Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is a major tourist attraction located in southwestern Crete, Greece. It is a national park and a World Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem.

The gorge is approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) long, starting at an altitude of 1,250 meters (4,100 feet) at Omalos, in the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), and descending to the village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea. The most famous, and narrowest, part of the gorge is known as "The Gates" or "Sideroportes" (Iron Gates), where the width is only a few meters.

The gorge was formed by a river flowing between the White Mountains and Mount Volakias. It is home to several endemic species of flora and fauna, including the kri-kri, a Cretan wild goat.

Hiking the Samaria Gorge is a popular activity, typically taking between 5 to 7 hours to complete. The trail is well-maintained but rocky, requiring appropriate footwear. The gorge is typically open from May to October, depending on weather conditions.