Family Adventure in the Samaria Gorge

Through the Doors of Samaria

The second day of our Cretan adventure dawned with the promise of a challenge and the allure of unparalleled natural beauty. Today, we were set to tackle a portion of the legendary SAMARIA Gorge, a trek I had been eagerly anticipating since we finalized our travel plans. It wasn't just about the hike; it was about immersing ourselves in the heart of Crete, feeling the ancient stones beneath our feet, and sharing an unforgettable experience with my family.



We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Pension Paradise. Maria and Giorgos, the owners, are the kind of people who make you feel instantly at home. The breakfast they prepared was a delightful spread of local cheeses, fresh bread, and homemade marmalade – fuel for the adventure ahead. Marko, of course, devoured his share of the pastries, his energy levels already soaring in anticipation. Greta and I enjoyed some coffee while taking in the stunning view of the mountains surrounding Agia Roumeli.


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

With our backpacks packed and spirits high, we set off towards the Iron Gates, the narrowest and most famous section of the Samaria Gorge. The entrance to the trail was just a short walk from our guesthouse, and soon we were enveloped by the towering cliffs and the sounds of nature. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers.


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

The initial part of the hike was relatively easy, following a well-maintained path along the riverbed. Marko, ever the explorer, was fascinated by the small lizards darting among the rocks. Greta, with her keen eye for detail, pointed out various plants and flowers, adding a touch of botanical education to our adventure. I was simply happy to be surrounded by my family, breathing in the fresh air and marveling at the sheer scale of the gorge.


  As we ventured deeper into the gorge, the path became more challenging, with rocky terrain and steeper inclines. Marko, despite his initial enthusiasm, started to feel the strain. I hoisted him onto my shoulders for a bit, carrying him through some of the trickier sections. Greta, ever the supportive wife, kept us all motivated with encouraging words and sips of water from our bottles.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that push you beyond your comfort zone.

After a couple of hours of hiking, we finally reached the Iron Gates. The sight was truly awe-inspiring. The gorge narrowed to a mere four meters wide, with the cliffs soaring almost 300 meters above us. It felt as though we were walking through a natural cathedral, the towering walls creating a sense of both grandeur and intimacy. I could only imagine what it must have been like for the freedom fighters who sought refuge in this gorge throughout history.



Marko was speechless, his eyes wide with wonder. Greta and I exchanged a knowing glance, both of us feeling a profound sense of accomplishment. We had made it to the Iron Gates, and we had done it together as a family. We took some photos to capture the moment, knowing that these images would serve as lasting reminders of our shared adventure.



Leaving the Iron Gates behind, we continued our trek towards the Castle Agia Roumeli. The path climbed steadily uphill, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and the Libyan Sea in the distance. The castle itself was in ruins, but its strategic location was evident, perched high on a hill overlooking the village and the entrance to the gorge. I tried to imagine the Ottoman soldiers who once occupied this fortress, their gaze fixed on the rugged landscape, ever vigilant for signs of rebellion.


Discover the historical charm and breathtaking views of Castle Agia Roumeli, a hidden gem on the stunning island of Crete.

Marko enjoyed exploring the ruins, pretending to be a knight defending the castle from invaders. Greta and I took some time to admire the panoramic views, feeling a sense of connection to the history and the natural beauty of this place.



Our final stop for the day was the Kormokopou Cave, a hidden gem nestled in the hills above Agia Roumeli. The cave was a bit of a detour from our main route, but I had read about its unique geological formations and its refreshing spring, and I was eager to explore it. The path to the cave was steep and rocky, but the reward was well worth the effort.


Discover the enchanting Kormokopou Cave in Hora Sfakion, a natural wonder featuring stunning stalactite formations and rich history.

The cave itself was relatively small, but its cool, damp interior provided a welcome respite from the heat of the day. The spring water was crystal clear and ice-cold, quenching our thirst and revitalizing our spirits. Marko was fascinated by the bats flitting about in the shadows, while Greta marveled at the intricate patterns of the rock formations.



After exploring the cave, we made our way back to Agia Roumeli, our bodies tired but our hearts full. We decided to have a late lunch at Taverna Tarra, a beachfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and friendly service. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled octopus, fried calamari, and a traditional Greek salad, savoring the flavors of Crete while watching the sun slowly sink into the sea.


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

As the day drew to a close, we strolled along the beach, the waves gently lapping at our feet. We stopped at POSEIDON COCKTAIL BEACH BAR for a round of drinks, toasting to our successful day of adventure and to the bonds of family that had been strengthened by our shared experience. Marko enjoyed a vibrant mocktail, while Greta and I enjoyed a glass of local wine, as we watched the last rays of sun paint the sky with brilliant colors.


Discover the beauty of Agia Roumeli at Poseidon Cocktail Beach Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet breathtaking sea views for an unforgettable experience.

Back at Pension Paradise, we settled into our cozy rooms, feeling a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today had been a day of challenges and rewards, of breathtaking beauty and shared moments. We had conquered the Iron Gates, explored ancient ruins, and discovered hidden caves. But more importantly, we had created memories that would last a lifetime. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but wonder what adventures tomorrow would bring. We are planning to visit the Omalos plateau and the White Mountains Forest Preserve. I'm also hoping we can find some time to shop for some Cretan natural products. Good night from Crete!