Family Adventure in Samaria Gorge

Conquering Crete's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of exploration and adventure, as we ventured deeper into the heart of Crete's stunning landscapes. Our family hike took us through the enchanting Kormokopos Forest and up to the breathtaking Papakefala summit, with a delightful detour to the intriguing Kormokopos cave. It's days like these that remind me why we love to travel together, discovering the hidden corners of the world and creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Discover the serene beauty of Kormokopou Forest in Hora Sfakion, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Rousios. Fuelling up with local delicacies was essential before embarking on our ambitious hike. Astrid was particularly excited, bouncing with energy and eager to explore. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, double-checked our supplies, ensuring we had enough water and snacks for the journey ahead. With everything in order, we set off towards the forest Kormokopou.

The trail through Kormokopos Forest was nothing short of magical. Towering pines and cypresses created a natural cathedral above us, their branches filtering the sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. The air was filled with the scent of pine and damp earth, a refreshing change from the dry heat of the coast. As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. It’s amazing how nature has that effect, isn’t it? Even Astrid, usually full of chatter, was hushed by the serene atmosphere, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the sights and sounds around her.

The hike itself was relatively easy, a gentle uphill climb that even Astrid could manage without complaint. Along the way, we spotted various birds and insects, their vibrant colours adding to the forest's charm. Maximilian, ever the knowledgeable one, pointed out different species of plants and trees, sharing interesting facts about the local flora. I tried to capture the beauty of the forest with my camera, but some things just can't be adequately captured in a photograph; you have to experience them firsthand.

As we ascended, the forest began to thin, giving way to rocky terrain and panoramic views. The trail became steeper, but the promise of reaching the Papakefala summit spurred us on. Astrid, though tiring, was determined to make it to the top. I remember back in Berlin, she would always ask if we could go hiking in the Brandenburg countryside; seems like her wish came true, just in a different country! We took frequent breaks, catching our breath and admiring the ever-expanding vista below. The Mediterranean Sea sparkled in the distance, its azure waters meeting the horizon in a seamless blend of blue.

Reaching the Papakefala summit was a triumph. The view from the top was simply breathtaking, a 360-degree panorama of mountains, valleys, and coastline. We could see for miles in every direction, the rugged Cretan landscape stretching out before us in all its glory. We spent a good half-hour at the summit, soaking in the scenery and taking photos to commemorate our achievement. Astrid, of course, insisted on posing for several pictures, striking various heroic poses that had us all laughing.


Experience the stunning beauty of Papakefala Summit and Kormokopos Cave Trail, a hiker's paradise in the heart of Crete, Greece.

The best views come after the hardest climbs.

From the summit, we made our way down to the Kormokopos cave. The descent was steep and a bit challenging, but the thought of exploring a cave kept us motivated. The cave itself was cool and dark, a welcome respite from the midday sun. Though not as grand as some of the caves I've visited, it had a certain charm, its rocky walls adorned with interesting formations. We ventured inside, our voices echoing in the cavernous space. Astrid, armed with her flashlight, pretended to be a fearless explorer, searching for hidden treasures. I think she may have watched too many adventure movies lately!

After our cave exploration, we made our way back down to Agios Ioannis, the charming village where we started our hike. By this point, we were all ravenous, so we headed straight to Taverna Tarra for a well-deserved lunch. The taverna was a typical Cretan establishment, with wooden tables, colourful flowers, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. We ordered a selection of local dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a variety of salads. The food was delicious, simple yet bursting with flavour. Astrid devoured her souvlaki, while Maximilian and I savoured the fresh fish. Of course, no meal in Crete is complete without a glass of local wine, which we happily indulged in.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Taverna Tarra in Agia Roumeli – where flavor meets tradition amidst stunning natural beauty.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore Agios Ioannis before heading back to our accommodation. The village was small but quaint, with narrow streets, traditional houses, and friendly locals. As we wandered through the streets, we stumbled upon the Olive wood Art Shop. I have always adored Scandinavian design, but there was something about the shop that caught my eye. The shop was filled with beautiful handcrafted items made from olive wood, from kitchen utensils to decorative pieces. The craftsmanship was exquisite, each item unique and full of character. I ended up buying a small wooden bowl for Astrid, as a memento of our trip. She was thrilled with her souvenir, promising to use it for her breakfast every morning.


Explore the Olive Wood Art Shop in Topolia for handcrafted treasures that embody the essence of Cretan culture and artistry.

Our final stop for the day was at SAMARIA restaurant for dinner. As the sun began to set, we reflected on the day's adventures over a delicious meal. The restaurant offered stunning views of the sea, the sky ablaze with hues of orange and pink. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. As we ate, we discussed our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting Zarana's caves and Akrogiali beach. Astrid was particularly excited about the beach, eager to build sandcastles and swim in the sea.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Samaria, where every meal comes with stunning sea views in Agia Roumeli.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Hiking through Kormokopos Forest, conquering the Papakefala summit, and exploring the Kormokopos cave were all incredible adventures, but it's the time spent together as a family that I value the most. These are the moments that make our travels so special, creating memories that will bind us together for years to come. And who knows what tomorrow will bring? With Zarana's caves and Akrogiali beach on the agenda, I'm sure it will be another day filled with excitement and discovery. Until then, goodnight from Crete!

I think I’ll need a good night’s sleep, ready for tomorrow’s adventure!