Mount Kryoneritis
Mount Kryoneritis is a mountain peak at an elevation of 1.125m (3,690ft) above the sea level, located on the south coast of the Greek island of Crete. The climb is simply brutal: the average gradient is 8.57%. Be prepared, this road is not for the faint of heart or ill prepared.
The gravel road to the summit is bumped. 4wd vehicle required. The whole track is covered with loose gravel. Its many twists, turns and narrows can pose a challenge to even the most experienced drivers. The road is not easy, though. Up, down, right, left all the time. Driving at night, or in poor visibility, is not recommended for drivers unfamiliar with the road. The road is narrow. It’s not possible to overtake a car, even with a bike. The road is a delight to drive, with every kind of twist and turn. The drive offers great views of the sea. After rain, even a single rainfall, conditions of the road can be challenging. Watch out for sudden loose-gravel breaks. The summit is the most easterly peak in Crete's second large massif, the White Mountains. The road ends at the temple of the Holy Spirit (Εκκλησία Άγιο Πνεύμα) with the water spring that gives the name Kryoneritis to the mountain. In the mountain in the winter, unexpected fog and high rainfall often prevail, while the humidity is increased throughout the year. The road is pretty steep. Starting from Kato Rodakino, the ascent is 10.7 km long via 30 hairpin turns. The elevation gain is 918 meters. The average gradient is 8.57%.
Pic: Nils Sappok