Hiking the Samaria Gorge

The mysterious and dramatic Samaria Gorge is said by some to be the longest gorge in Europe, though this claim is disputed. Most sources put it at 11 miles in length, virtually all of it downhill. But don't make the mistake of translating that to mean "easy". The Gorge, especially in heat or a sudden rainstorm, can be a dangerous and even deadly place. In Cretan tradition, it's the home of gods, goddesses, naiads and malevolent spirits.