T he gorge stretches for about 16 km, making it one of the largest in Europe, and starts from the Xyloskalo plateau on the Omalos Plateau. From there, visitors embark on a unique descent through imposing cliffs, impressive gorges and lush vegetation, following the path that runs through the heart of the park.
The landscape of Samaria is raw and fascinating, with towering cliffs that seem to touch the sky and dense forests of cypress and pine trees giving a rare sense of calm and isolation. During the hike, visitors have the opportunity to see the wildlife of Crete, such as the famous kri-kri, the Cretan wild goat that roams the steep cliffs of the gorge.
Apart from its natural splendour, the gorge has significant historical value. Within its rocks and caves, rebels and locals alike have found refuge during revolutions and wars, with the village of Samaria, located in the gorge, once being a centre of resistance. Today, the village is abandoned, but visitors can still see the ruins of traditional Cretan houses.
One of the most famous parts of the gorge is the "Sideroportes", the narrowest part of the route, where the rocks tower imposingly at a height of 500 metres and the path narrows to just 3 metres. This point is a symbol of Samaria and one of the most photographed places on the island.
The route through the gorge is demanding but extremely rewarding. It takes about 5-7 hours to complete, depending on the pace of the visitor, and ends at the seaside village of Agia Roumeli, where the trail meets the endless blue of the Libyan Sea. There, hikers can enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea, completing this enchanting experience in the most ideal way.
The Gorge of Samaria is open to the public from spring to autumn, and especially during the summer months it welcomes thousands of visitors from all over the world. Crossing the trail requires good physical fitness, proper equipment and plenty of water, but the experience and the images one gets are indelible in the memory.
From the imposing cliffs to the cool springs and secluded paths, the gorge offers a deep connection to the island's untamed beauty. It is a must-visit destination for any nature lover and explorer who wishes to experience the authentic side of Crete.