Hiking at Timios Stavros Summit, Psiloritis, Crete
Activity Description
An ascent on the highest peak of Crete, Timios Stavros, at 2,456m a.s.l. on Mt Psiloritis. During the summer the temperature is always at least 10oC lower than sea level and is not uncommon to need a jacket even in July, or August when everyone is laying on a beach!
We start our hike from a place called Lakkos Mygerou, at 1700m, on the northern side of Mt Psiloritis (or Mt Ida). We follow an upgoing, stone-built, well-marked trail that in two hours meets the E4 European trail. Following it we reach the highest peak, Timios Stavros, which offers a panoramic view all over the island. During the winter you need to have a good knowledge of using an ice axe with crampons. From December to early April usually, the summit is covered with snow.
About mount Ida (Psiloritis)
Located in the Rethymno regional unit, it was sacred to the Greek Titaness Rhea, and on its slopes lies one of the caves, Idaion Andron, in which, according to legend, Zeus was born. Its summit (Timios Stavros) has the highest topographic prominence in Greece. A natural park that includes Mt. Ida is one of UNESCO's Global Geoparks Network. The Ancient Roman historian Tacitus in his writings, reported a belief, popular in antiquity, regarding Mount Ida and the origin of the Jews, complete with conjectural etymology: "It is said that the Jews were originally exiled from the island of Crete who settled in the farthest parts of Libya at the time when Saturn had been deposed and expelled by Jove. An argument in favor of this is derived from the name: there is a famous mountain in Crete called Ida, and hence the inhabitants were called the Idaei, which was later lengthened into the barbarous form Iudaei."
Transport
We pick up clients from Heraklion free of charge. Many times we are able to pick up clients from other locations as well but it needs to be on our way to the starting point. If you need transport and you are not sure get in touch with us. Remember to send us the exact location of your hotel, not just the name. Transport is provided for free.
We will meet in Mygeros shelter, see the map for the exact point.
Be sure that you will put it in your GPS (Google maps have an offline version that works great without a phone signal) and that you have an offline system in place as there isn't a phone signal there.
Read MoreRead Less
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: Kouloukonas, Rethumno
Address: Mygeros shelter, Rethymno Crete Island