Crete Excursions
Samaria Gorge © ajy
The Samaria Gorge
It is an arduous trip but well worth it to see one of the great
natural wonders of Europe, the Samaria Gorge in the White Mountains
in western Crete. From the top of the gorge it is a 10-mile (16km)
hike through the dramatic geological formations and
wildflower-strewn cliffsides of the National Park. From the village
of Agia Roumeli at the end of the gorge hikers board boats to sail
to Khora Sfakion or Paleohora where there are buses back to
Haniá, Rethymnon or Heraklion.
Transport: There are public buses to Omalos near the top of the gorge. Organised tours are also available;
Opening time: The gorge is open 6am to 3pm, generally from May to October (depending on weather conditions);
Admission: €5 to enter the park; free for children under 15; €2.50 for students
