Family Adventure in Samaria Gorge

Farewell, Crete!

As our family adventure in Samaria Gorge draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was a blend of spiritual reflection, intellectual curiosity, and the simple joy of exploring local treasures. It’s amazing how a single day can encapsulate so much of what makes travel meaningful – connection, discovery, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

Our final day in Crete began with a leisurely breakfast at Pension Paradise [i]. The name certainly lived up to its promise! We enjoyed fresh pastries and local honey, fueling up for a day of exploration. Astrid was particularly fond of the homemade marmalade, declaring it the best she’d ever tasted. Maximilian and I savored the strong Greek coffee, a perfect start to the morning.

After breakfast, we set out to visit the Orthodox Church of Holy Prophet Elias. The drive itself was a treat, winding through picturesque Cretan villages. As we ascended the hill upon which the church was built, the panoramic views of Chania were breathtaking. The vibrant city stretched out before us, meeting the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

The church was a haven of tranquility. Inside, intricate frescoes and religious iconography told stories from the Bible, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of the Greek Orthodox faith. We lit candles and took a moment for quiet contemplation, a peaceful pause amidst our travels. Astrid was fascinated by the colorful depictions of saints, asking endless questions about their stories. It was a beautiful cultural experience to share with her. Afterwards, we strolled through the gardens surrounding the church, enjoying the serene atmosphere and stunning views.


Discover the Orthodox Church of Holy Prophet Elias in Chania, a serene spot offering stunning views and a rich cultural experience in the heart of Crete.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest moments.

Next on our itinerary was the Greleskas Observatory. Located in the White Mountains, the observatory offered a different kind of spiritual experience – a chance to connect with the cosmos. The drive to the observatory was an adventure in itself, with winding roads offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As we climbed higher, the air grew crisp and the scenery became more dramatic. We learned that the observatory also serves as a shelter for the endangered Cretan Ibex.

At the observatory, we were greeted by a friendly astronomer who showed us around and explained the workings of the telescopes. Although we didn't get to do any stargazing during the day, learning about the universe and our place in it was truly inspiring. Astrid was particularly excited about the idea of distant galaxies and black holes, peppering the astronomer with questions about space travel and alien life. Maximilian, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the mechanics of the telescopes.


Discover the beauty of birdwatching at Greleskas Observatory in Anatolikos Selinos, where nature and tranquility come together in a breathtaking setting.

After our celestial adventure, we were ready for lunch. We stopped at Taverna Tarra in Agia Roumeli. The taverna offered a delightful array of traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes. Maximilian and I shared a plate of moussaka, while Astrid devoured a simple but delicious pasta dish. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


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 do some souvenir shopping before heading back to pack. We visited the Greek Unique Concept Gift Store. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted items, each with its own story to tell. I was immediately drawn to the intricate jewelry, while Maximilian admired the pottery. Astrid, of course, gravitated towards the colorful toys.


Explore the Greek Unique Concept Gift Store in Rethymno for authentic souvenirs and unique gifts that celebrate Greece's rich culture and artistry.

I ended up buying a beautiful silver necklace with a traditional Greek design, a perfect reminder of our time in Crete. Maximilian found a hand-painted ceramic bowl that he plans to use for his homemade dips. And Astrid chose a small wooden toy, a replica of a traditional Greek fishing boat. The owner of the shop was incredibly helpful, sharing stories about the artists and the inspiration behind their work. It was a wonderful way to support local artisans and bring a piece of Greece back home with us.

Our final dinner in Crete was at SAMARIA restaurant [i]. We reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, from the challenging hike through the gorge to the peaceful moments in the mountains. We savored the delicious Cretan cuisine one last time, knowing that we would carry the flavors and memories with us long after we left.


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

As I write this, we’re packing our bags, preparing for our flight back to Berlin. It’s always bittersweet to leave a place that has captured your heart, but I know that the memories we’ve made in Samaria Gorge will stay with us forever. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a chance to connect with nature, explore a new culture, and strengthen our bond as a family. And while our Samaria Gorge adventure may be over, I know that many more adventures await us in the future.

Tomorrow, we head back to Berlin, filled with memories of our Cretan adventure. It’s time to return to our everyday lives, but with a renewed sense of appreciation for the beauty and wonder that exists in the world. Until next time, farewell from Crete!