Lasithi climb

distance & uphill of tripiti mtb route south Crete

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dikti mountains & lasithi plateau

The 3 great climbs to Lasithi from Hersonisos

One of the most famous climbs of Crete and the most popular for cyclists starting from Hersonissos and Heraklion is the climb to Lasithi Plateau at the north entrance, the Ampelos.
Starting from Hersonissos you can climb up to Lasithi plateau by three different roads which, the last six kilometers after the Krasi village, follow the same route. The scenery is breathtaking and the views spectacular. If you want to do some extra Kilometers you can do the round of Lasithi Plateau.

Landscape

Orientation

Start point
Hersonisos

Max / Min points
895m / 10m

Duration
1,5h

Finish point
Ampelos (Lasithi plateau)

Hersonisos Avdou

31Km 1076↑ / 198↓

This climb although is the biggest and longest is the easiest as it is not so steep. Starting from Hersonisos you ride west and at the big crossroad to Kasteli follow the signs to Lasithi Plateau. The small valley of Aposelemis Lake with the big rees, the ruins of the roman aqueduct and the view of Dikti Mountains is fantastic. After Potamies village you see the biggest artificial lake of Crete and the small sinking village Sfendyli the new Atlantis of Crete. At Avdou village where starts the real climb up to the mountains you can refill your bottles with water.

Hersonisos Mochos

26.4Km 1014↑ / 136↓

This is the second longest climb but with the most impressive view. The first 2 km of climb after Stalida until you reach the highway roundabout is a little bit steep. The section from the highway to Mochos village is wide, with mid slope and amazing view.
No matter which way you choose to go up this is the best way to descent back to the sea. It is not only because of the panoramic view but and for the very nice cafes and tavern at Mochos village where you must do a stop to rest and refresh.

Hersonisos Malia Krasi

24.8Km 1007↑ / 129↓

This is the climb for the strong climbers that want to test their power. It is the shortest but the hardest of all the three but with the lowest traffic. The tour start with a warm up of 8.5km but after Malia there is a very steep climb. After you climb 550meters (altitude difference) and you reach the plateau of Krasi village you can rest a little bit as there is a short downhill section. At Krasi village you can refill your bottles with fresh water from the fountain next to the biggest tree in Crete.

elevation profile comparison

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Lasithi climb