Omalos Plateau

Welcome to the Omalos Plateau, a high-altitude sanctuary cradled within the rugged embrace of the Lefka Ori, or White Mountains, of Western Crete. At approximately 1,100 meters above sea level, Omalos represents a starkly…

To understand the Omalos Plateau, one must first look beneath the surface. Geologically, this is a classic example of a 'polje'—a large, flat-bottomed depression found in karstic regions. …

The horizon of Omalos is defined by the towering presence of the Lefka Ori. The name 'White Mountains' is apt for two reasons: first, because the limestone peaks retain their snowy mantles until late June, and second, because…

Scattered across the fringes of the Omalos Plateau and rising up into the foothills are the 'Mitata'—traditional stone shepherds' huts. These structures are masterpieces of vernacular architecture, perfectly adapted to the…

At the southern edge of the Omalos Plateau, the terrain suddenly drops away, marking the beginning of the Samaria Gorge. This point is known as Xyloskalo, meaning 'wooden staircase.' The name refers to the steep path that was…

Near the village of Omalos lies the entrance to the Tzani Cave, a site of both geological and mythological intrigue. This is a vertical cave, or 'chasm,' that plunges deep into the heart of the plateau. …

On the fringes of the plateau, where the flat land begins to ripple into the foothills, lie the high pastures. This is the realm of the 'Malotira'—the Cretan mountain tea (Sideritis syriaca). …

As your time on the Omalos Plateau comes to a close, take a final moment to look out across this extraordinary high-altitude basin. You have traversed a landscape that is both a geological marvel and a bastion of Cretan culture. …