Family Adventure in the Samaria Gorge

A Day of Cosmic Wonder and Cave Exploration

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of celestial observation and subterranean exploration that truly captured the diverse beauty of Crete. We started our day with a hearty breakfast at SAMARIA, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. Little did we know that we were about to journey from the stars to the depths of the earth, all within a single day.

Our first stop was the Greleskas Observatory, nestled high in the White Mountains. The drive up was an adventure in itself, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Even though I work with renewable energy solutions back in Heidelberg, I've always been fascinated by astronomy. Reaching the observatory, I felt a sense of childlike wonder, eager to peer into the vastness of space.


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

The observatory itself is a beautiful stone building, and I learned that it also serves as a wildlife observatory for the endangered Cretan Ibex. The views from here were simply breathtaking, stretching across the gorge of Agia Irini. The crisp mountain air and the sense of being so close to the sky was exhilarating. Greta and Marko were equally captivated, and Marko peppered the staff with questions about planets and stars, his curiosity shining brighter than any constellation. Although we couldn't do any actual stargazing since it was daytime, learning about the research conducted here and the efforts to protect the local wildlife was truly inspiring. I made a mental note to check if they have open days in the future, perhaps a reason to return to Crete.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in conquering mountains, but in understanding the universe and protecting the delicate balance of our own world.

After our celestial interlude, we descended back into the valleys, our sights set on Zarana's caves. The shift from the open skies to the enclosed depths of the earth was quite dramatic. Zarana's caves are shrouded in mystery, with local legends adding to their allure. I've always been drawn to caves; there's something about the unknown, the hidden beauty sculpted by time and nature, that sparks my imagination.


Discover the stunning natural beauty of Zarana's Caves in Sfakia, Greece, a remarkable hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Navigating the caves required a bit of scrambling, which Marko absolutely loved. Greta, ever the cautious one, kept a close eye on him, but even she couldn't help but be impressed by the intricate formations within the caves. The air was cool and damp, and the silence was broken only by the occasional drip of water. It felt like stepping into another world, a world hidden beneath the surface of our own. We spent a good hour exploring the various chambers, marveling at the stalactites and stalagmites, and imagining the stories these caves could tell.

For lunch, we stopped at Taverna Tarra [ITINERARY OF TODAY], a charming local eatery that came highly recommended. The food was simple but delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients that Crete is known for. We feasted on grilled meats, fresh salads, and crusty bread, all washed down with local wine. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures.


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

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we found ourselves drawn to the local Raki Bar [ITINERARY OF TODAY]. Now, I'm not usually one for strong spirits, but when in Crete…! I figured it would be rude not to sample the local firewater. The bar was a lively place, filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to enjoy the Cretan hospitality. I ordered a round of raki, and we all took a tentative sip. It was potent, to say the least, but it had a certain charm. We ended up chatting with some locals, learning about their lives and traditions, and sharing stories of our own. It was a truly authentic experience, one that I'll cherish long after we leave Crete.


Discover the authentic flavors of Cretan culture at Raki Bar in Sougia, where local raki and wines meet breathtaking views and warm hospitality.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we decided to have dinner at Rousios [ITINERARY OF TODAY]. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and we enjoyed a hearty meal, reminiscing about the day's adventures. Marko was already fast asleep by the time we got back, dreaming of stars and caves, no doubt. Greta and I sat on the balcony, sipping local wine and enjoying the peace and quiet of the Cretan night.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Rousios in Agia Roumeli, where tradition meets stunning landscapes and unforgettable flavors.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning a beach day, exploring Akrogiali beach and Lissos Beach [ITINERARY OF TOMORROW]. I'm particularly excited about Lissos Beach, as I've heard it's only accessible by boat or foot, promising a secluded and tranquil escape. We'll also be stopping by the Olive wood Art Shop [ITINERARY OF TOMORROW], hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home. I'm also hoping to try out Pension Paradise for breakfast [ITINERARY OF TOMORROW], I've heard great things about their local pastries!

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel. It's about the unexpected discoveries, the chance encounters, and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in a different culture. Crete has a way of surprising you, of offering something new and exciting around every corner. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

And as I drift off to sleep, I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure in this beautiful island. From stargazing to cave exploring, from sampling local delicacies to connecting with the warm-hearted locals, Crete has truly captured our hearts. The blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture is simply irresistible. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the moment, and create memories that will last a lifetime. I'm so grateful for this opportunity to share this experience with my family, and I can't wait to see what other treasures Crete has in store for us.

As I reflect on the day, I realize that travel isn't just about seeing new places; it's about opening our minds and hearts to new experiences. It's about connecting with people from different backgrounds, learning about their traditions, and sharing our own stories. It's about stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. And it's about creating memories that will bind us together as a family for years to come.

Crete has given us so much already, and we still have several days left to explore. I'm excited to see what other adventures await us, what other hidden gems we'll uncover, and what other unforgettable moments we'll create. This family adventure in the Samaria Gorge is turning out to be everything I had hoped for, and more. And as I close my eyes, I can't help but smile, knowing that we're making memories that will last a lifetime.