Plakias Flora
In the coastal zones around Plakias, plants thrive on the salty sea air and moisture. Inland, Mediterranean scrub dominates the landscape, with shrubs and bushes typical of the region. At higher elevations (above 800 meters), you’ll find oak, cypress, pine, and juniper trees. Rare and endemic plants, such as the Cretan tulip (Tulipa cretica), are also found here.
The most ecologically important areas include:
- Kotsyfou Gorge: A significant nesting area for rare birds of prey.
- Kourtaliotis Gorge: Home to caves like Roufokoumos and Goumenospilos.
- Finikia-Sellia: Features a grove of Cretan date palms.
- Agios Ioannis Forest: A 45-acre forest of cypress and oak trees.
