THE SAMARIA GORGE
Crete is a perfect island for guest that like to discover it on their feet. There's no better way to meet the locals and to explore the nature when you leave all motorized engines in their parking.
Around the 3 Mountain formations named Ida, Lefka Ori and Dikti you will find the best areas to enjoy long daily walks or just to be for a few Km in the country side. The best period for walking is the Spring time which starts in Crete already in February, because the island lies in the subtropical zones from our globe.
Botanist and Birdwatchers are always impressed by the numerous beauties that the Cretan Nature has to offer. Once you are here on the island you'll find a good selection of books giving you detailed information about the flowers or birds you'll see on your hikes.
Before even landing on our island most tourist already know that Crete is the island from the longest Gorge in Europe, The Samaria. This National Park starts high up in the Mountains of the Lefka Ori in the prefecture of Chania. It is a walk starting at the village Omalos on 1200 Meter above sea level. Once you pass the entrance you will walk down on a steep path for about 4 KM till a level of 400 Meters. Than the walk changes with paved paths but also trough a rough dry river bed. The liquid river apears ussually after the deserted village Santa Maria which was the living place of the Sfakiotes, the proud Cretans that kept this territory always in Cretan hands even with the various occupiers that we had in Crete. During the walk you'll cross and go along the river and you will enter the area of the Sideros Portes. The Iron Gate, where the distance between the uprising mountains is only about 4 Meters width. It is the most photographed piece of nature in Europe and once you pass it you will feel tired, but also happy that you completed this walk. Although you are not at the end yet, there is 5 more Km. to go before coming in the village Agia Roumeli where the Sfakians live today and where you can have a good meal to fill your stomach after this day full with efforts. There is no bar or taverna in the gorge so make sure you start with food in your rugbag. Water is plenty at hand from the natural sources in the gorge and make sure you wear the right footwear.
Because your walk starts high up in the mountains and you end it on the seaside, most tourist make this walk as an organized excursion. This program available from travelagencies or Tour operators includes the boattrip to either Chora Sfakion or Paleochora. From there your organizer will transfer you back by coach to your holiday resort.
If you stay in the Rethymno area, you may reserve your seat in the coach which leaves every day for the long way. Pick up service from the hotels is included:
click http://groups.msn.com/TOURISTSERVICESCRETE 
For more walking tips see walks WALKS ON CRETE 2 WALKS ON CRETE 3
WALKS ON CRETE 4
Are you interested to make a walking holiday with your guide, accommodation and meals included ? Click here: http://www.exodus.co.uk/holidays/tvc.html
