The Samaria Gorge is a renowned hiking destination in Europe, attracting thousands of tourists every year. It is situated on the south side of the Chania prefecture and spans 15 kilometers in length. Visitors typically spend five to seven hours trekking through it, starting from Omalos and ending at Agia Roumeli, though the duration may vary based on the descent’s speed.
The renowned gorge was formed by a river that flows between the White Mountains and Mount Volakias. Several perpendicular gorges to the main Samaria gorge can be explored by canyoning, using ropes for descent. Some of these gorges have stunning waterfalls, with the tallest one reaching a height of 240 meters.
The northern entrance of the gorge is located at Xyloskalo, which leads to Agia Roumeli. The road is mainly downhill. The name Xyloskalo comes from the Greek words for wood and ladder, as it originated when a cypress trunk fell on the spot and was later shaped into stairs. During the route of the gorge, you will be amazed by the impressive beauties of nature in an amazing setting, with imposing ravines, breathtaking waterfalls, and natural springs that provide hikers with a refreshing drink along the way.
If you decide to take the route of Xyloskalo, you may find it a bit challenging, although there are no specific difficulties along the way. This route is quite popular among tourists who visit the White Mountains National Park to see the famous Kri-Kri goats. The gorge is a protected area where these goats are found, and it is a major attraction for visitors to the island. The Kri-Kri goats are limited to the village of Samaria that is located at the center of the gorge. This village was once inhabited, but was abandoned in 1962 and has since been operating as a national park.
The Samaria Gorge has gained a lot of popularity as a tourist destination in recent years. However, it is not accessible all year round as the river level rises during winter, making it impossible to cross the gorge. The best time to visit would be from May to October and only during the day. It is also important to note that overnight stays are not allowed, and it is forbidden to cross the gorge after sunset.
During your visit to the gorge, it is advisable to wear appropriate clothing and sun protection as the journey can be long and tiring. However, the effort is worth it to admire the natural beauty and unparalleled Cretan charm. You can quench your thirst from the natural springs and enjoy snacks that you have brought with you since there are no canteens along the route.
The Samaria Gorge tour is a significant landmark that showcases the history of the island of Crete and receives recognition worldwide. The locals take pride in their place’s natural beauty and are happy to welcome thousands of visitors every year to witness the stunning edge of the gorge. It is no wonder that UNESCO has highlighted the gorge as the only “biosphere reserve”. There are many routes available to cross the gorge apart from the main one of Agia Roumeli, which makes most visitors want to return for a new adventure in the Samaria Gorge.