Giouchtas Mountain, a prominent 811-meter peak south of Heraklion, Crete, features significant Minoan peak sanctuaries, including Psili Korfi and Anemospilia, dating to the 2nd millennium BCE. Anemospilia's findings suggest possible human sacrifice. Associated with Zeus, it hosts the Afendi Christos church (1443). The mountain supports diverse flora (360+ species) and fauna (150+ bird species, including griffon vultures), within maquis and phrygana landscapes, and reforestation areas. Part of the Natura 2000 network, it faces pressures from urbanization and tourism. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints and historical sites, offering insights into Minoan civilization and natural biodiversity.
Situated in the Dikti mountain range of Lasithi, Crete, 26km from Agios Nikolaos, this plateau rests at 1150m altitude. Its waters flow via the Havgas Gorge to the Lasithi Plateau. Human activity dates back to the Minoan era. Ownership was historically disputed between Lasithi and Kritsa residents, eventually awarded to Kritsa after legal battles documented in Greek and Turkish archives; a legend involves a Turkish judge and the site "Kadi's Pit". Today, it's primarily used for cultivating potatoes, apples, and vineyards by Kritsa residents who lease the land. Access is via paved road from Kritsa through an oak forest, or dirt roads from Lasithi Plateau and Malles Ierapetras; the E4 trail also passes through. Points of interest include the Avdeliakos settlement, the Chapel of Afentis Christos, and Kadi's Pit. The area offers cool summer temperatures, hiking opportunities, and hosts the annual Shepherd's Festival after August 15th.
Kofinas peak sanctuary in Crete offers insights into Minoan religious practices, societal structures, and the relationship between humans and the natural world.
Lithino Cape, the southernmost point of Crete, features a rugged landscape with cliffs and remnants of WWII German fortifications. The cape's strategic location, offering a commanding view of the southern coastline, led the Germans to construct these fortifications to defend against potential invasion. Mount Kefali, situated on the cape, rises to an elevation of 388 meters and offers stunning views of the coastline, Gavdos, and the Asterousia Mountains. Atop Kefali Peak stands the small stone church of Timios Stavros, a testament to the site's enduring importance as a place of worship and refuge. The ruins of pillboxes built by the Germans during the Second World War are a stark reminder of the cape’s strategic value.
The Messara Plain in Crete, Greece, is the largest plain in Crete, featuring fertile land, archaeological sites like Phaistos and Gortyn, and beautiful beaches.
Metochi, Crete, is known as the alleged birthplace of Epimenides, an ancient sage. The village holds historical significance with its agricultural roots and traditional architecture. Plutarch's writings link Epimenides to Metochi, sparking interest in his legendary life, including his famed 57-year slumber. The area features olive groves and ancient ruins, enhancing its historical allure. Beyond its Epimenides connection, Metochi offers Cretan cuisine and access to the Mesara Plain's natural beauty.
Located in Crete's Malevizi Province near Tylissos and visible from Heraklion, this mountain range features a prominent peak (798m) noted for its conical shape. Historically called "Stroggylo," Venetians named it after Stromboli. The range includes the Strouboulas plateau, south of the ridge, formed on limestone ("Tripoli" zone), leading to karstic features like the Tafkos tou Palmetis chasm, linked to Ottoman-era resistance. Vegetation is sparse, dominated by Kermes Oak due to overgrazing. A seasonal lake forms on the plateau, its water often reddish from soil runoff. Historical significance includes Minoan foothill settlements, the Timios Stavros chapel (Holy Cross) on the summit mentioned in 1415, possibly on an older site, and the Agios Georgios chapel ruins below, once a monastery dependency. Access to the peak involves a path from the plateau offering panoramic views.
Gious Kampos is an ecologically important high-altitude plateau (750m avg. elevation) in the Amari Valley administrative area, Rethymno, Crete, situated on the northwest side of Mount Kentros. Its geology, combining clay rocks with limestone outcrops, fosters unique hydrology and fertile soil. The name potentially derives from "Plain of Eos" (dawn) or "Plain of the Goats." Designated a Natura 2000 site, it's renowned for exceptional biodiversity, serving as the primary habitat for the protected endemic Cretan red tulip, Tulipa doerfleri. The plateau also hosts a remarkable density and variety of orchids, including Orchis italica and Neotinea tridentata. Historically and currently vital for agriculture (cereals, vegetables, fruit trees) and pastoralism for surrounding villages like Spili and Kissos.
Search & have fun
Search anytime for whatever you need, for your business, fun or personal needs. Panotours helps you find it easy and fast.