Editor scrambles as she negotiates the fourth segment of the climb.
Every now and again, sometimes even frequently, we come across a hike that turns into a superb experience. The climb and hike to the peak, and of course return, from Gingilos was one such adventure. Briefly, the starting point is opposite the Samaria Gorge. Although most people visit Amalos to undertake the gorge hike, we believe this climb is far superior and by a wide margin. It has a number of segments. The first part is a hike up a steep section of a mountain, followed by a walk along the edge, always on rugged, stony paths. Stage-three rises sharply to a saddle, the fourth section is tricky rock scrambling and technical climbing while the last stage is a relatively easy walk along shale to the peak.
The slope on the third segment...I thought the editor was joking when she pointed to the top and
mentioned it was merely the saddle. The peak was way above.
The saddle above...and then to the left, the rock scramble to the top. (The picture above shows the gradient accurately.)
Early stage of the climb, Samaria Gorge below.
The climbs are testing, the paths can be brutal on the feet, the exertion is rewarding and the views are outstanding, making for an incredible experience. No matter how good views may be from towns, side of roads or part-way up mountains, nothing beats getting deep into the territory and witnessing the intimacy of the inside walls and peaks of rugged mountains, particularly as they blend and react with the clouds and other natural features. It is one of those days that remains implanted in the mind for a long time or so we think that’ll be the result.
On the way down, we enjoyed a nice experience when we met a tour group ascending. After an exchange of a few pleasantries, we ascertained them to be Icelanders. Having visited the island a couple of years before, we were able to discuss a little of life in their home. It felt good to be able to converse having actually experienced some of their glorious hikes and life in that fascinating country.
Jen reaches the top and takes in what remains visible. Quite spectacular!
There's gold inside the arch, some 2,000 feet below the peak.
From the peak, one can view the Mediterranean on opposite sides of the island.
Along the edges, typical of the style of trail.
Views from the peak, after 3,100 feet cumulative gain, are delightful.
The rock scrambling and technical parts on the fourth stage were exhilarating...we think.
Climbing, leaving behind great views
The editor turns to return home.
A view into valley below.
An island off an island.
The joy of the peak, no frills but just a thrill.
At time of writing, we are preparing to leave for another part of Crete, this time back to sea level. I have now eaten for dinner, six-nights in a row, omelets. Our limited diet and my peculiarities make culinary aspects a little challenging, although it’s not an issue. Bread-and-butter is still a treat. The proprietors of the hotel are two brothers and their mother. They have such a wonderful disposition that it has been a pleasure to be at the hotel notwithstanding the weak internet, nearly as poor water flow and the abundance of eggs. Jen says I need more protein and who am I to argue with the expert eater of feta cheese, tuna and olives and the occasional omelet. One more thing. Over the weekend, family members arrived and even for us, it was delightful to see the kids and adults enjoying each other. It was like “My big fat Greek wedding” without a chupah (canopy).
Each day, the tour buses transport hikers from the main town, Chania, to Samaria Gorge. However, within four kilometers of the destination, our hotel, the bus drivers stop to allow the hikers to breakfast. This is a great source of revenue for the proprietors, probably tour operators and drivers, too. The hikers drop down into the gorge, spend money in the coastal town and take a ferry and another bus to their next destination. It’s quite an experience but far too rushed. We enjoyed our extended stay in the village and return to our starting point which included the tough ascension.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
Homeward bound, slowly.
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