Samariá Gorge (National Park)
A 14km gorge that descends 1250 meters to sea level through some of Europe's most spectacular natural scenery. The walk up the gorge from south to north is pleasant for the main part but the last 3km, up the Xyloskala 'wooden staircase' is extremely tiring. Sensible shoes are essential. Most people take an organised tour or approach the top of the gorge by public bus from Chania and begin their walk from there, but there are also buses from nearer towns and ferries from the mouth of the gorge. Some people walk from the southern entrance just as far as the narrowest part of the gorge - the Iron Gates - then return to the sea. There is an entrance fee, payable at either end of the gorge, with tickets checked on on exit to ensure that no one remains in the park overnight.
