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Community in Greece
Photo: Kostas Tsobanoglou, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Agia Roumeli is a coastal village in southwestern Crete near the southern end of the Samaria Gorge.
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A 14 km gorge that descends 1,250 m 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 to Omalos 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. Do not attempt to do the hike in bad weather as e.g. rain will lead to rock falls. If in doubt, check with the park office.
Castle ruins on top of a hill.
A public beach with very clear waters, and usually nearly empty in the morning hours. There are public showers and foot baths on the beach. Note that the beach chairs are owned by COCKTAIL BEACH BAR and cost money to rent, or come complementary with an overpriced drink.
A public pebble beach that also features a natural cave. Usually empty.
Φαράγγι
A Greek Taverna serving traditional Greek dishes, freshly caught fish and ice-cold beer. Excellent service by friendly staff who will recommend menu items to you, which are served almost immediately. Bread and several shots of Rakia (served with apricot) are complementary with every meal. Cheap rooms are also available for rent.
On foot
Walking along the coast from Sfakia or down through the Samariá Gorge from Omalos. Get in Sfakia or Omalos by bus from Chania.
By boat
Ferries to Agia Roumeli leave from Sfakia, Sougia and Paleochora. Boat timetable can be found here.
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Souda · International · CHQ
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