20km hike in 48 hours: The ascent to Psiloritis and the heroic exit from Samaria Gorge (Part A)
It’s early on Thursday morning and we set foot on Cretan soil. Our mission is difficult, but full of challenges. In less than 48 hours, we have to climb the mountain of Zeus, the imposing mount Psiloritis (2,456m altitude) and the next day we have to cross the famous gorge of Samaria, in a course of 15+ kilometres.
We rent a car from the port and leave for the shelter called “Lakko tou Mygerou”. Somewhere along the road we realise that the GPS is leading us nowhere! We drive in circles, get lost in fields and, without a doubt, we are heading in a dead end. Fortunately, we happened to bump into some extremely polite locals who appeared in the right place at the right time to rescue us!
Arriving at the starting point of the hike, you can see the paved path that leads to the highest peak of Crete, the “Holy Cross”. Fully equipped with our backpacks, we start climbing. The rugged terrain and the steep slope are making the hike more difficult as we continue upwards. We start to observe the magnificence of the place. There are lots of shorter mountains around us and by looking towards the horizon we notice the unique light blue colour of the greek sea. The vegetation is getting less and less, as we keep moving, and -even though it is early July- there is still some ice and snow.
At some point we noticed ourselves feeling heavier. Our feet felt heavy, our breathing felt short but the “Holy Cross” was calling to us. Looking down, the shelter seems like a small dot on a map and the desire to conquer the top is ignited within us again. We fill our lungs with the clean icy air of the mountain and push ourselves for the final stretch. We are alone up there yet the “Kri-Kri” and the sound of their bells are keeping us company. Finally, vindication arrives! We have reached the top. We have arrived to the birthplace of Zeus, father of the gods.
Looking around we realise the true magnitude of our achievement. Crete is a huge island, yet from up here, everything seems small. We are filled with joy and excitement as we ring the bell next to the “Holy Cross” and scream from the top of our lungs!
There is small stone church next to the cross where one can sit and relax. Inside of it, there are holy pictures left from past visitors. Interestingly enough, every September dozens of believers climb the mountain to visit this church and spend the night while celebrating the Mass. It is always a refuge for climbers, despite the fact that during winter it is covered -almost completely- by snow.
In a few minutes we will have to take the road back. We are trying to absorb what our senses feel: the view, the scents, the air, the tranquility.
During the descent -which is not as easy as one would think- we can still enjoy nature and feel the “power of the mountain”. We finally understand why this was the birthplace of the God of Gods.
To be continued…
Need to know
What:
Ascent to Psiloritis (2,456 meters)
Where:
Rethymno
How:
By Car or bus (KTEL) (I AM NOT SURE WHY I WRITE)
Why:
From the top of the “Holy Cross” you can see all of Crete.
It is the highest peak of Crete.
It is said that Zeus was born at the top.
Particularly interesting for hiking lovers.
Tips
Degree of difficulty and equipment
Demanding hike. Definitely requires mountaineering shoes and proper clothing for a safe climb
Get water and snacks
No access to water all the way (valid?). Therefore, you should be prepared with the required amount of water as well as a few snacks or small meals.
Low temperatures
The temperatures are very low in the early morning and late evening hours, even in the middle of summer. So, equip yourselves with the right clothes.
Do not give up!
Weather and ground conditions can be difficult, but the view from the top gives the unique opportunity to see the whole island.
Ring the bell!
It’s a rewarding move! Congratulations on achieving your goal!
Meet the “Kri-kri”
On Mount Ida, there are many Cretan Ibexes you will meet along the way
