SAMARIA

Samaria - The Samaria Gorge

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The Samariá Gorge is a National Park of Greece since 1962 on the island of Crete – a major tourist attraction of the island – and a World's Biosphere Reserve.

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The village of Samariá lies just inside the gorge. It was finally abandoned by the last remaining inhabitants in 1962 to make way for the park. The village and the gorge take their names from the village's ancient church, Óssia María.

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The most famous part of the gorge is the stretch known as the Gates (or, albeit incorrectly, as "Iron Gates"), where the sides of the gorge close in to a width of only four meters and soar up to a height of almost 300 meters (980 feet).

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There are several other endemic species in the gorge and surrounding area, as well as many other species of flowers and birds.

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Good hiking boots are recommended, also sneakers can be worn. Water can be obtained during the walk.

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The entrance fee of €5.00 (free for kids under age 15) are included in the tourprice.

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