Experiences and Things to do in Agia Pelagia Village

Agia Pelagia, a picturesque town in Crete, is a treasure trove of activities for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. This idyllic seaside resort is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches, making it a favorite destination among travelers. One of the key things to do in Agia Pelagia is to indulge in the variety of water sports available, thanks to the wide bay’s favorable conditions. Whether you’re an experienced enthusiast or a beginner, there’s something for everyone, from thrilling water skiing to leisurely paddleboarding. The town’s warm hospitality only adds to the charm, ensuring a welcoming and pleasant experience for all visitors.

Another highlight of Agia Pelagia is the rich marine life, which presents an outstanding opportunity for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The underwater world here is a haven for those eager to explore the vibrant aquatic life. For a different perspective of the stunning Cretan coastline, boat excursions are available, offering a chance to discover secluded coves and breathtaking views. Along the bay, a variety of beaches await, most equipped with organized facilities for a comfortable and stress-free day by the sea. From lounging on the sun-kissed shores to exploring the depths of the Mediterranean, Agia Pelagia ensures that visitors are never short of engaging activities. To fully experience this beautiful town, see below the list of things to do in Agia Pelagia.

Listed below are the top activities in Agia Pelagia Village:
  • Agia Pelagia Bay

Discover the underwater world with the experts of Scuba Diving at the famous bay of Agia Pelagia, where the sea is always calm and clear.
Discover the underwater world and feel as a diver. This program is specifically designed for those who never dived before and know nothing about scuba diving.
You’ll be taught the basics of scuba so that you’ll have a real dive, always following the safety standards of Padi, the leading scuba diving organization in the world. Feel like diver, breathe and move freely underwater and listen to the sounds of silence, always accompanied and supervised by qualified PADI instructors.
You’ll spend one hour in the diving center for basic information and introduction to scuba diving, watch a 20 minutes informational video in your language. Your experienced instructors will teach you all the secrets and the techniques of scuba diving. that makes it easy and simple, and will be continuously with you during your whole activity.
You’ll spend one more hour in the sea where you’ll be practicing the simple techniques you previously learned, while your instructors will guide you to the top experience of your life. You’ll be breathing and moving freely and play underwater games while exploring the house reef and thousands of fish swim around you.
Your instructors will teach you how to be autonomous and enjoy the most, not just hold you and pull you around.
During your first dive, you’re allowed to reach the depth of six meters, but you’ll be taken only where you feel comfortable and safe.
Return to the dive center to watch the footage and HD videos captured during your whole activity.

  • Agia Pelagia Bay

If you are over 8 years old, this day-program offers you the opportunity to discover the feelings of freedom and tranquility that scuba diving gives you. Throughout this program, you will be accompanied by an english speaking instructor.

Without you having particular knowledge and in small groups, STAY WET DIVING CENTER makes you discover what you have dreamed of for a long time already! Lack of experience is not an obstacle, since when you arrive with us, you will follow a briefing (about 30 minutes) given by a diving instructor. He will teach you the basics of diving and introduce you to the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean.

Add this unforgettable experience to your vacation!

Following this theory, you will be divided into groups of 4 people maximum and supervised by 1 instructor from the center. At no time will you be alone in the water! We are waiting for you with firm fins to guide you for 45 minutes through this fantastic world, at a maximum depth of 6 meters (regulatory depth for a first dive, 12 meters for the second). Whether it’s the feeling of weightlessness, discovering the fascinating world of the sea or simply breathing easily underwater – you will quickly develop a taste for diving!

If you chose to come with us, the transfer back to your hotel will leave at 4PM. It will give you time to enjoy our beautiful beach and eat at the delicious restaurants we have at the bay.

Do not miss this day!

  • Agia Pelagia Bay

Mermaid diving is a popular and exciting new trend in the world of diving. Instead of traditional scuba gear, divers wear a mermaid tail, allowing them to swim like a mermaid or merman.
Mermaid diving is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, as long as they are comfortable in the water and have basic swimming skills.The experience of mermaid diving is not just about swimming with a tail. It’s also about exploring the underwater world in a new and magical way. In mermaiding participants use their whole bodies, similar to the dolphin movement. The movement starts in the chest and from there continues like a wave throughout the entire body.

The mermaid tail, adds an element of fantasy and fun to the dive, and many divers enjoy performing tricks and swimming in formation with other mermaids.
Generally, there is no age limit in mermaiding but participants must be experienced swimmers.

  • Agia Pelagia Bay

If you are over 8 years old, this day-program offers you the opportunity to discover the feelings of freedom and tranquility that scuba diving gives you. Throughout this program, you will be accompanied by an english speaking instructor.

Without you having particular knowledge and in small groups, STAY WET DIVING CENTER makes you discover what you have dreamed of for a long time already! Lack of experience is not an obstacle, since when you arrive with us, you will follow a briefing (about 30 minutes) given by a diving instructor. He will teach you the basics of diving and introduce you to the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean.

Add this unforgettable experience to your vacation!

Following this theory, you will be divided into groups of 4 people maximum and supervised by 1 instructor from the center. At no time will you be alone in the water! We are waiting for you with firm fins to guide you for 45 minutes through this fantastic world, at a maximum depth of 6 meters (regulatory depth for a first dive, 12 meters for the second). Whether it’s the feeling of weightlessness, discovering the fascinating world of the sea or simply breathing easily underwater – you will quickly develop a taste for diving!

After learning the basics during this first dive, we invite you to repeat the experience during a 2nd dive during the day. During this, you will discover a completely different universe since you will leave the bay to do a slightly deeper dive (12 meters) where you will be able to observe new types of fish as well as a unique relief.

The second dive will be done around 2PM. The transfer back to your hotel will leave at 4PM. It will give you time to enjoy our beautiful beach and eat at the delicious restaurants we have at the bay.

Do not miss this day!

Visit stunning Beaches near Agia Pelagia Village

The beaches near Agia Pelagia village are a captivating collection that makes it an essential part of the things to do in Agia Pelagia. Agia Pelagia beach itself is a sandy haven just steps away from local amenities, offering a quintessential Cretan beach experience. For those who favor a pebbly coastline, Kladissos and Psaromoura beaches provide a more textured landscape, with crystal-clear, deep blue waters ideal for snorkeling. Parasfougario beach is exposed to the northern winds, as a result, it is advisable to avoid it during windy periods. Ligaria beach, with its fine pebbles and tranquil waters, is perfect for those seeking a serene retreat. For a detailed guide, see below the list of beaches near Agia Pelagia village.

Listed below are the nearest beaches in Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 50 m
Agia Pelagia beach is located 0.0 km away.

Situated 21km west of Heraklion, on the southern side of the compact Cape Souda, you’ll find Agia Pelagia beach, also known as Santa Pelagia. This beach is nestled amidst several picturesque coves with stunning beaches. Originally, Agia Pelagia was a quaint settlement utilized by Achlada villagers for agricultural purposes, but it has since evolved into a bustling tourist destination replete with hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and more. Routine bus services to Heraklion ensure its accessibility.

The primary beach of Agia Pelagia is a slender, sandy stretch with greenish water. The Turks dubbed it Tsanak Limani, meaning ‘plate harbor’ due to its circular shape. The bay forms a natural, tranquil harbor, and the beach provides an array of amenities such as watersports, diving, food, and accommodation. However, in some areas, the beach is narrow with sunbeds occupying most of the space.

The beach is well-shielded from northern winds by the Cape of Souda, where ruins of the ancient port town Apollonia can be found. A luxury hotel now stands on Souda, but the ruins are accessible for tourists. A small shrine stands near the hotel, marking where the icon of Santa Pelagia was discovered centuries ago. Not far from the beach is the former Agia Pelagia monastery, renowned throughout the island during the Venetian era. Worshippers would flock to the beach during the monastery’s feast, seeking healing in the sand.

A short walk past the shrine on Cape of Souda will lead you to Fylakes, considered the most beautiful beach of Agia Pelagia. Fylakes consists of two small coves with fine sand and greenish water, concealed by Cape Souda’s towering rocks. Accessing Fylakes requires navigating the rocky coast and wading through chest-high water, so secure your belongings accordingly.

To the east of Agia Pelagia, beneath Hotel Diana, is the lesser-known pebbled beach, Vlyhada. This small, man-made beach is exposed to the winds and can only be reached by swimming from Agia Pelagia, as the hotel does not permit land access.

Agia Pelagia served as a crucial port during the Venetian period, providing aid to the besieged Cretans during the Candia siege. The Turks later constructed a fort here, though no remnants remain today. The port was also where the legendary ship of Arkadi docked during the Cretan Revolution to provide ammunition to the rebels.

  • Agia Pelagia beach
  • Sand
  • Normal
  • Blue, Green
  • 470 m
Kladissos beach is located 0.5 km away.

Kladissos, situated 21km northwest of Heraklion and to the northwest of the Agia Pelagia resort, is home to a historically significant hotel that sprawls across the entire Cape Souda area. The beach here boasts fine gravel and tranquil green waters, with the hotel providing an array of amenities such as umbrellas, deck chairs, bars, showers, and changing rooms.

Despite appearing to be private due to the hotel’s influence, it’s essential to remember that all beaches in Greece are accessible to the public. You can gain access to the beach by requesting permission from the hotel, at no cost. Kladissos beach is typically serene and secluded, as locals tend to favor the nearby Agia Pelagia or Psaromoura beaches.

In close proximity to the shore, post-Minoan tombs have been discovered, adding a historical significance to the area. Additionally, archaeologists have uncovered a large public building from the third to fourth century AD, known as the Prytaneum, which was used for political meetings of the ancient town Apolonia. Some of the ceramic artifacts found in the area are now displayed in the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford.

  • Kladissos beach
  • Fine Pebbles
  • Normal
  • Blue
  • 730 m
Psaromoura beach is located 0.7 km away.

Psaromoura, situated 22km northwest of Heraklion and only 500m north of Agia Pelagia, faces east and is protected from the prevalent northwest winds. There are no immediate accommodations or dining options on the beach, but various facilities can be found within a short walking distance. The beach is pebbled and tends to be frequented more by locals than tourists. The northern end of the beach features a large, folded rock formation common to the Talea Range area, which shields the beach from the waves.

In the past, Psaromoura was one of the most beautiful unorganized beaches in Crete. Today, it has been transformed into a well-organized beach equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers, and a beach canteen serving refreshments and cocktails. Environmental groups in Crete have repeatedly requested the removal of the umbrellas to restore the beach to its original state.

To reach Psaromoura, one must drive to Agia Pelagia. After passing the Hotel Capsis Out of the Blue, continue westwards for an additional 100 meters before turning right onto a small road. A few steps ahead, you’ll find a closed gate and a sign indicating “To the Beach”. After parking your car, head west past the gate and you’ll soon arrive at Psaromoura. Alternatively, heading east from the gate will lead you to an elevated view of Kladissos Beach, accessible via the hotel.

The name Psaromoura derives from the Greek words psari, meaning fish, and mouri, meaning cape. Thus, it is located on a cape populated with fish.

  • Psaromoura beach
  • Pebbles
  • Deep
  • Blue, Green
  • 870 m
Parasfougario beach is located 0.9 km away.

Parasfougario Beach, situated in the Achlada district of Malevizi province, is approximately 22 km northwest of Heraklion on the island of Crete. Positioned on a steep incline between the well-known beaches of Lygaria and Agia Pelagia, the only access to it is by a 20-25 minute swim from either of these beaches.

A set of stairs from a nearby house lead directly down to this petite beach. Its backdrop of a slope blanketed in crithmum adds to its charm. The ocean floor features pebbles and coarse sand, and a small cave to the east further enhances the picturesque setting.

Unlike its neighbouring beaches, Parasfougario is exposed to the northern winds. As a result, it is advisable to avoid it during windy periods, as it tends to accumulate a significant amount of rubbish during these times.

  • Parasfougario beach
  • Rocks in places, Sand
  • Normal
  • Green

Discover Archaeological Sites near Agia Pelagia Village

For those keen to delve into the historical things to do in Agia Pelagia Village, the nearby archaeological sites provide a captivating journey through time. The Pera Galini Minoan settlement, just 8.7 kilometers from Agia Pelagia, sits quietly by the sea, its ancient ruins whispering tales of Crete’s illustrious past.

Further afield at 11.2 kilometers lies the Pyrgos Minoan Peak Sanctuary, perched high with views that stretch across the rugged Cretan landscape, offering a serene space that once held religious significance.

A short trip away, 12 kilometers from the village, you can immerse yourself in the Archaeological Area of Tylissos, where the remnants of an ancient city invite you to wander through history among the ruins shaded by olive trees.

Each of these sites offers a unique perspective on the Minoan civilization and the rich tapestry of Crete’s history, making them an unmissable experience for visitors to Agia Pelagia.

Listed below are the nearest archaeological sites near Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 8.7 km •
  • Pera Galini Minoan settlement

On the eastern edge of Pera Galini beach, there is a small cape known as Kefali Soudas. This area is home to the ruins of a Minoan settlement, believed to have been one of the most significant ports in the Talea Range region.At Kefali, you will notice ongoing excavations covered with plastic sheets that resemble greenhouses. These excavations have uncovered a sanctuary, and it is believed that the settlement was destroyed by an earthquake. Please note that entry to the fenced archaeological site is not allowed.

  • 11.2 km •
  • Pyrgos Minoan Peak Sanctuary

To the west of the village Tylisos in Malevizi province, the mountain Pirgos stands tall with its peak reaching an altitude of 684m. In 1963, archaeologist Stylianos Alexiou identified one of the most significant Minoan Peak Sanctuaries in Central Crete at this steep peak. Religious figurines, stone horns, and a rectangular building measuring 13m x 4.50m were discovered. To reach this site, it takes about a 20-minute walk from the nearest parking area, accessible via a rural road.

During antiquity, Pyrgos appears to have held a crucial religious role for the Minoans. Besides the sanctuary, the nearby Pera Korfi site served as a depot for votive figurines and inscriptions, found mixed with ash and vase fragments. Additionally, on the slopes of the same mountain lies the sacred cave of the Trapeza.

  • 13.4 km •
  • Archaeological Area Sklavokambos

The Minoan mansion of Sklavokambos was unearthed in 1930 during the construction of the main road to Anogia, resulting in the destruction of a portion of the structure. This multi-story building features a main room where a clay ox head, a Late Minoan IB period style jug, and a stone rhyton were discovered. The building had at least 17 rooms.

Artifacts found in an upper story include 39 sealings (stamps), a cylindrical vessel, a stone hammer, and a clay foot. Representations from one of the Sklavokambos stamps have been discovered in Zakros, Gournia, and Hagia Triada. Notably, no frescoes or gypsum finishings were found at the Sklavokambos building, which are typically found in Minoan palaces.

  • 12.0 km •
  • Archaeological Area Tylissos

The archaeological site of Tylisos is situated in the village of Tylissos, 16km west of Heraklion, in a strategic location near the east slopes of the Psiloritis range. Tylissos was a Minoan city that flourished between 1650-1450 mainly because it was located along the road that connected Knossos to the Minoan centers of West Crete and Ida Mount. In 1450, it was destroyed but was later rebuilt and prospered until 1200.

Tylisos features three small palaces (mansions) known as Mansion A, B, and C. Their architecture is among the most impressive in Minoan Crete, rivaling that of other major palaces of the era. The best-preserved mansion is Mansion A, which had two floors with a central courtyard, apartments, and warehouses with jars. Mansion B contains very old ruins, while Mansion C housed a central chamber and a system for water supply and sanitation.

Excavations at Tylisos began in 1912 by Iosif Hatzidakis, following the accidental discovery of three large bronze cauldrons – boilers. Later, in 1940, Nikolaos Platon carried out extended restoration and maintenance works. Due to the discovery of the boilers and one impressive bronze figurine of exceptional art, Tylisos is believed to have been a significant center of bronze. Furthermore, archaeologists found several plaques and jars inscribed with Linear A in Tylisos, which is the “language of the palaces” as it has been detected only in palaces and luxurious Minoan mansions. Other impressive items include the murals, which are compared in fine art only with those of Knossos. Additionally, many tombs have been found in the area (many of them already plundered) dating back to 1400-1200BC with painted clay sarcophagi, jewelry, stamps, etc.

Discover Monasteries near Agia Pelagia Village

Listed below are the nearest Monasteries near Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 5.9 km •
  • Rodia monastery

The Rodia nunnery, also known as the Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary, was established in 1990 by Bishop Nektarios Papadakis. The land for the monastery was generously donated by Agapi Sbokou to the Archdiocese of Crete for the purpose of founding the monastery.

In the center of the monastery’s courtyard, visitors can find the temple of the Virgin Mary, along with the cells, guest houses, and other facilities. The small, aisle church is constructed in the Aegean style and holds a celebration on November 21.

  • 6.1 km •
  • Pantanassa Monastery near Rogdia

Located on a pine-covered hill by the sea at an elevation of 30m, the Pantanassa Monastery (Panagia Pantanassa) is situated approximately 14km west of Heraklion. This relatively new female monastery is dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, with celebrations held on September 8.

Initially, Pantanassa was established to perform charitable work, similar to the Kalyviani Monastery near Mires. Unfortunately, its founder, Bishop Nikolaos Xenos, passed away before he could realize his ambitious dreams of creating an orphanage, nursing home, kindergarten, nursery, and more.

  • 5.7 km •
  • Monastery of Agia Fotini the Samaritan

Located in Ellinoperamata, Malevizi district, on the road to Rodia village, the Monastery of Agia Fotini the Samaritan was established in June 1991 by Archbishop Timotheos of Crete. Within the monastery, you can find the church of Agia Fotini, the chapel of St. Fanourios, the nuns’ cells, and the tomb of Timotheos, the monastery’s founder.

Martyr Fotini, who originated from the city of Sihar in Samaria, is mentioned in the life of evangelist John (D’1 – 38). Agia Fotini dedicated her life to spreading the Gospel throughout Africa and Rome during Emperor Nero’s reign (54-68 AD). She was ultimately martyred alongside her sons and five sisters.

The church observes celebrations on February 26th and the Sunday of the Samaritan woman.

  • 11.8 km •
  • Saint Theodore monastery

Located along the road to the University Hospital of Heraklion, the Holy Monastery of St. Theodore was established by Timothy Tzannis circa 1980.

Dine at the Best Restaurants in Agia Pelagia Village

Dining out is one of the most enjoyable Things to do in Agia Pelagia Village, thanks to an abundance of eateries catering to every palate. Agia Pelagia’s touristic charm is complemented by its plethora of dining options, from traditional Greek tavernas to sophisticated international restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that Crete is famous for, with many establishments boasting scenic waterfront locations that offer a picturesque backdrop to every meal.

The warm Cretan hospitality ensures that dining becomes a highlight of your visit. To savor the best of local and international cuisine during your stay, see below the best restaurants in Agia Pelagia.

Listed below are the nearest restaurants in Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 0.0 km •
  • Agia Pelagia 715 00
  • 4.4 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Agia Pelagia Maleviziou Agia pelagia
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Agias Pelagias and
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Agia Pelagia 715 00
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Agia Pelagia 715 00
  • 4.3 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Main Beach Road
  • 4.8 of 5

Have a Drink at the Best Bars in Agia Pelagia Village

While seeking Things to do in Agia Pelagia Village, visitors will find that although the nightlife may not rival the bustling scenes of larger towns like Hersonissos and Malia, Agia Pelagia offers a charming and modest array of nightlife options. The village is home to a selection of bars and pubs that provide a more laid-back atmosphere for those looking to unwind after a day of sun and sea. Here, you can savor a refreshing cocktail or a local Cretan wine while enjoying the gentle rhythm of soothing music under a starlit sky. These cozy spots are perfect for socializing with fellow travelers or relaxing with your companions, all while soaking in the authentic Cretan ambiance. For a guide to the perfect night out in this picturesque village, see below the best bars in Agia Pelagia.

Listed below are the nearest bars in Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 0.1 km •
  • Main Beach
  • 4.2 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Agias Pelagias and
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Main Beach Road
  • 4.8 of 5

  • 0.2 km •
  • on the beach
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 0.3 km •
  • Kutaiou
  • 5 of 5

  • 0.7 km •
  • Agia Pelagia 715 00
  • 4.3 of 5

Grab a Cup of Coffee at one of the Best Cafes in Agia Pelagia Village

Listed below are the nearest cafes in Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 0.9 km •
  • Ligaria 715 00
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 0.0 km •
  • Main Street
  • 4.2 of 5

Discover Museums in Agia Pelagia Village

Listed below are the nearest museums in Agia Pelagia Village:

Go hiking to the nearby Gorges

Among the many things to do in Agia Pelagia village, exploring the stunning gorges nearby stands out as a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts.

Near Agia Pelagia village, the gorges offer an invigorating escape into Crete’s rugged terrain. The Spiliotissa Gorge in Rogdia is a short but scenic trail, ideal for a quick commune with nature. For a more immersive experience, the Santorinios Gorge presents a 3 km hike through serene landscapes, while the Almiros Gorge challenges hikers with its rocky paths. Explorers can also delve into the depths of the Zoniana Gorge, a 6 km journey surrounded by the raw beauty of Crete, or embark on the epic 11 km trek through the Astrakiano Gorge, all promising memorable adventures. For a full list of such natural marvels, see below the list of gorges near Agia Pelagia village.

Listed below are the nearest gorges to hike in Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 3.9 km

A petite gorge forms to the west of the Rogdia village and opens up at the Paliokastro area. The journey begins from the ancient Koukos watermill, situated on the primary road linking Rogdia to Achlada, and takes you down to its most striking feature, the 10-meter tall Rechtra waterfall, which can be accessed through a relatively steep descent with ropes. As you traverse down the gorge, you’ll encounter several small waterfalls, the cave-like chapel of Panagia Spiliotissa, and finally arrive at the Paliokastro beach.

One of the most astounding sights is a cave situated right in the heart of the gorge, which has been converted into a studio for creating Christian icons by a hagiographer, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. It is highly recommended to stop by this unique site, engage in conversation with the artist, admire the icons, and perhaps purchase a few.

You can also conveniently reach the fall by trekking up the gorge from Paliokastro.

  • Spiliotissa Gorge, Rogdia
  • 6.6 km

Just a stone’s throw away from Heraklion city, near the Agios Panteleimonas Monastery in Fodele, you’ll find the Santorinios canyon. This canyon carries water from the Marathos village and the western slopes of Platani to the Fodelianos river. Although the canyon is relatively short, it remains unexplored due to the challenging access caused by thick vegetation and numerous ponds. Trekking through the riverbed, despite getting wet, simplifies the journey but calls for a change of footwear. The canyon’s name originates from the soil’s resemblance to that of Santorini Island, which was previously used in Crete’s construction.

Upon entering the gorge, you’ll encounter the ruins of a two-room watermill, its walls still standing tall, supported by an ivy branch woven into them. After some time, you’ll reach the first pond, Azilakokolymbos, which appears to be the path’s endpoint. However, if you manage to bypass the lake by either swimming or rock climbing, there’s more to discover. After overcoming this hurdle, the journey continues smoothly until you reach a majestic waterfall that forms a stunning pond at its base.

The adventure intensifies from this point. To proceed, you’ll need to scale the right side of the waterfall, approximately 15 meters, to reach the hilltop. To access the waterfall’s edge from here, a rope is necessary due to the steep and slippery terrain. As you continue up the canyon, you’ll be greeted by two awe-inspiring twin waterfalls.

  • Santorinios Gorge
  • 8.0 km

Almyros Gorge, situated in Ellinoperamata, is the closest canyon to the west of Heraklion city. The gorge, a small oasis near the bustling city, is formed between Keri hills and the post-Minoan town of Kastrokefala. It serves as a crucial habitat, primarily due to the largest holly wood (Phillirea media) in Crete located on its eastern side. Other species like platan trees, carob, and wild olive trees also thrive here despite overgrazing.

The gorge has various names, such as Keri Gorge, named after the adjacent hill, or Almiros, due to its closeness to the Almiros river. It’s also called Ellinoperamata, the area where the gorge terminates. Frequently termed Porofarago, a common name for Cretan gorges, it’s also known as the Three Churches, in honor of the three chapels — Santa Marina, St. Antonios, and St. Paraskevi. Its commencement point near the Strouboulas peak gives it the Strouboulas name, while stories of Satanist assemblies and ghost sightings have resulted in its spooky moniker, the Ghosts’ Gorge.

Despite its proximity to Heraklion, few people have ventured here. Cars can reach the location where the 14th-century monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis (Saint John inside the Gorge), dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, was constructed near the canyon exit. The surviving chapel of Saint Marina was used as a cemetery, while the main temple was the present two-aisled chapel of Saint Anthony and Saint Paraskevi with significant frescoes. A little further, a shrine dedicated to Saint George can be found, and after nearly 1:30 hours of walking, the chapel of Lord Christ at the gorge’s starting point is reached.

The trail is lined with various trees, and the vegetation thickens as one ascends. Initially, the gorge is typically dry but transitions into a small stream during spring. While ascending, one can encounter three small waterfalls, which form at a site with a pinkish limestone hue after prolonged, heavy rainfall.

Almiros Gorge is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers. To reach this wild beauty, navigate towards the equally breathtaking Lake of Almiros. Located just a short distance from the path leading to the gorge, this lake is a wonder in itself. The lake’s crystal-clear water, flowing directly from the spring-fed mountain cliffs, offers an extraordinary view all the way to its bed.

  • Almiros Gorge
  • 21.3 km

The Zoniana canyon is situated to the south of Zoniana village within the Psiloritis Range. It begins at a height of 950m, gathering water from several streams that flow from the Zoniana mountains, and concludes at the village at a height of 650m. The “serpentine” river Oaxis, which carries water until spring and ultimately drains into the Geropotamos river, flows through this gorge.

This gorge is not only easily accessible but also safe for hiking due to its gentle slope. The rock formations in many areas are truly remarkable, made up of numerous layers, and there are stunning geological structures and trees clinging to the steep slopes and narrow points. As it nears the village, the canyon broadens and morphs into a slender valley.

  • Zoniana Gorge

Accommodations in Agia Pelagia Village

Listed below are the nearest hotels in Agia Pelagia Village:
  • 9.7 / 10
  • Agias Pelagias

Conveniently located only 50 metres from the beach of Agia Pelagia, Superior Savvas Apartments by the sea offers units with free WiFi access, and a spacious terrace. Bars and restaurants are 200 metres away.

All air-conditioned rooms include a kitchenette with electric kettle and fridge. Each has a flat-screen TV, coffee machine and bathroom with shower.

Apartments Savvas is 25 km from Heraklion International Airport. Free public parking is available.

    • 90 m
    • 9 / 10
    • Kapetan Michali

    Joanna Apartments are situated 30 meters away from the beach, in the center of Agia Pelagia, at a beautiful and quiet neighborhood. The apartments have a 200-m² garden with showers where you can have your breakfast, enjoy the Cretan sun and let children play safely.

    Featuring a balcony, the air-conditioned (AC extra charged) apartments offer a kitchenette with cooking hobs and refrigerator. A sofa, safety deposit box and private bathroom are also included.

    A variety of beach bars, taverns and water sport facilities can be found at the nearby beach. Joanna Apartments lies 22 km from Heraklion Port and 25 km from Kazantzakis International Airport.

      • 110 m
      • 9.8 / 10
      • Αγίας Πελαγίας

      Situated a few steps from Agia Pelagia Beach, Buganvilla-Sea front villas offers barbecue facilities, and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.

      Each unit has a terrace offering sea views, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a well-fitted kitchen and a private bathroom with a bath or shower, bathrobes and a hair dryer. An oven, a fridge and stovetop are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

      Psaromoura Beach is 1 km from the villa, while Ligaria Beach is 1.4 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 25 km from Buganvilla-Sea front villas.

        • 120 m
        • 9.5 / 10
        • Agia Pelagia Beach Grill 1st Floor

        Situated a few steps from Agia Pelagia Beach, Buganvilla Sea View apts offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.

        The apartment provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

        Fishing and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.

        Psaromoura Beach is 1 km from Buganvilla Sea View apts, while Ligaria Beach is 1.4 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 25 km from the accommodation.

        from

        €69

        /night

          • 130 m

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