Explore one of Crete’s most beautiful landscapes while hiking by the small river that will lead you to the 20m waterfall of Richtis. During the hike you will see some small ponds and waterfalls, as well as many different endemic plants, flowers, trees and animals. Richtis Gorge is part of the Sitia Geopark. On the path you will pass over small wooden bridges, old water mills and amazing view points. The hike is about 7km long. Richtis gorge is a green oasis where you definately want to be during the Cretan summertime.
Sailing trip is designed for half a day – just enough time to enjoy sea and swimming activities.Afternoon sailing trip is suitable for those who prefer waking up late and avoid the hottest hours. The boat trip starts at the port of Agios Nikolaos. Guests will have the opportunity to see famous island Spinalonga from the water. Our catamaran Lagoon 450F* will comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests. For adults, we have snorkel equipment, SUPs, tackle and fishing bait. For children – a box with toys, colouring books, board games. And inflatable flamingos and unicorns for the entire family. Food on a cruise is our pride. For our guests, we have compiled a Mediterranean-style menu with seafood** and unlimited drinks.
* Catamaran model may change,
** The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change.
Sailing trip is designed for half a day – just enough time to enjoy sea and swimming activities. The yacht cruise starts in the morning at the port of Agios Nikolaos. Guests will have the opportunity to see famous island Spinalonga from the water. Our catamaran Lagoon 450F* will comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests. For adults, we have snorkel equipment, SUPs, tackle and fishing bait. For children – a box with toys, colouring books, board games. And inflatable flamingos and unicorns for the entire family. Food on a cruise is our pride. For our guests, we have compiled a Mediterranean-style menu with seafood** and unlimited drinks.
* Catamaran model may change,
** The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change.
Departing from the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, our journey promises a semi-private escape filled with delightful socializing and shared experiences. It begins with relaxation, sunbathing on the sundeck, or actively participating in sailing procedures. Marvel at the stunning coastal views as we sail, feeling the invigorating sea breeze against your skin.
After circumnavigating Spinalonga and admiring the Venetian fortress from the sea, we set sail toward Kolokitha. Upon reaching Kolokitha, we drop anchor in one of its beautiful bays, where you’re free to immerse yourself in its pristine waters, explore the coastline, or simply unwind on deck, soaking in the Mediterranean sunshine.
Avanti Sailing ensures your comfort with a delectable meal served on board, featuring locally sourced ingredients and complemented by premium local wine and refreshments of your choice. Enjoy a selection of ripe, seasonal fruits as we gently sail back to the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, leaving you feeling invigorated, revitalized, and prepared for the evening ahead.
Mochlos is a quaint village situated 48km to the east of Agios Nikolaos and 35km to the west of Sitia. It lies 150m across from the islet of St. Nicholas, home to a chapel of the same name and an important archaeological site. The village of Mochlos maintains its traditional Cretan charm, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. The friendly locals, primarily from the village of Sfaka, will make you feel at home from day one. You may even get the chance to participate in local events such as fishing competitions.
The village’s coastal road is dotted with a handful of taverns and cafes where you can savour fresh seafood and refreshing drinks. These establishments have even gained popularity among notable Greeks. An old tax office previously stood next to these taverns but was unfortunately torn down several years ago. The small sandy beach of Mochlos, with its rocky seabed, lies in front of the village. It offers basic facilities but is not officially organized. A second, smaller and rockier bay can be found to the east of the village.
For those seeking solitude, the sandy beach of Limenaria lies 400m west of Mochlos. This beach and the local harbour are well shielded from the waves. In 1986, archaeologists discovered a post-Minoan cemetery with several intact carved tombs in Limenaria. Over 60 decorated vases and a Minoan seal featuring a deer were found at this site.
When visiting Mochlos, it’s worth exploring the neighbouring villages of Sfaka, Lastros, Tourloti, and Myrsini. These villages have preserved their traditional character and house some very old chapels. Furthermore, south of Mochlos, atop a hill, you can visit the scenic chapel of Holy Spirit (Agio Pnevma in Greek), which offers panoramic views of the Mirabello Gulf. Lastly, near the village of Myrsini, you will find the Venetian Tower of Kornaros and the chapel of St. Anthony.
Situated 48km east of Agios Nikolaos and 35km west of Sitia is the quaint village of Mochlos. A short 300m journey eastward, near the Agios Andreas settlement, reveals several secluded bays filled with rounded pebbles. Known by the locals as Kolimbakia or Loutres coves, these spots are perfect for snorkelling and fishing, thanks to the rocky seafloor that houses a multitude of fish. Beyond the coves, you’ll find the well-equipped Stomio beach, fronting a local hotel. It provides amenities such as umbrellas, showers, beach-volley courts, canoes, as well as sailing, windsurfing and diving facilities. Further east of Mochlos, the Mavro Selli beach awaits, characterized by a small stream and large pebbles.
Situated between Mochlos to the east and Malavra springs near Tholos to the west, you’ll find the gypsum quarries of Altsi, named after the Turkish term for plaster. This region is home to two hidden beaches, largely unvisited due to their proximity to the quarries. Access to these secluded Altsi beaches can be achieved through the road that guides you to the mills responsible for grinding the stones; this path is marked as a dead end just before reaching Mochlos. Despite the significant alteration of the scenery by the quarries, these beaches maintain their pristine condition and inherent beauty.
Psira, a small uninhabited island located opposite Kavousi, is renowned for being home to one of the most significant and affluent Minoan settlements discovered on Crete. However, it’s a lesser-known fact that Psira also boasts of remarkable natural beauty, featuring mysterious cliffs, sea caves, and enchanting beaches.
The island houses several petite beaches, with the largest one situated to the north of the settlement, featuring a sandy landscape. Right beneath the ancient settlement towards the south, a small bay hosts two exquisite pebble beaches. It’s noteworthy that all of Pseira’s beaches are on the island’s south side, thereby offering protection from the usual northern winds.
An extraordinary elliptical (oval) Minoan farmhouse has been discovered at the location of Souvloto Mouri, close to the village of Chamezi in the province of Sitia. The archaeological team led by Stephanos Xanthoudidis excavated the farmhouse in 1902, and its unique shape has been the subject of study by archaeologists.
The structure is thought to have been designed to follow the contours of the hill, and it likely had an exterior wall for defense. It may have originally served as a domestic sanctuary, which was later expanded to include additional cottages. Numerous artifacts were uncovered at the site, such as bronze objects, an ax, a chisel, clay figurines, a clay altar, pots, and various utensils.
At the Linares location, a Minoan tomb containing bones and an ivory seal was discovered, while a group of protogeometric tombs was found at the Fatsis site.
The small islet Scoglio de Muflo, also known as Psilos (meaning flea), is located opposite the island of Mochlos and was a significant commercial center and port from antiquity until the Byzantine Era. To the west lies a larger island called Psira (meaning lice), and another islet called Konida (meaning lice egg or nit) can be found opposite Pahia Ammos. Additionally, the island is sometimes referred to as Agios Nikolaos due to the picturesque chapel of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.
The islet of Mochlos is a designated archaeological site that continues to be excavated. The prosperity of ancient Mochlos was abruptly interrupted when the island became separated from Crete’s mainland. In the past, the island was actually the tip of a narrow peninsula, which formed two natural harbors. In the current sea area between the island and the mainland, where the depth does not exceed 2.5 meters, traces of Roman buildings have been discovered.
Since 3650 BC, the island has been inhabited and thrived during the Minoan era due to its natural harbor and surrounding fertile plain, which provided strong advantages in a region with stormy seas and rugged mountains. Mochlos imported obsidian from Milos and raw materials from the East, with which it had close trade relations. Although the settlement was destroyed by the eruption of the Santorini volcano, it was eventually rebuilt. During Roman times, Ierapytna controlled Mochlos and fortified it against enemy attacks. The island continued to flourish until the Byzantine era when, like all coastal areas of Crete, it was abandoned due to pirate raids.
Many tombs from all periods of the Minoan era have been discovered, containing important artifacts such as seals, golden jewelry, pottery, steatite vases, axes, and a jewelry storage box with a knife in the shape of a dog. The most significant find was a golden ring depicting a nude goddess sitting on a peculiar ship, having left a small house on the rocky coast. Additionally, an entire area with workshops, known as the “neighborhood of artisans“, was found where gold jewelry, gems, and stone vessels were produced.
Psira is a tiny uninhabited islet situated 1 mile north of Tholos beach, at the northeastern edge of the Gulf of Mirabello. A Minoan settlement spanning 15-20 acres has been discovered on Psira, making it one of the most significant sites in Crete. The name Psira translates to louse in Greek, inspired by the island’s shape, which resembles the insect. Interestingly, there is a small island nearby called Konida (meaning nits – lice eggs) and another islet in Mochlos named Psilos (meaning flea)!
The primary attraction of Psira is the ruins of the small Minoan town of Tholaria, which thrived between 1700BC-1450BC on a small peninsula on the south coast. Despite its modest size, the town was home to wealthy merchant, craftsman, fisherman, and sailor families who maintained connections with the Mediterranean. It is likely they were involved in trading purple dye, similar to the Isle of Lefki.
The initial excavations at Psira were conducted by a team led by American archaeologist Richard Seager in 1908. The archaeological site included houses, a square, a temple, a cemetery, but no palace was discovered. The valuable findings uncovered suggest that the inhabitants of Psira were affluent. Notable discoveries include a jar adorned with cattle heads and olive branches, and a mural depicting two Minoan women in conversation, wearing impressive dresses. Additionally, several ancient shipwrecks surround Psira, attracting many divers searching for antiquities (albeit illegally).
The archaeological site of Gournia can be found on a hill to the west of Pachia Ammos, near the road that connects Agios Nikolaos to Ierapetra, approximately 19km east of Agios Nikolaos. This city, which thrived during the Minoan period, is regarded as the most comprehensively excavated Minoan town on Crete. Due to its excellent preservation, it has been dubbed the “Pompeii of Crete“. The excavation of Gournia was carried out by an American Archaeology Group, led by Harriet Boyd, between 1901 and 1904.
The city seems to have prospered between 1550-1450BC, before being destroyed by an earthquake in 1450BC and ultimately abandoned around 1200BC. Its true name remains unknown, with the name Gournia being derived from the stone and wooden bowls – basins (urns) that were discovered at the archaeological site prior to the excavations.
Visitors can enjoy strolling along the paved streets of the archaeological site and getting a sense of what a small Minoan town was like. Excavations have uncovered houses, walls, stairs leading to second floors, storage rooms, and workshops. The discovery of various tools (such as chisels, hooks, hammers, and pots) helps us to envision the daily life of the Minoans. Notably, there was also a sewerage system in place.
At the summit of the hill, a small palace has been discovered, along with a large courtyard (believed to be the market), a primitive theater, and a temple dedicated to the goddess of snakes. The cemetery of Gournia was found in the Sfougaras area, quite close to the beaches of Kamini.
The Panagia Faneromeni Monastery (Revealed Virgin Mary) can be found in the Trachilas area of Sitia, situated on the brink of a steep region between Cape Trachilas and Babakia. It is approximately 1.5km from the sea and 8km west of Sitia town. The monastery is nestled in a verdant area beside the small Agii Pantes (All Saints) gorge, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Numerous caves within the gorge once served as the homes of the monastery’s hermits.
At the heart of the monastery lies a two-aisled church dedicated to the Assumption (celebrated on 15 August) and St. George (3 November). The church is adorned with ancient frescoes dating back to 1455, though they have been blackened by a fire, likely caused by the Turks. Surrounding the courtyard are several small structures that form a tiny settlement where pilgrims stay during the monastery’s celebrations in August. In addition to these modern buildings, there are six ancient monk cells that retain their medieval architectural style. Visitors can also see the “Big Cell” with its medieval arch, which functioned as an olive oil mill (fabrica), and the “Oven-house,” where monks prepared their bread.
The name Faneromeni (=Revealed) originates from the icon of the Virgin Mary that once appeared in the small “Hermit’s Cave” located next to the temple’s sanctuary. According to legend, a shepherd discovered the icon in the cave and placed it in his bag along with his lunch. When he arrived home, he asked his wife to open the bag and look inside, but she only found food. The following day, the shepherd returned to the cave and saw the icon had reappeared in the same spot (=> Faneromeni). Despite taking it with him again, the same sequence of events occurred twice more. He then realized that it was the Virgin Mary’s will to remain there and enlisted two monks to construct a monastery at the site. To this day, the small icon is preserved in the cave’s crevice.
Presently, the monastery is almost deserted, with crowds of pilgrims only arriving on the 15th of August from the surrounding area. A traditional ceremony takes place at this time, during which the icon of the Virgin Mary, known as the “Revealed Lady,” is carried on foot from the St. George church in Skopi, accompanied by the pilgrims.
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.
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The Koudoumis canyon, situated approximately 27km west of Sitia, is close to the village of Tourloti. You can reach the canyon by foot, but be aware that there are six minor but steep rappels that need careful navigation.
Also known as the Tourloti Gorge, the canyon’s exit is near Tourloti while its entrance is at the small plateau of Monokara, which is a few kilometres further south. The stream that flows through it carries water to the Mavro Seli beach near Mochlos. The canyon’s striking rock formations coupled with the vibrant nature during spring make trekking through the Koudoumis gorge a fascinating experience.
The Richtis Gorge, situated in the Lasithi Prefecture on Crete’s northern side, lies between the cities of Agios Nikolaos and Sitia. The trail begins just outside Exo Mouliana village and concludes at Richtis beach, to the east of Kalavros village. The entire route spans roughly 3 kilometres, with an elevation difference of around 350 meters between the starting point and the beach. Even in the summer months, the gorge retains a plentiful water supply, utilized for local agriculture. The water in the gorge is collected from the Drymias peak (918m) of the Orno range via the Lachanas and Mesa Mouliana streams, which converge near the trail’s starting point.
Depending on the hiker’s speed, the journey to the beach takes approximately three to four hours. The trail commences from the 19th-century stone-arched Lachanas bridge, a historic site where Christians reportedly killed local Turks attempting to reach Sitia and board a ship to Turkey during the population exchange between Greece and Turkey.
The path continues through a verdant landscape along the river, set against the stunning backdrop of Eastern Crete. The air is filled with the aroma of platans, oleander, and sage, and the scent of fresh herbs constantly shifts. Another notable feature is the old water mills that hikers encounter along the path, a testament to the past.
The crowning glory of the gorge is the breathtaking Richtis waterfall, which stands over 20 meters tall and forms a small pond at its base (the term “richtis” translates to “waterfall” in the Cretan dialect). The waterfall maintains its water flow even in the summer, providing a wonderful spot for a revitalizing dip. The trail concludes at the gorgeous pebbly Richtis beach, which features a small park with tamarisk trees, stone seats and tables, and a water fountain offering drinkable water.
Warning: To protect the delicate stream flora and fauna, please refrain from using sunscreen protection when swimming in rivers.
Tip: Many visitors choose to park their car on the main road at Exo Mouliana and walk down the paved road to the Lahanas bridge. By driving and parking next to the Lahanas bridge, you can save around 30 minutes of walking time. From there, it takes about 1.5-2 hours to reach the waterfall. For those less mobile or with young children, the quickest way to reach the waterfall is to drive along the narrow paved road to Richtis beach and walk for around 30 minutes in the opposite direction of the river.
In the eastern region of Crete, the term Havgas is frequently encountered, often used to name canyons and in some variations such as Ha, Havgoudi, and so on. One of the many gorges bearing the Havgas name is located near Kavousi, in the Ierapetra province. This gorge is essentially the lower segment of the wild Mesonas gorge, which originates from the Thripti plateau.
The section known as Havgas begins close to the Minoan settlement of Azorias and concludes its path in Kavoussi. Despite its short length of only 700m, traversing it via its stream demands technical (canyoning) gear due to the presence of six stunning waterfalls. The tallest of these waterfalls reaches 20 meters in height and retains water well into the late winter.
As an alternative, the gorge can be navigated by foot along the ancient hiking trail that skirts the canyon from its eastern side, linking Avgos to Kavoussi.
Located on the northern slopes of the Thripti range, near Kavoussi village and Avgos settlement, you’ll find the short but incredibly wild and imposing Mesonas gorge. This 4km long gorge requires technical canyoneering equipment to traverse its steep waterfalls. The gorge connects the Thripti Plateau to the Kavoussi plain, with its exit close to the Azorias archaeological site. The same stream forms the technical Havgas gorge, crosses the fertile Kavoussi plain, and eventually empties onto Tholos beach.
Starting from the Tsamadi position near Thripti village, there’s a hiking trail that runs high above the gorge bed, following the concrete channel used to transfer spring water to Kavoussi. The breathtaking views of the canyon, surrounding mountains, and Mirabello bay are beyond words. The trail descends to ancient Azorias, from where you can approach Kavousi via the ancient path parallel to the Havgas Gorge, or through the dirt road passing the Monumental Olive Tree of Azorias.
For canyon enthusiasts wanting to traverse the river bed, it’s worth noting that the water levels are generally low, with the flow ceasing mid to late spring depending on seasonal rainfall. The gorge starts out smoothly, with the hiking portion exceeding the steep descent sections. The last part of the gorge changes dramatically, narrowing significantly and forming high waterfalls, with the highest rappel at 30m. A small group of canyoneers can descend its 9 rappels in about 3 hours.
~~ Sea Breeze covered house ~~ is a beachfront property situated in Mochlos, a few steps from Mochlos Beach and 36 km from Lake Voulismeni. Featuring mountain and city views, this holiday home also comes with free WiFi.
The holiday home with a balcony and sea views has 1 bedroom, 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 offered in the holiday home.
The holiday home offers a terrace.
Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 36 km from ~~ Sea Breeze covered house ~~, while Agios Nikolaos Port is 37 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 28 km from the accommodation.
In a well-tended garden just 50 metres from the beach of Mochlos, Despina Studios offers air-conditioned rooms with a furnished terrace. Taverns and shops are within a 2-minute walk.
A kitchenette with a fridge and coffee machine is found in all rooms at the Despina. A seating area is provided. Each has a private bathroom with shower.
The scenic town of Agios Nikolaos is at 30 km. Sitia at a distance of 35 km.
from
€65
/night
Boasting mountain views, Filia Studio offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 100 metres from Mochlos Beach. It has a terrace, sea views and free WiFithroughout the property.
This air-conditioned apartment is fitted with 1 bedroom, a TV, a dining area, and a kitchen with a microwave and a fridge. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Lake Voulismeni is 36 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 36 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 28 km from Filia Studio.
Hotel Mochlos is centrally located in the fishing village of Mochlos, just 50 metres from taverns and the beach. Free WiFi is available throughout.
Featuring terraces or balconies with partial sea or street views, all the rooms are air conditioned. They include an LCD TV, private bathroom and refrigerator. Some units have a modern bathroom with hydromassage shower panels. A kitchenette with kitchenware and a seating and dining area are featured in some units.
A Continental breakfast is prepared daily. It includes tea, coffee and fresh juice, as well as yoghurt, eggs and jams, which guests can enjoy on the communal terrace.
Hotel Mochlos is less than a 90-minute drive from Heraklion Airport and 70 km from Heraklion. A 30-minute drive will bring you to Aghios Nikolaos, Sitia and the palm forest of Vai. Various restaurants, shops, cafés and bars can be found only 100 metres away.
from
€55
/night
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