“There is only one Gorge”
For the locals, Samaria is more than just a gorge. It is The Gorge, a unique natural monument that UNESCO has designated as a global Biosphere Reserve. The trail begins on the Omalos plateau at an altitude of 1,200 metres and ends, after an enthralling excursion, at the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea.
The Journey and the History
The gorge is 12.5km long, while the entire route to the beach of Agia Roumeli is 16km. The northern entrance, Xyloskalo (wooden stairs), owes its name to an old, makeshift staircase made of cypress trunks, which used to facilitate the steep descent. This trail, the work of Manousos Koundouros in the late 19th century, is 2-2.5 meters wide and crosses the Lefka Ori National Forest, winding through deep ravines and impressive streams. The force of nature is so great that that the wooden bridges are removed during the winter months to prevent them from being swept away by the raging waters of the streams.
Visitor Information
The gorge is open to visitors from 1 May to the end of October, depending on weather conditions. Access is via buses from Hania to Xyloskalo, and the return journey from Agia Roumeli is by boat to Hora Sfakion, Loutro, and Paleochora. Staying overnight within the National Forest is strictly prohibited and all visitors must have left by 7pm.
Helpful Tips
Preparation: The trek takes approximately 6 hours. Suitable footwear, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection are essential.
Essentials: Pack light-weight food, as there are no shops operating within the site. You can get water from the numerous natural springs.
Organisation: Set off as early as possible in the morning and follow the instructions provided by the informative signs and the park rangers to the letter.
Environment: Please utilise only the designated waste bins and restroom facilities located along the trail.
Trekking through Samaria Gorge is an experience that initiates you to the untamed beauty of Crete that you will never forget.
The Journey and the History
The gorge is 12.5km long, while the entire route to the beach of Agia Roumeli is 16km. The northern entrance, Xyloskalo (wooden stairs), owes its name to an old, makeshift staircase made of cypress trunks, which used to facilitate the steep descent. This trail, the work of Manousos Koundouros in the late 19th century, is 2-2.5 meters wide and crosses the Lefka Ori National Forest, winding through deep ravines and impressive streams. The force of nature is so great that that the wooden bridges are removed during the winter months to prevent them from being swept away by the raging waters of the streams.
Visitor Information
The gorge is open to visitors from 1 May to the end of October, depending on weather conditions. Access is via buses from Hania to Xyloskalo, and the return journey from Agia Roumeli is by boat to Hora Sfakion, Loutro, and Paleochora. Staying overnight within the National Forest is strictly prohibited and all visitors must have left by 7pm.
Helpful Tips
Preparation: The trek takes approximately 6 hours. Suitable footwear, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection are essential.
Essentials: Pack light-weight food, as there are no shops operating within the site. You can get water from the numerous natural springs.
Organisation: Set off as early as possible in the morning and follow the instructions provided by the informative signs and the park rangers to the letter.
Environment: Please utilise only the designated waste bins and restroom facilities located along the trail.
Trekking through Samaria Gorge is an experience that initiates you to the untamed beauty of Crete that you will never forget.
