Visitor Guide
Respect for Nature and the Caves of Psiloritis – Code of Conduct
- leave everything around me at least as I found it!
- I take care not to disturb wild animals or plants!
- I especially avoid removing plants by their roots!
- I do not remove rocks, pieces of stones, minerals or any other natural material from ecosystems!
- I do not destroy fossils or cave formations!
- I take all my rubbish with me!
- I avoid using fire in the mountains!
- I check the weather forecast for possible extreme weather conditions!
CAVESCaves are unique geological formations that have been shaped over time by the interaction of carbonate rocks and water. Beyond the beauty of their formations, caves are also fragile ecosystems that host entire worlds of larger (e.g., bats) and microscopic life forms (e.g., spiders, isopods, pseudoscorpions, etc.),many of which are exclusively adapted to the unique cave environment and found nowhere else!
Many caves and chasms within our Geopark also have archaeological or cultural significance, highlighting the role that these landforms have played in the long history of human presence on Psiloritis. For all these reasons, caves and their fauna are protected by both National and European legislation.
However, in addition to the duty to preserve the richness of a cave, entering one also involves the responsibility for our own safety. Without proper equipment or speleological knowledge, caves that are not designed for public access can easily become dangerous.
ATTENTION:
- Do not destroy or remove anything from inside the cave, and do not pollute it!
- Show the necessary respect to the permanent residents of the cave by avoiding noise, sudden movements, and bright lights!
- Follow all safety rules to avoid putting yourself at risk – get informed and trained by speleological associations or societies!
The Psiloritis Geopark includes caves that are open and safe for visitors, such as Idaean Cave in Nida (Anogeia), Sfentoni Cave in Zoniana, and Gerontospilios in Melidoni (Mylopotamos).
Photos: M. Avramaki, K. Paragkamian, A. Ronioti