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Kritsa Forest

Hiking

Description

4-5 hours

Min. Participants: 4
Over 6 people (-10%)

The cypress wood of Kritsa is located about 10km west of Kritsa village, very close to the asphalt road that heads to the plateau of Katharo. It is formed across a deep ravine, at the southern foot of Mount Tsiva. The forest is in the middle of the ancient path that led Minoans to the plateau of Katharo, with many Minoan pottery remains found here.

The kernel of the forest is covered by cypress trees, and its surrounding vegetation consists of cypress, oak, maple, holly, wild olive and holm oak trees. Today, the wood can be accessed very easily because the nearest trail starts from the road and ends after 30 minutes of easy walking in the forest. The starting point of the path is located at position Favetoprinos, where there is an information kiosk and several benches with spectacular views of the area and the Tsivi Mountain. The kiosk has a detailed map of the local trails and the area attractions (caves, archaeological sites, springs, etc).

During hiking, we will meet lot of abandoned sheepfolds, which indicate the old use of the area by shepherds. Unfortunately, even today, the goats are still roaming in the area and destroy all the undergrowth and small trees, which results in the continuous degradation of the forest. Protecting the last of cypress grove of Dikti Range must be placed in the center of the ecological acts in Lassithi, so as this area does not follow the fate of the extinct cypress forests in Crete.


GENERAL

Starting time: upon request

Location: Kritsa Village

Implementation period: All year round (upon request)

Route Type: Bidirectional

Activity duration with breaks: 4-5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Suitability: Suitable for all / No previous experience required

Route Type: circuit


MORE INFO

Starting from the traditional village of Kroustas we walk the ancient Minoan Path throgh the forest to the top of the mountain (korakia) and always have the breath taking view of Mirambello Bay.

 

*Upon Request: We can head back to the meeting point by mountain bikes.


INCLUDED

Guide

Basic equipment if needed (hiking baton, helmet, climbing gear)

Trip planning – Sightseeing

Picnic with fruits and Traditional delicacies

Transfer from the exit point to the entry point (if necessary)

Liability insurance

All taxes 

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