Samaria Gorge from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli

Date of your route : Sep 05, 2026
Ease of following the route : ★★★★★ Very good
Route interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Very busy route : Yes

We walked the Samaria Gorge at the start of September. A really beautiful walk, but very busy. Well worth it!
We parked our car at the entrance to the Gorge (paid car park, €10; there’s someone at the car park entrance to show you where to park). We set off on the walk at 9.15 am: the descent is fairly shaded, but it gets quite hot by the time you reach the village of Agia Roumeli after leaving the Gorge. There are water points and rest areas along the route.
Return by boat (5.30 pm towards Sougia) then by public bus (KTEL) from Sougia back to the car park at the entrance to the gorge (arrival at the car park at 7.40 pm). It’s very easy to do this on your own without going through a travel agency. The boat was five minutes late, and the Ktel bus at Sougia harbour waits to make the connection. Return bus and boat tickets can be bought in advance on each company’s website; otherwise, you can buy them at the tiny shop next to the car park at the entrance to the gorge. Please note that the bus departs from and returns to La Chanee.

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Date of your route : Jul 06, 2026
Ease of following the route : ★★★★★ Very good
Route interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Very busy route : Yes

The Samaria Gorge is a must-do in Crete, and for good reason! However, it’s quite tricky to avoid using tour operators for the logistics (boat and bus, etc.), which means everyone sets off at almost the same time. So I’d advise those who can to pick up the pace during the first hour – when there aren’t many scenic views – to get away from the crowds and find some peace and quiet for the rest of the walk.
You’ll find toilets and water regularly along the entire route.

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