Samaria Gorge- the long way, from Chania
Description
The gorge of Samaria is the gem of the White Mountains; hidden in the south part of the Chania district, it is the biggest gorge in Europe, covering an area of 18 kilometers in length. The gorge’s trail starts at Ksyloskalo (Omalos plateau, 1.227 meters altitude) and after following the river bed, it ends up at the littoral village of Agia Roumeli. After reaching Omalos, we stop at a traditional tavern, giving you the chance to have breakfast or drink coffee (optional) before you enter the gorge. · Subsequently, you pass through the entrance to the gorge and start your hike. In the gorge you walk at your own pace. Our escort comes in an hour after you for safety reasons, so as to follow after you. · The gorge ends up at the village of Agia Roumeli. · At 17:30 you go aboard the ferry, Sougia or Sfakia (usually Sougia) being your destination.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Xylóskalo is the point where the Samarian gorge starts. It is located on the Lefka Ori (White Mountains) in the plateau of Omalos, at 1250m above sea level. It is also the entrance to the gorge.
The Gorge of Samaria lies on the southern side of Chania prefecture and is a wonderful place for hikers. Visitors from all over the world attempt trekking at this gorge. In 1962, Samaria Gorge had been declared a National Park for the survival of the endangered species kri-kri, the rare Cretan wild goat that lives only in Samaria. Apart from the kri-kri, many other endemic and rare species of flora and fauna live in this gorge.
Agia Roumeli is a small, modern seaside village on the south coast of Chania in Crete. There are many walking paths on this remote south coast of Crete, with experienced walkers enjoy the small foot paths next to the sea, with breath-taking views of the steep mountains plunging into the crystal blue waters of the Libyan Sea.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Hotel pick up is offered subject to customer's hotel location. In case of property (villa- hotel- airbnb) is not within tour pick up areas, client should meet our group for the tour at the nearest pick up place possible.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The equipment you must have with you! ( Proper footwear socks, light snack, a hat, sunscreen, a bottle of water, swimsuit and a beach towel)
Reviews(2)
I initially signed up for the short hike, but the tour operator sized me up and said I could do it, and I’m glad I did. I’m average in health and experience, and was able to do this difficult-level hike. You are essentially paying for the convenience of a nice chartered bus, which is def worth it if you’re not planning to stay in the area. Your legs will thank you. Pay heed to the additional non-included fees and bring some smaller denomination euros for the ferry (the tour operator goes ahead and purchases them). So the itinerary we had (helpful to know beforehand) is: 1. Pickup at the area close to you 2. Stop at a small cafe for somewhat overpriced breakfast (they sell hiking poles here, not sure how much) 3. Stop at the gorge (where there is another cafe and you will line up to pay the entrance fee) 4. Hike the gorge (there will be 3 meeting points w/ recommended leave times if you need to take a slower pace) 5. Exit the south entrance and walk ahead another km or 2 to a recommended bar/taverna (there are other options in the town of Agia Roumeli but you will end up meeting at that bar at a certain time to pickup your ferry tickets). Note: I did see a van along the way out of the south entrance that looked like would take you to Agia Roumeli for 2€. 6. The ferry leaves to the town of Sougia, where you will disembark and find your tour bus (among many, but not difficult to find). I’d say give yourself 13-14 hrs total spent. This is a challenging hike for sure. Mainly because of the footing/terrain. Not a guided tour, so you’re able to go at your own speed and stop along the way. If you find yourself struggling you can meet up with the tour guide at one of the 3 meeting spots, as she is taking up the rear. Starting early is the best time, to take advantage of shade and cooler temps. There are plenty of cutouts for resting. You can fill up fresh mountain water along the way. Stay hydrated. Bring snacks and comfy shoes— this hike will work your quads and knees. A lot of unsure footing, which my only criticism is— you’re so busy trying not to bust your face open, you don’t get to look up much. So, poles recommended but not required. It can get crowded esp. as the day wears on, but if you let people through you can get away from some of the obnoxious chatter of other hikers. You will have hiked about 16km (10 miles) when all is through. Worth it!
