The most popular and longest gorge in Greece. The fascinating route follows a winding trail surrounded by oak trees, clear water springs and a mountain stream. A visit to the main attraction of Crete will be remembered for a long time.
On the island of Crete there is one of the main attractions of the country, the Great Samaria Gorge. It is situated in the south-western part of the White Mountains. The gorge begins on the Omalos Plateau and ends at the ancient village of Agia (Libyan coast). It is rightly called the longest canyon in all of Europe.
In 1962, the majestic beauty, along with the richness of flora and fauna were appreciated, and the gorge received honorary status of National Park (reserve). On its territory grows stone oaks, pines and cypresses. Tourists call the Samaria Gorge in Crete an ecological paradise. On the rather long territory (13 km) one can see more than 400 species of vegetation. Rare species of fauna, namely Cretan ibex, eagles, sea eagles and golden eagles, have chosen this picturesque place for their permanent residence.
Before visiting the gorge, tourists should know the following facts:
The mountains in the gorge range in height from 200-1000 meters, with a width of 3-300 meters. Tourist can see all the beauty sights of Greece in an average of 5-6 hours. In the heat of the year, you can quench your thirst with fresh water - there are 20 springs on the territory. The availability of empty containers will allow you to explore the surroundings without feeling thirsty. Tourists pass through the National Park on a path with stones, so it is strongly recommended to give preference to comfortable and closed shoes to avoid injury.
The diverse flora of the Gorge in Greece has escaped destruction in numerous wars and rebellions. According to historians, a walk through the reserve will take you back in time, because this is how the island of Crete looked like 4.5 thousand years ago. The trail for the tourists leads through the most picturesque places of the National Park. Thus, visitors will see the church of Osias Marias, Christ and St. Mary of Egypt, as well as the church of St. Nicholas. The village has a helicopter landing pad.
When tourists are difficult to overcome the distance of 13 kilometers of the gorge with a difference in elevation of about 1 kilometer, then they are offered an alternative - the descent of 900-meter stairs surrounded by pine forest (then the return ascent);
- Hike to the village of Agia Roumeli (about 6 km) to the narrowest point - "Iron Gate" 3 meters wide.
Throughout the gorge runs the river Tarreos. In winter during the rainy season it overflows and completely covers all the plains, so it is impossible to explore the Samaria Gorge in Crete during this period. Visiting the reserve is allowed from May to October. After a fascinating and informative tour, everyone can rest and eat delicious national dishes in the village of Agia Roumeli. After the meal, tourists are invited to continue exploring the island by ferry (departures to Sfakia, Paleochora, etc.).
Despite the decent length of the reserve, we can confidently recommend a visit to the Samaria Gorge. The majestic natural monument is over 1 million years old.
