Samaria Gorge National Park

Crete Island, Greece

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Samaria Gorge National Park, located in the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) of southwestern Crete, is one of Greece’s most spectacular natural attractions and the island’s only national park.

Established in 1962, it protects the famous Samaria Gorge, a dramatic canyon that stretches about 16 kilometers through rugged mountains to the shores of the Libyan Sea. The park is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including towering cliffs, forests, streams, and the narrow passage known as the “Iron Gates,” where the gorge narrows to just a few meters wide while the rock walls rise hundreds of meters above.

It is also an important refuge for rare wildlife, especially the endangered Kri-kri (Cretan wild goat), as well as many endemic plants and birds. A popular destination for hikers, the gorge offers an unforgettable journey through some of Crete’s most dramatic landscapes. Recognized as a biosphere reserve, it is celebrated for its exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance, attracting nature lovers from around the world.