Samaria Gorge from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli

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A must-do hike in Crete, the Samaria Gorge offers spectacular scenery in the heart of the national park of the same name. The trail starts at Xyloskalo (1,250 metres above sea level) and descends to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, following an impressive 16-kilometre canyon.

The route is very well marked: just follow the descent along the entire route. The start is the most demanding part, with a steep and sometimes slippery slope; handrails have been installed to make it easier to progress. The path then alternates between pine forests, rocky passages and river crossings, before reaching the narrowest part of the gorge, which is only a few metres wide.

Throughout the journey, several clearly marked checkpoints allow you to measure your progress and find places to rest. The arrival in Agia Roumeli, on the shores of the Libyan Sea, rewards your efforts with the opportunity to swim and enjoy the village's taverns.

Details

n°83886671
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  • Walking
    Activity: Walking
  • ↔
    Distance: 8.90 mi
  • ◔
    Average duration: 7h 45 
  • ▲
    Difficulty: Difficult
  • ⚐
    Back to start: No
  • ↗
    Ascent: + 4,167 ft
  • ↘
    Descent: - 8,241 ft
  • ▲
    Highest point: 4,134 ft
  • ▼
    Lowest point: 3 ft
  • ⚐ Country: Greece
  • ⚑
    Start: N 35.307663° / E 23.918506°
  • ⚑
    End: N 35.229125° / E 23.960371°
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Waypoints

  1. S : mi 0 - alt. 4,134 ft - Entrance to the Samaria Gorge
  2. 1 : mi 6.71 - alt. 640 ft - Gates
  3. 2 : mi 7.84 - alt. 184 ft - Palaia Agia Roumeli
  4. E : mi 8.9 - alt. 59 ft - Agia Roumeli

Reviews and comments

5 / 5
Based on 1 review
Ease of following the route
5 / 5
Route interest
5 / 5
CATBER
CATBER

Overall rating : 5 / 5

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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Other walks in the area

Walking Descent through the Agia Irini Gorge

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Descente des gorges d'Agia Irini
↔4.41 mi ↗+869 ft ↘-2,411 ft ◔2h 45 ▲Moderate
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Set within Samaria National Park, this hike takes you through the Agia Irini Gorge. The site is off the beaten track, offers spectacular scenery and is a lovely alternative to the Samaria Gorge. The Agia Irini Gorge runs through the western part of the White Mountains, taking you north of Sougia and to the shores of the Libyan Sea. Please note: there is an entry fee (€2 per person in 2019).

Walking From Sougia to the archaeological site of Lissos

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↔1.93 mi ↗+791 ft ↘-538 ft ◔1h 35 ▲Moderate
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A charming hike starting from Sougia. You will be able to enjoy spectacular views. The archaeological site is simple but very interesting. Excavations by the University of Crete are ongoing. From the site, it is only a short walk (200 metres) to the beach where you can cool off.

Walking From Chora Sfakion to Loutro

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↔2.81 mi ↗+896 ft ↘-1,161 ft ◔2h 05 ▲Moderate
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A superb walk along the coast with the option of stopping several times along the way to swim. Bring plenty of water as the walk is in direct sunlight. You can return the same way or by boat

Walking From Chora Sfakion to Loutros

Visorando Member
↔4.19 mi ↗+1,312 ft ↘-1,325 ft ◔2h 20 ▲Moderate
⚑Departure from Greece
Very pretty route along the coast from Chora Sfakion to Loutros. Passes through pretty coves and turquoise beaches, with a beautiful view of the village of Loutros on arrival. The first part from Chora Skafion is on the road, but then a pretty trail awaits you. There are a few technical sections with pebbles, but overall it's a fun hike. Make sure you wear good shoes.

Walking Descent of the Imbros Gorge

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Descente des Gorges d'Imbros
↔3.77 mi ↗+207 ft ↘-2,149 ft ◔1h 55 ▲Moderate
⚑Departure from Greece
Less well known but also less crowded and more shaded than the Samaria Gorge, the Imbros Gorge offers a beautiful descent almost to the Libyan Sea.We did this descent in the middle of August on a fairly hot day and didn't suffer from the heat at all, as we left at 8:30 a.m. and spent 80% of the time in the shade.The descent took us two hours, taking our time (photos).The descent costs €10 per person (there is a small hut at the start of the descent with someone there)and the taxi back up costs €25.

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