Through this route we explore the south-eastern Crete. We head to Agios Nikolaos and stop in the traditional village of Kritsa, one of the most famous villages of Crete with its narrow picturesque alleys and its traditional shops.
Afterwards we ascend through a beautiful route with magnificent views and end up at the Katharo Plateau at an altitude of 1250 meters where we stop for coffee in a traditional cafe. We cross the forest of SELAKANO and end up in the SARAKINA Gorge which will surprise you with its beauty. Continuing and after our amazing meal, we reach the southernmost end of eastern Crete, the village of Myrtos with its amazing beach where you can have a swim in the crystal clear waters of the LIBIAN SEA.
Returning through a very beautiful route we arrive at your hotel.
This route will leave you with the very best memories.
Discover the scenery of Crete’s White Mountains on a road trip from Platanias to Zourva. Explore local villages, stop to take photos of gorges, and savor a typical snack in Zourva.
Begin the tour with pickup in Platanias, then set off through the colorful scenery of the Orange Valley. Continue climbing slowly up the west side of the White Mountains, admiring the views as you go.
After passing Meskla village we will have a short stop to visit a small Sarakina gorge where we will see the impressive rock walls of the gorge just a short walk away from the road. Curvy road will take us all the way up at Zourva where we will have a break with a simple snack with incredible view.
Breathtaking sceneries will continue to the next village Therisso which played an important role in Crete’s modern history. On the way back to Platanias we will drive along the Therisso gorge where you can admire the high vertical cliffs and the huge Plane trees.
Route: Platanias – Patelari – Meskla – Zourva – Therisso – Varipetro – Agia – Drakiana – Platanias
Explore the natural beauty of South Crete on our “Sarakina Gorge” safari tour! Discover the charm of Kritsa village, capture breathtaking Mirabello Gulf views, and navigate the off-road terrain of Kroustas Pine Forest. Savor a cup of coffee in Males village. Afterward… The highlight of your tour awaits at Sarakina Gorge, a sublime natural spectacle that is certain to fill you with wonder and amazement. Hike through this stunning canyon, surrounded by towering rock formations and lush vegetation. The brave may even take a dip in the natural pools that dot the landscape. After hiking … Taste Crete with a delicious lunch combined with local wine in the family’s restaurant. As the journey continues, venture to the coastal haven of Myrtos, where crystal-clear waters beckon you to refresh in the embrace of the South Cretan sea. Dive into a Cretan paradise!
On our ATV-Quad tour from Ierapetra we go off-roading in the rugged landscapes of Crete’s southern coast. We start with a theoretical introduction and a small driving practise, before we start the adventure. Lonely tracks away from main traffic, in the midst of the most beautiful nature will take you to a beautiful landscape on the Cretan mountains. Splash through streams, wind along ancient gorges, and look for island wildlife from behind the wheel of a personal quad vehicle. Get a taste of Cretan history and culture during several stops along the way, including a traditional Greek brunch at Kalamafka Village. The off-road quad safari from Ierapetra explores hard-to-reach areas of Crete’s southern coast. A Great way to experience Cretan culture and nature off the beaten path.
Ammoudares, a seaside location 8km west of Ierapetra and 45km south of Agios Nikolaos, shares its beachfront with nearby Nea Anatoli and Stomio. The Ammoudares coastline features a series of long beaches with coarse grey sand. They are mostly uncrowded and secluded, largely due to the surrounding greenhouses which may deter visitors due to potential pesticide use in the waters.
A kilometer east of the initial Ammoudares beach, you’ll encounter Kalamaki beach. Hidden from the main road and largely undiscovered by tourists, its sandy shores are a quiet haven. It’s also referred to as Kapelas, named after a renowned pizzeria once run by an American in the area. Kapelas translates to ‘tavern owner’ in Greek. The beach is nestled amidst towering cliffs adding to its tranquility.
Access to both Ammoudares and Kalamaki is possible via the main road from Ierapetra heading west. If you’re fortunate to visit the Ierapetra vicinity, there are numerous appealing beaches that warrant exploration. However, if solitude is what you’re seeking, both Ammoudares and Kalamaki offer a peaceful retreat.
Gra Ligia is a coastal village located a short 5km journey to the west of Ierapetra and a 39km trip south from Agios Nikolaos. Nestled at the mouth of a rich valley, the village is surrounded by greenhouses filled with early-ripening vegetables. The locals of Gra Ligia were pioneers in the use of greenhouse agriculture, a practice that has since spread throughout the Ierapetra region. The profusion of greenhouses has even earned the village the nickname of “Silicon Valley of Greece”. The Bramiana dam, situated 2km north of the village, plays a crucial role in the area’s agriculture, supplying water to all Ierapetra crops and forming one of Crete’s key wetlands.
Aside from farming, tourism also forms an essential part of the local economy. Gra Ligia, with its recent mild growth, is among the newest holiday destinations on Crete. This growth has been facilitated by the appealing long beach, fringed with coarse sand that extends from Ierapetra to the Stomio region. The beach is known for its tranquil waters and is well-equipped with amenities like umbrellas and showers, albeit not on a large scale. Tamarisk trees pepper the landscape, providing shade and greenery. The beach is a popular spot for locals who enjoy swimming and fishing from their boats docked in the local harbour.
The beach is also a venue for local events such as beach soccer tournaments. If you’re fortunate, you might even have a chance to partake in the unique “xentomatiasmata” or tomato war, a tradition revived and celebrated in early summer. Gra Ligia is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing holiday. In the evenings, visitors can unwind with a drink at local bars or take a short trip to Ierapetra. To reach Gra Ligia from Ierapetra, simply travel westward on the city road. Alternatively, there are bus services that pass through the village.
Myrtos, a quaint seaside village, lies 13km west of Ierapetra where the River Kryos meanders through the stunning Sarakina Gorge and into a valley abundant with greenhouses and citrus groves. Despite recent mild development, Myrtos has retained its traditional charm. Its appealing beaches, characterized by coarse grey sand that doesn’t stick to the skin, have amassed a global following. The village offers small hotels, bars, cafes, restaurants, supermarkets, a gas station, and a clinic, in addition to a nearby pharmacy and accessible bus route to Ierapetra.
The extensive beach, considered among the finest in southern Crete, is ideal for serene family vacations as it’s sheltered from strong winds. According to locals, Myrtos is where the wind never rages. The beach is well-equipped with lifeguards, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms, cafes, restaurants, water sports, and beach volleyball. As you head west, the beach widens and offers even more tranquility.
Take a leisurely stroll around Myrtos’ local harbor or wander through its traditional narrow streets filled with lush gardens and homes that echo Aegean landscapes. The surrounding nature and gorges are also worth exploring. Notably, you can visit two Minoan settlements, Fournou Korifi (near Nea Myrtos) and Pirgos (on the east shores of the River Kryos), which were uncovered during excavations. The Archaeological and Folk Art Museum of Myrtos, situated next to the old church of St. Anthony, is a point of interest. Lastly, a monument in the village commemorates the 18 victims who were executed by the Nazis in 1943 as retribution for the deaths of two Germans in the neighboring village of Symi.
Vatos, a small settlement situated 18km west of Ierapetra and 3km east of Myrtos, falls within the jurisdiction of the village Gdohia. The village is accessible via the asphalt road that links Mirtos and Tertsa. Most of the locals earn their living by growing bananas and vegetables in the area’s greenhouses. Positioned at the entrance of a lush valley that starts in the north at Gdohia, the village boasts the expansive Vatos beach which extends east to Mirtos, featuring numerous secluded beaches along its coastline. The beach is distinguished by its unique grayish pebbles typical of southern Crete, and it’s known for its deep waters. As Vatos is not a developed area, the beach is usually tranquil, frequented mostly by locals. Some parts of the coast are adorned with tamarisk trees. To the west of Vatos, you’ll find the settlement of Kalikovrehtis, home to another pebbly beach.
If you happen to visit Vatos on July 27th, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in the feast day of the church of Saint Panteleimon. It’s also worth visiting the nearby village of Gdohia, with its narrow lanes and rejuvenating springs. A sad incident occurred in Gdohia in the autumn of 1943 when 43 residents were executed by the Nazis in revenge for the killing of two German soldiers in the village of Kato Simi. The village is also home to the ancient chapel of Annunciation, which houses rare Byzantine icons. Lastly, archaeologists have discovered traces of a pre-Minoan settlement between the beach and the village.
The Sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite can be found in a stunning location in the southern part of the Dikti mountain range, at an altitude of 1150m, near the Krya Vrysi spring, and about 5 km northeast of the village Kato Symi. The site spans 1.7 hectares, with only a portion having been excavated. To this day, it remains the most significant archaeological site in the Viannos province. Established around 2000 BC, like many other Minoan Peak Sanctuaries in Eastern Crete, worship at this sanctuary continued until Roman times, making it one of the most enduring sanctuaries of Greek Antiquity. Hermes was worshipped from the 7th century BC, while Aphrodite was worshipped during the Hellenistic Times (around 330BC). In the early Christian era, a small chapel was built at the site.
The sanctuary’s location is associated with the Ieron Oros (Holy Mountain), as according to Ptolemy, it was situated between the ancient Tsoutsouras (Inatos) and the ancient Ierapetra (Ierapytna). Due to its immense importance, it is believed to have been a point of contention among various powerful cities in the region. However, the respect that everyone had for the sanctuary is evident in the fact that it was never destroyed by vandalism, but only by natural causes.
Most archaeological findings from the 11th century BC include evidence of animal sacrifice and religious feasts, while animal replicas, tubular utensils, plates with male figures carrying or leading animals, clay cups, three swords, a golden ring-seal depicting a runner, and a hieroglyphic plate were discovered in the ashes. Ritual vessels and utensils do not display the typical female figures of the Minoans, so it has not been determined which deities the sanctuary was dedicated to during the Minoan times. After the 11th century BC, the vessels were replaced by figurines whose main theme was the coming of age of the visitors. According to inscriptions found at the sanctuary, the patron saint of adulthood was Hermes Kedritis, who was worshipped alongside the goddess Aphrodite. The most significant findings from the sanctuary are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Excavations began in 1972 and continue sporadically. The site can be visited after contacting the guard. A forest dirt road leading to the sanctuary starts from Kato Symi and goes towards the Lapathos plateau.
The ancient Lato ruins can be found roughly 3km north of Kritsa, spread across two hills at an elevation of 380m. The site offers breathtaking views of Mirabello Bay. Lato’s name comes from the Dorian pronunciation of the goddess Leto, who was likely worshiped in this area. However, the city’s patron deity was Eileithyia, the goddess of childbirth, who is featured on Lato’s coins. Notably, Lato was the birthplace of Nearchus (360 to 312 BC), the admiral of Alexander the Great. Nearchus’ father, Androtimos, ruled Lato before moving to Macedonia and becoming an advisor to King Philip II. As a child, Nearchus followed his father and grew up with his friend Alexander, even having Aristotle as a tutor.
Although the town existed during the Minoan period, it truly thrived after the Dorian invasion. It remained inhabited until the Roman era, when it began to decline. Lato was one of the strongest cities in Crete, as evidenced by the surviving inscriptions of agreements with other towns. Lato’s port was situated at the site of present-day Agios Nikolaos and was called Kamara. In the 3rd-2nd century BC, Kamara surpassed its mother-town Lato in prominence, similar to many other seaside locations in Crete due to the growth of maritime trade.
Today, Lato is a popular archaeological site known for being the best-preserved town from the classical – Hellenistic period in Crete and one of the most complete in Greece. Visitors can explore the fortifications, market, prytaneum, small theater, temples, public buildings, cisterns, and more.
The lesser-known Minoan settlement of Pirgos can be found just east of the coastal village of Myrtos, near Ierapetra, situated on a low hill overlooking the eastern bank of the river Krygios. With views of both the sea to the south and the forested Dikti range to the north, this location was chosen by the Minoans after they abandoned the nearby settlement of Fournou Kefali. Pirgos thrived from 2200 BC until around 1450 BC.
Archaeologist Gerald Catogan first excavated the site in 1969-70, with the British School of Archaeology continuing his work in 1981-82. Numerous building ruins were discovered, including a luxurious building at the top of the hill, believed to be the leader’s residence. The pottery found at Pirgos was quite elegant, showcasing sophisticated and impressive art.
A short trail leads visitors through the various buildings to the top of the hill, which is the most interesting point of the site. Here, floors, foundations, walls, and various stairs made from colorful stones ranging from white to purple create a visually striking puzzle.
Priniatikos Pirgos is a small peninsula located near the village of Kalo Chorio in the Mirabelo province, nestled between the beautiful beaches of Agios Panteleimon and Karavostasis, and close to the Kalos river estuary. Although the name of the area translates to “tower” in Greek, there is no tower to be found. Instead, it is home to a significant archaeological site that has been occupied throughout various periods of history, starting from the Neolithic Age to the Ottoman occupation in Crete.
Archaeological excavations at the site have been conducted by both American and Irish Archaeological Schools. Numerous workshops and ceramic kilns have been discovered, indicating the inhabitants’ engagement in ceramic art. The settlement’s location, with its natural harbor nearby, was perfect for trading pottery. The archaeological site can be easily accessed from the beach of Agios Panteleimonas, where a trail leads to the small hill hosting the excavations. Broken potsherds are scattered throughout the area, and many excavations remain unfinished due to a lack of funding, awaiting their continuation.
Directly behind and south of Priniatikos Pirgos lies an abundance of orchards and vegetable gardens in the most fertile part of the entire province, known as the plain of Kalo Chorio. Along the periphery of the area and the seafront, numerous tamarisk trees can be found, while the landscape shifts to the east, revealing an impressive scene of countless prickly pears and agaves.
The Arvi Monastery is situated near the Arvi Gorge, atop a high vantage point with stunning views of the sea. Currently abandoned, the remaining monks’ cells provide a glimpse into its history.
It is thought that the monastery was initially constructed on the remnants of the ancient Temple of Arvian Zeus, located in the valley formed at the exit of the Arvi Gorge. However, due to the formation of marshes in the valley, it was eventually relocated to its present elevated location.
Within the monastery grounds, there are two churches – one quite old and the other relatively new – both dedicated to Saint Anthony.
Located on a small hill adorned with oak trees near the villages of Agios Konstantinos and Marmaketo in the Lassithi Plateau, the Monastery of Panagia Kroustallenia is a historically significant site in Crete that is always worth exploring.
As per local tradition, the monastery’s name is believed to have originated either from its first founder, Kroustallenia, or from an icon of Panagia (Virgin Mary) discovered in a nearby cave, which was engraved on crystal (Kroustalenia also translates to “made of crystal” or “glass”).
The primary temple within the monastery is devoted to the Virgin Mary and observes its celebration on August 15. The monastery complex primarily features 20th-century buildings due to the multiple destructions it faced during the Turkish occupation.
The Panagia Faneromeni Monastery, also known as Virgin Mary of Gournia, is situated northwest of Pachia Ammos and 24km south of Agios Nikolaos. This male monastery is perched on a steep slope at an altitude of 540 meters, offering breathtaking views of the sea. The two-aisled monastery church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Zoodohos Pigi (Source of Life), is built within a cave.
As one of the most renowned monasteries in eastern Crete, the Panagia Faneromeni Monastery attracts pilgrims from all over the island, especially on August 15th, its celebration day. Some even arrive on foot to fulfill a vow.
Constructed on a steep incline, the monastery resembles a fortress overlooking the sea. Its strategic position reflects the defensive nature of the Faneromeni Monastery against the frequent pirate attacks along the Cretan coast. The architecture is reminiscent of monasteries that were restored in the late 16th and 17th centuries.
Legend has it that a shepherd once lost his best ram every afternoon. One day, he decided to follow the ram and witnessed it drinking water flowing from the cave. As the shepherd approached, the icon of the Virgin Mary was “revealed” to him. When he took the icon home, it vanished, only to be found again in the cave where the monastery was eventually built. It is said that the same icon reappears and mysteriously disappears again, particularly on the Assumption and other Marian feasts.
Located in the picturesque green area of Malles near Ierapetra, the Monastery of Panagia Exakousti now serves as a convent for women. The nuns run a textile workshop, a tailoring and needlework shop, and sell various souvenirs.
The monastery’s history is closely tied to a captivating figure who once resided there, Abbot Hatzi Ananias. It is said that as a baby, Ananias would not nurse on Wednesdays and Fridays, and refused to touch his mother’s breast. He never consumed meat, fish, or cheese, and dressed in animal skins while using a stone as a pillow. At 14 years old, he moved to Kapsas Monastery, where he was influenced by Monk Gerontoyannis. In 1877, he returned to Malles and discovered the icon of the Virgin Mary (Panagia) in a cave amidst the ruins of the Exakousti Monastery. This inspired him to rebuild the monastery. Following his death, Ananias was declared a saint, and during his lifetime, he was believed to have performed miracles. Pilgrims would travel to Exakousti to receive his blessings or healing. Today, the monk’s tomb can be found within the monastery.
The monastery’s church is a single-aisled, vaulted basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary’s Birthday, celebrated on September 8th. While the icons on the iconostasis are more recent, two older icons of Panagia and John the Baptist are also present. The iconostasis was crafted by the Makrakis and Farsaris brothers, renowned wood carvers in Crete’s religious community. Additionally, the monastery houses a small cave with a chapel dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ, where Ananias discovered the Virgin Mary’s icon. In the northeastern corner of the monastery, the nuns have also constructed a chapel dedicated to the Blessed Fathers and Mothers.
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The Havgas Gorge, situated near the village of Kalamafka and just 12km north of Ierapetra city, is one of several gorges with the same name scattered across Crete. Other examples include the Havgas Gorge in the Lassithi Plateau, Plaka, and Kavoussi. The Havgas Gorge is nestled between the Megali Korfi (1103m) and Kokies (993m) peaks, and its stream, the Kapsous, serves as the primary tributary of the Kalamavkianos River that empties into the Stomio beach of Gra Ligia.
This stunning canyon boasts unique rock formations, sculpted by rare geological events. Many of these rocks are adorned with nature’s own “artwork”, etched over time by the elements. Despite its relatively short length, the gorge offers an easy and enjoyable walk along the riverbed, even for novices. The area’s altitude of around 500m provides the perfect environment for a lush pine forest. Regrettably, repeated fires have caused the forest to diminish in size. Nevertheless, the area is worth a visit, and visitors are sure to be charmed by the sight of small pine trees sprouting from the rocks, akin to bonsai trees.
The gorge’s depth extends to 300m. At one spot, two narrow rocks form the entrance to a series of caves that served as a refuge for Cretan rebels and Allies during the German Occupation. The locals refer to this area as the “Chinese Landscape”, due to the smooth rocks dotted with bonsai-like trees. Adjacent to the gorge’s exit, visitors can explore the village of Kalamafka with its inviting taverns and babbling water. Additionally, nearby attractions include an ancient olive oil mill and the churches of Saint John and Saint Anthony.
This magnificent natural phenomenon – Sarakina Gorge – can be found near the traditional village of Mythi and the coastal settlement of Myrtos, where the Kryos river merges with the sea.
As the tale goes in Greek mythology, Zeus’s son, the giant Sarantapihos, once paused to quench his thirst from the Myrtos or Kryos river, near Ierapetra. His sweeping beard slashed the mountain, dividing it into two parts, thereby forming the Sarakina canyon.
Regarded by many visitors as Crete’s most captivating hiking gorge, Sarakina may only stretch 1.5km, but within this concise journey, one encounters an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature, a natural sculpture painstakingly crafted by water over countless years. The canyon boasts towering walls that rise up to 150m high and extremely narrow passages often found in technical gorges that require canyoneering equipment. The width of Sarakina fluctuates between 3 to 10 meters, rarely extending beyond these points.
The majority of the canyon is accessible to explorers of all abilities, featuring water, pools, and a handful of climbing points that necessitate careful navigation. A standout feature is the abundant water almost all year round, creating picturesque waterfalls and ponds perfect for a refreshing dip, even in the summer. In winter, traversing the gorge without getting soaked is a challenge. As one embarks on the route, they’ll encounter the need to climb, navigate immense boulders, and cross rocky bridges. Carved stone stairs and tree trunks are present in tricky spots to facilitate easier climbing.
The Holy Apostles (Agii Apostoli) or Lapathos Gorge is situated on the southern part of Mount Dikti, 28km to the west of Ierapetra and 72km to the south of Heraklion, in the broader vicinity of the village of Kato Simi. This is a technical canyon, implying that crossing it necessitates technical gear and specific training. The Lapathos canyon is an ideal challenge for highly skilled canyoners. It spans approximately 4km and there is a height difference of about 900m between the start and finish points.
The canyon originates from the small plateau of Lapathos, where the Holy Apostles church stands, and concludes on the road that links the village of Pefkos with Ierapetra. Although it’s typically a dry canyon, in 2009, the team of seasoned canyoners Vassilis Vagias, Savvas Paragamian, and Giannis Skondinakis discovered it to contain surprisingly large amounts of water.
The gorge features 28 steep descents that demand excellent rappelling skills. The tallest rappel is 80m, making it one of the highest in all of Crete. The sheer walls of Lapathos serve as nesting grounds for a variety of birds including vultures, hawks, and crows. Towards the gorge’s exit, the vegetation is predominantly made up of pines and cypresses. Following the exit, the stream continues its journey to Tertsa beach.
Also known as Kalami I, the Panagia (Virgin Mary) Canyon runs in parallel to the Xerofarago Gorge, or Kalami II. It’s named after the Panagia Keralimeniotissa Monastery, which used to be located at the canyon’s exit. This canyon is technical, meaning it features steep descents and requires special canyoning gear to traverse. Spanning roughly 600 meters, the canyon includes six rappels, the highest of which is about 15 meters. It’s rich in vegetation and has a distinct beauty. The riverbed holds water until spring. Crete’s speleological clubs have bolted the canyon, and a small canyoning group can navigate it in about 1:30 hours.
If you’re planning to use two cars and park them at the canyon’s entrance and exit, the distance between the two parking spots is around 2.5 km or a 10-minute drive. Alternatively, you can reach the entrance by walking along the canyon walls for approximately 20-25 minutes.
Located in Ierápetra and only 31 km from Lake Voulismeni, VILLA VASO provides accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. Guests benefit from a balcony and a picnic area.
The apartment with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
Guests can also relax in the shared lounge area.
Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 30 km from the apartment, while Agios Nikolaos Port is 31 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 74 km from VILLA VASO.
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Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and barbecue facilities, Villa Lato – Villa with private pool and yard provides accommodation in Anatolí with free WiFi and pool views. The air-conditioned accommodation is 19 km from Ierápetra.
The villa features 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms.
The villa offers a terrace.
Agios Nikolaos is 31 km from Villa Lato – Villa with private pool and yard, while Elounda is 40 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 91 km from the accommodation.
Located in Ierápetra, 31 km from Lake Voulismeni and 30 km from Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa), Villa K-Villa with private pool offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers a private pool, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa features 3 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a washing machine and 2 bathrooms with a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
Agios Nikolaos Port is 31 km from Villa K-Villa with private pool. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 74 km from the accommodation.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a rooftop pool, mountain view and a balcony, Villa M – Villa with private pool and yard is located in Anatolí. It features a garden, pool views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The villa comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
A outdoor play equipment is also available for guests at the villa.
Lake Voulismeni is 31 km from Villa M – Villa with private pool and yard, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 30 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 74 km from the accommodation.
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