Hochebenen, Wälder & Parks

Selakano Forest

Lasithi-Hochebene, Lasithi · Free

Highlights & amenities

Entry: Free

About

Pine forest in the mountains.

The Selakano forest lies in the mountains of Lasithi, near Ierapetra. It's dominated by pine trees and offers cool walks.

Selakano is a forested valley in the south-eastern part of the Dikti mountains, surrounded by four of the highest peaks. The forest of wild pine (Pinus brutia) is one of the most important on Crete. There are also kermes oaks, plane trees and maples. A small hamlet and a taverna make it a nice destination for a cool walk in summer.

The forest is one of the most important ecosystems in Crete, and its pine forest is important on a Mediterranean level. From the forest, there's a panoramic view of the Libyan Sea, about 15 km away. It's a cool and peaceful place for walks in summer.

Around Lasithi-Hochebene

Nearest town: Agios Nikolaos, about 25 km by road
Nearest airport: Heraklion airport (HER), about 55 km by road

Lasithi, the eastern end of Crete, is quieter and greener than you might expect. Agios Nikolaos wraps around a small lake and a lively harbour, with cafés on the water and beaches within walking distance. Just north, Elounda and Plaka look across to the fortress island of Spinalonga, one of the most moving places on the island. More about Lasithi