Kritsa Gorge
Hiking
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 Gorge
Implementation period: All year round (upon request)
Route type: Bidirectional
Activity duration with breaks: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Suitability: Suitable for people with good physical condition
NECESSARY TO HAVE WITH YOU
Jacket
Windproof/ Waterproof jacket
Hat (required)
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hiking boots (recommended) or comfortable sports shoes
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 entry point (if necessary)
Liability insurance
All taxes