The Heraklion Mountaineering Club invites you to join two exciting excursions in the breathtaking Asterousia mountains on December 7 and 8, 2024.

Kapetaniana – Via Ferrata

Saturday, December 7, 2024
This adventurous route through the Asterousia mountains features challenging via ferrata passages, ideal for climbers with some experience. With cables and metal steps along the way, the path rewards you with stunning views of the Libyan Sea.

• Leader: Thomas Viskadourakis
• Duration: 7 hours
• Difficulty: 3+
• Departure time: 07:30 from the Archaeological Museum.

The Hidden Historic Asterousia

Sunday, December 8, 2024
This hike explores the peaks of the central Asterousia, offering a glimpse into Crete’s rich history and natural beauty.

The route begins near Kapetaniana, at Voreina Vrysalias, and takes participants across a series of peaks under 1,000 meters in altitude, including Sklavokefala, Lakkoi, Stavros, Tragoharako, Agrimonero, and Stenakas. The highlight of the day is a stop at the renowned Minoan Peak Sanctuary of Metzolati, one of Crete’s oldest and most significant archaeological sites.

From there, the trail descends to Sopata, where fascinating phenomena resembling the legendary Drosoulites of Sfakia occur. After a stop at the abandoned Platanias settlement and the secluded hermitage of Agia Paraskevi, participants will enter the gorge of the same name to admire its striking rock carvings.

The journey continues to the church of Apostle Paul, once part of a monastery linked to 15th-century theologians and philosophers. As the trek winds through pure Asterousian landscapes, it reaches an ancient fortified site called Nymphes, believed to have ties to ancient worship practices. The walk ends at the edge of the village Amygdalos, where a bus awaits to return the group to Heraklion.

• Leader: George Stamatakis
• Duration: 7 hours
• Difficulty: 2
• Departure time: 07:30 from the Archaeological Museum.

Participation Details

For more information or to sign up, visit the Heraklion Mountaineering Club office at 53 Dikaiosinis Street, Heraklion, Monday to Friday from 20:00 to 22:00.
Phone: +30 2810227609