The Heraklion Mountaineering Club (Ορειβατικός Σύλλογος Ηρακλείου) is doing something refreshingly sensible this winter: teaching people how to move in the mountains without becoming a problem for rescuers.
A beginner-level mountaineering school is launching, designed for people who want to learn to travel independently and safely in mountainous terrain—whether dry or snow-covered—without pretending they are climbers or Instagram heroes. No ropes dangling off cliffs. No theatrics. Just fundamental mountain skills.
The training follows the official standards of the Hellenic Federation of Mountaineering and Climbing (EOOA). It is open to adults over 18, in good health, with or without prior mountain experience. You do not need to “already know things.” That is the point of the school.
What you actually get
After completing the program, participants receive official EOOA certification, which allows them to continue into advanced training levels—up to instructor or Greek mountain guide qualifications, should they decide to take things seriously (and legally).
In other words, this is not a hobby course. It is the first proper step.
How the school works
The program combines theory and long days outside, where reality usually corrects optimism.
Theoretical training
- 5 classroom sessions
- Location: Heraklion Mountaineering Club premises (53 Dikaiosynis Street, 3rd floor)
- First lesson: January 7, 2026
Practical training
- 10 full-day field sessions in alpine terrain
- First outing: January 10, 2026
Planned field weekends include:
- 10–11 January 2026: Psiloritis—Overnight at Toumbotos Prinos shelter (Rethymno Mountaineering Club)
- 24–25 January 2026: Dikti—Overnight at Strovili shelter (Lassithi Mountaineering Club)
- 7–8 February 2026: White Mountains—Overnight at Volikas shelter (Chania Mountaineering Club)
- 21–22 February 2026: White Mountains—Overnight at Tavri shelter (Chania Mountaineering Club)
- 7–8 March 2026: Psiloritis—Overnight at Migerou Lakos
(Yes, the program may change depending on the weather and conditions. Mountains still decide.)
What you need—and what you do not
The club provides all technical equipment:
- ice axes
- crampons
- ropes
- and all shared safety gear
You bring your personal gear:
- mountaineering boots
- backpack
- appropriate clothing
If you were hoping to show up in sneakers, we gently suggest reconsidering.
Practical details
- Information: +30 2810 227609 (Monday–Friday, 20:00–22:00)
- Full details: on Facebook
This is not about conquering mountains.
It is about learning how to belong there without causing trouble. And honestly, that is the kind of education Crete needs more of.
