Samaria Gorge is a bucket-list destination for all those who love exploring nature by foot.
With a combination of trekking and hiking, you can explore this breathtaking (quite literally) place with its majestic mountains, rocky terrain, gushing streams and exotic biodiversity.
In 1962, the Samaria Gorge was established as a National Park. This is Europe’s longest gorge and is located in the southwestern part of Crete. The gorge was formed by a river that flows between the Lefka Ori (White Mountains) and Mount Volakias. It is 16 km long and has a varying width between 3 – 150 metres.
The park is open for visitors only between May 1 and October 15 and the operating hours are from 7 am to 4 pm. The dates might change depending on the weather as the area often experiences flash floods. During winter, the water levels are extremely high and the trail is not accessible.
It would take a total of 4-6 hours to complete the trail. Make sure you are wearing comfortable clothes and durable shoes. You can carry a light backpack with water, camera and other essentials. Though the trail is not very strenuous, make sure you have it in you to complete 16 long km through steep slopes and rocky terrain.
The Samaria Gorge Trail
The park has two entrances – the northern entrance at Xyloskalo and the southern entrance at Agia Roumeli. People prefer doing the trail north to south as it is mostly downhill. In fact, it starts at an altitude of 1250 metres, gradually drops down and finishes at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli on the Mediterranean Sea. There are no roads from Agia Roumeli and you have to take a boat to Hora Sfakion. From here, you can take a bus to your preferred destination.
Once you begin the trail, your first stop will be the Church of St. Nikolas which was constructed above the ruins of an ancient temple. Near the halfway point, you can see the remains of Samaria village whose houses are now used by park rangers. The original residents of the village were relocated when the gorge gained national park status.
After this you will reach the famous ‘Gates’ which are a series of three narrowest points in the gorge. Here the mountains close in just four metres apart and towering upto 1000 feet! Next, you will come across ruins of Venetian Castles and prehistoric settlements which indicate that the gorge was inhabited for a long long time.
You will also cross several fresh water springs where you can fill up your bottles and quench your thirst. There will be certain points in the trail with magnificent views that will compel you to pause and admire nature’s sublime work.
The end of the trail comes when you reach the coastal village of Agia Roumeli that opens to the Libyan Sea. You can take a dip in the waters, visit the Byzantine churches or even take a boat ride to the island of Gavdos, Europe’s southernmost point.
Biota
The gorge remains free from human intervention which has ensured the survival of its rich ecosystems. With the conservation of the gorge as the top priority, there are strict rules in place, to keep the natural system intact.
It is prohibited to camp overnight, swim, consume alcohol, light fires or cause any kind of disruption to the natural setting within the premises of the park.
It is estimated that there are around 32 species of mammals, 200 species of birds and hundreds of plant species here. Among these, almost 174 species are endemic to Greece. The park protects a rare species of Cretan goat called kri-kri which is found only in Crete in two places – here and Thodorou, a small island off the coast of Agia Marina.
Turtle-doves, quails and partridges are commonly spotted and if you are extremely lucky, you can spot the endangered golden Bonelli eagle. The slopes are dressed with Cretan maples, Calabrian pines, Kermes oaks, cypress trees and flowers like pink rockrose, Cretan white peony, dragon arum, anemone and iris.
Why should you visit?
The Samaria Gorge is a fitting experience for anyone with an adventurous spirit. History is ingrained in every part of Greece, and this gorge is no exception. In addition to its heavenly natural environment, the scattered ruins add a distinct touch, crafting a wholesome, unparalleled escapade.
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