 Omalos
 |
The Omalos Plateau is closely linked to many historical events and has been an integral landmark in the history of Chania. It served as a refuge for revolutionaries in every historical period, and their traces are still visible along its rugged paths. Today, ascending Omalos is a challenge for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. All it takes is courage and, of course, the guidance of an experienced local guide who can lead you to the peaks of the White Mountains.
Omalos Plateau is one of the three highest plateaus in Crete, sitting at an altitude of 1,080 meters. It has an irregular circular shape, covering approximately 25,000 acres. It is surrounded by seven peaks of the White Mountains: Gikilos (2,005 m), Psilafi (1,984 m), Melindau (2,133 m), Kaloros (1,925 m), Vothonos (1,298 m), Kaemeni Kefala (1,407 m), and Tourli (1,458 m).
Another notable feature of the plateau is that it borders three regions—Kydonia, Selino, and Sfakia—connected by three main passes that serve as the entrances and exits of the plateau. This strategic position made Omalos a safe refuge for Cretans during the challenging years of revolutionary struggles.
Flora and Fauna
Omalos Plateau provides an ideal habitat for wildlife unique to both Greece and the world. In the White Mountains-Samaria National Park, the Cretan wild goat, or kri-kri, lives in small groups of two to five animals. This species, found only in Crete, is endangered. One major threat is the interbreeding with domestic goats, which alters the species.
Another species thought to be extinct but recently rediscovered by researchers from the Natural History Museum of Crete is the Cretan wildcat. The White Mountains are also home to the spiny mouse, the Cretan badger, the Cretan weasel, and the Cretan marten. Birds such as the griffon vulture, golden eagle, Egyptian vulture, Cretan partridge, moustached warbler, red-backed shrike, yellow-legged gull, and osprey also find refuge in Omalos.
Regarding its rich flora, Omalos is remarkable. In the broader White Mountains region, 100 endemic plant species thrive out of the 180 species found across Crete. The plateau�s lush vegetation is attributed to its geographic location. In addition to rare plants and ancient, giant trees offering shade to hikers, Omalos�s fertile land supports agriculture across approximately 6,000 acres. The main crops grown include cereals and potatoes.
|
|
Greek 
English
Map
