White mountains Lefka Ori

White mountains Lefka Ori Crete

The White Mountains cover much of the centre of western Crete and are the largest mountain range on the island. Covered in snow, usually until late spring, there are over 30 peaks more than 2000m, the highest being Pachnes at 2453m above sea level. The range is also cut with around 50 gorges, the most well-known being the Gorge of Samaria.

In the centre of the mountains are several high plateaux and tucked away on these can be found some delightful traditional mountain villages. The plateau of Askiphou is at an altitude of 750m and the community of Askiphou comprises a cluster of small villages such as Asi Gonia, Petres, Kares and Ammoudari.

The latter village has facilities such as rooms to rent, a petrol station and restaurants. Two worth visiting are Asi Gonia on the Askyphou plateau and Imbros on a plateau close to the sheer gorge of Imbros. .

white mountains