Skiing reveals hidden gems in Crete's mountains
- Mount Ida in Crete offers thrilling skiing despite the lack of ski lifts.
- The mountain attracts climbers and skiers, with challenging conditions that can change rapidly.
- The unique culture around skiing in Crete combines tradition with adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Crete, Greece, offers a contrasting experience from its popular beaches with stunning winter skiing opportunities, particularly on Mount Ida, the island's tallest peak. In February, when the peak is often covered in heavy snow, adventurous mountaineers and skiers ignore the absence of ski lifts to tackle the almost 2,500-meter summit, where a stone chapel stands as a unique landmark. The residents of nearby Anogia take immense pride in their cultural heritage, hosting biannual ski events that draw hundreds of participants, celebrating their local skiing culture. With moist snow creating favorable conditions for winter sports, Mount Ida boasts breathtaking views that can stretch as far as Alexandria in Egypt. However, access to engaging slopes comes with challenges, such as strong winds that can halt climbers and skiers alike. Traveling westward, skiers also explore the White Mountains near Anopolis, where they face their own set of winter conditions. Although snowfall can vary, the excitement of ski mountaineering keeps enthusiasts coming back, showcasing Crete's diverse mountainous appeal. As storms roll in from the Libyan Sea, changing weather can impact planned expeditions, adding an element of unpredictability to the winter sports scene on the island.