Hiking in Psiloritis (Mount Ida), Crete
Activity Description
Mount Ida, also known as Psiloritis is actually a chain of mountains the highest of which is Timios Stavros (Greek for Holy Cross). With an altitude of 2,456 m, Ida is the highest mountain on Crete. It has the highest topographic prominence in Greece. The wider area of Psiloritis is a Natural park founded in 2001, and a UNESCO Global Geopark. On its slopes lies the Idaean Cave (Greek: Ιδαίον Άντρο), in which, according to legend, Zeus, the king of the gods, was born.
The road trip from Heraklion to Lakkos Mygerou takes about an hour and a half. The same goes for the return.
The hike starts from the north side of the mountain in the area called "Livadiotiko Aori" and follows a trail called "Strata tou Psiloriti" (Greek for Psiloritis route), which starts from the plateau “Lakkos tou Mygerou” (altitude 1580m) and climbs to "Timios Stavros" (Greek for Holly Cross) which is located at the peak of Psiloritis mountain (altitude 2456m).
The small chapel at the top is built with simple mountain stones without any binding material keeping them together, which is the same technique that the local shepherds for centuries now use to make the stone structures called "mitata" (Mitato is a term meaning "shelter" or "lodging" in Greek). The view from the top of the island is unique towards all points of the horizon.
Highlights
The panoramic view from the highest point of the island.
Data:
- Distance: 9 km
- Hiking duration: 5 hours
- Total tour duration: 8 hours
- Family-friendly: Yes (for families with children above 8y/o)
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Included
Not included
Do nοt forget
Cancellation policy
- Cancellation 7 days or more prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are automatically reimbursed for the full activity price.
- Cancellation between 3 and 7 days prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are entitled to a 50% reimbursement.
- Cancellation 3 days or later are what we call last-minute cancellations. No reimbursements will be effected.
* If the activity is canceled by the activity provider (due to weather, non-completion of minimum entries, force majeure, etc.), the price of your activity, is refunded in full.
Unlimited Adrenaline Tips
- Many activities are based on the weather, so it is recommended that you contact the company before the activity.
- It is a good idea to be at the meeting point on time, before the scheduled start time.
- After your reservation it is enough to give your details to the cooperating company so that you can carry out your activity. However, it is recommended that you have the booking confirmed in digital or printed form.
- Read the benefits of the activity carefully to avoid possible extra charges from additional optional services.
- Read the cancellation policy carefully before booking.
Location
Meeting Point
Region: Irakleio, Irakleio
Address: Irakleio, Crete
Notes: Free transport from/to your hotel. (as long as you are within the predefined pick-up area)
Point of activity
Region: Kouloukonas, Rethumno