Samaria National Park
The Samaria Gorge is one of the top hiking experiences in Greece and one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Europe. It is located in the White Mountains of Chania, Crete, and attracts thousands of visitors every year who want to experience a unique journey through wild nature, vertical cliffs and rare ecosystems.
General information
The gorge is approximately 16 kilometers long and is part of the European path E4. The hike starts from Xyloskalo in Omalos, at an altitude of approximately 1,250 meters, and ends at the seaside Agia Roumeli, on the coast of the Libyan Sea. The total duration of the route usually ranges from 5 to 7 hours, depending on the pace and stops of the hikers.
The gorge was declared a National Park in 1962, with the aim of protecting the unique flora and fauna of the area. Among the species it hosts, the famous Cretan ibex, also known as the kri-kri, stands out.
The hiking experience
The descent begins with the impressive “Xyloskalo”, a steep path that gradually leads into the heart of the gorge. Along the way, visitors encounter dense forests of pine and cypress trees, small wooden bridges, natural springs with drinking water and the abandoned village of Samaria, from which the gorge took its name.
The most famous point on the route is the famous “Portes” or “Sideroportes”, where the vertical rocks rise up to 500 meters and the passage narrows to just 3-4 meters wide. The landscape at this point is considered one of the most photographed natural attractions in Crete.
The route is mainly downhill, but requires endurance due to the long duration and rocky terrain.
Why choose Samaria Gorge
Crossing Samaria is not just a hike; it is a complete experience of contact with the authentic nature of Crete. The changes in landscape, the wild beauty of the gorge and the sense of exploration create an experience that remains unforgettable for every visitor.
After the hike
The hike ends in Agia Roumeli, a quiet seaside village that is only accessible by boat or via hiking trails. Most visitors enjoy a swim in the sea and lunch at local taverns before returning by boat to Chora Sfakion or Sougia.
