Samaria Gorge

About this spectacle

Samaria Gorge cuts through the White Mountains of western Crete, offering one of the most dramatic canyon walks in Europe. Hikers descend through towering limestone walls that narrow to just a few metres at the famous Iron Gates, where sheer cliffs rise overhead and filtered light creates an otherworldly atmosphere. The trail follows a stream bed through Mediterranean scrubland, past abandoned villages and ancient chapels, with the sound of rushing water and birdsong accompanying the descent. The gorge is home to the rare Cretan ibex, the kri-kri, which may be spotted on the rocky slopes. Wildflowers carpet the path in spring, and the scent of pine and thyme fills the air. The journey ends at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, where the Libyan Sea provides a welcome reward for tired legs.

When to go

May — Oct, peak Sep — Jun

Getting there

Nearest airport: CHQ. Nearest city: Chania.

Booking options

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