Family Adventure in Samaria Gorge

Echoes of the Gorge

Today was a day of both physical challenge and profound beauty. The Samaria Gorge revealed more of its secrets, and I felt a deeper connection to this stunning landscape. It's incredible how a place can hold so much history and natural wonder, all intertwined. I am excited to share the highlights of our day, from the imposing Iron Gates to the tranquil shores of Agia Roumeli.

We started our day with breakfast at SAMARIA restaurant. The early morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. After a hearty meal, we set off, our backpacks packed with water and snacks, ready to tackle the heart of the gorge. The initial descent was as challenging as I remembered, with the rocky path demanding careful footing. Astrid, bless her adventurous spirit, took it all in stride, her little legs working hard to keep up. Maximilian was, as always, my rock, offering a steady hand and encouraging words whenever the terrain got a little tricky.

The main event of the day was, of course, the Iron Gates. As we approached, the towering cliffs seemed to close in around us, creating a corridor of stone that soared hundreds of meters above. The sheer scale of it was breathtaking, a true testament to the power of nature. I felt a sense of awe, standing in that narrow passage, the sunlight filtering through the gap above. It’s hard to describe the feeling of being surrounded by such immense natural architecture. The Iron Gates, or *Portes* as the locals call them, are the narrowest part of the Samaria Gorge, where the walls close to a mere four meters wide and soar up to almost 300 meters high. The kids were suitably impressed, their initial awe quickly turning into excitement as they ran their hands along the cool, smooth rock.


Explore the breathtaking Iron Gates of Crete, a stunning natural gorge in Samaria National Park, perfect for hikers and nature lovers alike.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Continuing our trek, we eventually reached Agia Roumeli, a small village nestled on the coast. The contrast between the rugged gorge and the tranquil seaside was striking. We decided to explore the Castle Agia Roumeli, also known as Koules, perched on a hill overlooking the village. The uphill walk was a bit strenuous, especially after the long hike, but the views from the top were well worth the effort. The castle, built by the Ottomans between 1866 and 1869, offered a panoramic vista of Agia Roumeli, the Libyan Sea, and the mouth of the Samaria Gorge. It was fascinating to imagine the history that unfolded here, the battles fought, and the lives lived within these stone walls. The castle was built to monitor the exit of the Samaria Gorge and control the rebellious Cretan population. Originally, Agia Roumeli was the ancient city of Tarra, an important point for trade and defense.


Discover the historical charm and breathtaking views of Castle Agia Roumeli, a hidden gem on the stunning island of Crete.
After exploring the castle, we descended back to Agia Roumeli and treated ourselves to a well-deserved lunch at Pension Paradise. The taverna offered a delightful array of traditional Cretan dishes, and we savored every bite, from the fresh seafood to the hearty salads. Astrid, of course, opted for the classic *souvlaki*, while Maximilian and I shared a plate of *dakos*, a local specialty consisting of barley rusks topped with tomatoes, feta cheese, and olive oil.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Pension Paradise in Agia Roumeli - where flavor meets breathtaking coastal views.
Before dinner, I popped into Jacobs little shop -Hand made ceramics/jewellery & gifts. I love finding unique, locally made souvenirs, and this little shop was a treasure trove of beautiful items. I picked up a delicate ceramic bowl painted with scenes from the gorge, a perfect reminder of our adventure. I also found a lovely silver necklace for Mama, her birthday is coming up in October and I think she will really like it. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when we travel. It feels good to contribute to the local economy and bring home something truly special.


Explore Jacobs Little Shop in Agia Marina for handcrafted ceramics, unique jewelry, and unforgettable gifts that embody local artistry.
As the sun began to set, we settled in for dinner at Rousios, another charming taverna in Agia Roumeli. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was simply divine. We feasted on grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, and a delicious local wine. The perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Rousios in Agia Roumeli, where tradition meets stunning landscapes and unforgettable flavors.
Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the incredible diversity of experiences the Samaria Gorge offers. From the adrenaline-pumping hike through the Iron Gates to the tranquil moments exploring ancient ruins and savoring local flavors, it’s a place that truly captivates the senses. I am so grateful to share these moments with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Kormokopou Cave and canyon Eligia. I've heard that Kormokopou Cave is a hidden gem. After our cave exploration, we plan to visit canyon Eligia, which is known for its stunning natural rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Maximilian is especially excited about this part of the trip, as he's always been fascinated by geology. In the evening, we might check out Kyma Cafe & Bar for a relaxing drink. I am sure Astrid will enjoy a refreshing juice after a long day of exploring. I am looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful corner of Greece.
It’s funny, I almost forgot to pack insect repellent and extra memory cards for my camera! Luckily, Maximilian reminded me, proving once again that he’s the most organized one in the family. These little things can make a big difference when you’re out exploring. I'm also glad I packed light jackets, as the evenings can get a bit cool.

As I sit here writing, the sounds of the sea lulling me into a peaceful state, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. This trip to Samaria Gorge has been everything I hoped for and more. It’s a reminder that sometimes the greatest adventures are the ones shared with those you love most. And as we prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring.