Experiences and Things to do in Krousonas town

Listed below are the top activities in Krousonas town:
  • Krousonas

We offer cooking lessons in Krousonas village. Super family friendly! The programme last at least 4 hours. Firstly we will welcome you with some cretan delights and refreshments . We will discuss the menu and you can choose from the season options(vegan or not) what would you like to cook. Secondly we will visit the farm , we will feed the goats and sheeps and if its summer probably you can also milk the goats! In continue when you choose menu (vegeterian or not) we go to gather our organic vegetables from our orchard, you wiil have time to explore nature, breath fresh air, learn important information about the plant and of course live the experience cutting the fresh vegetables and fruit. When we collect our vegetables , we learn how we use every ingredient in our kitchen, how does it help our health, about the appropriate quantities we use and we start to how prepare our meal and how we cook. You will learn all the secrets of cretan cuisine with us . (It depends from the season you can also taste and watch the production of cheese.) When the meal is ready you can enjoy it in our veranda relaxing with the amazing view. A travel to history, nature and cretan cuisine.Dont forget to wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Cooking lessons become under the shadow of the grapevine. Also the cooking lessons are the perfect family activity! Live as a local for a day!!

  • Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village

My name is Maria and I am a professional dancer in Cretan and Greek Dances. I am also the leader of the dancing group of Arolithos Village and the dancing teacher for kids and adults of the local cultural association of the area where I live.
I am a very good friend of Michalis who is the main host of this experience and one of the owners of Arolithos Village. I collaborate with him because he loves to dance and culture as I do. Very often Evi one of the best Cretan dancers in the area of Tilissos also helps me to realize the dancing lessons.
As a professional teacher of dances, dressed in traditional uniform, I will show you the first steps of popular dances of Crete and Greece. Sousta, Zorba the Greek, and much more.
We will have also the chance to do a tour of Arolithos Village and show you shortly the Museum, the old houses and the rest of the village.
You will enjoy a welcome drink on the terrace with the panoramic view.
In the end, I will offer you a copy of a CD with Greek and Cretan music and your dancing certificate.
It is a big honor for me to be your host and I or Evi will do my best for you to have a memorable experience of Cretan amusement and culture.

In your own free time Arolithos village you may have lunch and relax after such a creative experience in the tavern and the swimming pool.

  • Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village

Niki Lyroni will welcome you to Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village. Niki started her artistic activity many years ago. Niki is a very pleasant person- a friend of my family who will give all her attention to you and she will help you learn about her art even if you are not familiar with it. After a short tour of the Museum of the Village and a quick treatment at our Taverna Delfys, you will finish by visiting her workshop.
The workshop of Niki is full of pieces of art from small to very big decorative objects.
She will treat you to Greek coffee & water as we use to do with any friend.
She will initiate you to several techniques and she will explain to you in detail the differences between each one. Mosaic is a very ancient art used for the purpose of artists to decorate public monuments or their own houses.
Then you will use her own tools to cut the little stones. At this point, you have to be very careful not to cut your fingers or your nails as the process demands a bit of force from you. The little pieces you create you will put them carefully with her own instructions. Step by step, you will see your own mosaic to be created. You do not have to be skillful. Then you have to wait for half an hour for the object to dry and finally, you will keep it as a souvenir. In your own free time at Arolithos village, you may have lunch and relax after such a creative experience in the tavern and the swimming pool.

  • Ideon Andron

See Crete from a different angle on this all-day Land Rover safari tour.

Begin the day in Heraklion, where you will get to know your guide and listen to a short presentation of the excursion before heading to the Livadi Plateau.

Enjoy the incredible views of Heraklion and the Cretan as the Land Rover climbs through the mountainous, provincial road to the eastern slopes of Psiloritis. Marvel at the breathtaking atmosphere of the plateau, including the thousands of apple and pear trees that are scattered throughout the area.

Drive through the off-road route to the plateau of Nida, where you will visit Idaion Andron, the cave where Zeus was born. On the way back, stop at Ancient Zominthos, which was only discovered in 1982 but is considered one of the most important archeological discoveries in Crete.

Have lunch in a local tavern in the village of Anogia.

Visit stunning Beaches near Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest beaches in Krousonas town:
  • 13.9 km
Ellinoperamata beach is located 13.9 km away.

Situated 8km west of Heraklion city, Linoperamata, also known as Ellinoperamata, is a scenic sandy beach stretching up to 7km long, beginning from Linoperamata and culminating at the Pancretan Stadium, 1km west of Heraklion. The beach is uniquely bordered by the Almiros river in the west.

The locals do not frequent Linoperamata as much due to the presence of a local Power Station and heavy industries in its western region. Nevertheless, the beach boasts of clean water and a serene atmosphere. Unlike the highly organized beaches in the neighboring Ammoudara, Linoperamata has a more natural appeal, although there are a few hotels in the vicinity.

Open to the northern winds, the beach is often wavy, making it a favorite among windsurfers. Getting to Linoperamata from Heraklion is convenient via the city’s bus service.

  • Ellinoperamata beach
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue
  • 14.9 km
Pantanassa beach is located 14.9 km away.

Pantanassa, situated 12km west of Heraklion, is named after the Monastery of Panagia Pantanassa, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The beach lies adjacent to the quaint port of Pantanassa. Prior to the establishment of the port, Pantanassa boasted an enchanting beach, concealed by a small pine forest and possessing crystal-clear waters. Now, the beach has been divided by the port, causing Pantanasa beach to lose some of its former allure. Nonetheless, it still retains its beauty, featuring pebbles and clear waters.

The beach offers amenities such as umbrellas and sunbeds, and some pine trees still grace the nearby cliffs. A pathway from the port allows for easy access. If hunger strikes, there are eateries in the port of Pantanassa and nearby areas. Visitors can combine their beach visit with a trip to the Pantanassa Monastery, perched atop the pine-covered hill above the beach. Built in the mid-20th century, it was envisioned to serve as a charity monastery, but the founder, Nikolaos Xenos, passed away before realizing his dream. Today, the monastery functions as a nunnery.

The Lefkadia area lies to the west of Pantanassa beach. Here, two secluded bays, largely unknown to most Heraklion residents, provide an ideal spot for relaxation. Recently, a beach bar was established and a trail leading to the beach was opened. Helidoni beach, featuring sandy and pebbly areas with a predominantly rocky seabed, is perfect for snorkeling. The western view is captivating, with the ruins of the old Paliokastro castle visible. Visitors can park in the nearby small pine grove and hike up to the castle.

  • Pantanassa beach
  • Pebbles, Sand
  • Deep
  • Blue
  • 15.1 km
Ammoudara beach – Heraklion is located 15.1 km away.

Ammoudara, a beach extending 7km west from River Giofyros, located 1km west of Heraklion’s centre, draws in thousands of tourists annually, predominantly due to its expansive sandy coastline. Now a suburb of Heraklion, the beach is known for its unique brownish sand, with a rocky strip about 50m inland signifying the ancient shoreline.

Whether you prefer bustling environments or more private settings, Ammoudara caters to all. The coastline offers organized beaches equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, and a plethora of water sports. Known for its year-round strong winds, Ammoudara is a popular spot for windsurfers. For a quieter experience, the beach’s western area, starting from the Pancretan Stadium and extending east towards the Xeropotamos wetland and dunes, is ideal. River Almiros and River Gazanos’ mouth areas, along with the Ellinoperamata industrial area, also offer peaceful beach spots.

The surrounding locale is also remarkable. The Almyros river spring, Crete’s largest water source, forms the area’s most extensive habitat. Nearby lies the Almiros gorge, an easy location for a leisurely walk. Alternatively, you can opt for a hike up the Stroumboulas mountain, Heraklion’s volcanic-like mountain.

  • Ammoudara beach - Heraklion
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue
  • 15.6 km
Helidoni Beach is located 15.6 km away.

Contrary to the prevailing belief that Crete’s scenic beaches are situated in remote areas far from major cities, those familiar with the island know that hidden gems are scattered across every corner. One such paradise is the Helidoni (Swallow) beach, just a stone’s throw from the historical Paliokastro fort in Rogdia near Heraklion. This haven is just a five-minute drive from the outskirts of Heraklion.

The beach known as Helidoni or Porto Helidoni is situated just south of Paliokastro and is nestled beneath the highway. A staircase with wooden steps descends to the sea level. The beach stands out for its cleanliness and the crystal-clear water that brings to mind the best beaches of southern Crete. The beach is oriented towards the east and, as a result, is typically calm, much like other beaches stretching from Ellinoperamata to Frankia. It is a quaint beach with a blend of fine pebbles and sand in certain spots. The seabed is quite rocky, making it perfect for snorkelling. There’s also a small canteen on the beach. Its name, Helidoni, is derived from the swarms of swallows that flock to this area annually.

Just a few meters east of the main Helidoni beach, another small sandy beach can be found, surrounded by picturesque rocks. This beach can only be reached by traversing the rocky coastline from Helidoni, lending it a tranquil atmosphere. There are stairs leading to the beach, but they pass through private properties, making them inaccessible to visitors.

  • Helidoni Beach
  • Pebbles, Rocks in places, Sand
  • Deep
  • Blue

Discover Archaeological Sites near Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest archaeological sites near Krousonas town:
  • 11.7 km •
  • Agios Thomas Roman Tombs

Agios Thomas (Saint Thomas) is one of the most impressive mountain villages of Crete, mainly due to the easily carvable rocks in the region. The area boasts incredible monuments of carved architecture, transporting us to ancient times with Minoan presses, Roman tombs, and cavernous temples. These features, combined with the breathtaking cliffs, natural caves, Byzantine churches, and lush green surroundings, create a magical landscape.

In the village of Agios Thomas, south of the church with the same name, a short path begins at the statue of local hero Demetrius Varouchas. After a 2-minute walk, we arrive at one of the most impressive archaeological sites of Crete, located at Gria Mandra.

At Gria Madra, numerous towering boulders are scattered throughout the area, with a trail weaving between them. Many of these rocks contain carved Roman tombs that remain in excellent condition, inspiring awe in all visitors. Around the Agios Thomas area, there are about 30 tombs.

Kera Spiliotissa Chthonic Sanctuary

En route to the abandoned settlement of Ardachthia, we encounter a rock covered in ivy and the carved cavernous chapel of Kera Spiliotissa. Inside a recess, about 15 meters after the church, archaeologists discovered a Greco-Roman inscription in 1910 that can still be seen today.

The inscription clearly states in Greek, “Dedicated to the goddesses Larkia Artemis, Demeter and Kori,” who were all deities of Hades. Residents of Agios Thomas claim that inside the church, there was once a chasm known as the Gate of Hades, which has since been covered with cement.

All of these findings suggest that Agios Thomas was a site for worshiping chthonic deities, or the deities of Hades. Even today, when someone from Agios Thomas passes away, their clothes are dropped into an underground river to transport them to the other world.

  • 14.7 km •
  • Anemospilia sanctuary

At the location known as Anemospilia, situated on the northern slopes of Mount Jiouchtas, archaeologists Giannis and Efi Sakellarakis discovered a small Minoan-era sanctuary in 1979 that took the global archaeological community by surprise. This modest sanctuary provided the first evidence of human sacrifices in Minoan Crete.

The two-story structure was constructed in the 17th century BC and was later destroyed by an earthquake a few decades afterward. To date, four sites have been uncovered, but there could potentially be more.

In the temple’s first room, numerous utensils were discovered, including around 150 pots of various shapes. The main room was filled with the largest temple utensils, pots, and jars. The east room, where bloodless rituals occurred, contained many objects and a stepped altar on which all worship utensils were placed. The bloody sacrifices took place in the temple’s west room, which had fewer findings.

The most significant discovery of the excavation was the presence of four human skeletons. Scientific investigations revealed that three of them (including one woman) were killed by the collapsing roof and a simultaneous fire. They were likely two priests and a priestess. The fourth deceased individual was the most intriguing discovery, as he was found lying on a trapezoidal table with a short sword or spear in his body. According to anthropologists and forensic experts, this man was a victim of human sacrifice, and the scene was preserved for posterity due to the earthquake.

  • 14.7 km •
  • Jiouchtas Peak Sanctuary

Jiouchtas, in ancient times, was considered a sacred mountain, primarily because it resembles a human face that looks to the sky from the northwest. Even today, the mountain’s anthropomorphic shape sparks interest. According to legend, this is the face of the Greek god Zeus, and the mountain is his tomb. Indeed, the name Jiouchtas is a corruption of the Latin word for Zeus, Jupiter.

The mountain was very important for the Minoans, as it was the first mountain they saw while their ships approached the shores of Crete. Here, they built at least two Minoan sanctuaries, one at the highest point of the mountain (Psili Korfi) and the second at the position Anemospilia.

The sanctuary of the Giouchtas peak is the most important and largest peak sanctuary in Crete and was directly dependent on Knossos, with covered and open spaces for accommodation, storage, and rituals.

The Psili Korifi peak hosted an 8mx5m worship building with a precinct surrounded by a cyclopean wall, in the sanctuary of which archaeologists have revealed many idols of men, women, animals, body parts, offering tables, inscriptions on Linear A script, bronze and silver pendants, bronze axes, and golden items. The natural trench of the sanctuary on the mountain’s rock, where many of the archaeological findings were found, was used for placing the devotees of the worshippers.

  • 7.2 km •
  • Ancient Rizinia

Atop the hill of Patella, near the village of Prinias in the Malevizi province, you’ll find the charming chapel of Saint Panteleimon, offering breathtaking views in every direction. Patela is home to the ancient Minoan town of Rizinia or Apollonia, which thrived until the Roman era. Excavations by the Italian Archaeological School uncovered a small 5th-century BC fort with metal weaponry, two 7th-century BC temples (one likely dedicated to Rhea), and a temple dedicated to the Minoan Goddess of Snakes.

Notable discoveries include a frieze featuring horsemen, deer, and panthers, two seated goddess statues, and pottery sherds that confirm the worship of Athena in the 2nd century BC. An inscription with the letters (I)ZENIA(A), also found on inscriptions at Gortyn, was crucial in identifying the city as Rizinia. Every four years, Rizinia provided animals for sacrifice to the Idaean cave.

A road from Prinias leads to the hill of the ancient city, followed by a short uphill path. This large, extensive archaeological site is definitely worth exploring. Almost across the road, a cemetery has been discovered, and on the way to the village of Asites, you’ll come across the Siderospilies (Iron Caves) – Roman-era tombs carved into soft limestone. Don’t miss the carved wine presses at Patitiria, the Patella waterfall, and the unique rock formations known as Grias Pites, all located beneath Patella.

Discover Monasteries near Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest Monasteries near Krousonas town:
  • 14.4 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.

  • 1.2 km •
  • Agia Irini Monastery near Kroussonas

The Agia Irini monastery can be found 25km south of Heraklion and 3km west of Kroussonas village, situated on the slopes of Psiloritis at an elevation of 630m. To reach it, take the road that connects Kroussonas with the Livadi plateau.

Functioning as a nunnery, this monastery is among the oldest in Crete. It is thought to have been constructed towards the end of the Venetian Era, but was destroyed by the Turks in 1822 and later rebuilt in 1944.

Dedicated to St. Irene (celebrated on May 5) and the Assumption (celebrated on August 15), the two-aisled church is part of the monastery. As one of the thriving monasteries in modern Crete, it is exceptionally well-maintained by the resident nuns.

  • 13.4 km •
  • Vrontissi monastery in Vorizia

The Vrontissi Monastery can be found 49km southwest of Heraklion, situated near Vorizia Gorge and nestled between the villages of Zaros and Vorizia. From this vantage point, one can enjoy panoramic views of Vorizia village and the Messara plain. Dedicated to Saint Anthony, the monastery is among the oldest in Crete.

While the exact date of its construction remains unknown, it is believed that the monastery’s name comes from its founder. Initially, Vrontissi was a dependency of the nearby Valsamonero Monastery, but it eventually grew so wealthy that it surpassed its parent monastery and became one of Crete’s most significant monastic centers.

According to tradition, Michael Damaskinos and El Greco, two prominent figures in the Cretan School of Iconography, lived and worked at Vrontissi Monastery. In fact, six of Damaskinos’ icons, now on display at the Museum of St. Catherine in Heraklion, were once housed at Vrontissi. The surviving 14th-century frescoes in the church, which show influences from the Renaissance, demonstrate the high level of artistic expression that developed at the monastery.

The church itself is a two-aisled structure dedicated to St. Anthony (celebrated on January 17) and St. Thomas (celebrated on the first Sunday after Easter). Its bell tower, built in Venetian architectural style, stands as a separate structure. Several frescoes are preserved in the south aisle, including the Supper at Emmaus, the Apostles, Minologia, and Saint Symeon holding baby Jesus. The church also houses the 16th-century icon of Ambelos, created by Cretan artist Angelo.

Despite once being fortified, the monastery’s walls were eventually demolished in the name of modernization. The most striking remnant of the monastery’s former glory is the impressive 15th-century fountain that features depictions of Adam and Eve. At the feet of these figures, four others release water from their mouths, symbolizing the four rivers of Eden. This fountain is considered the most beautiful provincial example of fountains in Crete. The Turks referred to Vrondisi as Santrivanli Monastir, meaning Fountain Monastery.

Today, the Vrontissi Monastery serves as the International Village of Cretan Youth.

  • 11.7 km •
  • Agios Nikolaos Monastery at Zaros

Agios Nikolaos Monastery (Saint Nicholas) can be found at the end of the stunning Gafaris (or Rouvas) canyon, approximately 48km southwest of Heraklion and 3km north of Zaros village. In 1994, a massive fire destroyed much of the gorge’s beautiful pine forest, and the monastery is located near this site.

Visitors can reach the monastery by car from Zaros, taking the path that leads to the gorge (20 minutes north of Lake Zaros). Regrettably, the monastery’s architecture is a modern and unattractive anomaly within this landscape. The only points of interest for visitors are the old church of St. Nicholas, featuring 14th-century Paleologean-style frescoes, and the restored temple of Agia Paraskevi.

Originally, the monastery functioned as a secondary monastery of Varsamonero Monastery. It was later abandoned but has since been repurposed as a monastery for Old Calendarists. They have constructed a large modern temple and various cells, utility rooms, and other facilities. The current temple is dedicated to the Resurrection of Christ and Agia Kiriaki, while the bell tower houses eight bells, the heaviest of which weighs 12 tons.

In the surrounding area, visitors can also explore the ancient cavernous church of St. Efthimios, adorned with numerous frescoes and featuring an inscription dating back to 1438.

Dine at the Best Restaurants in Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest restaurants in Krousonas town:
  • 0.0 km •
  • Krousonas 700 01
  • 4.9 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Unnamed Road
  • 4.9 of 5

  • 2.2 km •
  • Krousonas 700 01
  • 4.8 of 5

  • 3.3 km •
  • Kato Asites 700 13
  • 4.8 of 5

Have a Drink at the Best Bars in Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest bars in Krousonas town:

No results available

Grab a Cup of Coffee at one of the Best Cafes in Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest cafes in Krousonas town:
  • 0.2 km •
  • Krousonas 700 01
  • 4.9 of 5

Discover Museums in Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest museums in Krousonas town:
  • 8.3 km •
  • Tylissos 715 00
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 9.8 km •
  • Epar.Od. Tylisos - Anogion
  • 5 of 5

Go hiking to the nearby Gorges

Listed below are the nearest gorges to hike in Krousonas town:
  • 4.2 km

To the west of Ano Asites village, the river that initially forms the Saint Haralabos gorge, and later flows through the village, ultimately transforms into a breathtakingly deep and dramatic gorge, known as the St. Anthony gorge. The descent trail leading to the canyon bed can be found near the scenic Byzantine church of St. Anthony, which also hosts a drinking water spring.

The canyon is teeming with lush vegetation, including towering plane trees and various other plant species. The trail within the canyon forms part of the European E4 hiking route. This trail concludes at the exit of the gorge in the village of Kerasia, close to the Faneromeni church. Regrettably, the riverbed is littered with trash from Asites.

  • Agios Antonios Gorge, Asites
  • 5.7 km

Saint Charalambos Gorge, a picturesque but petite canyon, is situated to the south of Ano Asites village. The gorge is named after the Saint Charalambos church that was constructed near its entrance beneath a rock. Up until mid-spring, the gorge is filled with water, compelling trekkers to walk along its walls to bypass the riverbed. The stream of the gorge carries water from the valley situated east of Prinias village to Agios Antonios gorge, eventually forming the Xeropotamos river that concludes at the Pancretan Stadium beach in Heraklion.

Our journey begins from the Agios Charalambos chapel nestled in a large rock shelter. We then make our descent along the river, where lovely ponds are formed. As we look upward, the grand walls with their vast caves become visible. The exit of the gorge has incredibly narrow passages which require us to traverse along a trail during winter. However, in the summer, it’s possible to walk on the riverbed, but caution is advised to prevent any ankle injuries.

  • Agios Charalambos Gorge
  • 6.6 km

The Venerato canyon, a hidden gem, is nestled 17km south of Heraklion, adjacent to the Venerato village and Paliani Monastery. Despite its modest length of 500m, the deepest part of the gorge leaves a lasting impression on its visitors, despite the visible impact of human activities.

The journey begins in Avgeniki village and concludes at the Agios Fanourios church in Venerato, nestled beneath a towering cliff. A brief stroll through the canyon from Agios Fanourios can be paired with a quick exploration of Venerato village. This charming village, once home to Venetian nobles, was often referred to as “Little Venice” due to its picturesque landscape.

The Apollonas river, which maintains its flow throughout the year, meanders through the gorge, carrying water from Agia Varvara to the Giofyros river. The river’s name, Apollonas, is derived from the ancient town of Apollonia, which once stood here. Some remnants of this town still exist near the gorge. As one ventures further into the gorge, the vegetation and platan trees flourish, harmoniously blending with an ancient watermill. The gorge narrows down to a width of 60cm, with the walls towering up to 25 meters.

Moving ahead, the Gra Spiliara (Old Cave), a haven for wild pigeons, emerges. The cave and the canyon served as a sanctuary during the Turkish Era and the German Occupation of Crete. Some parts of the gorge require wading through water or climbing over rocks. It is advisable for those descending the gorge to wear a helmet to protect against potential falling stones caused by the goats that inhabit the canyon’s edges.

After walking another 80m, you’ll reach the Kouroupi area. Here, the canyon walls almost converge, creating several small waterfalls. There’s a narrow, 20-meter long crevice in the rock that ends in a 7-meter high cliff and a deep pond. This marks the end of the walkable part of the gorge.

Until the 1950s, locals sourced their drinking water from this river, used it for irrigation, and it was home to a variety of wildlife including turtles, eels, and crabs. Sadly, pollution and domestic sewage have significantly degraded the ecosystem. This beautiful location deserves a better fate, and we can only hope it attains it.

  • Venerato Gorge
  • 10.4 km

The Agios Nikolaos, Gafaris or Rouvas gorge is nestled between the Ambelakia and Samari peaks. This gorge, the most significant in Psiloritis and central Crete, is named after the St Nicholas monastery located near its exit at Zaros. This area is an ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna, smaller canyons, and striking geological formations and cliffs. It spans 4 km, with 2.7 km developed by the Forest Service for activities like hiking, mountaineering, rock climbing, and wildlife observation. However, a fire in 1994 significantly damaged the beautiful Rouvas forest near the gorge’s south entrance.

The Rouvas forest, located in the Saint Nicholas gorge, is a nationally significant ecosystem of holly trees. It covers the inner valley of Psiloritis, surrounded by the peaks of Ambelakia, Samari, Chalazokefala, Skinakas, Koudouni, and Giristi. The area’s trees are ancient, with some trunks exceeding 1 meter in diameter and reaching heights of 15 meters. They grow densely, forming a unique forest society, supplemented by various shrub species.

The forest houses other typical Cretan flora, such as aria, zelkova, cypress, pine, plane, and pear trees, covering approximately 30,000 acres. The uniqueness of the Rouvas forest lies in the holly trees’ unusual size and characteristics compared to their typical Greek counterparts. This is likely due to the absence of external factors that allowed these shrubby oaks to evolve into their current form. Around the forest, one can spot scattered “mitata” (shepherd houses), most of which are now abandoned.

Recommended hiking routes include Zaros Lake to Saint John (a 2.5-hour return trip) and Psakofarago to Agios Ioannis to Lake Zaros (a 5-hour trip). The first route starts from Zaros Lake, leading to the St Nicholas monastery before entering the Rouvas gorge. The trail then ascends through the old burned forest, offering stunning views of the Zaros and Messara planes, before entering a narrow gorge filled with dense vegetation. The path follows the river bed, abundant with water in spring, leading to the heart of the forest, the Agios Ioannis area.

The second route begins north of Agios Ioannis at the Psakofarago gorge, the upper extension of the Rouvas gorge. The trail starts from the Holy Cross church and ends at Lake Zaros, passing through Agios Ioannis and the Rouvas gorge. This route requires a transfer to the Holy Cross church and a pick-up from Lake Zaros. Both routes offer the chance to experience the unique beauty of the Rouvas forest and its surroundings.

  • Rouvas Gorge (Gafaris)

Accommodations in Krousonas town

Listed below are the nearest hotels in Krousonas town:
  • 9.2 / 10
  • Κρουσώνας

Situated in Krousón, 24 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum and 27 km from The Palace of Knossos, Krouson Mansion offers a terrace and air conditioning. The accommodation is 23 km from the Venetian Walls and has free WiFithroughout the property.

The holiday home features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with mountain views.

Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 39 km from the holiday home, while Pankritio Stadium is 20 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Krouson Mansion.

from

€95

/night

    • 240 m
    • 9.3 / 10
    • Krousonas

    Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, mountain view and a balcony, Irma Villa, a Secluded Sanctuary, By ThinkVilla is set in Krousón. It features a garden, pool views and free WiFithroughout the property.

    The villa with a terrace and sea views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 3 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.

    The villa offers a children’s playground. A bicycle rental service is available at Irma Villa, a Secluded Sanctuary, By ThinkVilla, while cycling and fishing can be enjoyed nearby.

    Venetian Walls is 25 km from the accommodation, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 26 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 28 km from Irma Villa, a Secluded Sanctuary, By ThinkVilla.

    from

    €236

    /night

      • 840 m
      • 9.4 / 10
      • Main Street

      These cottages, situated the eastern slopes of mountain Psiloritis at a height of 800 metres, are located 25 kilometres west of Heraklion City and only 4 kilometres from the historic village of Kroussonas.

      Aetovigla Guesthouse disposes 6 detached and fully furnished cottages built according to the local architecture and with respect to the natural surroundings.

      All units are complete with living room, dining room, kitchen and bathroom. Each unit has central heating, fireplace and big verandas with unobstructed views.

      Aetovigla Guesthouse has an outdoor swimming pool, a café and a traditional tavern where guests can taste local specialities prepared with natural Cretan products.

      The area offers great activity opportunities such as trekking along a path parallel to the gorge of Agia Irini, or visiting the Minoan city of Zominthos in Psiloritis and the historic village of Anogia 10 kilometres from the hotel.

      Kroussonas is built on the eastern slopes of Psiloritis, the highest mountain in Crete, at 460 metres above sea-level.

      from

      €87

      /night

        • 1.3 km
        • 9 / 10
        • Σάρχος

        Boasting mountain views, Aggelina offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 23 km from Venetian Walls. This property offers access to a terrace and free private parking.

        With free WiFi, this country house features a flat-screen TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with an oven and microwave. Towels and bed linen are available in the country house.

        Guests can relax in the garden at the property.

        Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 24 km from the country house, while The Palace of Knossos is 27 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 27 km from Aggelina.

          • 1.5 km

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