White Mountains Protected Forest

Crete's highest mountain range. There is the highest peak of the island here, Pahnes with a height of 2453 m above sea level. 20 other peaks exceed 2000 m above sea level. The mountains are harsh, built of limestone and covered with rather scarce vegetation. They are cut by over 50 gorges, of which the most famous is the Samaria Gorge. Walking on the White Mountains, whose name comes from the white limestone rocks and snow lying until late spring, requires good preparation, strength and oreintation in the field.