Hiking Asterousia Mount

Hiking Asterousia Mount: Climb to the Southernmost Peak of Europe

Embark on a memorable adventure with Hiking Asterousia Mount as you journey to the southernmost peak of Europe in Kapetaniana, Crete. This route offers a perfect blend of beauty and wilderness, tracing ancient paths, stone-paved roads (yidostratas), and mountain streams. The highlight of the trek is the Kofina summit, one of the most iconic peaks in southern Crete.

The Hike

Starting in the picturesque village of Kapetaniana, the path gradually ascends through a rugged landscape. As you make your way upward, you’ll pass by the archaeological site of Lousudi, rich with history, including the 14th-century Metochi of the Three Hierarchs, where a philosophical school was once led by Iosif Filagris, a scholar of Aristotle.

As the path becomes more barren and wild, you’ll encounter canyons of various sizes, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. The terrain becomes steeper as you approach the peak, with wooden handrails providing support on the exposed parts of the trail.

Final Ascent to Kofina

The final segment of the hike is both demanding and exhilarating, moving through a narrow gully that leads to the church of the Holy Cross perched at the summit. The church stands on a site that was once a Minoan peak sanctuary, adding a mystical air to the ascent.

At the summit, hikers are rewarded with stunning, panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding Cretan landscape, making the effort truly worthwhile. The entire route, while moderately challenging in the beginning and middle sections, becomes difficult in the final ascent and takes about 6 hours to complete.

The wild beauty of the Asterousia Mountains offers unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring images that capture the essence of Crete’s rugged wilderness.

Additional Activities in Crete with BOA Base Outdoor Activities

1. Canyoning in Kourtaliotiko Gorge: Explore the natural beauty of one of Crete’s most stunning gorges with crystal-clear waters, waterfalls, and thrilling descents.
2. Via Ferrata in Kapetaniana: Experience an exciting climbing adventure along the impressive rocky slopes of the Asterousia Mountains, with safety ropes and stunning views of the southern coastline.
3. Sea Kayaking: Discover Crete’s hidden coves and pristine beaches through a sea kayaking adventure. Paddle along the turquoise waters and explore secluded spots accessible only by sea.
4. Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: For those wanting to explore beneath the waves, Crete offers some of the best underwater scenery, full of marine life, caves, and shipwrecks waiting to be explored.