Cover Paperback - Laminated Edition Third Expand Published 14 Aug 2015
Originally Published 15 Sep 2008 Dimensions 17.2 x 11.6 x 1.5cm Pages 400
Guidebook to walking and trekking the high mountains of Crete. The largest of
the Greek Islands, Crete's mountains provide breathtaking walking and wilderness
to this popular island. The routes in this guidebook are graded for difficulty
and range from short, easy strolls to challenging, multi-day treks and summit
climbs, so there are options for walkers of all abilities. All the mountain
ranges of Crete feature high plains, gorges and ravines, but in the heart of the
Lefka Ori there is something else. High above the treeline snow thaws by July to
reveal a great circle of massive barren peaks, interspersed with ?moonscape?
outcrops, or depressions, of sinkholes in black, grey or red rock. This high
desert wilderness is seldom visited but covers some 960sqkm. In central Crete,
where the island is at its widest, the huge mass of Psiloritis (Mount Ida)
dominates the whole region. Covering about 560sqkm this massif is different in
that a single huge, partly scree-surfaced summit ridge rises above massive
cliffs on one side and a large area of lower peaks and forested foothills on the
other. The summit of Mount Ida, at 2456m is the highest point in Crete. It
offers several challenging linear walking routes including the high level Nida
Plain. The Lassithi Mountains cover about 780sqkm and virtually divide central
Crete from the eastern end of the island. It is not only the largest of the high
mountain plains but also the largest flat area in Crete. About 820m in altitude,
it is oval in shape, more than 9km across west-east, and 5km north-south. In
Crete the E4 starts at Kastelli and takes in several of the less-visited
archaeological sites on its journey east. Although the main trail follows the
mountainous backbone of Crete, Cretan branches of the Hellenic Alpine
Association have also designated good route ?variations? either along the coast,
or as branches that lead to the main trail. There is also lots of general
information provided on walking in Crete, getting there and getting around and
advice on making the most out of exploring the island's mountains. With its
dramatic gorges and numerous peaks rising to over 2100m, high mountain plains,
forested crags, massive cliffs and remote beaches, Crete offers a wide range of
landscapes and challenges for walkers. A combination of the climate and its
ancient historical sites make the Greek island of Crete a great destination to
explore on foot. walking routes range from 2 to 28km all routes are graded for
difficulty: Grade A refers to short walks that are easy underfoot, to Grades D
and E which are more demanding day walks on remote and rugged terrain which
require good navigational and walking experience stunning photography and maps
throughout