Timios Stavros: The Crown of Psiloritis
Timios Stavros, standing tall at 2456 meters, is the highest peak on the island of Crete and the pinnacle of the Psiloritis mountain range. This majestic summit, steeped in history and natural beauty, offers climbers an unparalleled panoramic view of the island and beyond.
Ascending to New Heights
Reaching Timios Stavros is an achievable feat for many, with several well-established routes catering to varying skill levels. The most popular trail, part of the E4 European long-distance path, begins at the Nida Plateau and winds its way up through diverse terrain, revealing the mountain’s unique geological formations and rich biodiversity.
For those seeking a more direct ascent, the “Strata tou Psiloriti” path, a recently constructed trail on the northern side of the mountain, provides a shorter but equally rewarding route. This meticulously designed path, paved with local stone, offers a comfortable and scenic climb to the summit.
A Timeless Vista
The reward for reaching the top is a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. On a clear day, the entire island of Crete unfolds before you, a patchwork of olive groves, vineyards, and rugged coastlines. The Libyan Sea stretches out to the south, shimmering under the Mediterranean sun, while the Aegean Sea sparkles to the north. In the distance, the outlines of other islands, including Santorini, can be seen on the horizon.
A Sacred Summit
At the summit, a simple stone chapel dedicated to Timios Stavros (Holy Cross) stands as a testament to the mountain’s spiritual significance. Built using traditional dry-stone techniques, the chapel blends seamlessly into the landscape, reflecting the harmonious relationship between humans and nature that has existed here for centuries.
Other Notable Peaks of Psiloritis
While Timios Stavros is the undisputed king of Psiloritis, the mountain range boasts several other noteworthy peaks, each with its own unique character and charm. These include:
- Agathias: The second-highest peak, known for its challenging ascent and rewarding views.
- Stolistra: A prominent peak with a distinctive pyramidal shape, visible from many parts of the island.
- Skinakas: Home to a renowned observatory, offering stargazing opportunities under pristine skies.
Each of these peaks offers a different perspective on the Psiloritis massif, adding to the allure of this diverse and captivating mountain range.
The trail to the peak is very well marked with red paint.
Above 2300 the wind blows away, but it's worth it.
Good shoes and a supply of water are required, as there will be no shade along the way.
The ascent took us 3.5 hours and I must point out that we are not the most athletic people.
The path is very rocky, be careful of your ankles, especially during the descent. Bring good shoes and something to cover yourself. The temperature was 12 degrees during the ascent and it can be very windy.
I reached the summit at 9:08 a.m., 1 hour 48 minutes later. I started the descent at 9:35 a.m. and arrived at the car at 10:56 a.m., a total of 3 hours and 9 minutes. 4h50 of hiking is planned but by going at my own pace and hanging around a bit it was done in 3h…
The scenery is worth it and the satisfaction when you ring the bell when you arrive at the top is exceptional! Good luck!
We slept in Axos, a small village with hotels and bars and restaurants, half an hour's drive from the refuge where the path starts. The road to the refuge is asphalted and easily passable by car (be careful of the sheep and goats ;))
The walk lasts about 2 hours, with a steeper and more paved first part and a more exposed and windy, but gentler, second part. The ground is stony with a little gravel (nothing traumatic).
The trail is well marked and easy to follow.
At the top you will find a small stone building and enough space to rest or eat 🙂
Wind jacket and water bottle recommended 🙂
It is just breathtaking and a must of any hiker. Beside facts already mentioned, here are my impressions:
We started at Lakkos Mygerou parking at 9:30.
The way on the top I would divide into 2 parts, each is a little bit different.
1st part is the steep one. It has 2.7 km and elevation of 695 m. The profile is prety stable. The wind is usualy ok, no big deal and temperature is also ok.
2nd part is shorter - about 1.6 km and elevation only 195 m, but - whe wind is usually stronger. Much stronger. And for me it was the harder part, so consider this when you plan what to take (I had 3 layers on top and covered nose)
It took us 3 hours up (we did small break every 100 vertical meters) and 1.5 hours down.
Enjoy!
I don't recommend the shelter because it's a disaster.
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