Samaria Gorge in Crete.
As every year since 1962, it has reopened to the public Samaria Gorge , the second longest gorge in Europe, behind the verdon gorges in France with 20 km in length.
Prehistoric rocks, limestone peaks of the **White Mountains of Crete**, streams, and a hiking trail 16km long that will take you through Byzantine temples, Christian chapels, Venetian fortresses and refuges from the Second World War.
This is one of the most special routes that you can do in Greece and an essential stop to make in the Island of crete . The exit point starts at Xyloskalo , the entrance to Samaria National Park , from here you will travel 1,230 meters of rocky path, the first two kilometers of the route going up, and the rest going down. But be careful, it is not an easy walk, as it is a rocky terrain that requires some physical fitness.
About seven hours of excursion until arriving at the iron gates (although you won't find iron anywhere), and then Agia Roumel , from where you can continue walking to reach the Libyan Sea.
Although May is the best time to visit the Samaria Gorge, until October 31 it is visited by some 2,000 people who go almost unnoticed among the imposing landscape.
A 16 km excursion.
Samaria Gorge It was an isolated and strategic place throughout history until 1962, when the tourist route was created. Previously, the town lived in the gorge but as of that year, the inhabitants were relocated to other areas, so today you can see their houses and churches during the walk.
In fact, stop number seven on the route belongs to the Samaria village which is at one altitude of 1,000 meters , surrounded by rocks and with little natural light (only in summer) . In the town you will find a magazaki , a typical small store.
The main reason for making it tourist route It was to preserve the cretan wild goat , which you will also find on your way through the gorges of Samaria. Agrimi and kri-kri is a mammal that has existed since prehistory.
Protected goats, agrimi and kri-kri.
The route has signs and forest posts, but if you have any problems the only way to get to the mainland will be with a mule, although don't worry because there is a doctor in the park.
The path is completely signposted and with rest stops to have a picnic or fill your water bottle. with spring water. But remember that it is a protected place, so it must be left as you found it when you arrived, that is, very clean.
In this guide you will find everything you need to organize the excursion.
The largest gorge in Greece is in Crete.