0
