Moires is a town in the Messara plain, the wide farming lowland that fills the southern part of the Heraklion region. Olive groves run out from the town on every side, and the plain lives on agriculture rather than on tourism. The country around Moires holds a gorge a few kilometres north, ancient sites among the neighbouring villages, and the long beachfront of Messara Bay on the Libyan Sea.
Heraklion (HER) is the nearest airport, and the drive reaches Moires from the north coast. Our page for Agioi Deka, the neighbouring town 7.9 km away, puts that village 43 km from Heraklion town. A car is worth having once you arrive, because the beaches, the gorges and the villages sit a few kilometres apart on country roads.
Six outings lie within about 12 km of the town, listed below from nearest to furthest.
Moires is a working town rather than a resort, and that shapes what a stay here looks like. Cafés, grill houses, bakeries and shops cluster within 300 m of the centre, enough to cover a self-catering week without a drive. No seafront is within walking distance, so the town suits travellers who want the Messara at close range and do not mind driving to the sea.
The setting is farmland, and the oldest olive grove in Crete grows in the country around Agioi Deka. Each village on the plain holds something different: Kamilari has kept its traditional architecture, Zaros stands at the mouth of the Rouvas Gorge, and Timpaki lies 9.9 km out. Two further gorges, Tripiti and Trafoulas, need a longer drive.
Moires has no beach of its own, because the town stands inland on the plain. The two closest beaches we cover belong to the Messara Bay beachfront on the Libyan Sea.
Eating in Moires means grill houses, pizza and town cafés, all within a few hundred metres of the centre.
Moires stands on the main road that crosses the Messara plain, reached from Heraklion on the north coast. Heraklion airport is the nearest airport, and most visitors pick up a car there, since the plain spreads its sights over ten or so kilometres.
Neighbouring towns are close enough for short hops: Kamilari 7.8 km out, Agioi Deka 7.9 km, Pitsidia and Zaros 9.3 km each, Timpaki 9.9 km. The road towards Matala carries on past Pitsidia to Kommos and the southern end of Messara Bay.
Moires lies in the Messara plain, in the southern part of the Heraklion region. The town sits inland among olive groves, with the Libyan Sea coast of Messara Bay beyond the villages to its south.
Moires has no beach, because the town stands inland on the plain. Kalamaki and Kommos are the two closest beaches we cover, both on the Messara Bay beachfront and both a drive away.
The Apolychnos Gorge is the closest, a few kilometres north of the town. It runs roughly 3 km from Panagia to Agios Antonios, and the exit there is next to the main road from Moires.
Heraklion airport (HER) is the nearest airport to Moires. Our Agioi Deka page puts that neighbouring town, 7.9 km from Moires, 43 km from Heraklion town.
A day out from Moires usually pairs a village with a gorge or a beach. Agioi Deka and the ruins of ancient Gortyn sit 7.9 km away, Kamilari 7.8 km, and the Messara Bay beaches lie beyond Pitsidia on the road to Matala.
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After a short drive through the Messara plain you reach Matala. Known for the colony of hippies in the Sixties, where they lived in large holes formed on the mountain. The rocks are holes with a Roman burial. In Matala you will have time for a refreshing dip in the water, eat something or just enjoy a drink on the beach. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both, the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s – 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs
Intro:
Located approximately 68 km southwest of Heraklion, Matala is one of the most popular destinations and one of the most beautiful beaches of our island. Mostly famous for the caves carved in the rocks next to the beach and the hippies of the 60’s.
Gortyna,also known as Gortys, was a city of ancient Crete mentioned by numerous ancient writers for its importance and splendor that is by no means inferior to that of Knossos.
Full description:
Once you are greeted by our friendly driver and guide, your day trip is about to begin.
Our first stop of the day is a visit to the archaeological site of Gortyn which is located 45 km south of Heraklion. Inhabited since 3000 BC, evolved as one of the largest cities during the Minoan era, finally reaching its peak during the Roman Empire, the city of Gortyn is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Walk around the site and have a chance to travel back in time while admiring the ancient ruins.
After a quick ride, we reach our second destination, the village of Matala. As we approach the village, a beautiful sandy beach of around 300 m long will greet you. You will have plenty of time to dive in the crystal clear deep water, swim under the Cretan sun and have lunch in one of the traditional taverns surrounding the beach. Matala is also known for its hand-carved caves that are found in the cliff of its bay. The caves were created in the Neolithic Age and were used throughout history as living spaces. During the 60’s the caves were occupied by the hippies who travelled from all over the world in search of their very own paradise on earth.
Explore the intriguing caves, enjoy a refreshing dive and allow us to take you on an unforgettable experience.
This day trip crosses Crete from the north coast to Matala, the south-coast village where Roman rock tombs became homes for the hippie community of the late 1960s. Matala sits in a sheltered bay below cliffs cut with those caves, and the trip gives you free time to swim, explore the caves and walk the village. ETHERION runs it from €34 with free pick-up anywhere between Malia and Ammoudara, and it holds a 3.81 rating across 30 reviews.
The coach runs south across the island, spends the afternoon in Matala and returns to Heraklion. Three things fill the time on site.
First is the beach, a curve of fine sand in a calm bay with clear water and cliffs at either end. Second are the caves, carved into the soft rock as Roman tombs and occupied by the flower children in the late 1960s and early 1970s, they are the reason most people come, and entry costs €4 separately. Third is the village, with small shops, tavernas along the water and the ruins of Roman buildings including a bath and an arena near the shore.
Matala’s history runs deeper than the hippies. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the bay as a harbour, and Greek myth places it as the spot where Zeus, in the form of a bull, came ashore with Europa.
The trip crosses from the Heraklion coast to the southern shore, ending at one beach.
The fare covers the coach, the guide and the pick-up, and it excludes the cave entry and everything you eat.
Included:
Not included:
We recommend Matala itself without hesitation and this particular trip with reservations, and it is worth separating the two.
Matala earns its reputation. The caves are genuinely unusual, Roman tombs turned into a 1960s commune, still open to walk through, and the bay behind them is a good beach on its own terms. Reviewers who went agree: several call it a must-see in Crete, and the ones who rated the day three stars still said they were glad they saw the place. If you are based on the Heraklion coast without a car, a coach is the practical way to get there.
The reviews also praise the guides on the good days, with one calling them great and very informative, and several note the pick-up going smoothly from their hotel door.
Now the problems, because this trip scores 3.81 out of 5 and three of the ten reviews we read sit at three stars or below.
Coach time is the biggest complaint by a distance. Value for money scores 3.4 and guiding 3.5, the two lowest marks. The trip is billed as 7 hours but that is door to door, one reviewer reported only 3 hours actually in Matala, another 4 hours, and a third said an hour went on collecting other passengers before the coach even set off south, calling it more time on the bus than on site.
Guiding is inconsistent. One reviewer said the guide spoke three sentences on the coach and then left the group to its own devices with no explanation of the caves or the town. Another booked a Polish-language tour and found it running in French, and was told it did not matter. A third struggled to follow the English commentary.
Matala gets crowded. One reviewer could not get a lounger on the beach at all in August.
Bring the cave money, set your expectations on timing, and head for the caves before the beach.
Free pick-up covers Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, Limenas Chersonisou, Koutouloufari, Anissaras, Analipsi, Gouves, Kato Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion and Ammoudara. The operator emails your exact pick-up point within 24 hours of booking.
Bring a sun hat, towel, sunscreen and beachwear. The trip is flagged as likely to sell out.
Reviewers report 3 to 4 hours on site. The trip is listed at 7 hours, but that includes the coach south and a pick-up circuit along the north coast first.
Cave entry costs €4 and is not included. One reviewer noted EU residents under 25 entered free.
A multilingual guide travels with the coach, though reviewers report the amount of commentary varying considerably and at least one language mismatch.
Matala’s cliff caves are Roman rock tombs that the flower children lived in during the late 1960s and early 1970s, which is how the village got its name in travel writing.
Pick-up is free from anywhere between Malia and Ammoudara, covering the whole Heraklion north coast strip.
The bay is sheltered and the sand is fine, though reviewers travelling in August report the beach busy enough that loungers ran out.
Check dates and prices for the Matala hippie caves day trip.
Kalamaki, a quaint seaside hamlet, is nestled between Matala and Kokkinos Pirgos, 65km southwest of Heraklion. The beach, a 2.5km stretch of the vast Messara Bay coastline, graces the village’s front. Its sandy shore is kissed by the sea, which conceals a slick, flat rock bed beneath its surface. It features large waves, usually stirred by northwest winds, making beach access challenging at times due to the rocky seabed.
The village-facing part of the beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, eateries, accommodation, a lifeguard, playground, and water sports. For a more isolated experience, head southeast towards Kommos beach, a favorite among nudists.
To the north, you’ll find Afratias and the Pahia Ammos beach, which features patches of rocks. Devoid of amenities, the beach does boast a small park used for hosting cultural events like concerts during summer months.
Further north lies the Timbaki military airport, now serving as a resort for Greek Air Force staff. Although the beachfront is accessible, trespassing beyond the fence is prohibited and could lead to arrest. Sometimes, parachuters and skydivers can be spotted descending from small aircraft, courtesy of a local club based at the airport. In 2008, a small plane crashed into the Kalamaki sea, with the pilot miraculously surviving the ordeal. The Tymbaki airport holds ecological significance for the Mesara plains as it’s intersected by the Geropotamos River, which flows out to the beach. This river, the area’s largest, serves as a sanctuary for hundreds of rare birds across its numerous ponds.
The sandy coast of Messara Bay is a protected breeding ground for the loggerhead sea turtle. To prevent nest destruction and avoid frightening these creatures, it’s best not to roam the beach’s darker areas during summer nights.
Although Kalamaki doesn’t boast a significant history due to its relatively new establishment, it’s a popular seaside resort for Kamilari locals. Some believe it once served as a small harbor for Phaestus or Gortys in ancient times, though no concrete evidence supports this claim.
Situated 66km southwest of Heraklion, Kommos (or Komos) lies a mere 2km north of Matala and in close proximity to Pitsidia village. It stands as the southernmost and remotest section of the extensive beachfront of Messara Bay. Once serving as the port of Phaestus, the remnants of the ancient port of Kommos can still be observed on the beach. It can be reached by driving towards Matala and following a sign to Kommos near Pitsidia.
The entire beachfront of Messara is exposed to the prevalent westerly winds. Visitors should exercise caution as the seabed can be rocky in certain areas. The beach also serves as a nesting ground for the protected loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) between the months of May and September.
Potamos or Potamoserma, the northern section of Kommos, is a popular spot among naturists, dating back to when hippies frequented the area. The location is dotted with sparse tamarisk trees and devoid of buildings due to its protected archaeological status, restricting construction. Next to the archaeological site in the south, there is a developed beach equipped with amenities such as umbrellas, sun beds, a toilet, showers, a canteen and a lifeguard. Surrounding sand dunes are home to white sand lilies that mark the end of summer. Nearby Kalamaki or Pitsidia and Matala offer options for accommodation and dining.
The sight of Paximadia islets during sunset is breathtaking. A large rock, known locally as Volakas, stands 300m out at sea, opposite the archaeological site. According to local lore, this rock is the tip of the boulder that the blinded Cyclops Polyphemus hurled at Odysseus’ ship to prevent his escape, following Odysseus and his crew’s escape from Polyphemus’ cave.
Kommos, the ancient port of Phaestus, was established around 200BC. However, it was subsequently destroyed by an earthquake and then rebuilt at the same location. The archaeological site of Komos, not open to the public, houses a Minoan harbour, public buildings, warehouses, oil presses, shipyards and a large courtyard. Archaeologists have uncovered a small temple, constructed on the ruins of an older one.
Kokkinos Pirgos, also known as Red Tower, resides 67km west of Heraklion, near the town of Tymbaki. Its name is derived from a tower constructed from red soil, situated at the mouth of the Geropotamos river. As the coastal village of Timbaki’s main port and a hotspot for tourism, Kokkinos Pirgos is home to numerous hotels, dining establishments, and cafes. The area’s climate is typically warm, enabling locals to cultivate fresh vegetables in greenhouses.
The village boasts a lengthy sandy beach that stretches southeast towards Kommos for several kilometres. This expansive beach is a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles (Carretta Carretta) during the summer months. Conservation organizations such as Archelon work to protect these sea turtles and their nests. The beach, which is susceptible to western winds, begins at Timbaki’s military airport wire fence on the east and extends to Agia Galini on the west.
The beach’s eastern portion, stretching from the port to the airport, is known as Katalyki. This well-equipped beach features amenities such as umbrellas, sunbeds, lifeguards, and water sports. A coastal road lined with cafes and restaurants runs alongside the beach, making it a popular spot for refreshments. East of Katalyki lies a sizable marsh, a key wetland in the Mesara plain, which is irrigated by the Geropotamos River.
The beach area west of the harbor is known as Makrimaliana. The beach near Kokkinos Pirgos is relatively broad, but as it extends towards Agia Galini, gravel massifs encroach upon it, narrowing the beach and in some places, eliminating it during high tide. This unorganized, remote beach may not be extraordinary, but the wind and sea-carved rock formations that flank it are certainly impressive.
Platia Peramata, a quaint village situated 69km south of Heraklion and 7km east of both Kali Limenes and Lendas, nestles at the exit of a small, fertile valley that cuts through the rugged Asterousia Mountains. This valley begins at Antiskari village and concludes in a settlement, its rich soil used for growing early vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers in greenhouses due to the consistently high temperatures.
The region features numerous adjacent bays that form serene and picturesque beaches, frequented primarily by locals. At the heart of the settlement lies the small beach of Platia Peramata, known for its fine pebbles which are predominantly used to moor the locals’ boats. Despite the beach’s lack of extensive facilities, a handful of tavernas and rooms are available nearby. Tamarisk trees line the beach and are often used as camping spots. To the east of the settlement, East Platia Peramata beach, less favored by swimmers, offers another pebbly shoreline.
Lendas is located where the ancient city of Levina once stood, 74km south of Heraklion, nestled amidst the breathtaking Asterousia Mountains. The name “Levina” is believed to stem from the Phoenician word “Lavi,” meaning “Lion.” This reference is evident in a nearby cape shaped like a lion’s head, considered one of the lions that once drew goddess Rhea’s chariot and turned to stone. Another theory proposes the name originates from the Phoenician term “levina,” indicating the pale hue of the region’s rocks. The present name, Lendas, evolves from the Greek “Leondas,” translating to “lion.” This lion-shaped cape is an esteemed archaeological site, with a short 15-minute trek offering a mesmerizing sunset view.
Archaeological excavations have unveiled Minoan graves and a settlement here, revealing ties to ancient Egypt. Levina prospered during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, operating as a port for Gortys, Crete’s predominant city at the time.
To Lendas’ east lies a therapeutic spring, reputed for its curative properties, especially for stomach issues, blood disorders, and bleeding tendencies. This led to the establishment of a grand temple in the 4th century AC, dedicated to the revered physician deity, Asclepius, and the goddess Hygeia Sotira. This temple was renowned for its hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, and psychiatric treatments, attracting patients from regions as far as Libya. From this sanctuary, remnants like the altar, two marble pillars, and Asclepius’s statue base remain visible. Using materials from this temple, a Byzantine church was later constructed, dedicated to Agios Ioannis Theologos. Additionally, Roman bath ruins have been found near the springs.
Lassea was one of the ports of the Roman city Gortyn, the capital of Crete in the Roman Era, and is located at the site of the current settlement Chrysostomos. Lassea was rich in copper deposits, which were used for trading copper. Saint Paul mentions the town in his Acts for his stay on Crete.
On the west end of the beach of Chrisostomos, there is a “line” of rocks that heads towards the small islet Trafos. This is the old dock of the ancient town Lassea. The rocks were in that place since the 1960s when they were used for the construction of the Oil Tanks in Kali Limenes. On the island and on the beach, opposite Trafos, you can still see remains of the ancient town of Lasea. A bit further to the west, tombs have been identified.
Matala, originally known as Matelon, functioned as a port for Phaestus and Gortyn and is famous for its carved caves, which were used as graves during the Grecoroman era. The cape to the south of Matala has been identified as Cape Nysos, the site where Menelaus’ ships were wrecked, as mentioned in the Odyssey.
Excavations in the 1980s at the archaeological site near the village, which was the heart of the ancient town, revealed large buildings and workshops for metallurgy, pottery, and woodworking. The town appeared to have thrived from the 6th century BC until the 7th century AD but was never deserted.
Remnants of an ancient temple can be found southeast of the village, and a marble urn was discovered near the beach of Matala. The town’s acropolis was situated on a nearby hilltop, where a Turkish tower, known as a koules, was later constructed.
The archaeological site of Gortyna (Gortyn or Gortys) can be found 45km south of Heraklion, close to the village Agii Deka and next to the road connecting Agii Deka with Mires. The city covered a large area on the sides of the river Mitropolianos (or Litheos), even today surrounded by the ancient olive grove of Gortyna.
People have inhabited the area since 3000 BC, while during the Minoan era it evolved as one of the largest cities of Crete. In the 3rd century BC, it surpassed Phaestus and managed to possess the harbor of Matala, while retaining its port in Levina (current Lentas) and Lassea (current Chrysostomos). The town reached its peak during the Roman Empire when the Romans moved the capital of Crete and Cyrenaica (today’s Libya) to Gortyna. The city was finally destroyed by the Arabs in 828 AD, after around ten centuries of prosperity.
Gortyna is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. The first archaeological works started in 1884 by archaeologists Federico Halbherr and Stefanos Xanthoudides, after they discovered the Great Inscription of Gortyna. In 1898 the first excavations started, which continue until today.
Inside the main archaeological site (near the road) still stands a small part of the imposing basilica dedicated to the first bishop of Crete, Saint Titus. The temple was built in the 6th-7th century and was dedicated to Saint Titus after the destruction of the larger basilica of Saint Titus located nearby. The small part that has survived is currently used for the worship of Panagia (Virgin Mary). Around the church, several stone sarcophagi have been identified, used for burying the priests.
The Roman Odeon is the largest Odeon in ancient Crete, which is actually an indoor Roman theater. It was a very important part of the ancient city, where the Romans watched performances and talks. The auditorium has been maintained in quite good condition, as well as the semicircular orchestra and the stage which was decorated with statues. Next to the theater, there was the Agora and temple of Asclepius.
Next to the small theater, Halbherr discovered in 1884 four stone columns in the Doric dialect, where the civil law of Gortyna was engraved in boustrophedon script (bi-directional / alternation writing direction per line). Later, parts of the rest eight columns were found, some of them embedded on walls of houses in the village Agii Deka(!), thus completing the puzzle of the Law of Gortyn. The twelve columns (deltas) of Gortyna had about 640 verses, 605 of which have been found. The very progressive laws refer to 450 BC and were inspired by Minoan elements. The Law of Gortyn is the oldest surviving law in ancient Greece.
Near the parking place, a small room houses the Roman sculptures found in Gortyna. One of the most important statues probably depicts the emperor Antoninus Pius.
At the back side of the archaeological site, you will find a tall plane tree, which has something very rare. It is evergreen, unlike other deciduous plane trees, and has been the center of a fabulous myth. According to Greek Mythology, this is the perennial plane tree of Gortyna under which Zeus and Europe mated. From this union, the three kings of Crete were born (Minos, Rhadamanthys, and Sarpedon). Indeed, it is no coincidence that at Gortyna, several coins were found depicting Europe and Minos (or Zeus). Moreover, the name of Gortyna is believed to be related to Gortyna, the son of Radamanthys.
Within walking distance from the city (northwest) and atop a hill, you can visit the ruins of the acropolis of Gortyna. The hill was inhabited until 6000 BC, but after the Dorian invasion (1100 BC) it was fortified with a polygonal wall with towers at its corners. On the Acropolis, the archaeologists have identified the ruins of a Byzantine basilica (6th century AD) built on the site of an older Greek temple dedicated to Athena (7th century BC).
Within walking distance from the main archaeological site of Gortyna and south from the main road, there is the Praetorium (1st century AD). The Praetorium was a large, luxurious, and imposing building used as the headquarters of the Roman Province of Crete and Cyrenaica. It is still interesting to see the elaborate luxury marble floors, columns, and statues. In the complex, there were Roman baths, a courtyard with columns, a temple for the deified Augustus, courts, and other public buildings. During the Byzantine period, the building housed a monastery.
The Romans, as in every place they went, they built their favorite spas. As expected, in Gortyna they built a large complex of spas (thermae) with several auxiliary rooms and toilets. Like most Roman baths, in Gortyna there were warm baths, baths of intermediate temperature, and cold baths. The ruins of the spas in Gortyna have not been fully excavated, but still, the visitor can get a good feel for the area (near Praetorium).
The ruins of the Great Basilica of Gortyna are located 200m south of the main archaeological site, on the way to Mitropoli village. The five-aisled temple, discovered accidentally in 1978, was the largest church in Crete. The temple was dedicated to Saint Titus, but after its destruction by an earthquake (670 AD), it was moved to the temple inside the current archaeological site.
A few meters north of the Great Basilica, you can follow the path that leads to the Praetorium and will soon meet the sanctuary of the Pythian Apollo (7th century BC), discovered in 1887. The temple was the largest temple of Gortyna before the advent of Christianity in Crete (and the building of the church of Saint Titus). Next to the church, there was a small theater, an aqueduct, and some houses.
Near the Temple of Apollo, you will also see the temple of Isis, Sarapis, and Hermanubis. This temple is the only temple in ancient Crete dedicated to Egyptian deities. The temple was equipped with an underground crypt and a cistern.
The male monastery of Panagia Odigitria is nestled in the protected area of the Asterousia Mountains, at an elevation of 250m. Accessible through the village of Sivas, it is one of the most historic monasteries in Crete, boasting a vast estate with numerous chapels and extensive land holdings.
Asterousia has long been a significant center for asceticism in Crete, particularly in the sacred gorges of Agiofarago and Martsalo, which are now part of the monastery’s domain. The area is often referred to as the Mount Athos of Crete, after the renowned monastic state in Northern Greece. The strong monastic tradition in the region is believed to be connected to the Apostle Paul, who is said to have stopped in the area during his journey to Rome.
In this hallowed location, hermits constructed the monastery of Odigitria in the 14th century. Its name is likely derived from a copy of the renowned icon of the Monastery Odigon in Constantinople, which is attributed to the evangelist Luke and was one of the most famous miraculous icons in the Byzantine Empire. A 14th-century cross-roofed narthex still partially remains, with important frescoes such as two scenes from the synaxari of Agios Antonios and Paul of Thebes, as well as the 16 houses from the Akathist Hymn. The pictorial decoration also features a scene of monk Gregory and other monks being blessed by Christ.
The monastery’s architecture resembles a fortress, with part of its wall still visible. The complex’s buildings encircle the central two-aisled church, which is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (Kimisis) and the Apostles Peter and Paul. A third aisle, once devoted to Saint Fanourios, has since been demolished. Near the main entrance, visitors can find the legendary Tower of Xopateras and its fascinating story. Other notable features include the baking house, the olive mill, the wine press, several warehouses, the cheese cellar, a small well used during sieges, the guest house (formerly the abbot’s cell), the abbot’s cell with the library, the monks’ cells, and the graves of the monastery’s abbots. Additionally, four icons created by the famous 15th-century Cretan artist Angelos have survived to this day.
At one time, the monastery was home to brothers Parthenios and Eumenios, who later founded the monastery of Koudoumas and are now honored as saints. During the Turkish occupation, the monastery became stavropegic (directly governed by the Patriarch) in order to preserve its property. The monastery is also home to some of the oldest chapels in Asterousia, which feature remarkable frescoes. Among these are the cavernous chapel of Agia Kiriaki (celebrated on July 7), the church of Saint Anthony in Agiofarago Gorge, the Panagia chapel in Martsalo canyon, and the chapels of Saints Eftychiani (celebrated on August 17), Saint Andrew (November 30), and Saint John the Baptist (August 29) in the Vathys Lagos area.
The Panagia Kalyviani Monastery is situated at a height of 80m, approximately 60km south of Heraklion, close to the villages of Mires and Kalyvia. This relatively new monastery was constructed on the remains of an older one.
In 1873, the current church was built on the site of the previous monastery, and the icon of Panagia (Virgin Mary) was discovered in the same year. The Kalyviani complex includes the old church as well as the new temple, which was constructed in 1924 and houses the ancient icon. The new church features three aisles dedicated to the Nativity, the Annunciation, and the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (celebrated on August 15). Additionally, there is a small church dedicated to Saint Haralambos, who was a monk in the monastery and is celebrated on August 23.
Kalyviani exemplifies a foundation that provides assistance and charity to the poor and disadvantaged. In 1956, Bishop Timothy Papoutsakis established a Christian Foundation at the monastery. He constructed an orphanage, hospice, housekeeping school for girls, elementary school, kindergarten, summer camps, and workshops for weaving, knitting, and vestment-making, among other things.
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.
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.
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The Apolychnos Gorge, situated just a few kilometers north of the town of Mires, is nestled in an area abundant with olive groves. This gorge is essentially a narrow valley that traces the path of a river, which in certain areas deepens and is surrounded by thick vegetation. The Tourki stream that flows through it carries water from a valley that begins west of Makres village to the Geropotamos river. The gorge, which is roughly 3 km long, begins near the village of Panagia and concludes at the traditional settlement of Agios Antonios (Vrelis). It’s conveniently accessible, particularly near its exit close to Agios Antonios, as it’s adjacent to the main road from Mires.
The gorge is named after the deserted village of Apolychnos, which is situated within the gorge at an elevation of 220m. This village, enveloped by verdant trees and bubbling springs, is home to the stunning Byzantine church of Saint Panteleimon, located in the village square.
On the southeastern flank of Mount Sanida, near the quaint village of Skourvoula, you’ll find a petite yet wildly untamed chasm known as Rizopetro. This gorge culminates in a striking 60m waterfall that cascades into the lake of the Faneromeni dam, a sight to behold especially after heavy downpours.
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.
The Trypiti Gorge, nestled in the Asterousia mountain range, lies south of Vassiliki village and channels water from the valley east of Miamou village through the Agiosavvitis river. Stretching over 4 km, the gorge ends in a stunning pebble beach named Tripiti. A dirt road, running along the eastern side of the gorge, provides access to the beach, following several kilometers before reaching the riverbed at the sea’s edge.
The gorge narrows near Saint Paraskevi church, situated at an elevation of 655m. The initial section of the gorge houses steep waterfalls, making it inaccessible without technical expertise and canyoneering equipment. The western side, in particular, is incredibly steep and dangerous. The Prophet Elijah church is a prominent feature at Katsakne, the peak of the western slopes. This church can be accessed via another dirt road that begins about half a kilometer before the gorge’s entrance.
Midway through the gorge, close to the dirt road, lies the Saint Savas church, surrounded by wild olive trees. The unique feature of this woodland is its wild, uncultivated olive trees, offering a glimpse into the natural habitat of these trees. The gorge is also home to an array of wildlife and bird species.
As you continue towards the sea, the road merges with the ravine and soon leads to the most picturesque part of the gorge: the narrow canyon, also known as Steno Faragi. Here, the sides of the gorge come so close together that they appear to touch. A road, just wide enough for a car, passes through this narrow gap. At the end of this narrow section, next to the beach, you’ll find the Panagia Tripiti church, built inside a cave, that celebrates its feast on September 1st.
The Trypiti Gorge is known by various other names, including Saint Savas Gorge, Katsakne, and Lavri. On the eastern side’s Papouri hill, archaeologists have uncovered a significant Preminoan settlement. Additionally, vaulted graves have been discovered at the Kalokambos location.
Located in Moírai, 46 km from Venetian Walls and 47 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, BLUE PHAISTOS APARTMENTS No1 offers free WiFi and air conditioning. The property features inner courtyard views and is 7.9 km from Phaistos and 8.2 km from Museum of Cretan Ethnology.
The apartment comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with city views.
The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 50 km from the apartment.
from
€41
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Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a patio, Private Villa Freedom is set in Moírai. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa is fitted with 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
The villa offers a hot tub. Guests at Private Villa Freedom can enjoy hiking nearby, or make the most of the garden.
Venetian Walls is 48 km from the accommodation, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 49 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 51 km from Private Villa Freedom.
from
€175
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Located in Moírai, 44 km from Venetian Walls and 45 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Carob Villa offers air conditioning. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa is equipped with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
A car rental service is available at the villa, while fishing and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
The Palace of Knossos is 48 km from Carob Villa, while Phaistos is 11 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 47 km from the accommodation.
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, House Angelina is situated in Galiá. It features a terrace, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings and the apartment can arrange a car rental service.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 8.8 km from House Angelina, while Phaistos is 10 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 54 km from the accommodation.
from
€99
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