The refuge of the White Mountains
At an altitude of about 1,050 meters, the plateau of Omalos is an ideal starting point for hiking and mountaineering routes that reveal the greatness of the White Mountains. Surrounded by imposing peaks and deep gorges, it will fascinate you with the ultimate sense of serenity and authenticity that characterises this mountainous landscape.
The mountain refuge Kallergi, at an altitude of 1,680 meters, rises above the plateau, on the western slopes of the White Mountains. It belongs to the Greek Mountaineering Club of Chania and is the most famous refuge of the complex. The view from here embraces the Samaria Gorge, the peaks of Gigilos (2,082 m) and Melintaou (2,133 m), and reaches the Libyan Sea.
On the routes around the plateau you will be surrounded by the aromas of herbs that grow wild on the slopes, such as malotira, thyme, sage and oregano. You might even get lucky and spot rare endemic orchids, which only bloom on the slopes of the White Mountains. It is recommended to follow basic safety instructions on all routes and, where necessary, to be accompanied by an experienced, certified guide.
Omalos is a farmland, known for its graviera cheese, myzithra cheese, honey and Omalos potatoes, products that thrive in the natural wealth of the White Mountains. In its tavernas you will taste traditional specialties, such as goat with stamnagathi (a native variety of wild spiny chicory that has a characteristic but deliciously bitter flavour), fennel pies and the characteristic staka (a traditional dairy product made from the cream of sheep's or goat's milk) with eggs, dishes that highlight the simplicity, taste and unpretentious character of Cretan cuisine.
Omalos is a place that combines adventure with the beauty and hospitality of the mountains, a destination that invites you to discover it with all your senses.
The mountain refuge Kallergi, at an altitude of 1,680 meters, rises above the plateau, on the western slopes of the White Mountains. It belongs to the Greek Mountaineering Club of Chania and is the most famous refuge of the complex. The view from here embraces the Samaria Gorge, the peaks of Gigilos (2,082 m) and Melintaou (2,133 m), and reaches the Libyan Sea.
On the routes around the plateau you will be surrounded by the aromas of herbs that grow wild on the slopes, such as malotira, thyme, sage and oregano. You might even get lucky and spot rare endemic orchids, which only bloom on the slopes of the White Mountains. It is recommended to follow basic safety instructions on all routes and, where necessary, to be accompanied by an experienced, certified guide.
Omalos is a farmland, known for its graviera cheese, myzithra cheese, honey and Omalos potatoes, products that thrive in the natural wealth of the White Mountains. In its tavernas you will taste traditional specialties, such as goat with stamnagathi (a native variety of wild spiny chicory that has a characteristic but deliciously bitter flavour), fennel pies and the characteristic staka (a traditional dairy product made from the cream of sheep's or goat's milk) with eggs, dishes that highlight the simplicity, taste and unpretentious character of Cretan cuisine.
Omalos is a place that combines adventure with the beauty and hospitality of the mountains, a destination that invites you to discover it with all your senses.
