Asterousia Mountains

The average altitude of Asteroussia is not really impressive (<1250m), but access is quite difficult because the terrain is very rugged, with many ravines. Asterousia's main features are the warm temperatures, rare rainfall and very low vegetation, but this is deceptive. The few trees that struggle to grow are eaten by the hungry goats that destroy everything. Rugged mountains, sharp rocks and steep cliffs that fall into the sea give the whole region an eerie character that makes these landscapes unique in Europe. Our absolute favorite destination in Crete, on the numerous hikes there we hardly met any other living creatures apart from goats and vultures (an endless number of vultures). The hiker's heart is happy.

Near Paranymfi, you should visit the spectacular Ambas waterfall, at the beginning of the gorge of the same name. This gorge is home to the largest colony of birds of prey in Europe.