Samaria gorge is a National Park with unique flora and fauna, in the heart of the Lefka Ori mountains. It is by far the best hike in Crete, and probably one of the best in Europe. It is listed as a protected UNESCO Biosphere reserve. Samaria gorge is a 16km downhill hike between mountains and a forest, with a river flowing and organized resting places! For an average hiker it takes 6 hours to cross it and there is no food or any other shop available inside. The tour starts early in the morning to take advantage of the shadow in the gorge until noon, but by which time most visitors have already reached the sea! At the end of the hike we rest at Agia Roumeli, a village with few restaurants and beach, before returning by boat to Sougia, and then by bus and car to Chania. It's necessary to wear at least good sports shoes, take a hat and sunscreen. There is plenty of drinkable water inside. The hike is breathtaking, ideal for nature lovers and wildlife watchers.