Worth visit around Chania

Samaria George

The longest gorge in Europe the Samari Gorge is a spectacular sight, it starts in on the Omalos Plateau in the Lefka Ori mountain and winds its way down 18 km, to the Libyan Sea. Created a national park in 1962, it is a one of the last reserves for the Cretan wild goat (kri-kri).

Organised tours are available and are the best way to see the Gorge, good walking shoes are required for this tour.

This tour is not recommended for small children or those who are not in reasonable shape; because once you start on the tour down the George there is no short cut out of it. The trip takes five to seven hours, starting at the top you descend into the gorge by a winding path with wooden handrails, the so called wooden stairs; the views are fantastic as the mountains tower above as you descend 1000m towards the bottom of the gorge.

After 4 km you will reach the tiny chapel of Agios Nikolaos, here if you are lucky you might see young wild goats grazing. Further along the trail you will reach the deserted village of Samaria, the inhabitants had to leave the area when the gorge became a national park

The tour continues towards the Iron Gates, at only 3m wide between the towering rocks it is the narrowest part of the gorge. Afew more kilometres you will reach the village of Agia Roumeli on the coast of the Libyan Sea, where you can rest your feet and quench your thirst.

Elafonissi

This small islet has a tragic past; in 1824 about 800 women and children sought refuge on the islet, the Turks who at the time were trying to subdue any signs of rebellion against their rule, found the way to the islet and duly slaughtered all the refugees. Today it is a more peaceful place, a couple of tavernas on the beach.

Falassarna

Falassarna was a powerful city in Hellenic times, well fortified and a good harbour, today the sea levels have receded so the remains are 300m above the shoreline. A quiet resort with good beaches nearby especially the “Pahia Ammos” which translates to thick sand. With small hotels and tavernas it is a ideal spot to relax.

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