Family Adventure in the Samaria Gorge

Crete's Coastal Charms and Hidden Treasures

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of relaxation and exploration that perfectly captures the spirit of Crete. We traded the rugged trails of the Samaria Gorge for the soothing embrace of the coastline, discovering hidden beaches and stepping back in time amidst ancient ruins. It's amazing how much variety this island offers; one day we're conquering a challenging hike, and the next we're basking in the sun, feeling the soft caress of the Mediterranean breeze.


Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Pension Paradise. Maria and Giorgos are the perfect hosts; their warmth and hospitality made us feel right at home. I savored some local yogurt with honey and fresh fruit, a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to start the day. Greta enjoyed a hearty omelet, while Marko devoured a stack of pancakes – fueling up for our beach adventures. It's these small, family-run establishments that truly give you a taste of authentic Cretan life.


With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to Akrogiali beach. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the coastline. As we approached Akrogiali, the turquoise waters beckoned, promising a refreshing escape from the midday sun. The beach was lovely, embraced by a palm tree oasis, a haven of serenity. Marko was thrilled to build sandcastles, while Greta and I simply relaxed on the sun loungers, soaking up the Vitamin D. The water was crystal clear, and I couldn't resist taking a dip, the coolness a welcome contrast to the warm sand. Akrogiali is a perfect spot for families, with shallow waters and plenty of space for kids to play.


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

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that allow us to slow down, to savor the simple pleasures, and to connect with the beauty that surrounds us.

After a couple of hours of beachside bliss, we decided to venture towards Lissos Beach. This required a bit more effort, as Lissos is only accessible by boat or by foot. We opted for a short hike, a decision I'm so glad we made. The path from Sougia to Lissos is beautiful, winding through a small gorge and offering glimpses of the rugged coastline.


Discover Lissos Beach, a serene escape in Crete offering stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and adventure.

As we approached Lissos, the remnants of the ancient city began to appear, adding a layer of historical intrigue to our beach excursion. It was fascinating to wander through the ruins, imagining what life must have been like in this once-thriving port. Marko, surprisingly, was captivated by the ancient stones, asking endless questions about the people who lived here centuries ago. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding – seeing the world through his curious eyes.


Lissos Beach itself is a secluded gem, a small pebble beach nestled amidst dramatic mountain scenery. The water was incredibly clear, perfect for a refreshing swim after our hike. We spent a blissful hour swimming and exploring the coastline, feeling like we had discovered our own private paradise. I made sure to bring my dive shoes because I read that there are a lot of sharp rocks.


For lunch, we stopped at SAMARIA restaurant, where we enjoyed traditional Cretan dishes. I opted for the grilled lamb, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor, while Greta savored a fresh Greek salad. Marko, of course, went for the pasta, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The restaurant had a lovely family atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming.


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

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through Agia Roumeli, a charming village that serves as the endpoint for the Samaria Gorge hike. We popped into the Olive wood Art Shop , where I was mesmerized by the intricate carvings and unique creations. I ended up buying a beautiful olive wood bowl, a memento of our time in Crete and a reminder of the island's rich artistic heritage. The owner of the shop, a friendly man with a white beard, shared stories of his travels around the world. It was a pleasure to chat with him and learn about the art of olive wood craftsmanship.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Taverna Tarra for dinner. The taverna boasts a stunning view of the sea, creating a magical ambiance as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. We savored fresh seafood, grilled to perfection and accompanied by local wine. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, the perfect way to end a day of exploration and relaxation.


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

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Drakolaki Cave and hike the Papakefala summit and Kormokopos cave trail. It sounds like another adventurous day awaits, and I can't wait to see what hidden gems we'll uncover. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at the Liviko bar in the evening.


Crete continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's an island that seamlessly blends natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, creating an unforgettable experience for the whole family. I'm so grateful for these moments, these shared experiences that will stay with us long after we've left this magical island. I'm glad we decided to be spontaneous with our accommodation, it's given us a chance to really explore the local towns.