A very steep and rugged descent.
to access
this amazing natural wonder you will make the journey up
through
the white
mountains in the in the Chania region to pass OMALOS,a village set on a 1050
meter high plateau until you reach Xylokalos. It is from here that you make your
descent into the Samarian Gorge and the 18 Kilometre walk, through ever changing
scents and scenery that eventually brings you to the shore of the Libyan
Sea. Although there are well maintained paths the descent is steep
and the entire
length of the gorge rugged.
Because of this a reasonable level of heath and fitness is needed along with
suitable walking 
shoes.
Don't let this deter you from experiencing this smashing day out: there are many
trained guides and rescue units that keep a sharp look out for anyone in distress
.There are also frequent areas that provide a resting place and spring water
that is both good
to drink and freshen up with. The walk itself can take between
4 to 6 hours and will take you along the bottom of gorge that is in places very
wide. It becomes narrower and the rock faces
sheerer until the reach THE IRON GATES at which point you can touch both sides
of this natural cleft in the earths surface. On leaving the gorge it is a
short
walk to the shore side village of AYIA ROUMELI
where, while waiting for the ferry to take back to CHORA STAKION you can use one
of the restaurants and Tavernas to refresh and think about what you have seen
and achieved. I have now walked the gorge on 3 occasions, different seasons of
the year make natural changes to the route and the scenery so each walk is
unique. Make this experience a "Must Do" when you visit Crete as my
photos cannot do the Spectacular Samarian Gorge justice
Stunning Scents, Scenery, Photos and Memories are your Rewards
NEXT TO Zante
