The other thing Crete is particularly famous for is the mountain. The real Cretan spirit is on the hills; this what many local people say. There are dozens of trekking routes which will allow you to fall in love with this less-known side of the island. Probably the most famous hiking route is through Samaria Gorge, but it is on two hours drive from Heraklion. The options closer to the biggest city on the island include regions like Admira Gorge or Paschaligo. You can travel to the eastern edge of the island to challenge yourself with the Gorge of the Dead (Zakros). The highest peak on the island rising from the Mount Ida (Psiloritis) 2456 m above the sea level is located in the centre of Crete, 60 km away from Heraklion to the west.