Selakano, circular route

An easy and spectacular route through the forest of Selakanos. If we want to avoid routes with longer altitude distances but at the same time get and enjoy a clear picture of the Selakanos valley, then this route is for you.

Our route starts inside the settlement of Selakanos at an altitude of 890m and initially the direction is south-southwest but then as we slowly increase in altitude, we proceed north and thus circle the wider area.

At an altitude of 1150m we have reached the lowest point of the route, at the level of the valley above the settlement, which position gives us a panoramic view of the entire eastern and southern part of the area.

The whole route is on a dirt road and without encountering any difficulties.

The best time to cross the forest of Selakanos is March-June when nature gives us a unique and special experience rich in aromas and colors.

See the full photo Gallery..

Apart from the E4 path, there are many great trails that are worth walking if you visit East Crete. Ancient tracks and stone paths that once were the main roads of the island, today are a magnet for nature lovers.

This trail is one of those…

Selakano Forest

Selakano Forest is an area of wild beauty and one of the most important ecosystems on the island, included in the Natura 2000 network. A pine forest almost hidden in a mountain setting.

Composed mostly of the Calabrian pine (Pinus brutia), which is resistant to drought and tolerant of rocky soil, the Selakano ecosystem also includes various oaks, cypress, maple, plane and pear, and sage. Birds of prey (hawks and vultures) soar free over the steep slopes. In the area known as Melissokipos (the Bee-Garden) the bees are a dominant presence and reign over their kingdom. In the spring, the hives’ numbers swell as bee-keepers from all over Crete bring their swarms here, making the Selakanos forest the most significant apicultural area on the island.

Selakano Village – Western point at 1120m (Point B) : 1h 10min

Point B – Point C : 45 min

Point C – Selakano Village : 35 min

Initial elevation (m): 890
Maximum elevation (m): 1150
Minimum elevation (m): 890

Additional Info

Altitude: Lowest point : 890m (Selakano Village) – Highest point: 1150m

Starting Point: Selakano Village

Path Type: All parts on dirt road

Difficulty: Easy

Walk distance: 9,1 km : 2,5 – 3 hours