Recommended Crete tips and tours and rental car tours from Crete Travel Experts Kreta.com

The Bay of Afrata and its mountain Village Afrata is located in western Crete at the Rodhopou-Peninsula. Approximately 7 km from the larger coastal town kolimbari. Below the village is a path that leads to the pebble beach. This small peble beach is popular with the locals for fishing and snorkeling. Diving Clubs come from Chania town to dive here, it is also a good area for diving. Afrata is still completely untapped from tourism. This makes the charm for many individuals. At this bay there is a small tavern, which also gives a few deck chairs. More information for booking the best Hotels, Apartments and Villas in West Crete: info@kreta.com, The Crete-Experts have the best ideas for Crete!

Agia Galini is a small, but all the more so lively location on Crete`s southern coast. Agia Galini is one of the biggest Crete's seaside towns, built right up the hillside, tavernas and studios jostle each other (the meaning of the place name is holy sea tranquillity!). Some streets are pedestrian only and a small harbour completes the picture. The small family run hotels and restaurants clinging densely to a steep hillside and hemmed in by cliffs, small beaches and a fishing harbour. Those who have a room with a sea view have a beautiful vista in and over the Bay. Pure holiday mood! The main bay of Agia Galini, which in summer can get very hot in the south coast, is only a few minutes’ walk away. The main Bay of Agia Galini is not spectacular but the remote surrounded beaches west of Agia Galini are attractive. To the international Airport of the Capital Heraklion 75 km, distance to the airport of Chania 116 km.

Nature Adventure Agia Irini Gorge European Path E4 Things to know before you go; most of our tours provide round-trip transport from your accommodation.
If you want to pass through the Agia Irini Gorge you must wear the right clothes and shoes for walking and hiking. The Agia Irini Gorge is 12 km, 7 km of them in the gorge and 5 km outside. The starting point is the village of Agia Irini. An official walking map for Crete does not exist, but you will always find a map of the whole route at the entrance to each gorge. These maps are detailed enough to give you information about the gorges. Like most gorges on Crete, the Agia Irini Gorge is also a riverbed. You can admire the local flora and fauna, such as the endangered Cretan wild goat and various plants like cypress, pine, and dittany. The path first goes uphill and then downhill. In the gorge there are several picnic areas where you can have a short rest beneath the shade of the old pine trees. It is a medium level hiking trail. The walk takes a total of 5 hours and can be done throughout the year, provided that it hasn't just rained. An average walker knows that hiking in a gorge after a rainy day is dangerous because stones from the mountain can be dislodged. This riverbed is dry in summertime, but up until June you will see some water, brooks and springs where you can fill your bottle with fresh water. It is paved with huge stones and pebles. More information for booking the best Hotels, Apartments and Villas in West Crete: info@kreta.com, The Crete-Experts have the best ideas for Crete!

Agio Farago beach is a river mouth open to the sea, only accessible on foot. It is located 28 km westwards of the south-coast-village Lentas and 70 km south of the capital Heraklion. The Agiofarago parking place is about 1.8 km from the beach. This area is also a nature reserve for wild goats and birds. After the parking lot, a small gorge begins, which is very popular with mountain freeclimbers and for beginners of free climbing. The vertical walls of the gorge and their caves offer the best conditions for beginners in free climbing. It's a very barren, dry area, I can imagine that this location is perfect to make good western film. On the way to the beach you will pass the small church of Saint Anthony and the Goumenospilios cave. This small church is used by the free climbers, who put their utensils there and also change there. We have combined this tour with our Phaistos sightseeing tour. from Phaistos it goes to the mountain village Kamilari then to the mountain village Sivas southwards to the monastery Monastiri Odigitrias. Shortly after the monastery, the path becomes a bit uncomfortable.

Agios Nikolaos is a coastal town located in the region of Lassithi, 64 km eastwards from the capital city Heraklion and 11 km from the coastal Village Elounda. Since 1904 Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the Lassithi prefecture the lake Voulismeni, wich is direct in the middle of the town, charactised this beautiful seaport. This lake is connected to the sea by a straight channel. It is surrounded from a hill and on the tip there are many well-known restaurants, pubs and bars with a fantastic view to the lake and to the seaport. Aghios Nikolaos is an international and cosmopolitan resort that welcomes thousands of visitors annually. Its tranquil lifestyle hasn't been lost despite its busy tourist infrastructure. Aghios Nikolaos was named after the charming Byzantine chapel of St. Nicholas that was erected on the spot called "Nissi" during the 7th century AD. The chapel has several well-preserved frescoes from the 9th, 10th and 11th centuries and rewards its visitors with a breath-taking view of the town and bay. The City Agios Nikolaos is built on hilly terrain overlooking the Bay Mirabello.You can expect neoclassical buildings, a great marina, shopping-roads offering local handcrafts and very good restraurants.

The bay Agios Pavlos is located on the south coast of Crete 58 km away from Rethymnon, 9 km from the Triopetra bay at the tip of the Melissa Cape. There are a few tavernas renting for parasols and sun loungers. The beach of Agios Pavlos is affected by the south winds. The wind in your hair and sand in your toes. Steep sides of the dunes rising around the sandhills, this is a fantastic beach for chilly swim - and probably you'll have all the bay to yourself. It is a Sandhill and you have to clamber down to the beach, but with the steep sides rising around you, the blue sea stretching before you, this is a fantastic beach for chilling day at the beach.

The small mountain village Anatoli is 30-minutes’ drive, 17 km, from the coastal town of Ierapetra in the south coast of Crete. To the Port of Agios Nikolaos 30 Km , about 45 minutes’ drive. It is an ancient, historical, traditional village with 666 habitants, situated at an altitude of 600 m with 2 Tavernas and 2 coffee shops. Due to the government assistance programs several old farmhouses are restored. I hope the beautiful old Fountain Square will also been restored soon. Anatoli is located 9.8 km south of the wildlife refuge “Gianna Koryfi” it is a protected area for flora and fauna since 2001. This area is bordered from the Lassithi Plateau. From Anatoli to the "Selekano Forest" only 10 minutes’ drive, 13.8 Km. On the way you will pass the picturesque mountain villages Males and Christos.

Nature Adventure Aradena Gorge European Path E4
Located 10 km north of the South-Coast- Village Loutro the Aradena Gorge is 7 Km long and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to hike. It is a high-level hiking trail. The Gorge begins on the softer southern hills of the White Mountains in the Village Aradena and ends in the South Coast. Starting point is the abandoned Village Aradena. The settlement’s old remains of the Village Aradena reveal the skill of local craftsmen. The houses are believed to have been abandoned in mid-20th century. The descent itself is difficult but manageable, hikers should be forewarned about falling stones. Steep surrounding cliffs and scenic views of the Libyan Sea. Springtime, when the climate is milder and the wildflowers are in bloom, is the best season to be in the gorge. The walk through the Aradena Gorge can be started from its lower entrance, at Marmara beach.

The archaeological Museum of Heraklion is the most important museum in Greece and among the most important in Europe. There you will see the oldest witness of our European civilisation, with artefacts from all periods of Cretan prehistory and history. The museum covers a chronological span of over 5,500 years from the Neolithic period to Roman times. The museum, located in the town centre not far away from Heraklion harbour, was built between 1937 and 1940 by the architect Patroklos Karantinos on a site previously occupied by the Roman Catholic monastery of Saint Francis which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1856. It is a modern building and an important example of modern architecture. The architect Karantinos applied the principles of modern architecture to the specific needs of a museum by providing good lighting from the skylights. The two-storey building has large exhibition spaces, laboratories, a drawing room, a library, offices and a special department and the Scientific Collection Room, where several finds are stored and studied. The museum shop sells postcards, museum copies and books. There is also a café.

The mountain village of Archanes is one of the largest and oldest wine-growing region in Crete. It is located about 15 km inland of the capital (Heraklion) in eastern Crete on the foot of the sacred mount Giouhtas. Archanes is one of the most charming mountain villages in Crete. The road from Heraklion to Archanes we also call the Wine Route of Crete, as on the trail to Archanes many winemakers offer tasting. Worth seeing are the monasteries "Panagia", "Agia Paraskevi", "Agia Triada", with their Byzantine frescoes. In the village there are paved narrow lanes with the restored neoclassical buildings,,typical taverns and Cafenios.

The Monastery Arkadi
Arkadi Monastery is perhaps the best-known monastery on Crete due to the Holocaust of 1866. In November 1866, Ottoman armies laid siege to the monastery, where 700 women and children and 260 Cretan warriors had barricaded themselves after the Abbot’s refusal to surrender. This event is considered to be one of the most important in Cretan history and was the reason that Arkadi was designated by UNESCO as a European Freedom Monument. It is a large fortified complex built during the end of the period of Venetian rule. Apart from the monks’ cells, the central building also includes warehouses, premises for processing agricultural products, as well as stables. Its location and impressive architecture make it more special.

Askifou and the Askifou-Plateau is the biggest and quaint area of Western Crete. The most polular Gorge in this region is the Imbros Gorge, the Kalikrates Gorge and the Aradena Gorge. The Mountain-Village Askifou has a Mini Market, a Tavern a Cheese Dairy. The Askifou Plateau is located 58 km southwards from the Airport of Chania ( one hour drive), 29 km ( 41 minutes’ drive) from the Coastal Area of Frangokastello with the quiet magnificent sandy beaches and 21 km from the Village Hora Sfakion ( 30 minutes’ drive).

Nature Reserve The Balos Lagoon organised Boat-Trip to the Lagoon
We recommend the one-day cruise to the island Gramvousa to "Balos" the blue lagoon. This eventful day cruise to Gramvousa is especially for families a great event. In the summer-season the boot "Gramvoussa-Express" goes every morning from the harbour of Kissamos to the Gramvoussa. You can purchase the Boat-Tickets from us Kreta.com. The harbour of Kissamos is located between the city Kastelli Kissamos and Kaliviani. This route goes closed to the coastline. First you will have the possibility to visit the famous venetian castle at the top of a rock at an altitude of 137 m. There you will enjoy a fantastic panoramic sea view to the blue lagoon "Balos". This place was also hide-out for pirates.You have nearly 1 1/2 hour time for visiting the castle, then after this visit the route goes directly to the perfect dream blue lagoon "Balos". For this perfect dream beach, you will have enough time to ejoy the azure sea.

For all of you who would like to travel with a real historic ship, I can only recommend the M / S Irini. It is anchored in Chania and makes trips several times a day. You can scuba dive and scholl here (for example to an airplane wreck from WW II). If you're lucky, you'll see a pair of Caretta Caretta turtles that often roam the coast off Chania. Or enjoy the flair on an old, former pilot boat of the US Navy from 1928.
An exciting excursion for the whole family.

A perfect day by the sea! Without roads, without traffic, just enjoy nature without crowds. The south coast between Chora Sfakion and Sougia cannot be reached by car. Only for hiking (the European hiking trail E4 runs here) and to explore from the sea. Spectacular nature and landscape await you here. Rent a boat (also possible without a license) or have a water taxi take you to the remote and lonely beaches. A highlight is Domata Beach between Agia Roumeli and Sougia.

The Botanical Park of Crete grew from the ashes of that devastating fire in the year 2003. The park is located 19 km southwards of Chania City near the village Meskla at the ridge of the White Mountains.
In the year 2003 the Village Skordalou and the surrounding region had burnt almost to the ground caused from an electricity pole wire. A sudden hot wind storm from Africa caused an electricity pole wire to break. The damage was disastrous: sixty thousand olive trees over 400 hundred years old had been burnt. The village had been ruined financially and ecologically. A family, owners of a Land of 150-200 square kilometres thought that all that burnt land could become a botanical park for trekking, education and recreation. All family members of the family Marinakis welcomed this idea.

Saint John the Hermit Cave, Marathokefala
A Historical Cave located just 3 km south of the Coastal Village Kolimbari in a slopy area with a pectacular view to the mediteranean sea. It is richly decorated with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. Inside the cave there is temple of the 15th century and the foundations of old cells that date back in the 17th-18th century. It is believed that the cave was also used as a sanctuary in the pre-Christian Era. On 6-7 October takes place the feast of St. John the Hermit and on December 24, on Christmas Eve, the Nativity of Christ is represented with real animals, and is very famous throughout Greece. This is where St. John the Hermit, the founder of the Catholicon Monastery lived for three years. He led an ascetic life in the nude for a long time in this part of the island.

Sightseeing the old town of Chania and its modern life.
Chania is a hub of creative diversity. An eclectic medley of cultural treasures, with its mix history and modern life. For many the most beautiful town in Crete. Chania is the second largest City of Crete. Large parts of the old town are closed to traffic; the bulk of the Venetian mansions restored or converted into hotels. One of the most important constructions of the Venetian Period is the Entrance of Renier Mansion. In former times Chania was divided in 3 parts the East part for the Muslims the Southwest part for the Jewish and the West part for the Christians. In the East oft he old town there are traces of the Turks: a small minaret or masonry. On the Northeast of the Venetian walls there is the only preserved gate “The rampart Sabbionara” still preserves its Turkish name "koum - kapi (Kum Kapisi = the Gate of the Sand it is constructed in the sea. On the front of the rampart, the circular Venetian emblem of the lion of Agios Marcos is still preserved. The Byzantine Wall was built in 12th century and its outline is irregular with longitudinal axle from the East to the West, where its two central gates were located.

"Europe is the heart of the world, Greece the heart of Europe, Crete the heart of Greece," they say in Sfakia, which is what the locals call their town. The Sfakiots are very proud people who over the centuries were never really taken over by the occupying forces of Crete. Proud Cretans with their long boots are still in evidence here. The ferries from Sfakia go to Loutro (a non-street-connected coastal Village), to Sougia, and brings the Samaria Hikers from Agia Roumeli (also a non-street-connected village ) to sfakia. There is also a connection to the Island Gavdos.

Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
The Monastery of Chrysoskalitissa throns on a rock at the south-west end of Crete aproximately 5 km north of the Lagoon Elafonissi. Easy to reach from the National Road Northwest - Coast in direction Kolimbari- Kissamos-Voulgaro then follow the signs to the Lagoon Elafonissi. The church of the monastery is dedicated to Mother Mary and the Holy Trinity and its feast is held on August 15. The Monastery was built during Venetian rule on the site of St. Nicholas monastery and, according to tradition, it took its name from a golden step, the final of the original ninety-eight that led to it when it was first built. It is a nice stop-over to your trip to the Lagoon Elafonissi.

Chrissy Island is 7 km long with a maximum width of 2 km, is located 8 nautical miles south of the most southern town Ierapetra Crete. Chrissy Island with its natural beauty is a nature reserve and part of Natura 2000 Networking Programme. You will be inspired from the exotic natural landscape of the cedar forest and the bays with golden sand and turquois water. Some of the trees are over 300 years old.
While swimming in the crystal-clear water you will smell the Cedar wood. The distinguishing features of the island are many shells. The Island is uninhabited, there is only a small bar for the visitors and a small tavern. Chrissy Island becomes more and more popular. Book your ticket for Chrissy Island before your got to Crete! You can purchase your Boat-Ticket from us info@kreta.com.

The Church of Archangel Michael
The Church of Archagel Michael is an early Christian church dating from the second half of the 6th century, situated outside Kato Episkopi, 7 km southwards of the Coastal village Kolimbari. This Church is one of the most important and oldest monuments of Crete from the early Christian period. The church of Archangel Michael is of great value, from both an architectural and an icon painting perspective. Architecturally, it is a periaptic rectangular building topped with a large cupola. The narthex lies at the west end of the church and then there is an atrium. The exterior of the cupola is formed by homocentric crowns evolving like steps. The mosaic floors, dating back to the 6th century, are decorated with motifs as fisch, ivy leaves and semi-circles. The wall decoration is well preserved. The Church Archangel Michael is an example of great icon painting craftsmanship and it is associated with the 2nd Byzantine period.

Easy Hike through the Deliana - Mesavlia Gorge (suggested even for children)
Get your camera ready. The hiking tour through the Deliana Gorge is an excellent spot for bird watching. You'll be utterly charmed by this tour. Refresh the mind, body and spirit in this unknown gorge, that's an injustice to the beauty of this area.
A natural paradise especially for ornithologists. The gorge is characterized by the dense vegetation around its creek. The habitat for the bearded Vulture. It is an easy walk with a height difference of 120 meters. Starting Point is the Village Mesavlia and descends in the village Deliana. Several communities are fighting over the naming of the gorge, which is why this gorge in Crete has different names. We just call Deliana, like the next village at the entrance. In front of the gorge is a large parking lot. The Deliana Gorge is located 7 km southward of the coastal Village Kolimbari. Walking in the gorge is very easy and is suggested even for children. It is only a 2 hours walk from Deliana to Mesavlia and return. It is a water-rich gorge with old plane trees and oaks. At the beginning, the first 2 km, it gets rocky. The canyon is a nature reserve for the bearded vulture and is a part of Natura 2000" program. The hike is 7 km long. 2 hours walk from Deliana to Mesavlia and return.

The Lagoon Elafonissi (Nature reserve)
You can reach the Lagoon Elafonissi by car or with or as offered by us Kreta.com as organised daytrip to the south. We have many pick up points from the North-West-Coast to the Nature Reserve Elafonissi. Contact: info@kreta.com.
Elafonissi is a lagoon in the South West of Crete and one of the most popular nature reserves of the Island. Sand dunes with fine sand enclose a large area. Small sandy islets are reachable on foot. The sea is so shallow here that one can walk from isle to isle. Coral reefs serve as wave breakers. Fine traces of red coral leave a deposit on the waterfront and offer a fantastic light show in the water.
It is located 49 km southwards from the coastal village Kolimbari, about 1-hour drive and 1 hour 2o minutes’ drive from Chania Town. The way is the goal. On the offshore Island “Elafonissi” you will find a nature trail through the dunes. More information for booking the best Hotels, Apartments and Villas in West Crete: info@kreta.com, The Crete-Experts have the best ideas for Crete!

Falassarna one of the most scenic beaches of Europe in West Crete.
Falassarna is a protected nature reserve with dunes on the west coast of Crete. It extends over a length of about 2 km with 5 different bays. The exotic-Beach Falassarna is a Paradise and one of the TOP beaches of Europe. Located 60 km westwards from Chania-Town and only 15 minutes’ drive from the coastal village Kolimbari. There are two watersports-stations offering Stand Up Boards (SUP), Surfing and Kite Surfing. The area consists of several sandy beaches and a few small apartment houses. There are two beach clubs with good music, where fast food is offered and 5 very good restaurants. The beach clubs also offer sun loungers and parasols (price for booth 2 chairs and an umbrella = 5 €,) There are no shops. On the big beach there are 2 watersports stations.To the next big town Kissamsos with hospital 14.4 km about 25 minutes’ drive. You will find several ATMs, shops, hairdressers and several banks and pharmacies. Highlight in Falassarna are the excavations of the ancient port city Polirinia from the 6th century BC. The excavations are at the end of the bay, where it is rocky. At the northern end of Falassrana there are the ruins of the ancient Grecoroman city of Falassarna. My favorite place there is the carved stone throne. What for a function it had is still unclear. The throne is located south of the excavations and anyone can sit down in, what I naturally enjoyed!

More information for booking the best Hotels, Apartments and Villas in West Crete: info@kreta.com, The Crete-Experts have the best ideas for Crete!

Visit Fodele Birthplace of El Greco The Village Fodele is the birthplace of the artist Domenicos Theotokopoulo, known as "El Greco". The Village is located 30 km west of the capital Heraklion. El Greco mainly painted pictures with religious themes and portraits. His work as an icon painter began in Crete. His painting was influenced by the Byzantine tradition. In his birthplace Fodele there are several churches from the 11th and 12th century. Maybe he was inspired by it? He first went to Italy as a young man and came into contact with Titian's art, later on to Rome and then to Spain, where he remained until his death. He was the principal master of Spanish Mannerism and the declining Renaissance.
The small village Fodele has today 540 inhabitants and is located in a fertile valley with several springs. In the village there are 3 old churches. The beach of Fodele is very well organized with sunbeds, umbrellas and water sports.

South Coast at its best! Frangokastello is located on the southwest coast of Crete, about 65 km from the city of Chania. To get by car to Frangokastello from North Crete you will need to take the National Road connecting Chania and Heraklion. Getting to Frangokastello is easy. The motorway is well maintained, and sign posted in latin letters. The motorway leads from the Askifou Plateau through some short tunnels to the south coast.Take the exit to Vrysses and drive in the road to Chora Sfakion/Sfakia Frangokastello belongs to the prefecture of Chania. One of my favorite track, the way is the goal: the itinerary from Chania in the main direction "Vrisses" to the Askifou plain and then parallel to the "Imbros" gorge down to Frangokastello. A discovery for all senses. You will be accompanied by the scents of wild herbs, cedar and cypress trees to the coast region to Frangokastello. While the surrounding canyons, valleys and plateaus of Frangokastello are very green, the coastal region is quite dry.

The Capital Heraklion
The Capital City of Crete Heraklion, the fourth largest city in Greece with 140,000 inhabitants, is a vibrant mixture of "small Athens", Crete's business and administrative centre, historic site highlights, chaos and lively hustle and bustle. The holiday mood merges into the bustle of the city. The city has a long history. Minoans, Saracens, Byzantines, Venetians and Turks have all left their mark. Heraklion was made Crete's capital city in 1972.
The tourist sights are in the city centre. Here you can get your bearings, unlike in the districts outside. The large Freedom Plaza, Platia Eleftherias, is the hub of the city. The Archaeological Museum is located here. The Dikeossinis Street is one of the most important shopping streets. The Odos Delalou runs parallel to this and is a pedestrian zone with cafes, restaurants and many souvenir shops leading to the most beautiful plaza in the city - Platia Venizelo. Here tourists rub shoulders with the locals. Small streets lead off the plaza where one can find many places to linger and while away the time.

Sight-Seeing Monasteries & a small walking-Path to the "Bear Cave"
The Patriarchal Monastery of Agia Triada is one of the most important monasteries of the end of the Venetian Empire in Crete with a great contribution to the History and Education of the island. It is located at the Akrotiri Peninsula on the foot of Stavros mountain chain. It was built by the brothers Ieremias and Lavrentios Tsagarolon that came from a great Venetian-Cretan family and had a powerful influence in the Orthodox population and the Catholic Venetians. The Monastery has a smal shop where the monks sell their Organic Olive oil and Organic wine. After about 100 meters you will park in front of the monastery "Gouvernetto" where the hike begins.

Ierapetra is the most southerly town in Europe and surrounded by countless vegetable plantations. Many of our fruits are cultivated here. The temperatures are extremely hot in the summer and wonderfully mild in the winter. The town´s pride and joy are the waterfront promenade. A fort remains from Venetian times and a mosque in the old town (the original Turkish area) from the Turks.
There is a long beach in the middle of the town made up of grey sand and small pebbles. The town develops its own charm in the evening and the promenade and tavernas of all types invite one to tarry a while. Ierapetra is first and foremost a real town rather than a collection of hotels, one can feel it. We recommend our Boat – Tour, a daily Cruise to the Island Chrissy (nature reserve) from Ierapetra-Harbour.

Hiking through the Imbros Gorge
Imbros Gorge is the third polular Gorge after Samaria and Agia Irini Gorge. The Imbros Gorge belongs to the European Hiking Path E4 and is located 10 km north of the coastal village Sfakia. It is an easy to walk Gorge with a length of 11 km (2-3 hours walk), also suggedsted for children. A Real Adventure for families.
Thestarting point is the village of Imbros, 700 meters above sea level. It is a well signed path you just have to follow the signs. It is a descending path; the walls of the gorge have low sidewalls. The exit ist the village Komitades with two taverns where you can ask for a taxi to bring you back to the Starting point. It is a small village in the South - Coast near the coastal village Frangokastello.

The small sandy bay of Kalathas is located on the west side of the Akrotiri peninsula near Chania. The beach is very shallow to the sea. In the season a beach bar / tavern is opened. Here also beach chairs and umbrellas can be borrowed. From the beach you can see a small island that a good swimmer can reach. Due to the western orientation of the bay you have almost until the last minute sunshine.
From Kalathas it is also not far to the neighboring bay of Tersanas and also the bay of Stavros, famous for the filming of the classic Alexis Zorbas.

The Kallikratis Gorge is a light and short gorge hike (2.5 hours, round and back about 6 hours). The walk starts at the local end of the village Kallikratis. The village is also worth a visit as it is in a small fertile valley. A small white church with a sundial adorns the place Kallikratis. Peek to our Hotel-collection in the South-Coast of Crete, small hideaways, Villas, Apartments, Cottages and Hotels. Initially you walk on asphalt and later on well-paved roads. This walking tour is also possible with sports shoes and it can be done with children. This route is part of the European path E4. In summer it is very hot in this gorge, as there is no shade, so please pay attention to headgear. Mark for this trail is the yellow and black sign the European trail "E4". Frangokastello to Kallikratis Canyon: Drive towards Imbros, then towards Asfendos and then Kallikratis direction of Frangokastello.

The Minoan Palace “Kato Zakros”
Kato Zakros is one of the most famous archaeological sites of Crete", the fourth largest of the Minoan Sites whose treasury not looted. It was built in 1900 BC and was destroyed permanently in 1450BC. The most important findings are kept in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. Unfortunately, the remains are not well preserved. The beautiful beach is mainly pebbly. It remains peaceful, even in teh high season. This rocky beach is perfect for for fishing and snorkeling. on the edge of the bay there are taverns.

Nature Reserve Kedrodasos Beach in southern Crete is 2,7 km southwards of the Lagoon Elafonissos and 47 km southwards of the northern coastal town of Kissamos ( 1 hours´drive). Elafonissos and Kedrodasos Beach both are part of the European Path E4. A steep stone path leads to this hidden dream beach and nature reserve with cedars and Juniper-Trees. Parking is 15 minutes´walk away from the beach of Kedrodassos. It is not an official parking lot, rather parking space, left and right of a small street (now also paved). There is not much parking. The way to the beach leads over hill and dale along a dried up trickle. The crystal clear water with a gently shelving sandy beach bordered by protruding beach is a paradise for swimming and snorkeling.

The Palace of Knossos
Knossos is situated only a few minutes’ drive from the Capital Heraklion. Knossos was discovered in 1878 by Minos Kalokairinos, a Cretan merchant and antiquarian. The English archaeologist Arthur Evans was able to purchase the entire site and conduct the main excavations in 1900.The Palace of Knossos is the largest of the preserved Minoan palatial centres. Dated to 2000-1350 B.C. Four wings are arranged around a central courtyard, containing the royal quarters, workshops, shrines, storerooms, repositories, the throne room and banquet halls.

Komos Beach is an archelogical site. In ancient times, minoan period, the Komos Beach was the port of Phaistos, you can see the remains. The long sandy beach comes with stunning sun sets and view to the rock "Volakas". Komos Beach is located 63 km southward from the capital Heraklion and 2,8 km from the village Pitsidia. This place is a archeological protected area it belongs to the establishment of zones where construction is not allowed. The remoted regions of Matala with their secluded beaches are prefered by nudists even they are not official nudistic-beaches. At the south of the beach, next to the archaeological site, there are a kiosk offering sun beds, parasols, toilet and showers. Kommos Beach is a nesting place for the sea turtles "Caretta Caretta". The bay of Kommos is embranced from sand dunes. In September and October after the first rain the white sand-lilies bloom.

Treat yourself to the white paradise Koufonissi! The island is uninhabited today, but still filled with remains of past human activity that starts from the Early Minoan times until the post-Byzantine era. You can expect unforgettable beach-experience. Sailing in the truquioise water with soft music playing in the background. An unforgettable trip don´t miss! The island is 6 kilometers long, 5.5 kilometers wide, and has an area of 4,26 square kilometers. In this deserted island you can expect emerald waters, tranquillity and idyllic scenery with 36 sandy dream-beaches. The natural beauty of the island is a gift to visitors who must respect and protect it. Due to its incredible natural beauty and important ecosystem, it has been included in the European initiative NATURA 2000. Koufonisi is situated at the southeastern part of Crete, 10 nautical miles southeast of the coastel village Makrys Gialos It is the biggest in a cluster of islets and has a distinct history and natural beauty.

If you are planning a small tour in the east of the island, you should plan a stop in Kritsa and a visit to the Panagia Kera church. The well-known village is very well maintained with many small shops, Here you will find fancy souvenirs and cozy taverns. From Agios Nikolaos you drive half an hour inland.

The Kournas Lake
The Kournas Lake is situated in the hinterland of Georgioupolis nearly 38 km eastwards of Chania town. It has a maximum depth of 22,5 m and is surrounded by green hills, just a few kilometres away from the sea. The lake was known as “Corissia” in antiquity. Nowadays a popular destination attracting thousands of visitors. The lake’s water increases during winter, from adjacent sources in the mountains and decreases in summer revealing a gold sandy strip. It is also a protected reserve by the Natura 2000 program.

Lasstihi Plateau
The lassithi Plateau occupies an area of 2,500 hectares, 840 meters above the see level, and belongs to the prefecture of Agios Nikolaos. Crete has been the springs for myths and legends and especially so in Lassithi plateau, where the God of teh Gods was born, in the cave Diktaion Andron one of the most famous caves of the plateau. Lassithi is an area of such wide diversity. The Lassithi Plateau is scenic area for birdwatching. The Fauna promises bird watchers a real adventure with varieties of birds like red-footed falcons eagles, vultures, Eleanora's falcons, the glossy ibis, as well as all sorts of wades and sandpipers. The surrounding mountains are a great place to spot birds.

Excavation of Lato
The archaeological site of Lato is set on a hill nearly 15 km away from the city of Agios Nikolaos. You must follow the country lane to Kritsa. The mountain village of Kritsa is well worth seeing. The Name Lato occurred the goddess "Leto", mother of Apollo and Artemis. Lato is one of the most important city-states of the Dorians. The city was built between two hills with a fantastic view of the Mirabello Bay. A wall with a very strong gate surrounds the site.From the south you´ll have fantastic views to the white buildings of the City Aghios Nikolaos, which were in classic times only the port of Lato. In the North-side you´ll admire stunning views Gulf of Mirabello and the Bay of Elounda, in the westside views to the valleys and the steep peaks of the Dikti Mountains.

The small village of Lentas (Lendas) is a place for individualists for relaxing holidays. The drive here alone is impressive “the way is the goal”. A handful of houses lie at the foot of a steep towering southern coast mountain. There is no one to disturb you here. Lendas is a remote coastal village located 74km south of Heraklion, on the southern of the sloping hills of Asterousia. The beach is slightly organized offering umbrellas, showers, sunbeds, and taverns. Lentas (Lendas) has been famous for its good drinking water since antiquity and it is said to possess healing qualities. Those who stay a couple of days should not miss the Saturday market in Mires.

South Crete make the most of the sunshine. From sloping hills to hidden coves, sandy beaches and dunes. At the foot of the imposing mount of Siderotas, 52 km from Rethymnon-City and 4.9 km from the Village Kerames. Between the coastal village Agia Fotini and the north part of Triopetra Beach at the Mellissa cape,at the mouth of the Agiofarago Gorge. The beach has a rock arch where you can dive. A bad asphalt road leads to Ligres beach. At the beginning of the beach westwards there is a small waterfall having water all year falling to the sea!

The water park "Limnoupolis" near Varipetro near Chania: giant slides in the middle of a natural paradise. Here you will have a lot of fun and your parents will certainly!
The journey by rental car from the northwest coast takes about 30-45 minutes from the Kolimbari region to Chania. In addition to various slides, waterways and pools, there is also a varied gastronomic offer for young and old. From the slides there is an exciting view of the north coast to the sea.

Loutro is one-of-a-kind on Crete: there is not one street connecting the village to the outside world. The Coastal Village is situated 71 km south ouf Chania - City in South-West of Crete. A dirt track and the regular ship traffic supplies this small village on the steep south coast. The enclosed bay is windprotected and always calm.

Every room is let in the summer season as most of the houses have been converted to hotels and apartments. The unique atmosphere will always find customers and the views are simply wonderful. Those who like hiking and being cut off from the world will feel at home here for a few days. You can reach the non-Street-Conncted-Village by taxi-boat from the neighbour - village Sfakia ( or Chora Sfakion) or by walking the path E4 from Anopolis a Mountain-Village northward the coastal village. The organised pebbled beach offers taverns, umbrellas and sunbeds and for relaxing holidays only a few family run hotels. It is good choice for a day-Trip for swimming and snorkeling in the bay or for hiking.

Lyssos Gorge
You can reach the Lissos Gorge by boat from the Coastal Village Sougia or 2 hours walk by foot. It is an official trail European Path E4 and well signed. The entrance begins at the harbour of Sougia and a good deal of the pathway is uphill. There is beautiful vegetation throughout the gorge and towards the end of the path a gorgeous pine forest offering up a view of Lissos below. At the bottom of the hill lies ancient Lissos including the temple which can be explored on foot. The walk starts from the South Coast Village “Sougia. Behind the small harbor is a fence (where goats are kept), you can open this gate but please don´t forget to close it after passing. First you walk through the small gorge through a dry riverbed.

Marathi Beach in Akrotiri Peninsula
The Bay of Marathi is the most popular beach for the locals especially for families because these two sandy bays are always calm with no wind. Marathi is divided in 2 bays with a small harbour and several good taverns with traditional food. The two bays overlook the shores of Souda Gulf and promises the fabulous views to the snow-covered white mountain "Lefka Ori". Especially at the weekends it gets crowded by the locals. The best days for Marathi are from Monday to Thursday.

Matala with its 300 m long sandy beach is located 68km southwest of the Capital Heraklion. The Enclosed bay of Matala is located at the exit of a small valley. This is one of the most popular tourist tours and Matala the most visited beach as this beach became famous for the rock caves and the `70s Easy Life of the hippies. In the Neolitic times the caves of Matala were used as Houses, later in the roman time as burial chambers. This tour begins at the northern highway of Heraklion towards the south coast, mainstream to Siva and Agia Varvara. On this highway towards the south coast you will see the scenic attractions of the Messara Plateau and at the end on the southern coast of Crete you will see a fantastic sandy beach and the village of Matala. Following this highway from Heraklion towards the south coast you will first pass the biggest Cretan wine-growing district of Archanes. This beauty spot is located at the foot of the Messara Plateau. On the Messara Plateau you will see alpine scenery. Arriving in Matala you will find many taverns and cafes on the beach.

Menies Beach (Or Diktynna)
The location of Menies beach is 26 km northwest of Kolimbari, on the north-eastern point of the Rodopou Peninsula and the exit of “Fountas” gorge. This lovely secluded beach with pebbles and deep clear blue waters is accessible over a gravel-road. It is one of the most beautiful secret beaches and an ideal destination for relaxation when you rent a boat. At several kilometres there are no amenities at all, so make sure to bring along you need for. Daily excursions cruises are offered from the coastal village Kolimbari. Please bear in mind that this off-road gravel way is not an official way and no insurance will cover a damage of your rented car. We recommend rending a boat or to book the excursion offered from the Village Kolimbari or from Chania.

Those who have their accommodation in Agia Galini, Matala or Lentas should not miss a trip to the Mires weekly market. Every Saturday, traders and shoppers flock to the market streets from all directions of the Messara plain to sell their wares. Entire streets are here converted to the overarching marketplace. All daily necessities are traded here, from shoes to live cattle.
The Messara plain is the agricultural "granary" of Crete. There is a wonderful country road that goes around the plain.

The Monastery Agia Triada at the Akrotiri peninsula
The Monastery Agia Triada situated at Akrotiri peninsula near the village Stavros, a location planted with olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees. Architecturally it is one of the most important examples of the Cretan Renaissance. It was funded by brothers Jeremiah and Lorenzo of the old Venetian family. The Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Monastery is probably the most impressive monastic complex of the final period of Venetian rule on Crete, due to both its scale and architectural form.

Gonia Monastery one of the best-preserved Monasteries of Crete.
The Monastery Gonia is situated 700 m westawards to the Coastal village Kolymbari. The Monastery was built 1618, it looks like a fort and has a three apse Catholicon church and two chapels.
The monastery has been an attraction for numerous monks and hermits and flourished in the last decades of Venetian rule. It was conquered by the Ottomans in 1645 but had the good fortune of being under the administration of significant men of the church (like Isaias Diakopoulos), who not only preserved its fortune, but introduced the teaching of Letters and Arts at its premises. Before the Ottoman looting, the monks had arranged to send 40 valuable icons away from the monastery to other Greek territories. Today the museum of the monastery one can admires the wealth of its icons and manuscripts.

Omalos Plateau
The famous plateau Omalos is surrounded by Lefka Ori "White Mountains" which is covored with snow till June. The table land is situated at an altitude of 1040 to 1250 meters and is just 38 km from the city of Chania. The starting point for the polular hiking walk cross the Samaria Gorge is named Xyloskalo at 1250 m high. In Xyloskalo you can find a forest outpost and information kiosk about Lefka Ori and Samaria Park. Opposite from Xyloskalo is a Mountain-Restaurant where you can admire the majestic rises of the peak of Gigilos.
The peak of Gigilosis is at 2080 m and the Greek Mythology states that is was the location of the Crete-born god Zeus throne. West from Gigilos in the peaks of Agathopi (1768 m) and Psilafi (1984 m) also the Greek Mythology states that the god of gods (Zeus) was performing his chariot races. The highest mountain is Pachnes at an altitute of 2452 m.One of the most beautiful routes in the White Mountains is the climbing of Gigilos, with a duration of two and a half hours walking. This route is quite easy. Half-way to Gigilos, is the spring of Linoseli. At ancient times there was a famous Oracle there.

Palekastro is an iconic landscape, a small coastal Village with 1300 residents, situated at the most eastern part of Crete. Palekastro is only about 19km away from Sitia and 7km from the Paradise Beach of Vai. We call Palekastro also as sufer´s paradise as there are many Surfer-Stations offering surf courses and surf equipment’s. It is a hotspot for surfers. There are many kilometres of beautiful seashores to discover. All of which compose an unparalleled peaceful landscape. This is an ideal place for quiet and unforgettable holidays out of the beaten track. The most famous beaches around are Itanos, Kouremenos and Chiona.

Visit Paleochora
A day trip to the South-West of Crete: The small village of Paleochora is about 75 km away from Chania in Southwest Crete. The drive from Tavronitis on the north coast takes about 70 minutes. The surrounding area is fertile so there are still many locals working the land. Paleochora is embellished with small, family run hotels. The dream beaches on the western side and the quaint tavernas on the eastern side form a frame around the small village. A Venetian fort from where I took the photographs closes the peninsular. Paleochora is built on the ruins of the ancient city of Kalamydi.

The church of Panagia Kera & the Mountain – Village Kritsa The three-aisled, barrel-vaulted church of the All-Holy Virgin ‘the Lady’ with a dome on the nave is located to the south and at a distance of around 500 metres from the settlement of Kritsas. The first layer which is partially preserved in the sanctuary is dated to the middle of the 13th century while the second layer with scenes from the Twelve Great Feasts on the dome belongs to the beginning of the 14th century when the church received an extensive restoration during which the dome was also rebuilt. The church is one of the most important visited monuments of Crete because of its extensive and well-preserved wall painting decoration from various periods of ­Byzantine art.

Phaistos is a Minoan historical site and is located about 6 kilometres from the south coast village of Matala. It is the second largest Cretan palace after Knossos. Phaistos was the seat of King Radamanthis, brother of King Minos. The first palace in Phaistos was built around 2000 BC. The excavation is located at the foot of the Messara Plain and it offers unobstructed views of the Messara Plain and the surrounding mountains. When you see this panorama, you will see why Phaistos was the birthplace of the soothsayer Epimenidis, who was one of the seven wise men of ancient Crete. The Phaistos highlights you should see are: The storerooms on the western side and the granaries. The most impressive is the monumental entrance to the palace. The Disc is the emblem of Phaistos, which is now on display at the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. This Disc consists of 241 signs. After the sightseeing in Phaistos you may continue your tour to the village of Matala.

The Ancient Polyrrhenia (Polirinia) with stunning views to the sea.
Polyrrhenia- Situated 7 km in the hinterland of Kissamos. Kissamos is a Coastal City, 37 miles west from Chania, in the Northwest of Crete. The Ancient Polirinia was a polis, in the northwest of ancient Crete, with its territory wholly western Crete, extending from north to southof the Kissamos region. It was an important Archaic Period settlement co-temporal with Lato and Prinias. These Polis were built by Achaeans and Lacedaemonians (coming from the Peloponnese) in 200 BC. The Polyrrhenians assisted the Achaens at the Lyctians during the Civil War in Crete (219 BC). Cnossus and Gorty's (Eastern Crete) from dominating the entire island and bringing them a large part of the Macedonian coalition. In Polyrrhenia you can see the remains of the ancient walls, from 10 to 18 feet high. Since 1986 archaeological excavations have been conducted. This is one of the unique hotspots for photo-coulisses because of the fantastic view of the Gulf of Kissamos and the huge walls.

The Preveli Monastery is located above the mouth of the Preveli Gorge with a view of the Libyan Sea in southern Crete near the coastal village Plakias. It consists of two building complexes, the Piso "rear monastery" and the "lower" monastery, which are 2 kilometers apart. There are numerous legends related to the founding of the monastery. Like most of the Cretan monasteries, the Preveli Monastery is from the Venetian era. At that time, two large monasteries and numerous smaller ones were allied to a comunity, which united the large Prevelis monastery. The lower monastery "Kato Monastiri" is the first one seen upon arrival coming from Rethymnon. It is consecrated St. John the Baptist. Today it is deserted and distroid. The rear Preveli monastery "Piso Monastiri" is dedicated to Saint John the Divine (Theologos).

Rethymnon - Plakias - Preveli Gorge. Highlight: Boat trip to Preveli Gorge. Preveli is located about 35 km south of Rethymno. From Rethymnon follow the direction of Plakias to the South coast and the Lybian Sea. The road is well-built and impressive with interesting rock formations to see and you pass the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Kourtaliotiko means "castanets". The Cretans say that when the wind blows through the Gorge it sounds as if someone is playing the castanets so that is why this Gorge was named Kourtaliotiko.

Matala Southeast Crete, on the trail of the hippies: Unorganized, reddish shimmering sandy beach, nature reserve for the Sea Turtles Caretta Caretta. It is also part of the Natura 2000 program. Red Beach was named after its shimmering red beach color, which is unique in Crete. Accessible via a very stony but well-marked short hiking trail of around 4 km. The deserted red beach promises beautiful sunsets and a turquoise blue sea. Steep limestone rocks surround the long bay. There are no shady spots, just a small kiosk with a few parasols. If you don't like hiking, we recommend the boat trip from Matala to the Red Beach.

The old town of Rethymnon
The third largest town in Crete with approx. 30,000 inhabitants is, like Chania, much influenced by its Venetian occupation. In early Christian times the place was sparsely populated, but the Venetians shaped the town with the construction of the enormous fortress, Fortezza Castle. Today Rethymnon is a mixture of Cretan, Turkish and Venetian elements and competes with Chania, the former seat of government. Rethymnon has a very long beach (12km) primarily of sand. There is a lot of ship traffic in the harbour and during the season there are mini cruises to Santorin which take four hours one way.

We start today's hike at the place Rodhopou. Directly at the village square, a street turns left (west) to the football pitch outside. The dirt road leads us along vineyards. We pass several goat stalls, better dwellings, which remind of landscapes on the Sinai. Archaic land. The dirt road leads parallel to the sea with a fantastic view of the bay of Kastelli, Kissamos.
After a good 40 minutes the way ends in the middle of the landscape. A goatherd has his home here. It is not easy to find the right entry to the hiking trail. Isolated are small stone turrets that mark the unpaved path. The path is pretty steep, sometimes you need all four limbs to support yourself. The eye constantly wanders between the avoidable paths and the sea.

Organised One-Day-Hiking Tour Samaria Gorge
We recommend purchase your tickets from us before you go for holidays. Information for purchasing tickes for this excursion: info@kreta.com . You will be picked up from your hotel ( if your Hotel is situated in the West Coast of Crete!!!) very early in the morning and will be brought back in the evening. This One-Day-Hiking-Tour is recommended only for visitors in the northwest of Crete.
The Samaria Gorge, with its 18 km length, is the longest Gorge in Europe. This gorge is part of the Crete White Mountain National Park in western Crete. Like the other Cretan gorges, the Samaria Gorge is also a riverbed and in the wintertime, it is full of water. This spectacular gorge is open from the beginning of May till the end of October and sometimes from the beginning of April, provided there has been no heavy rain in the previous months.

Seitan Limania in Western Crete
This Beach is located in the Akrotiri Peninsula 22km northeast of Chania and 2km east of the village Chordaki. The rocky underwater is perfect for snorkeling! If you’d rather take a swim, you’ll be stunned by deep blue.This hidden beach is not for non-swimmers it occured its name Seitan Limania, after the wild landscape, the steep cliffs and the strong sea streams which are dangerous. The beach was once only accessible by boat but there is now a rocky downhill path that leads into the untouched shores. There is a narrow steep path starting from the parking place and leading to the beach, so make sure you wear sneakers.Take care during the hike down as it is steep! During the high season the beach is crowded from locals.

The Harbour- City Sitia is situated 68 km eastwards of the City Agios Nikolaos, nearly 1 1/2 hours’ drive. A wide, open bay and a long, sandy beach link the view from the town to the sea. Sitia is built on a hill and the houses are built next to and over one another like an amphitheatre. The town has one of the few large harbour promenades on Crete. There are good tavernas here and plenty of space for the children to play. There is also an archaeological museum set up in the Venetian fortress above the town. There are exhibits of Minoan civilisation found in the hinterland.
Heraklion airport is approx. 2 hours away so the area around Sitia is not yet taken up by organised tourism. Sitia does have a small airport but not much air traffic. The coastal road from Istron is one of the most beautiful and striking roads on the Island. Every second bend has a spectacular view for a photo stop.

The southern coastal town of Sougia is in southwestern Crete and belongs to the prefecture of Chania, about 60 km south of Chania. Experience a new side of Crete next time you pull on your walking boots with an amble through some of the most beautiful landscapes of Southern Crete. Mountain peaks, as well as coastal paths and even a hidden gorge LYSSOS. Only the way is the goal! This small coastal village on the south coast of Crete lies at the foot of the "Agia Irini“Gorge and is becoming increasingly popular with hikers. The hinterland of Sougia is very varied and offers many out - door - activities. The European Walking Path E4 leads the visitors to the most scenic places of South Crete. Sougia has a "Taxi Information Desk" and even a water - taxi offering transfers for hikers. The pebble Beach of Sougia is well organised with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and a few taverns. There is a ferry-boat-connection to the non-street-accessible picturesque villages like LOUTRO and AGIA ROUMELI. We call Sougia also as the TRANSIT PLACE for hikers as this is the place where the Samaria-Hikers are coming back from their tour. There is also a ferry-connection to the Coastal Village SFAKIA. Hiking tours that you can do in Sougia and the surrounding area: An excellent medium level-challenge that spans 12 km is the AGIA IRINI GORGE the path descends in the coastal village Sougia, also suggested for hiking with children. Like all Gorges in Crete the path is a riverbed with gravel.

Spili is located 30 km south of the port city of Rethymnon, 89 km from Chania, 108 km southwest of the capital Heraklion and 23 km north of the south coast town of Plakias. The village with 800 habitants is a hub and a stop-over station for visitors who want to go to the south of Crete. Everyone who wants to visit the Preveli Palm Gorge pass this charming mountain village. Spili also has a religious meaning for the locals as the bishop's seat of the southwest coast is at the western end of the village. The building with the church of Agios Pavlos and Agios Petros decorates the small town. Located on the edge of the Kedros Mountains, there is never a lack of water. The region is green and abundant in water.

The Spinalonga - Fort & Island
Spinalonga is located in the gulf of Elounda, it is one of the most famous places on the island! The rocky island is situated directly opposite the village of Plaka, the fortified islet is a classic excursions.The history of Spinalonga goes back to the antiquity when the islet contained an ancient acropolis and protected the ancient sunken city of Olous.The trips to the Island Spinalonga from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka are organized tours. The archaeological sites are opened at least 9am to 5:45pm but it can be from 8am in Summer. In the wintertime from Noveber to March it is closed, sometimes it may open on weekends if the weather is good.

Stavros Beach for swimming
The village of Stavros on the northernmost tip of the Akrotiri Peninsula was the location in the sixties for the world-famous film "Zorba The Greek" starring Anthony Quinn. The well-known last scene "Zorbas dance" was amongst those filmed here. The place itself is hardly worth a mention but the beach, the Bay of Stavros, is a bathing paradise for children learning to swim. The fine sand slopes gently to the sea and the bay is protected here from strong waves by a small promontory. There is not a lot of shade, but beach chairs and sunshades can be hired in the season. Lying on the beach there is always something different to focus on when viewing the mountains opposite. A visit to the region of Stavros is ideal not just for classic film lovers but also for those searching for peace and quiet and not in a rush to see the whole of western Crete in a fortnight. Stavros does not lend itself to those in a hurry as it is too remote - the trip to Chania, for example, takes nearly half an hour.

Gortys ( Gortina) The "Queen of Inscriptions"
In the 2nd century AD Gortys reached the peak of its power. The final period of glory was in the Christian period in the 7th century A.D. Gortys had a large population after the Roman conquest of Crete in 67 BC but in 796 AD the city was hit by an earthquake which almost destroyed it. Then the capital was transferred to Heraklion. The greatest highlight of Gortys is The Law Code of Gortys which is also known as the "Queen Of INSCRIPTIOS". The code dates from the mid-5th century which covers a phenomenal variety of laws. Adoption rules, marriage, divorce, inheritance rights, the social status and treatment of slaves, as well as the sale and acquirement of property are all involved in the code. The "Law Code of Gortys" is deemed to be one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of our time.

The monastery of Toplou
The Monastery of Toplou or the Akrotirian, as it is called, due to its position in the eastern Part of Crete, is one of the most renowned and important monasteries of the island. Its establishment probably dates to the late 14th century, a period during which the original catholicon was erected, dedicated to the Birth of the Theotokos. The monastery acquired its fortified form after its systematic plundering by Turkish pirates that raided eastern Crete at the end of the 15th century. Its reconstruction is connected to the Venetian-Cretan families of the Kornaroi and the Metzoi of Sitia according to ­tradition. Important icons, ­manuscripts, early printed books, and engravings that cover a lengthy period, from the 15th to the 19th centuries, are ­displayed in the two adjacent spaces of the basement of the monastery that are arranged as a museum.

The trail from the mountain village of Spili towards to the south coast to the bays of Agia Fotini, Triopetra and Agios Pavlos offers a overview of the south coast of Crete and its secret and romantic beaches . These bays are not officially nudist beaches, but many use the solitude to do nudism. Triopetra is located on the southwest coast of Crete about 52 km south of Rethymnon-city and 13 km of Mount Siderotas. The place belonged and still belongs to the mountain people of Akoumia. The mountain dwellers used to build small huts there on the coast to have a place to stay during the olive harvest. Today most of the land is still owned by Akoumia residents, so most of the hotel owners come from the same village. Triopetra can be reached by car via a paved road.

The Palm -Tree - Forest and Beach of Vai
The Palm - Forest Vai is situated 92 km eastwards from the City Agios Nikolaos, nearly a 2 hours’ drive. This small paradise belongs to the Monastery Toplou. There’s no doubt Vai is one of the hotspots of Crete. If you want to enjoy this paradise you have to wake up early in the morning, to arrive therere before the beach is crowded. During the 1970s a British advert featured Vai as the place where one could experience “the taste of paradise”, if one were to bite into a coconut sweet, covered in chocolate. The endemic Palm trees "phoenix theophrasti" can be found here. It is said that they grew as a result of Saracen occupation in the 9th and 10th centuries. The beach is well organised with sunbeds, umbrellas and water sports. you must pay to get into. The journey is the goal. The approach from Sitia leads through a biblical, dry landscape. Imposing, sparsely populated. A stop at the Toplou Monastery is worth seeing.

More information for booking the best Hotels, Apartments and Villas in East Crete: info@kreta.com, The Crete-Experts have the best ideas for Crete!

The natural heritage monument The Olive Tree of Vouves
Visit the natural heritage monument The Olive Tree of Vouves and the small Museum of Vouves. The tree ring analysis of this ancient tree demonstrated the tree to be at least 2000 years old, scientists from the University of Crete have estimated it to be 4,000 years old. Vouves is a mountain village in a beautiful green western Crete. With the small villages Darmarohohi and Vassilogiani it belongs to the municipality of Platanias. It is a picturesque area with vineyards and olive groves, as far as the eye can see. This region is located 140 meters above the sea level. Whatever your viewpoint is, the hillside position allows a panoramic view over the bay and the surrounding villages. It is a nice hilly region with villas. The oldest natural monument of Crete, the oldest olive tree is in the platia of the Village Vouves, there is also small museum and a cafe.

This sandy feature is typical of the South-coast. Xerokambos is situated 48 km southeast of the City Sitia. Xerokambos gives stunning views out over the dry heights and the Aegean blue, this landscape is realy arid with high mountains. The trademark of xerokampos are the two sandy beaches with turquoise waters. The vegetation is limited to macchia with herbs and some peaks with a few olive groves. In the last years Xerokambos developed as a slight tourist-area with some family run apartment-houses. There are some taverns, a supermarket and a petrol-station. Xerokamos is one of the most remote places of Crete. Absolutely picture-postcard perfect, the natural sandy beach with turquoise waters.