The Heraklion Mountaineering Club is inviting students, young adventurers, and the young at heart to join an exciting rock climbing event in Plakias at Paligremno next Saturday.
Paligremno features a stunning limestone cliff located at the eastern end of Plakias beach, near the Karavos peninsula. This impressive rock wall rises over 80 meters and is known for its smooth surface, making it a favorite spot for rock climbing enthusiasts. The cliff offers 32 organized climbing routes, along with many more on a smaller ridge nearby.
Exploring Plakias
Plakias, situated 36 km south of Rethymno, lies in a fertile valley formed by the Kotsifos River. Once a small fishing village, it has transformed into a popular tourist destination. In the 1960s, its Gialia beaches attracted many hippies. Today, Plakias is a well-loved resort that serves as a gateway to the area’s natural beauty.
Visitors can explore nearby mountain villages like Myrthios, Sellia, and Asomatos, which provide stunning views of the South Cretan Sea.
Other attractions include Preveli beach, local monasteries, and hiking trails in the Kotsifos and Kourtaliotis gorges. Plakias also boasts well-organized amenities such as hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, water sports facilities, and diving centers. Essential services like a small marina, banks, gas stations, medical clinics, and postal services are readily available.
A charming attraction is the old mill located about 1.5 km from the village beside the Kotsifos River. At Paligremno, visitors can find tunnels that were once used for coal transport. The area known as Gonato features a dramatic vertical cliff with a local legend about Digenis Akritas kneeling to drink from a nearby spring.
Event Details
The rock climbing event is set for Saturday, November 23, 2024. Participants will be guided by experienced coaches from the Heraklion Mountaineering Club, Thomas Viskadourakis and Valia Andreadaki. The club will provide all necessary equipment and safety measures. Attendees should bring a light backpack, a windproof jacket, water, snacks, and an adventurous spirit.
The group will depart at 8:00 AM from the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. For more information and to register for the event, interested individuals can contact the Heraklion Mountaineering Club Monday through Friday from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM at their office located at 53 Dikaiosynis Street in Heraklion or by calling 2810227609.
Related topics:
