Nature Wonders. 10 Minutes. The western region of Crete is the most mountainous and untouched part of the island, which is mainly due to the Samari? Canyon, Europe's longest canyon that is also famous for its magnificent scenery and exceptional natural beauty. In order to protect the canyon, whose entrance lies on the southern side of the Omalos Plateau, the Samari? National Park was founded in 1962. More than 450 different types of plants, among them 70 varieties that are unique to the region, make Samari? an even more remarkable and unique natural habitat. In antiquity, the island's splendid trees, including Cypress, Pine and Crete Maple, were transported to the Greek mainland. One of the most famous inhabitants of Samari? Canyon is the Crete bezoar goat that is also known as the kri-kri. The surrounding rocks are home to a total of 30 different species of birds, among them such endangered species as the eagle, hawk, wild goose and bearded vulture. Kissed by the Greek sunshine beneath a clear blue sky, the original beauty of Samari? Canyon is indeed a true natural wonder.