Samaria National Park

Samaria National Park

Samaria National Park is a protected natural area in southwestern Crete, established in 1962 to preserve the unique landscape and wildlife of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori). It covers about 48 km², with its main highlight being the Samaria Gorge, a dramatic canyon that attracts thousands of hikers every year.

The park begins at the Omalos Plateau (around 1,200 meters above sea level) and descends all the way to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea.

• Total hiking distance: ~16 km through the gorge (about 18 km including access paths)
• Elevation drop: over 1,200 meters