Samarias Gorge
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Samaria Gorge is one of the National Parks of Greece and the only one in Crete. It starts at an altitude of 1227 m. at Xyloskalo near the village of Omalos(70 Km. from Hania) and ends after an 18 km walk to the beach at the village of Agia Roumeli on the south coast of Crete.
The best way to reach Omalos is by public bus, or join an organised group. You can also reach Omalos by private car, but that means that once you reach the beach at Agia Roumeli, you have to climb back to the top to pick up the car (... not recommended) .
The Gorge is open to visitors from May to October. Closures can occur during this period in case of rains or any other danger.
This is mainly for safety reasons, since the footpath follows the river bed, which overflows quite often during winter. The best time is probably early May and late September. At these times, their are less people visiting the gorge.
Walking through the gorge is an experience that a visitor should enjoy. People have been known to walk through it in 3-4 hours but a more sedate pace would allow the visitor time to enjoy it more.
Usually people start their walk at 7-8 in the morning and come out to the beach at about 6 in the afternoon. Staying overnight in the gorge is not permitted.
The footpath down the gorge is maintained by the park authority. Park guides costantly patrol the gorge and are always available for assistance. Smoking is not permitted inside the park, and stopping for a break is only allowed on certain resting stops every 2-3 kilometers.
Omalos is one of the last shelters of the mountain goat of Crete (kri-kri). The flora is extensive ranging from high cypress trees to flowers and herbs.The river flows to small lakes and waterfalls.
SAMARIA VILLAGE
Halfway through the park lies the village of Samaria that was abandoned when the Gorge became a Park.
The authorities have restored the buildings, which are now uninhabitted, and a shady place with benches and tables is provided for the visitors rest.
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