Adventurous Escape to Samaria Gorge

A Day of Discovery in Southern Crete

Today was all about embracing the rugged beauty of southern Crete. After several days of traversing the magnificent Samaria Gorge, David and I, along with our friends, were eager to explore some of the island's lesser-known, yet equally captivating, natural wonders. We set our sights on Tripiti Gorge and the quaint village of Rousiés, ready for a day filled with adventure and authentic Cretan experiences.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tripiti Gorge in Crete, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at SAMARIA, a local spot in our camping area known for its traditional Cretan fare. The strong Greek coffee and freshly baked bread gave us the perfect boost of energy for the day ahead. Fuelled up, we packed our essentials – hiking boots, water bottles, and of course, my camera – and set off towards Tripiti Gorge. I made sure I had a portable phone charger with me this time, after almost running out of battery the other day. I really need to remember these things!

The drive to Tripiti Gorge was an adventure in itself. The winding roads offered stunning views of the Cretan landscape, a mix of olive groves, rugged mountains, and the sparkling blue sea in the distance. As an environmental consultant, I couldn't help but admire the way the locals have managed to preserve the natural beauty of this island while also making a living from it. It's a delicate balance, and one that I find incredibly inspiring.

Arriving at Tripiti Gorge, we were immediately struck by its unique character. Unlike the well-trodden paths of Samaria, Tripiti felt wilder, more untouched. The gorge is named after the church of Panagia Tripiti, built into a cave, which adds to the area's mystique. The gorge itself is quite small and can even be crossed by car or motorbike. However, we decided to hike part of it, eager to experience its raw beauty up close. The December weather in Crete is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C, making it perfect for hiking.

The hike was challenging but rewarding. The terrain was uneven, and we had to watch our step carefully. In some parts, we were walking along a dried riverbed, surrounded by towering cliffs. The views were simply breathtaking. The rugged landscape, combined with the crisp winter air, created a sense of being completely immersed in nature. I could feel the stress of Berlin melting away with every step I took.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After exploring Tripiti Gorge, we drove to the nearby village of Rousiés. This charming village is nestled in the hills and offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan life. As we wandered through the narrow streets, we were greeted by friendly locals who were eager to share their stories and culture with us. It felt a world away from the bustling tourist resorts.


Explore Rousiés, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Crete, where stunning landscapes and rich history create an unforgettable experience.

We stopped for lunch at Taverna Tarra, a family-run restaurant in Rousiés known for its authentic Cretan cuisine. The owner, a warm and welcoming woman, greeted us with open arms and led us to a table overlooking the valley. We ordered a selection of local specialties, including dakos (a traditional Cretan salad), lamb with stamnagathi (a wild green), and of course, plenty of local wine. The food was simple but delicious, bursting with fresh, local flavors. As someone who loves global cuisine, I always appreciate experiencing authentic dishes in their place of origin. It's a way of connecting with the culture on a deeper level.

As we savored our meal, we chatted with the owner about life in Rousiés. She told us about the village's history, its traditions, and the challenges of living in a rural community in the 21st century. Her stories were both inspiring and humbling, reminding us of the importance of preserving these unique cultural landscapes. It was fascinating to hear about the local agriculture and how families have been farming the land for generations.

After lunch, we strolled through the village, admiring the traditional architecture and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. Rousiés is a village that seems to have been forgotten by time. The houses are built of stone, with wooden balconies and red-tiled roofs. The streets are narrow and winding, lined with olive trees and colorful flowers. It was like stepping back in time.

Before leaving Rousiés, we stopped at Kyma Cafe & Bar for a drink. It was the perfect spot to relax and reflect on our day. Sipping on a refreshing beverage, we watched the sunset over the mountains, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, one that I will cherish for a long time.


Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant atmosphere at Kyma Cafe & Bar in Agia Roumeli, where stunning sea views meet delightful refreshments.

For dinner, we returned to our campsite and enjoyed a delicious meal at Pension Paradise. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was excellent. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and discovery.


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

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Forest Kormokopou and the White Mountains Forest Preserve. I am excited to see more of Crete's natural beauty. Before that, we will have breakfast at Rousios. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Jacobs little shop -Hand made ceramics/jewellery & gifts.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Crete has a way of captivating your heart and soul. It's a place where you can disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature, culture, and yourself. And sharing this experience with David and our friends makes it even more special. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures!

I'm also reminded of how lucky I am to have David by my side on these adventures. His enthusiasm for exploring new places and his unwavering support make every trip even more memorable. Plus, he's always there to help me carry my camera gear!

This trip is a wonderful opportunity to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with nature and with each other. It's a reminder that the most valuable things in life are not material possessions, but rather experiences and relationships. And as we continue our journey through Samaria Gorge and beyond, I am excited to see what other treasures Crete has in store for us.