Pachnes

Pachnes is the second highest summit of Crete and belongs to the Lefka Ori mountain massif, the White Mountains. At a height of 2453 meters, it is just three meters lower than Psiloritis. The White Mountains got their name because they show a bright color both in winter and summer: white from snow in winter, and from the light limestone in summer. The conical peaks composed of fine scree, apart from their color, more closely resemble the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands than a Mediterranean island. However, their conical shapes do not originate from volcanism but from extreme weathering. The central part of the mountain range is one of the few desert areas in Europe. Therefore, the area is sparsely developed, and only long hikes allow access to the center of the White Mountains. The exception is the gravel road from Anopoli to Pachnes, which can be driven up to 2000 m altitude with a terrain-capable vehicle.