Family Adventure in Samaria Gorge

Through the Gorge We Go!

Today was the day we’d all been anticipating – our family hike through the legendary Samaria Gorge! After weeks of planning and prepping, it was time to put our hiking boots to the test and immerse ourselves in the raw beauty of Crete's natural wonder. The excitement was palpable as we set off, ready to embrace the challenge and create lasting memories together.

The day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Rousios. We needed all the energy we could get for the day ahead. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the traditional Cretan dishes were just what we needed to fuel up. I opted for some fresh fruit and yogurt, while Maximilian went for a more substantial omelet. Astrid, of course, was happy with a simple pastry. After breakfast, we headed towards the entrance of the gorge, tickets in hand. The air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the Berlin summer we had just left behind. September in Crete is proving to be a delightful time to visit, with warm days and fewer crowds.

As we started our descent into the gorge, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the towering cliffs surrounding us. The initial part of the hike was quite steep and rocky. I was grateful I had remembered my hiking poles; they were a lifesaver for my knees! Astrid, surprisingly, was a natural, hopping from rock to rock with the agility of a mountain goat. Maximilian, ever the supportive husband, kept a close eye on both of us, making sure we were navigating the terrain safely.

It's not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.

The scenery was simply breathtaking. The gorge is home to diverse plant life, and even the elusive Kri-Kri (Cretan goat). Though we didn’t spot any goats, we were surrounded by the vibrant colors of wildflowers and the soothing sound of flowing water. The path wound its way through the gorge, sometimes narrow, sometimes wide, but always stunning. We stopped frequently to take photos and soak in the views. I made sure to fill up our water bottles at the natural springs along the way.

About halfway through our hike, we reached the abandoned village of Samaria. It was a poignant reminder of the people who once called this place home. The ruins of the old houses and the church stood as silent witnesses to a bygone era. We took a moment to explore the village, imagining what life must have been like for the families who lived here.

As we continued our descent, the sun began to climb higher in the sky. Fortunately, much of the trail was shaded by trees, providing a welcome respite from the heat. Still, I was glad I had packed sunscreen and hats for all of us. I must admit, I was starting to feel the strain of the hike. It really does require a good level of fitness. But the thought of reaching the end and dipping our toes in the Libyan Sea kept me going.

The most dramatic part of the gorge is undoubtedly the Iron Gates. Here, the cliffs narrow to just a few meters wide, towering hundreds of meters above. It’s an awe-inspiring sight that makes you feel incredibly small and insignificant. We took our time passing through this section, marveling at the sheer scale of nature's power.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached the end of the gorge. The village of Agia Roumeli came into view, and with it, the sparkling blue waters of the Libyan Sea. We had made it! The feeling of accomplishment was immense. Astrid ran ahead, eager to reach the beach and start building sandcastles.

We celebrated our achievement with a delicious lunch at Taverna Tarra. The restaurant had a lovely view, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We feasted on fresh seafood and traditional Greek salads, savoring every bite. Astrid devoured her souvlaki, declaring it the best meal of the trip so far.

After lunch, we spent some time relaxing on the beach, letting the cool water soothe our tired feet. Astrid splashed around in the shallows, collecting seashells and building elaborate sandcastles. Maximilian and I simply sat back and enjoyed the moment, grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible experience with our daughter.

Before heading back, we made a stop at POSEIDON COCKTAIL BEACH BAR for a refreshing drink. Sipping on a cool beverage while watching the sunset over the Libyan Sea was the perfect way to end our day. The bar had a relaxed, beachy vibe, and the cocktails were delicious.

As we boarded the ferry to return to our accommodation, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day. Hiking the Samaria Gorge was more than just a physical challenge; it was an opportunity to connect with nature, to push ourselves beyond our comfort zones, and to create lasting memories as a family. I’m so glad we decided to embark on this adventure together.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Iron Gates and Castle Agia Roumeli. I’m also hoping to find some unique, handmade gifts at Jacob's little shop. I’m already looking forward to another day of adventure in this beautiful corner of the world. For now, though, it’s time to rest and recharge for whatever tomorrow may bring.

I’m so glad we didn’t forget sunscreen, but I do wish I had remembered insect repellent. I also wish I would have brought an extra memory card for my camera, as I took so many photos today! A portable phone charger would have been handy as well. Oh well, you live and learn!

I’m already looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all. Stay tuned for more updates from our family adventure in Samaria Gorge!

Until next time,
Anna