Samaria Gorge & South Coast Adventure
Hiking & Nature
4 Days
11 Stops
Overview
An active 4-day itinerary combining Europe's longest gorge hike with the unspoiled beaches and villages of Crete's southern coast.
Highlights
- Hike the 16km Samaria Gorge
- Swim at Sweetwater Beach
- Explore Loutro by boat
- Discover Sfakia's rugged coast
- Stay in the car-free village of Loutro
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Day 1: Chania to Omalos
1 hourDrive from Chania to Omalos plateau (~1h). Stay overnight.
14:00 - 16:00
Explore Omalos Plateau
Altitude ~1050m, cooler temperatures.
18:00 - 20:00
Early dinner & rest
Start early tomorrow — aim for the gorge by 7 AM.
2
Day 2: Samaria Gorge Hike
5-7 hours hikingThe gorge is 16 km one-way. Ferry from Agia Roumeli to Loutro.
07:00 - 14:00
Samaria Gorge — Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli
Wear sturdy shoes and carry at least 2L of water.
14:30 - 16:00
Swim at Agia Roumeli beach
Well-deserved rest after the hike!
17:00 - 17:30
Ferry to Loutro
3
Day 3: Loutro & Sweetwater Beach
30 min by boat
08:00 - 09:30
Morning swim in Loutro bay
10:00 - 14:00
Hike or boat to Sweetwater Beach
The hike takes ~1h along the coast, or take a water taxi.
19:00 - 21:00
Village dinner in Loutro
Try the fresh fish at a waterfront taverna.
4
Day 4: Sfakia & Return
2 hoursFerry from Loutro to Sfakia, then drive back to Chania (~1.5h).
09:00 - 09:30
Ferry to Sfakia
10:00 - 12:30
Explore Sfakia & Frangokastello
The Venetian fortress at Frangokastello is worth the detour.
14:00 - 15:30
Drive back to Chania
Trip Summary
- Duration
- 4 Days
- Locations
- 11 Stops
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Best Season
- Spring
- Estimated Budget
- €350 - €700
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Sign inWhat's Included
- Gorge entry fees info
- Ferry schedules
- Hiking gear checklist