Full Day 8h
–––
Private
Hard
–––
Mount Ida, known locally as Psiloritis, is not just a mountain—it’s a mythical landscape steeped in legend and natural grandeur. As the highest peak on the island of Crete, Timios Stavros (“Holy Cross”) rises to an altitude of 2,456 meters, offering not only unmatched views but also a deep connection to the island’s cultural and geological heritage.
This majestic mountain range forms the core of the Psiloritis Natural Park, established in 2001 and recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The area is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and mythology enthusiasts alike. Nestled among its rugged slopes lies the legendary Idaean Cave, where, according to ancient Greek mythology, Zeus—king of the gods—was born and hidden from his father Cronus.
Your adventure begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Heraklion to the Lakkos tou Mygerou plateau, sitting at 1,580 meters above sea level. From here, you’ll embark on a well-known trail called the “Strata tou Psiloriti”, which takes you through the pristine alpine landscape known as Livadiotiko Aori. The climb, while challenging, rewards you at every step with panoramic views and raw Cretan wilderness.
At the very top of Psiloritis, you’ll find the humble stone chapel of Timios Stavros—built by hand without mortar, using traditional techniques that local shepherds have employed for centuries to construct their iconic “mitata” (dry-stone mountain shelters). The summit offers a 360-degree view over Crete, stretching from the Aegean Sea to the Libyan Sea on clear days.
