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SPECIES
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 Although the largest part of the island of Crete is mountainous, amazing changes in its morphology can be observed.
Mountains 2,500 m in height, plateaux, gorges, lush green valleys and rivers as well as the mild climate create an environment, which is ideal for both humans and plants.
Due to the warm summers and the long period of rainfall which starts in October and continues until almost April the climate can be characterised as "mild Mediterranean", while strong north and south winds also play an important role with respect to weather conditions in this area.
Flora
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 Crete boasts a unique flora, one of Europe's riches areas with respect to vegetation. The island's morphology creates ideal areas for the development of herbs and wild flowers. Approximately 1800 different species of plants can be found on Crete, many of which are endemic to the island.
The gorges are particularly known for their abundant flora. They constitute a true paradise for wild flowers and shrubs, many of which are endemic and rare, since they have been protected from human interference due to the wild and inaccessible environment. In the gorges one can observe all the kinds of plants which grow in the above mentioned zones, due to the fact that the gorges begin in the mountainous or semi-mountainous areas and end at the edge of the sea. If you are lucky, you can even find the famous Cretan Dictamus (Origanum dictamus).
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