Family Adventure in Samaria Gorge

Caves, Beaches, and Raki: A Day of Cretan Discovery

Our day began in Sougia, a charming village where the mountains meet the sea. We fueled up for our adventures at SAMARIA, a local breakfast spot known for its hearty Cretan fare. The breakfast was simple but delicious: fresh bread, local honey, and strong, aromatic coffee. Astrid, of course, was more interested in the local cats, but even she couldn't resist a taste of the honey. It's moments like these, sharing simple joys, that make our family trips so special.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore Zarana's caves. Finding the caves was an adventure in itself, as the path was a bit rocky and overgrown. But once we arrived, we were immediately captivated. The caves were cool and mysterious, with intriguing rock formations and hidden chambers. Astrid's imagination ran wild as she pretended to be an explorer discovering a secret world. Maximilian, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the geology of the caves, pointing out different rock types and formations. I enjoyed capturing the play of light and shadow with my camera, trying to capture the essence of this hidden gem. I am glad we brought our hiking boots, as the terrain was a bit challenging!

The caves were a refreshing escape from the September sun, which, according to the forecast, was set to bring temperatures between 24 and 29°C. The caves reminded me of the importance of sustainable living, of preserving these natural wonders for future generations. It's something I try to incorporate into our travels, making conscious choices to minimize our impact on the environment.


Discover the stunning natural beauty of Zarana's Caves in Sfakia, Greece, a remarkable hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

After our subterranean adventure, we were ready for some sun and sea. We made our way to Akrogiali beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline with crystal-clear waters. The beach wasn't too crowded, which was perfect for us. Astrid was thrilled to build sandcastles, while Maximilian and I took turns swimming in the refreshing sea. The water was so clear that we could see the fish swimming around us.

Akrogiali beach was the perfect spot to relax and unwind. I laid back on the sand, soaking in the sun and listening to the gentle waves. It's amazing how being near the sea can wash away all your worries. Maximilian, ever the active one, decided to go for a jog along the beach, while Astrid continued her sandcastle construction, determined to build the most impressive fortress ever seen.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Akrogiali Beach in Crete, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable getaway.

Lunch was at Pension Paradise, a charming taverna right on the beach. We enjoyed fresh seafood, grilled vegetables, and a crisp Greek salad. The food was simple but delicious, and the view was simply stunning. Astrid devoured her fish sticks (a rare treat for her), while Maximilian and I savored the local wine. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures. I have to say, the food in Sougia is excellent, and the prices are below the Cretan average.

As we savored our meal, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting Lissos Beach and exploring the ruins of an old farmhouse. I am excited to see what other hidden gems Crete has in store for us. I am hoping to also visit Nature - Cretan natural products to buy some souvenirs.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Pension Paradise in Agia Roumeli - where flavor meets breathtaking coastal views.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to embrace the local tradition and visit Raki Bar. Now, I'm not usually one for strong spirits, but when in Crete! Raki, also known as tsikoudia, is the national drink of Crete, and it's a symbol of friendship and hospitality. The owner of the bar, a jovial man with a twinkle in his eye, welcomed us warmly and offered us a taste of his homemade raki. It was surprisingly smooth, with a distinct flavor that I couldn't quite place. Maximilian, of course, enjoyed it immensely, while I took a more cautious approach, sipping it slowly and savoring the moment. The owner told us stories of the island, sharing insights into the local culture and traditions.

He explained that raki is often served after meals as a sign of friendship and is a central part of social gatherings. It was fascinating to learn about the cultural significance of this drink and to experience the warmth and generosity of the Cretan people. The owner even shared a local remedy for colds using raki, which I found quite amusing. Apparently, it has antimicrobial properties !


Discover the authentic flavors of Cretan culture at Raki Bar in Sougia, where local raki and wines meet breathtaking views and warm hospitality.

Our evening concluded at Rousios, a restaurant recommended by several locals for its authentic Cretan cuisine. We indulged in traditional dishes like moussaka and dakos, savoring the rich flavors and aromas. Astrid, surprisingly, enjoyed the moussaka, while Maximilian declared the dakos to be his new favorite dish. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with live music adding to the ambiance. It was the perfect way to end our day of Cretan discovery.

As we walked back to our accommodation, under the starlit sky, I reflected on the day's adventures. From exploring hidden caves to relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, and indulging in local culinary delights, it was a day filled with unexpected joys and authentic experiences. Crete had welcomed us with open arms, and we were grateful for the opportunity to explore its hidden gems. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It's moments like these that create lasting memories and strengthen our bond.

I'm also grateful for the chance to share these stories with you, my readers. I hope that my blog inspires you to step outside your comfort zone, embrace the unexpected, and discover the hidden gems that await you in every corner of the world. Remember, the best journeys are often the ones that take you by surprise. And who knows, maybe you'll even discover a new favorite drink along the way!

Good night from Crete!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I did miss a few things from our essentials list! Insect repellent would have been great for the caves. And I could have used an extra memory card for my camera!