Omalos Plateau
Expansive high-altitude plateau in Crete, offering dramatic mountain vistas and the start of the legendary Samaria Gorge hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Omalos Plateau
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive high-altitude plateau in Crete, offering dramatic mountain vistas and the start of the legendary Samaria Gorge hike.
"A breathtaking high-altitude plateau offering stunning panoramic views and the gateway to the epic Samaria Gorge."
🚗 Scenic Road Trip
Enjoy the drive! Routes to Omalos offer stunning views, especially when coming from Chania.
🥾 Hike Samaria Gorge
Start early for the Samaria Gorge hike. It's a long day, so be prepared!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vast Omalos Plateau
Omalos Plateau
Expansive high-altitude plateau offering breathtaking panoramic views and a sense of wild, untamed nature.
Samaria Gorge Trailhead
South end of Omalos Plateau
The starting point for the famous Samaria Gorge hike, a challenging yet rewarding trek through dramatic landscapes.
Kallergi Refuge
Higher slopes of Omalos
A mountain refuge offering stunning vistas and a resting point for hikers exploring the surrounding peaks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Omalos Plateau Visit
Getting to Omalos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Road Trip
Enjoy the drive! Routes to Omalos offer stunning views, especially when coming from Chania. 
🥾 Hike Samaria Gorge
Start early for the Samaria Gorge hike. It's a long day, so be prepared!
❄️ Winter Snow Spot
Omalos is a great spot for snow around Chania if you're traveling with kids.
🌬️ Embrace Nature
Venture beyond beaches for fresh air and tranquility in Omalos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Road Trip
Enjoy the drive! Routes to Omalos offer stunning views, especially when coming from Chania.
🥾 Hike Samaria Gorge
Start early for the Samaria Gorge hike. It's a long day, so be prepared!
❄️ Winter Snow Spot
Omalos is a great spot for snow around Chania if you're traveling with kids.
🌬️ Embrace Nature
Venture beyond beaches for fresh air and tranquility in Omalos.
🌅 Sunrise Views
Catch a breathtaking sunrise over the plateau for an unforgettable experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty and panoramic views of Omalos Plateau, especially its role as the starting point for the iconic Samaria Gorge hike. The opportunity to experience snow in winter is a unique draw. Some find the mountain roads challenging, and the gorge hike is demanding.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Omalos Plateau from Chania is by car. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour and offers scenic mountain views. You can take one route up and a different one down for varied scenery.
Public transport options to Omalos Plateau are limited. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and to fully enjoy the journey and surrounding areas.
Roads leading to Omalos Plateau are generally well-maintained but can be winding and steep, typical of mountain roads. In winter, check conditions for snow and ice, especially if traveling by car.
Yes, you can drive to the Omalos Plateau, which is where the Samaria Gorge trailhead is located. Parking is available for visitors planning to hike the gorge.
While not as common as tours to coastal areas, some local operators in Chania may offer guided excursions to Omalos Plateau, especially for hiking groups. It's worth inquiring locally.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entrance fee to visit the Omalos Plateau itself. However, if you plan to hike the Samaria Gorge, there is an entrance fee for the gorge and a separate fee for exiting at Agia Roumeli.
Omalos Plateau is an open natural area and does not have set opening hours. You can visit at any time, though access might be affected by weather conditions in winter.
You do not need to book tickets in advance for Omalos Plateau. If you are hiking the Samaria Gorge, it's advisable to check the official park website for any booking requirements or advisories, especially during peak season.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting Omalos Plateau. However, always be mindful of the natural environment, especially during winter when snow can impact accessibility.
The best way to experience Omalos Plateau is by driving up to enjoy the views, hiking some of the trails, or using it as a base for the Samaria Gorge hike.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Omalos Plateau, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, hike to Kallergi Refuge, or start the famous Samaria Gorge trek. It's a place for nature lovers and hikers.
Absolutely! Omalos Plateau offers incredible photographic opportunities with its vast landscapes, dramatic mountain scenery, and stunning sunrises.
Yes, Omalos Plateau is known to get snow in winter, making it a beautiful destination for those seeking a snowy landscape around Chania.
There are a few tavernas and cafes located in the Omalos village area, offering traditional Cretan food. These are typically found near the start of the Samaria Gorge.
Wear layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential, especially if you plan to explore on foot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Samaria Gorge hike is generally too strenuous for young children, the plateau itself provides open spaces for exploration and enjoying the natural beauty. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited, especially outside the main village area.
🚶 Hikers & Adventure Seekers
Beyond the gorge, the plateau and surrounding White Mountains (Lefka Ori) offer numerous other trails and opportunities for exploration, including routes to mountain refuges like Kallergi. For those seeking adventure, consider exploring the less-traveled paths around the plateau. The Kallergi Refuge loop offers beautiful views and a good workout.
Always be prepared with appropriate gear, navigation tools, and sufficient supplies, as these are wild mountain areas.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Samaria Gorge Experience
Key considerations for hiking Samaria Gorge include starting early to avoid the midday heat and crowds, carrying plenty of water and snacks, and wearing sturdy footwear. The trail is rocky and uneven in many sections. While the hike is strenuous, the reward is an unforgettable journey through a unique natural environment, culminating in a refreshing swim at the Libyan Sea.
Many visitors choose to stay overnight in Omalos or nearby villages before or after their hike to fully appreciate the region. The plateau itself offers a stark contrast to the coastal areas of Crete, providing a glimpse into the island's rugged interior.
Omalos in Winter: A Snowy Escape
When visiting Omalos in winter, it's crucial to be prepared for cold weather and potentially slippery conditions. Warm clothing, waterproof boots, and a reliable vehicle are essential. It's advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading up, as heavy snowfall can sometimes lead to temporary road closures.
Despite the potential challenges, the winter beauty of Omalos Plateau is undeniable. The quiet solitude, the crisp mountain air, and the stunning white vistas make it a memorable destination for those looking for a different side of Crete.
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