The gorge of Samaria
The gorge of Samaria is one of the biggest tourist
attractions in Crete. Over 250.000 people visit it every year! Still
interested and willing to brave the crowds? Then visit The
gorge of Samaria for details, maps and photos. |
The White Mountains
The White Mountains or Lefka Ori is the largest mountain range in
Crete, with over 30 summits above 2000m and cut by about 50 gorges.
They are the dominant feature of West Crete and a must for every
nature lover, offering innumerable walks and excursions. There are
plenty of photos in the Photos section of
this site
Famously known because it is the starting point for the walk through
the Samaria gorge the Omalos plateau is worth more than a cursory
glance. It is also the starting point of many beautiful mountain
walks, a place for the inhabitants of Chania to see the snow in winter
and for all to cool off in summer. |
Anopolis plateau
This is a really special place: a large plateau, its boundaries
defined by the White Mountains to the North and plunging towards
the Libyan sea to the South, it is maybe the heart of Western Crete,
having never been invaded by the Turks. It is still a place of strong
traditions and village life. The nature is really beautiful, there
are a lot of interesting walks, abandoned villages and ancient chapels. |
Imbros gorge
The walk through the gorge of Imbros is a popular alternative
to the Samaria gorge for those who prefer a shorter walk. It is also
far less crowded (but by no means empty!).
The gorge of Imbros is also used by individuals and tour organizers as an alternative
to the Samaria gorge when this one is closed to the public , generally between
October and the beginning of May. |
Amari valley
The Amari valley, south-east of Rethimnon is the heartland of Crete.
Located between Mt. Psiloritis and Kedros, it harbours around 40
unspoilt villages set amid a lush landscape.
You will need your own transport to visit the area as the public transport
network is not well developed.
Argiroupolis
Situated in the hinterlands of Rethimnon, Argiroupolis is the perfect
place to escape from the heat in the summer. The lower village is
a watery oasis formed by mountain springs. Running through aqueducts,
washing down walls, seeping from stones and pouring from spigots,
the gushing springwater supplies the entire city of Rethimnon.
The luxuriant vegetation, the shade and the coolness of the springs make it
the perfect spot for lingering over lunch in one of the local tavernas.
Argiroupolis is built on the remains of the ancient city of Lappa and there
is plenty to explore.
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Kournas Lake
Kournas lake may not be as exotic to foreign visitors
as it is to the Cretans for whom it is the only sweet water lake
on the island.
Located 3 km inland from Georgioupolis, at the foot of the White Mountains,
its atmosphere is more reminiscent of Switzerland than Crete.
The clear water is great for swimming and constantly changes colour according
to the weather and time of the day.
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