Mount Psiloritis

🏔️ Mount Psiloritis: the sacred roof of Crete

📍 Location and altitude

• Located at center of the island, between the regions ofHeraklion and of Rethymno.
• Highest point of Crete with 2,456 meters above sea level, at the named summit Timios Stavros.
• It dominates the island like a natural spine, separating east from west.

🧬 Landscape and geology

• The Psiloritis massif is formed of limestone and dolomite rocks, with karst formations, the deep caves, and the spectacular gorges.
• The southern slopes are steep and wooded, while the northern slopes are softer and more open.
• In winter, the peaks are snow-covered for almost nine months, and in summer they offer lunar landscapes, dotted with low vegetation and of endemic plants.

🌿 Biodiversity and ecosystems

• The mountain is home to more than 70 rare or endemic species, including Cretan orchids, the aromatic plants like dittany, and unique butterflies.
• There are also griffon vultures, the falcons, and the Cretan wildcat, protected species.
• The Rouvas forest, on the southeastern slopes, is an ecological jewel with its Cretan maples, holm oaks, and wild apple trees.

🧘‍♂️ Spirituality and mythology

• According to Greek mythology, it is in the Ideon Andron Cave, on the slopes of the mountain, that Rhea hid Zeus to protect him from Cronus.
• The mountain is also linked to Minos, who would have received the divine laws on its heights.
• At the top, a dry stone chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross (Timios Stavros) welcomes pilgrims and hikers.

🥾 Hiking and access

• There are several routes to reach the summit, including from the Nida Plateau or the Migerou refuge.
• The path is physically demanding, with nearly 900 meters of elevation gain, but offers 360° views on the Aegean Sea, the Libyan Sea, and the surrounding mountains.
• The European trail E4 crosses the massif, marked by red and white markings.

🛡️ Protection and recognition

• Mount Psiloritis is classified European and Global Geopark, integrated into the network Natura 2000.
• He is known for his exceptional geology, his biodiversity, and his cultural significance.

✨ Why Psiloritis is unique

It’s more than just a mountain: it’s a place of legends, a natural sanctuary, and a meeting point between heaven and earth. Climbing Psiloritis is walk in the footsteps of the gods, listen to the breath of Crete, and touch the essence of the island.