Psiloritis (Ida)

Mount Ida or Idi, also known as Psiloritis (Greek for "High Mountain"), is located on Crete, Greece's largest island. It is situated in the Rethymno region, with views of the Aegean Sea to the north and the Libyan Sea to the south. Its highest summit, standing boldly at 2,456 meters, also possesses the highest topographic prominence in Greece. The area is also a UNESCO-protected natural park.

Many caves can be found in the vicinity, the most famous of which is Idaean Cave, which is said to be the birthplace of God Zeus. According to the Theogony, the Mt. Idi was dedicated to the Titaness Rea, mother of Zeus and Poseidon, among other Gods.

Because the mountain is devoid of trees and water, especially over 2.000 meters, climbing during the summer months is hard. The mountain may be explored via 4 to 5 trekking paths, the easiest of which begins at the Nida plateau at 1.412m. Depending on the pace, the trip could take up to 6 hours to ascend and 2 to 4 hours to descend. The Aegean Sea and the Libyan Sea, as well as Lefka Ori and the settlements below, are all visible from the summit. Plan to climb the mountain when the weather is clear and there are no clouds in the sky.

Elevation: 2,456 m
Location: Crete, Greece