The summit of Pachnes (2453m) is located at the centre of the White Mountains. Although the summit is easy to climb, its access on foot is rather difficult (8 hours walk one way from Anopolis) and only few people ever go there.
Now you have the opportunity to see this extraordinary part of the planet in a day.
We drive up by 4x4 vehicle from Hora Sfakion via Anopolis and then on a 22 km dirt track that takes us to an altitude of 1950m.

The road at first winds up the mountain side, passing through a forest of ancient cypresses and offering stupendous views of the South coast of Crete.
Beyond the tree line the track levels off and enters a lunar landscape technically known as a "high desert". This central part of the White Mountains is unique on the planet's northern hemisphere.

At the end of the track we follow a small path leading into the centre of the mountains and turn off towards the summit which we reach after about 2 hours. Once at the top and if it is not too windy we can spend time admiring the stupendous views over half of the island, enjoying the absolute silence of the place and, with a bit of luck, watch griffin vultures as well as the occasional bearded vulture and golden eagle.

What level of fitness is required?

The walk up to the summit takes no more than 2 hours. The terrain is not particularly difficult for someone who has some walking experience but you will need to step carefully on some short stretches on the way down.

What do you need to take with you?

• Walking shoes are preferable although, at a pinch, you could make this walk in trainers (with a decent profile).
• Warm clothes. Remember that the temperature is around 15C lower than at sea level. If it is cloudy (and windy) it can get surprisingly cold once you stop walking even in the summer.
• Bring some food and water (there is a good spring on the way so you don't need too much of it)
• Sun cream is a must.
• Binoculars if you have them. You will almost certainly have the opportunity to watch griffin vultures and other raptors.

Programme

The excursions generally take place once a week on Friday provided that the weather is adequate (no rain, high winds or thick cloud cover) and there are at least 3 participants. Other days can be arranged.

I am away to Nepal right now so cannot offer anymore tours in autumn 2006

This is how a day could look like (but time changes are always possible)

• Meeting on the terrace of Hotel Stavris in Hora Sfakion from 9.30
• Departure to Anopolis and the mountains at 10.15
• Arrival at the end of the trail at 12.00
• The summit is reached around 14.00. Depending on the weather we spend a couple of hours on the summit (Pachnes actually has 3 summits) and then slowly return to the trail.
• Return towards Hora Sfakion at 17.00 reaching Hora Sfakion at 18.30.

For those interested in a more demanding tour click here

Cost

Euro 45.00 per person. A minimum number of 3 participants is required for the tour to take place.

Contact for information and reservation

You can email me (preferably) or phone (if you decide at short notice) 6974694206 (or 00 30 6974694206 if calling from outside Greece).