Location: Samaria Gorge, Lefka Ori National Park, CreteLength: about 16 kilometres
Starting point: Omalos Plateau
Destination: Agia Roumeli (on the Libyan Sea)
Season: October
Duration: 3.5 hours (guided group tour, officially planned for 5 hours)
Highlights: varied landscape, impressive rock formations, crystal-clear water
It was a warm October morning when our bus wound its way down the serpentine road through the Omalos Plateau. Even the ride itself was an adventure – rugged cliffs, wild goats, and deep below us the valley that awaited. We were full of excitement: my two daughters and I, ready for one of Crete’s greatest natural adventures.
Our tour guides greeted us already on the bus, explaining the schedule and giving us a few useful tips. When we finally reached the entrance of the gorge, the sun had already climbed above the mountains. The path began steep and rocky – the first four to five kilometres were the toughest. The ground was uneven, covered with loose stones, and we had to watch every step carefully. But the fresh air, the sound of running water, and the thrill of what lay ahead filled us with energy.
We knew we couldn’t waste time – if we missed the ferry at the end of the gorge, that leaves only once a day (in the afternoon), we would have to stay overnight in Agia Roumeli, which was impossible, because the next day we had our flight home. So we walked quickly, focused, step by step.
We stopped four times along the way – short breaks of about fifteen minutes each – just long enough to grab a quick snack, drink some water, refill our bottles at the springs, and use the toilets. Each part of the trail was different: sometimes narrow and mysterious, sometimes wide and bright, with breathtaking views.
After only three and a half hours, we finally saw the light at the end of the gorge – the seaWe were the first ones from our group to reach the exit. A wave of pride, relief, and deep joy washed over us.
In Agia Roumeli, we sat down at a small tavern right by the water. The sun sparkled on the waves, and we ordered cold beer – it tasted like pure refreshment. I enjoyed a delicious moussaka, one daughter chose fresh fish, and the other gyros with tzatziki. We laughed, talked, and felt that unique happiness that comes after an unforgettable adventure.
Then we went down to the beach, changed into the swimsuits we had brought in our backpacks, and jumped into the crystal-clear water. It was wonderfully warm, the sea was calm, and we swam for a long time, with the sun glittering above us. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day – a moment we’ll never forget.
The next day, however, we truly felt what we had accomplished: we had the worst muscle soreness imaginable, and it lasted for three full days! The funniest moment was at the airport, climbing the stairs into the plane and down again – every single step hurt, and we just couldn’t stop laughing. The best part? Even laughing hurt!
But despite everything – or maybe because of it – we know: it was totally worth it! And I
would – or rather, will – do this hike again … maybe next time without the time pressure!
