• Hike 15 km through Samaria Gorge, from the White Mountains to the Libyan Sea.
• Refuel with local flavors at hand-picked tavernas in Omalos and Agia Roumeli.
• AUTOWAY gives you the freedom to start early, finish late, and travel stress-free.

👉 Tackle Crete’s most epic trail with ease ,  book your rental car with AUTOWAY.

Fuel up at Omalos before your descent.

Start your day early by driving to Xyloskalo, the trailhead of Samaria Gorge, perched 1,200 meters high in the White Mountains. 

Experience one of Europe’s most dramatic hikes.

 Hike past Agios Nikolaos Chapel, through shady pine forests and the ghostly stone ruins of Samaria Village. The real thrill comes at The Gates (also known as Iron Gates), a narrow passage where cliffs tower above you at just 3 meters apart. The entire hike takes 5–7 hours, covering around 15 km.

Celebrate your finish with seaside Cretan cuisine.

You’ll exit into Agia Roumeli, a car-free village resting on the Libyan Sea. Walk a few steps from the shore to Samaria Restaurant, known for its prawn saganaki and icy local beer. For a romantic sea view, try Calypso Restaurant, offering stuffed vine leaves, fresh octopus, and chilled house wine. Or unwind at Rebetiko Taverna, where you’ll find authentic slow-cooked lamb and live bouzouki music as the sun dips over the sea.

Cool off and explore before heading back.
Relax on Agia Roumeli Beach, just steps from the tavernas. If you have the energy, hike a short trail up to Castle Agia Roumeli for sweeping views. Ferries depart at 17:30 to Sougia or Chora Sfakion, where return buses await to bring you back to Chania. With AUTOWAY, your rental car is waiting wherever you plan your return.

Want to know about the last day?
See our tips for your final day in Crete in the 14-day guide from Heraklion.

👉 No buses, no chaos, just Crete your way. Book with AUTOWAY and hike the Samaria Gorge with total freedom.