Samaria Gorge
The Samaria Gorge is the crown jewel of Crete’s natural sights. Known simply as “The Gorge” by locals in admiration of its grandeur, it is a National Park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Located in the White Mountains, the gorge stretches over 15 km, with a descent that takes about 5-7 hours.
Starting from Xyloskalo (1,227m altitude) on the Omalos plateau, the trail ends at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. Inside, you will discover a pristine ecosystem with over 450 species of plants. Lush forests of ancient pines and cypresses, once famous for providing the high-quality timber used in sturdy Cretan ships still stand tall. You may even encounter the “Kri-Kri”, the famous Cretan wild goat, in its natural habitat.
How to Access:
- The Full Trek: Take the early morning KTEL bus from Chania to Omalos. After your hike, take the ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sougia or Sfakia, where the bus returns you to Chania.
Important Note: Following the law, removing anything from the area even a single flower is strictly forbidden to protect this sensitive ecosystem for future generations.