A Miracle of Nature – Samaria Gorge

Setting on a hike through Samaria Gorge is one of the must-do activities all jetsetters must do when in Crete. Known locally as the Farangas, Samaria Gorge is the most famous natural landmark in Crete and undoubtedly the most breathtaking gorge found on the island.

The gorge is found within the dominating White Mountains (Asproi Oroi). The 18-kilometre Samaria Gorge is in fact the longest gorge in Europe. Most adventurers enter the gorge from Xyloskalo, where it is more than 1200 metres above sea level. Enthusiastic trekkers follow the gorge across the coastal village of Saint Roumeli that is found on the southern side of the island.

Besides being the longest gorge across Europe, Samaria Gorge is also famed for being home to rich and rare flora and fauna as well as wild animal life. Multiple species that live within the gorge are so rare they are protected by legislation. Research has revealed that the Samaria Gorge is home to more than 450 kinds of plants. It must be noted that it is strictly prohibited to remove plants and flowers from within the gorge. The Kri-Kri, the Cretan wild goat, also lives with the flourishing gorge.

Samaria Gorge boasts with rich vegetation as it overflows with towering pinewoods and cypresses. The image of the forest-covered woods brings to mind how the island used to look like back in the days when Crete was known, used to build vessels.

What are you waiting for? Let’s set on an amazing adventure through Samaria Gorge and stay at Louis Creta Princess!