Hi there!
I’m planning to spend two nights in Sougia after Paleochora, mainly to hike part of the Samaria Gorge starting from Agia Roumeli.

But I’m hesitating, as someone on another forum mentioned that Sougia is a lifeless village, and that unless you enjoy hiking, there isn’t much to do there.
Also, attempting this kind of adventure in the middle of August gives me pause.

After this short trip in the gorges of Samaria, I plan to return to Sougia for a second night, then head to Chania, where I’ll stay for three nights, followed by two nights in Rethymnon with a rental car. I’ll then spend the last day in Heraklion, visiting the archaeological museum and attending a traditional dance show with dinner in the evening.

But if this part of the southwest coast isn’t ideal for someone who no longer hikes much due to age, wouldn’t it make more sense to spend my 10 nights between Chania, Rethymnon, Agios Nikolaos, and Heraklion instead?

I’m sorry I can’t provide insights into the three locations you mention, but I wonder – if you no longer contemplate long hikes, have you considered the Imbros Gorge instead? You wouldn’t need to stay overnight anywhere near it.

If you haven’t already seen it, you might find some useful information in my trip report. The section on Crete begins with post # 48
With Gratitude for a Glorious Solo Month in Greece

You can do the whole Samaria Gorge in 1 day:
KTEL bus or minibus from Paleochora to Omalos
Hike down the gorge up to Agia Roumeli
Boat to Paleochora


Sougia (will be full of life in August like any Greek beach)