Skinakas Mountain is the highest paved road of Crete
Greece, europe
16.8 km
1,752 m
extreme
Year-round
# Skinakas Mountain: Crete's Sky-High Observatory Drive
Perched at a breathtaking 1,752 meters (5,748 feet) above sea level, Skinakas Mountain is home to Crete's highest paved road—a wild mountain adventure nestled in the stunning Psiloritis range within the Ida mountains. The summit rewards drivers with the incredible Skinakas Observatory, complete with two telescopes and top-notch research and educational facilities dedicated to astronomy.
Starting from the charming village of Anogia, you're looking at a 16.8 km (10.43 miles) white-knuckle climb that gains 950 meters of elevation. Fair warning: this isn't your average Sunday drive. Sections of this road hit gradients up to 16.4%, complete with endless hairpin turns that demand serious respect and concentration. Built back in 1984, the asphalt is holding up, but only just—it's deteriorating year after year with some sections showing serious wear and soft edges. Frankly, parts of it are downright sketchy, so stay well clear of those sides.
The views? Absolutely worth it. On clear days, you can see both seas stretching out below you. Even in summer, be prepared for bone-chilling winds and unpredictable weather—bring a jacket. Winter transforms the road into a snow-covered challenge, so timing your visit matters.
Pro tip: Skip the bus and rent a car for maximum control and flexibility on this technical route. Parking at the observatory is tight, and during busy periods, expect waits over an hour. But for mountain road enthusiasts and astronomy lovers, this epic Cretan drive delivers scenery and thrills in equal measure.
Where is it?
Skinakas Mountain is the highest paved road of Crete is located in Greece (europe). Coordinates: 38.7459, 22.1266
Road Details
- Country
- Greece
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 16.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,752 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 38.7459, 22.1266
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