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!
Discover the magic of South Crete on a Self-Drive Private Jeep Safari in Convoy with our Brand New & Fully air conditioned 4X4 Dacia Duster. Shared or Private!
Feel the Off-road, Swim in the South, visit the local pottery workshop, create your ceramics and feel the authentic vibes of Crete! We start by exploring off the beaten paths through olive groves, traditional villages, scenic landscapes, and more! Then let’s uncover the art of pottery from ancient traditions to modern processes in the local workshop. We continue our adventure with an impressive off-road descent through the Gorge of Portela that is offering a breathtaking photo stop. Enjoy seaside driving along the Libyan Sea, Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Tsoutsouros beach and have your lunch by the sea. We end our day with panoramic views, letting the essence of Southern Crete captivate us! Take the wheel and let’s explore the South!
Situated 89km southeast of Iraklion, close to the village of Arvi, lies Faflagos. This small coastal community is nestled at the base of a valley traversed by the river Blavaris or Blavopotamos. The river is typically dry during the summer months and originates from Kato Symi. The village overlooks a sprawling beach scattered with peaceful inlets. The surrounding area is abundant with greenhouses cultivating bananas and fresh vegetables. The beach’s characteristic feature is its coarse grey sand. The village offers only basic amenities like a few rooms for rent, a canteen, and a handful of trees providing shade on the beach.
Adjacent to the west of Faflagos is the extensive beach of Latomia, fringed by greenhouses and open farms, primarily operated by Arvi’s inhabitants. The beach is primarily sandy with grey coarse sand and abundant rocky areas, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and seclusion. Latomia stretches along the Xerokambos area, renowned for its magnificent marble rock formations previously exploited for commercial use. Reflecting its history, Latomia translates to quarries in Greek, a nod to the local stone extraction industry.
In close proximity to Faflagos stands the church of Agia Paraskevi. The site was formerly home to the Agios Prokopios monastery, which was devastated by the Arabs. This led the monks to abandon the coast and erect a new monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary in 855, in a location concealed from the sea. The Panagia Keralimeniotissa monastery, translating to Virgin Mary – The Lady of the Ports, still stands majestically at the same spot and remains a notable attraction. Legend has it that pirates once stumbled upon the monastery, pillaged various relics, and then fled by ship. The monks beseeched Panagia to punish the pirates, resulting in a fierce storm. The pirates begged for mercy, promising to return the plundered goods and vowed to safeguard the monastery from other pirates. True to their word, they returned the stolen items and the weather subsided. Years later, they gifted a golden bell and a silver boat featuring Panagia at the helm with an inscription “To the Lady of the Ports”. Since then, all passing boats have stopped to pray to “The Lady of Ports”, giving the monastery its present name of Keralimeniotissa.
Sidonia, alternatively known as Syndonia or Kato Psari, is nestled in a small valley, 89km southeast of Heraklion city, 9km east of Ano Viannos, and 1km south of Psari Forada village, also known as Mesa Psari. It’s also referred to as Psari Forada beach. It is thought to be located on the ancient town site of Sidonia. This once was a coastal village of fishermen and farmers from the village of Kalami, 9km to the north. Both Psari Forada and Sidonia are tucked away in a ravine created by a small stream.
The region’s warm climate is ideal for cultivating olive trees, subtropical fruits like bananas, and early outdoor vegetables. Recently, Psari Forada has seen modest tourist development and is now a peaceful, traditional place perfect for relaxed family vacations. The beach, stretching from Cape Theophilos in the east to Sedona hill in the west, is a beautiful coastline with dark grey coarse sand and clear, calm waters. It is dotted with tamarisk trees offering natural shade, although beach umbrellas are also available. The area boasts a few restaurants, taverns, a mini market, apartments, and a pharmacy. Water sports and beach volleyball courts are on offer.
For those seeking solitude, a secluded beach called Thiofilo is located eastwards, just behind Cape Theophilos with its small lighthouse. Opposite Thiofilo is a large rock known as Psaroharako by locals. The area has deep waters and a small natural harbour. The western part of the main beach is quieter than the central section. Throughout August, the Cultural Association of Kalami village organizes beach parties and musical events. They also hold a sports event called “Sidonia,” featuring a variety of games including beach volleyball, beach football, swimming, canoeing, tug, backgammon, table tennis, racing, basketball, and shooting. Participation is open to everyone.
The name Psari Forada has a couple of origin stories. One suggests it comes from a tale of a Turkish Aga who displayed his grey mare until it died of thirst. The more commonly heard story relates to the Byzantine Era when the Saracens occupied the island. The Byzantines sent a fleet led by General Theophilus to expel them. Upon arriving at the location now known as “Thiofilo”, Theophilus’ favourite grey mare could no longer walk. Rather than put her down, he had her tied under a large olive tree and asked the locals to care for her until her death.
Tertsa, a quaint village, is nestled 91km south of Iraklion and 54km southwest of Agios Nikolaos, positioned between Myrtos and Psari Forada. The village, situated in a lush valley carved by the Tsounas river, houses a fresh water spring within a small gorge formed by the river. The majority of the land in Tertsa is owned by settlers from the northern village of Sykologos, just 7.5km away. Originally, the structures in the settlement served as storage depots for carobs and citrus fruits harvested in the region. Presently, the handful of villagers continue their agricultural pursuits, their land teeming with greenhouses of bananas and fields of tomato, pepper, cucumber and more. The Byzantine church of St. George is a significant landmark near the village.
The village overlooks a tranquil beach adorned with rough grey sand. Despite its lack of development, Tertsa retains its traditional Cretan charm, with just a few taverns and rooms available. The settlement is shaded by several tamarisk trees. The beach extends westward to Vourdolakos bay, beyond the rock of Psaroharako. The beach beyond the rock, also named Psaroharako, is more secluded and beautiful than the one in front of the settlement.
The Kallikovrechtis beach, situated 19km west of Ierapetra and 4km east of the scenic town of Myrtos, can be accessed via an asphalt road from Myrtos or Tertsa. This beach is part of the Ghodia village outskirts and is created at the Kalikovrechtis stream’s exit, nestled between the peaks of Kolechtos and Kako Oros, right on the boundary that separates the counties of Heraklion and Lassithi.
Kallikovrechtis is home to only a handful of cottages, and the beach itself is entirely untouched. It boasts beautiful, fine, greyish pebbles, and the water is typically tranquil. A few tamarisk trees provide shade, and due to the high and steep slopes, the beach gets shaded early in the afternoon. The road linking Teresa and Myrtos runs directly above the beach, making access quite easy.
Cave of Zeus is a legendary sanctuary where, according to mythology, the Titaness Rhea hid her son Zeus to protect him from his father Cronus, who had a grim habit of devouring his children. It also serves as the backdrop for the mythological tale of Zeus and Princess Europa. Nestled on the rugged northern slopes of Mount Dikti, at an elevation of 1,025 meters near the village of Psychro, the cave – often referred to as the Dikteon Cave or Psychro Cave – is one of Crete’s most visited archaeological and mythological sites.
Begin your expedition from Stalida, Hersonissos, or Malia, traversing the winding road that ascends to the Lassithi plateau and onward to Psychro. The journey is scented with wild aromatic herbs and offers breathtaking panoramic views. A path bordered by oak trees leads to the cave’s entrance, inviting you to explore.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by the cave’s inhabitants: wild rock doves and bats, thriving in the cool darkness. A noticeable chill sets the scene for an exploration filled with wonder. Descend along a clearly defined trail to reach the central chamber after 250 meters, where millennia have sculpted a stunning display of stalactites and stalagmites. The highlight is a grand stalactite that hangs over the lake’s center, known as “Zeus’s cloak.” Evidence of the cave’s historical role as a worship site, including an altar, niches filled with votive offerings, and various archaeological discoveries, underscores its significance. Many of these sacred artifacts are now preserved in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Visitors can access the cave from 08:00 to 18:00 in the summer months and from 08:30 to 15:30 in the winter.
To explore the depths of the legendary Cave of Zeus, visitors are required to pay a nominal entrance fee of 6 Euros, with free admission for students and a 50% discount for all during the winter months.
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 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.
The Agia Moni (Holy Monastery) is situated approximately 60km east of Heraklion and 38km west of Ierapetra, close to Kavoussi Gorge. It is reachable through a brief road that begins at Ano Viannos and traverses a lush landscape.
Functioning as a male monastery, Agia Moni is small and ancient. The Monastery’s church, featuring a striking gate, is dedicated to the Assumption (celebrated on August 15). Surrounding the church are the monks’ quarters.
While the exact date of its establishment is uncertain, tradition holds that it was constructed by three Cypriot nuns who initially built the church of Agios Dimitrios in Keratokambos. Due to ongoing pirate attacks, they were compelled to relocate to the mainland, where they established Agia Moni at its present location. It is also believed that one of these nuns founded the Panagia Keralimeniotisa monastery near Psari Forada.
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.
Situated at the base of Louloudaki mountain, near the village of Kato Metohi in the Lassithi Plateau, the Vidiani Monastery is easily accessible as it lies just beside the plateau’s peripheral road.
Dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi (Life-Giving Spring), the monastery has been transformed from its previously abandoned state. The monk cells and other buildings within the complex have been restored, and it now functions as a male monastery. During the summer, flowers bloom throughout the grounds, and a small fountain in the courtyard, surrounded by towering cypress trees, symbolizes the spring of Life. Visitors can also enjoy a small café nestled under the shade of the trees. In partnership with the University of Crete, the monastery houses a modest natural history museum.
Constructed in the 19th century, both the monastery and the church are relatively new, likely built upon the ruins of an earlier monastery. The stone-built church features intricate masonry, stone-carved windows, and an exquisitely carved temple.
The area was once under the control of the Vidon family (hence the name Vidiani), who were descendants of a Venetian family that had been granted a portion of the plateau as a fief.
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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.
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.
Crete is home to numerous stunning locations, but a select few can truly be classified as natural marvels. One such marvel is the Arvi gorge, which dramatically splits Arvion Mount in two. This is the location where the shrine of Zeus Arveios once stood. The Arvi and Cha gorges are considered the most awe-inspiring canyons in Crete. The Arvi gorge can be found to the north of the coastal village of Arvi, in the southern region of the Heraklion prefecture, and it has been carved out of the limestone of Mount Dikti.
This gorge is technical in nature, meaning it necessitates canyoning equipment and flashlights to navigate due to the presence of numerous waterfalls in succession. It is a truly perilous area, and any attempts to cross it by those unaccustomed to canyoning could result in tragedy. From winter until the onset of summer, the canyon is filled with water, which adds to its awe-inspiring beauty. The majority of this water originates from the perennial springs of Kefalovrysi. The Arvi gorge presents a high level of difficulty.
The entrance to the gorge is located in the Konisma (Icon) forest, named after a rock that resembles an icon of Christ. The gorge stretches across the Fournos area and features numerous descents, the most remarkable of which is an astounding 85-meter waterfall named Kapnistis (Smoker). This waterfall is named for its smoke-like water spray, which is a result of its incredible height. Kapnistis is one of Crete’s tallest and most impressive waterfalls. However, what truly sets this canyon apart from others in Greece is the section after the high rappel of Kapnistis, where the river flows into the earth for 150 meters, forming an underground river within a cave. In this underground section, the river continues to form waterfalls. Lighting equipment is necessary to navigate this completely dark area. After this dark section, the gorge remains incredibly narrow with extraordinary formations and large rocks, known as splines, beneath which we pass.
Following approximately 20 waterfalls, the gorge concludes and leads to the fertile plains of Arvi, renowned for their banana crops, and situated next to the monastery of Saint Anthony (Agios Antonios). The area at the gorge’s exit is humorously named Donkey’s Ass! In ancient times, a bountiful water spring existed here, but it has since dried up due to the construction of wells. This natural wonder has been a popular attraction for travelers since ancient times. The gorge’s river ends in the South Cretan Sea, but the water never reaches the sea due to its use for irrigation.
On the southeastern side of the Afendis Christos peak, nestled above the villages of Embaros, you’ll discover lush vineyards sprawled across the Erganos plateau at an elevation of 900 meters. The water, collected from the melting snow of the nearby slopes and numerous regional springs, contributes to the main tributary of the Anapodaris river, Baritis. This river traverses the Erganos plateau, carving out the striking Erganos canyon.
The Erganos canyon, adorned with flourishing plane trees, cypresses, and oaks, is a natural gem in this region. However, it is only navigable for a small portion, suitable for trekkers. After the initial 20-minute descent, the scenery transforms, revealing a unique natural sculpture with slender walls and spectacular waterfalls at nine different points. To navigate these areas, rappelling equipment is necessary.
Akros Oreon, Omalos Studio is situated in Káto Sími and offers barbecue facilities. This property offers access to a patio, free private parking and free WiFi.
The kitchen features a toaster, a fridge and a stovetop and there is shower with bathrobes and a hair dryer.
If you would like to discover the area, cycling and hiking are possible in the surroundings.
The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 65 km from the apartment.
from
€86
/night
Set in Psari Forada, within a few steps of Sidonia Beach, Stella’s Beach House offers accommodation with air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony and free WiFi.
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 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 75 km from the apartment.
from
€144
/night
Set a few steps from Sidonia Beach, Eirini Apts On the beach offers a garden, and air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi.
The accommodation comes with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer, while the kitchen features an oven, a fridge and a stovetop. Kitchenware and kettle are also featured.
The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 75 km from the apartment.
Situated in Áno Viánnos, 49 km from The Palace of Knossos and 41 km from Nikos Kazantzakis Museum, Skordalos mezoneta offers air conditioning. It has city views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with mountain views.
Acqua Plus Waterpark is 43 km from the apartment, while The Crete Golf Club is 43 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 53 km from Skordalos mezoneta.
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