Thing to do
Hike the Samaria Gorge
Chania, Crete
About Hike the Samaria Gorge
The classic Samaria walk starts at Xyloskalo on the Omalos plateau and finishes at Agia Roumeli, about 16 km later. Most visitors return by boat to Chora Sfakion or Sougia and then by bus. The gorge operates seasonally; check the current opening status and closing time before setting out.
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Where to eat near Hike the Samaria Gorge
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More to see around Chania
BeachBalos Lagoon
A shallow lagoon on the Gramvousa peninsula in north-west Crete, reached by boat from Kissamos or on foot from a rough unpaved road.
Thing to doBoat trip to Balos and Gramvousa
A day boat trip from Kissamos port to the Gramvousa islet and the Balos lagoon.
BeachElafonissi Beach
A protected beach and islet in south-west Chania, part of the Natura 2000 network, known for its shallow water and pink-tinted sand.
AttractionSamaria Gorge
A 16 km gorge in the White Mountains National Park, walked one way from Omalos to Agia Roumeli.
BeachFalassarna Beach
A wide, west-facing sandy bay in western Chania, next to the ancient city of Falassarna.
VillageLoutro
A small south-coast village with no road access, reached by boat or on foot.
BeachSeitan Limania
A narrow rocky inlet on the Akrotiri peninsula, reached by a steep unmarked footpath.
AttractionChania Old Venetian Harbour
The Venetian-era harbour of Chania, with the Egyptian lighthouse and the old town behind it.
Information source: Region of Crete official tourism portal · last checked 16/09/2026
Good to know
- Is Hike the Samaria Gorge worth visiting?
- Hike the Samaria Gorge is one of the thing to do highlights we list in Crete. This page covers what to know before you go and which restaurants are nearby.
- Where can I eat near Hike the Samaria Gorge?
- Nearby restaurants are listed on this page. Those already on Woltaro can be booked online; the others are shown for reference with their address and map location.
- When is the best time to visit Hike the Samaria Gorge?
- Shoulder season, late spring and early autumn, is generally quieter and cooler than midsummer, when popular spots in Crete are busiest around midday.
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