9. Samaria Gorge, Greece

Located on the Greek island of Crete, Samaria is the longest gorge in Europe, stretching for a whopping 16 kilometers (10 miles). As one of the biggest hiking attractions in a country filled with natural and historical wonders, it frequently sees hundreds, sometimes even thousands of visitors per day.

Hiking through the Samaria Gorge can be challenging, as it involves walking on rocky terrain and navigating steep descents and ascents. The trail gets quite narrow in some sections where the gorge cuts deep into Lefka Ori, the White Mountains of Crete.

This 5-7-hour hike begins at an altitude of 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) at the Omalos Plateau and descends towards the coast, where it ends at the village of Agia Roumeli. The whole way down, the trail is framed by rugged cliffs, pine forests, and the crystal-clear waters of the Samaria River. If you can handle the steepness, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best day hikes in Europe.

About the author

Marko Bucic

57hours Writer and Bouldering Enthusiast

For Marko, literature came first and the outdoors followed. Lermontov took him galloping across the Caucasus, Wordsworth brought him along for a tour of the Lake District, and Conrad sent him sailing down the Congo—but for better or worse, it was 57hours that got him to climb his first route outside. When he’s not penning articles, you can find him in the bouldering gym, taking photos on the streets of Zagreb, or at home brushing up on his Japanese skills.