Rodia, written Rogdia on many of our pages, is a village on the slopes above the western side of Heraklion Bay. Streams running down from the village cut the green valley that reaches the sea at Paliokastro, and our page for that beach places it 14 km west of Heraklion. The village looks out over the bay rather than sitting on it.
Heraklion airport (HER) is the nearest airport, and the city is the closest large town. Rodia works as a quiet base: 5 beaches lie within 4 km, 4 monasteries within 2.2 km, and a gorge starts 700 m from the houses.
Six outings lie within 5 km of the village, listed below from nearest to furthest.
Rodia is a hill village with the coast below it and the city across the bay. The tavernas we list start 800 m from the centre, so the village feeds itself rather than a resort strip. The Spiliotissa gorge forms immediately to the west, and the ground drops away quickly on that side.
Monasteries are the other mark of the area. Four stand within 2.2 km, and Panagia Pantanassa gives its name to the beach and the small port below it. Marathos lies 4.8 km out and Fodele 6.1 km, while Ligaria and Agia Pelagia to the west belong to the Malevizi area.
5 beaches lie within 4 km of Rodia, the two closest at the foot of the village’s own valley. The list runs from nearest to furthest.
Eating in Rodia means village tavernas within a kilometre of the centre, plus a bar down at the shore.
Rodia is reached from the coast road west of Heraklion, then up the slope from the shore. Our Helidoni page describes this coast as a five-minute drive from the outskirts of Heraklion, and our Paliokastro page puts the beach below the village 14 km west of the city.
A car suits the area, because the beaches sit at the bottom of separate valleys. The inland road between Rogdia and Achlada carries the start of the Spiliotissa gorge, and Heraklion is close enough for a day in the city.
Rodia sits on the slopes above the western side of Heraklion Bay, in the Heraklion region. Our Paliokastro page places the beach below the village 14 km west of Heraklion city.
Rodia stands above the coast rather than on it, and Paliokastro 1.6 km below is its nearest beach. Helidoni follows at 1.7 km, Pantanassa at 2.1 km, Fraskia at 3.5 km and Ligaria at 3.8 km.
Rodia and Rogdia are the same village. Our gorge, fortress and monastery pages for this area use the Rogdia spelling.
The Spiliotissa gorge starts 700 m from the village. It runs from the Koukos watermill down to Paliokastro beach past the 10 m Rechtra waterfall. The Almiros gorge, 3.6 km away, is the easier walk.
4 monasteries stand within 2.2 km of Rodia. They are the Rodia monastery, Savvathiana, Agia Fotini the Samaritan and Panagia Pantanassa, which names the beach and port below it.
Experience unforgettable moments on the Quad Safari Peninsula and discover a world full of fascinating highlights. Our tours offer you the perfect mix of adventure, nature experience and cultural discovery.
Join us on our journey to a ghost village that reveals a forgotten past. Immerse yourself in history, get to know the only three residents of the village as you explore the deserted streets and soak up the atmosphere of this place.
With our newest, comfortable quads you drive through picturesque landscapes and enjoy the untouched nature. From the rolling hills to the majestic mountains, we offer you a variety of captivating panoramas and views stretching all the way to Heraklion.
We run our tours in small groups to give you a personalized experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, our experienced, multilingual guides are always by your side.
Also discover the village of the famous painter El Greco – a wonderful place that fascinates artists and art lovers alike. Let yourself be enchanted by the charming streets and the cultural treasures of this place. Explore the enchanting village of oranges and savor the delicious flavors and incomparable charm of this location.
Take part in a unique adventure where you can combine the beauty of nature, the culture of the region and the joy of quad biking. Book now to start your journey and create unforgettable memories.
ELA Quad Safari runs guided quad tours from Achlada, in the hills above Agia Pelagia west of Heraklion. The route takes riders to viewpoints and stretches of country that no coach or hire car reaches, passing two traditional villages, with experienced guides leading the group to the spots where wildlife is most often seen.
The tour is a guided convoy on tracks rather than roads. Three things define it.
First is the terrain. Quads get to ground that is closed to other vehicles, the dirt tracks above the coast, the ridges between the villages, and viewpoints that exist only at the end of an unsurfaced road. That access is the whole reason to take a quad rather than a bus.
Second are the villages. The route passes two traditional settlements in the hills behind the coast, which is a different Crete from the resort strip 20 minutes below.
Third is the guiding. The guides choose the vantage points for the combination of view and the chance of seeing wildlife, rather than running the shortest loop.
The route works the hills behind the coast west of Heraklion.
We recommend ELA Quad Safari for its patch of the island. Most quad and buggy operators in Crete work the tracks inland from Hersonissos and Malia, which get busy in summer. The hills above Agia Pelagia are the quieter side, west of Heraklion rather than east, and the ridges there give you the coast on one side and the interior on the other with far fewer vehicles on the same tracks.
Our listing records a strong rating across a substantial number of ratings, which for a small independent operator is a meaningful signal. The listing is also verified on this site, meaning the business has claimed and confirmed it directly rather than it being scraped from a feed.
The villages are the part we would go for. Two traditional settlements in the hills, reached on a quad rather than a coach, is the kind of stop that turns an adrenaline activity into a day you remember for the place rather than the vehicle.
Two things to check before you book.
Confirm what you need to ride. Quad operators in Greece generally require a valid driving licence, and the rules on who can carry a passenger vary by operator, ask when you book.
Confirm departure times and duration directly with the operator, since these change with the season.
Call ahead, wear clothes you can dust, and pick the morning.
The base is at Achlada, above Agia Pelagia and west of Heraklion. The operator is a verified listing on this site.
Contact ELA Quad Safari directly for departure times, prices and licence requirements: infoelaquadsafari@yahoo.com, +30 694 944 3991.
The base is at Achlada, above Agia Pelagia, in the hills west of Heraklion.
The tour visits viewpoints unreachable by other vehicles and two traditional villages in the hills behind the coast.
Confirm this with the operator when booking. Quad operators in Greece generally require a valid licence, and passenger rules vary.
Ask the operator directly, since experienced guides lead the group and briefing arrangements are set by the operator.
ELA works the hills west of Heraklion rather than east, which is the quieter side of the island for off-road tracks.
Contact the operator directly by phone or email for departures, prices and availability.
Arolithos is a recreated traditional Cretan village in the hills outside Heraklion, built as a working complex of stone houses, a museum and a taverna. This experience covers a tour of the village and its folk museum, a hands-on cooking lesson, and lunch or dinner of the dishes you made, with local wine included. The village runs it itself over 4 hours from €99, with a 4.96 rating across 72 reviews and a perfect 5.0 for guiding.
The day splits into a tour and a class, then the meal you produced. Four parts make it up.
First is the walk through the village streets, past the stone architecture and into the two old houses furnished as they would have been. Second is the museum, holding the family’s own collection of everyday objects from Cretan rural life. Third is the cooking itself, in the taverna kitchen with the chefs, covering dishes from the village’s own weekly cooking, stuffed vine leaves, stuffed vegetables, pork in wine sauce, lamb with green beans, ntakos and tzatziki among them. Fourth is eating what you made, on a terrace looking over the valley towards Heraklion, with vineyards, olive trees and Mount Giouchtas in view.
The activity itself runs 2.5 hours; lunch brings the total to 4. Recipes go home with you.
Everything happens at one village complex in the hills.
The €99 covers the village, the museum, the class and the meal.
Included:
Not included:
We recommend this as the cooking class to book if you want the food rather than the photographs. The reason is that Arolithos is not a venue that hosts classes, it is a family complex where the taverna, the museum and the village are all theirs, and the recipes taught are described as what they cook in their own weekly diet rather than a curated tourist menu.
At 4.96 across 72 reviews with a flat 5.0 for guiding, the execution matches. Reviewers name their hosts individually, Eva and Vicki both appear, and describe a relaxed atmosphere rather than a production line. An American guest called it one of the best parts of their trip to Crete, describing the sequence exactly as it runs: a short tour of the village and museum, then cooking lamb, pork and more.
The setting does a lot of work. Eating what you cooked on a terrace over the valley, with vineyards and Mount Giouchtas in front of you, is a better ending than a classroom, and reviewers mention the view as often as the food.
Two things to be clear about.
Value for money scores 4.8 out of 5, the lowest of its dimensions, and €99 is a real price for four hours. What you get is a museum, a village tour, a hands-on class, a full meal and wine, but it is not a cheap afternoon.
Getting there is on you. No transfer is included, though the village can arrange one at extra cost. Arolithos is in the hills outside Heraklion and there is no practical bus.
Accessibility is partial. Only the cooking class is wheelchair accessible, not the village and museum tour.
Arrange the transfer when you book, declare diets early, and stay on after lunch.
The meeting point is Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village. The activity runs 2.5 hours, with lunch bringing the total to 4.
Transfer service and car hire can be organised at extra charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and dietary requirements including vegetarian options must be advised at booking.
The cooking activity runs 2.5 hours, and with the meal afterwards the total visit is 4 hours.
The class covers dishes from the village’s own everyday cooking, stuffed vine leaves, stuffed vegetables, pork in wine sauce, lamb with green beans, ntakos and tzatziki among them.
You eat the dishes you prepared, with local wine and mineral water included, on a terrace overlooking the valley.
No transfer is included, though the village can arrange transport or car hire at extra cost.
Vegetarian options are available with advance notice, so state any dietary requirement when you book.
Only the cooking class is wheelchair accessible, not the village and museum tour.
Check dates and prices for the Cretan cooking lesson at Arolithos.
Take part in this exciting and unforgettable experience which is guaranteed to highlight your holiday in Crete. Elevate your adventurous side to a whole new level with this quad safari. Ride and ATV through Crete’s rugged mountainous terrains and lush green valleys. Have a thrilling and adrenaline pumping experience by overcoming obstacles along the way through well-hidden routes of the island. Be surrounded by stunning landscapes and scenic viewpoints not accessible with other means of transportation. Our experienced local guides will take you to unique vantage points that provide the most chances of encountering wildlife coupled with the awe- inspiring vistas of two traditional villages in Crete. The combination of this exhilarating quad biking safari and access to unreachable viewpoints will give you a unique perspective of the island assured to create lasting memories.
Visit of the ‘Ghost town’
Off-the-beaten-path exploration: Explore a deserted village which was once thriving and learn about its rich history. Step back in time and learn about the culture and lifestyle of people who used to inhabit there. Have a chance to exchange pleasantries with the few residents that still live there and ask them any questions about this fascinating village. Wander around the picturesque alleys and observe the architectural remnants of the past whilst capturing unique photographs of the history frozen in time. Connect with a different side of the island’s history and culture that it is not commonly visited and known. Our quad safari will introduce you to one of Crete’s mysterious ‘ghost town’ in a funny and safe way to create life lasting memories.
Visit Fodele – El-Greco
Visit and explore a traditional charming Cretan village known for its picturesque surroundings, characterised by green valleys and hills covered in olive and orange groves. The village is nestled in a fertile valley, providing a tranquil and idyllic atmosphere to visitors. It is renowned as the birthplace of El Greco, the famous Renaissance painter. Our quad safari will take you right outside the house of El Greco where you will have the chance to see his family home and learn about his life. Another point of interest in the beautiful village of Fodele is the 11th century church of Panagia which features traditional Byzantine architectural elements and gives a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of the Byzantine Empire. During the visit you will have the opportunity to see this church as well as to explore the central village and have a short break for refreshments in an iconic café next to a river.
Return
Having explored different aspects of the island through this diverse and enriching quad biking tour we take the return route back to the starting point. Our fun does not end until the last min
Situated 14km to the west of Heraklion, Paliokastro, also known as Paleokastro, can be found on the western coastline of the Bay of Heraklion. This charming pebble beach is nestled into a green valley’s exit, which is intersected by streams flowing down from the Rogdia village. The cove of Paliokastro is securely flanked by tall cliffs and faces the east. A massive limestone rock towers over the eastern part of the beach, the summit of which was once the site of the Venetian fortress of Paliokastro. This fortress served as a defensive structure against enemy invasions to the Bay of Heraklion. The castle remnants suggest that it was constructed on the acropolis of the ancient town of Kytaeon.
Paliokastro is a beloved destination for the locals of Heraklion, who visit daily with their families. It has even led many to purchase homes in the area. Although not highly developed, the beach offers an idyllic setting for relaxation. Traditional food can be savored at various taverns, and several small hotels and rooms are available for stay. A mini market is also present on the beach, opposite an old limekiln, which is one of Crete’s best-preserved structures of its kind.
The beach’s western part boasts large pebbles and deep waters, making it a perfect spot for fishing and snorkeling. Natural stair formations on the rocks beneath the old fort provide a thrilling diving experience, with heights ranging from 1 to 20 meters. This spot is often frequented by children competing in diving contests. A tall, narrow, and dark cave is nestled between the beach and the rocks. Local folklore suggests this cave might have been a tunnel leading from the fortress to the sea, serving as an emergency escape route, although this remains unconfirmed. Paliokastro is easily reachable through the Heraklion-Chania highway, with a dedicated exit leading to the beach.
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.
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.
The Panagia’s Fraskia Bay is nestled 24km northwest of Heraklion, on the western fringe of the Heraklion Bay. It is situated at a small valley’s exit, adjacent to the existing private settlement of Theseus. The name, Fraskia, originates from the Cretan term ‘fraski’, a type of jar used as a beehive by the Cretans. The surrounding area abounds in thyme, herbs, and shrubs, making it a perfect spot for beekeeping.
A significant portion of the coastline is peppered with alternating tiny coves of sandy and rocky seafloors, extending southwards to the area known as “The Garden of Priest”. Beyond this area, remarkable caves can be found. The sea, usually calm due to the infrequent eastern winds in northern Crete, was used by the Venetians as a harbour to shield their ships. Particularly on days when the northwest winds prevail, Panagia becomes the preferred choice for Heraklion’s boat owners.
Access to the beach is primarily by boat, with a strenuous path from the Heraklion-Rethymnon highway (before the exit to Ligaria) leading to the bay. A shorter, more accessible path starts from the neighbouring Theseus beach, but entry is restricted as it is private property. The beach is secluded, with no amenities. Sadly, unchecked construction by thoughtless locals has marred the shoreline. These squatters brazenly constructed cement bases on the beach, causing significant damage to the landscape with their refuse.
The beach is named after the Panagia (Virgin Mary) monastery, of which only ruined walls remain. A solitary shrine is the only reminder of a once-existing church. The church continues to celebrate annual festivities, with residents of Rogdia and Achlada villages arriving by boat. A dry creek with dense vegetation lies near the church.
In front of the settlement, there is a deep, pebbly beach with a calm, artificially created sea meant for the residents. The seabed starts shallow but deepens abruptly after a few meters. Umbrellas are provided for the village dwellers. Non-residents or visitors are prohibited from driving cars to the beach and must park near the village exit. A steep 1km walk is required to reach the beach, making the return journey quite exhausting. The beach may not be worth the effort unless permitted by a security guard to drive down. Alternatively, boats from the nearest harbour, Pantanassa, can be used. The deep waters are ideal for fishing, especially for avid snorkelers.
On the eastern edge of Pera Galini beach, there is a small cape known as Kefali Soudas. This area is home to the ruins of a Minoan settlement, believed to have been one of the most significant ports in the Talea Range region.
At Kefali, you will notice ongoing excavations covered with plastic sheets that resemble greenhouses. These excavations have uncovered a sanctuary, and it is believed that the settlement was destroyed by an earthquake. Please note that entry to the fenced archaeological site is not allowed.
To the west of the village Tylisos in Malevizi province, the mountain Pirgos stands tall with its peak reaching an altitude of 684m. In 1963, archaeologist Stylianos Alexiou identified one of the most significant Minoan Peak Sanctuaries in Central Crete at this steep peak. Religious figurines, stone horns, and a rectangular building measuring 13m x 4.50m were discovered. To reach this site, it takes about a 20-minute walk from the nearest parking area, accessible via a rural road.
During antiquity, Pyrgos appears to have held a crucial religious role for the Minoans. Besides the sanctuary, the nearby Pera Korfi site served as a depot for votive figurines and inscriptions, found mixed with ash and vase fragments. Additionally, on the slopes of the same mountain lies the sacred cave of the Trapeza.
The Minoan mansion of Sklavokambos was unearthed in 1930 during the construction of the main road to Anogia, resulting in the destruction of a portion of the structure. This multi-story building features a main room where a clay ox head, a Late Minoan IB period style jug, and a stone rhyton were discovered. The building had at least 17 rooms.
Artifacts found in an upper story include 39 sealings (stamps), a cylindrical vessel, a stone hammer, and a clay foot. Representations from one of the Sklavokambos stamps have been discovered in Zakros, Gournia, and Hagia Triada. Notably, no frescoes or gypsum finishings were found at the Sklavokambos building, which are typically found in Minoan palaces.
The archaeological site of Tylisos is situated in the village of Tylissos, 16km west of Heraklion, in a strategic location near the east slopes of the Psiloritis range. Tylissos was a Minoan city that flourished between 1650-1450 mainly because it was located along the road that connected Knossos to the Minoan centers of West Crete and Ida Mount. In 1450, it was destroyed but was later rebuilt and prospered until 1200.
Tylisos features three small palaces (mansions) known as Mansion A, B, and C. Their architecture is among the most impressive in Minoan Crete, rivaling that of other major palaces of the era. The best-preserved mansion is Mansion A, which had two floors with a central courtyard, apartments, and warehouses with jars. Mansion B contains very old ruins, while Mansion C housed a central chamber and a system for water supply and sanitation.
Excavations at Tylisos began in 1912 by Iosif Hatzidakis, following the accidental discovery of three large bronze cauldrons – boilers. Later, in 1940, Nikolaos Platon carried out extended restoration and maintenance works. Due to the discovery of the boilers and one impressive bronze figurine of exceptional art, Tylisos is believed to have been a significant center of bronze. Furthermore, archaeologists found several plaques and jars inscribed with Linear A in Tylisos, which is the “language of the palaces” as it has been detected only in palaces and luxurious Minoan mansions. Other impressive items include the murals, which are compared in fine art only with those of Knossos. Additionally, many tombs have been found in the area (many of them already plundered) dating back to 1400-1200BC with painted clay sarcophagi, jewelry, stamps, etc.
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.
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.
Located on a pine-covered hill by the sea at an elevation of 30m, the Pantanassa Monastery (Panagia Pantanassa) is situated approximately 14km west of Heraklion. This relatively new female monastery is dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, with celebrations held on September 8.
Initially, Pantanassa was established to perform charitable work, similar to the Kalyviani Monastery near Mires. Unfortunately, its founder, Bishop Nikolaos Xenos, passed away before he could realize his ambitious dreams of creating an orphanage, nursing home, kindergarten, nursery, and more.
Located in Ellinoperamata, Malevizi district, on the road to Rodia village, the Monastery of Agia Fotini the Samaritan was established in June 1991 by Archbishop Timotheos of Crete. Within the monastery, you can find the church of Agia Fotini, the chapel of St. Fanourios, the nuns’ cells, and the tomb of Timotheos, the monastery’s founder.
Martyr Fotini, who originated from the city of Sihar in Samaria, is mentioned in the life of evangelist John (D’1 – 38). Agia Fotini dedicated her life to spreading the Gospel throughout Africa and Rome during Emperor Nero’s reign (54-68 AD). She was ultimately martyred alongside her sons and five sisters.
The church observes celebrations on February 26th and the Sunday of the Samaritan woman.
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A petite gorge forms to the west of the Rogdia village and opens up at the Paliokastro area. The journey begins from the ancient Koukos watermill, situated on the primary road linking Rogdia to Achlada, and takes you down to its most striking feature, the 10-meter tall Rechtra waterfall, which can be accessed through a relatively steep descent with ropes. As you traverse down the gorge, you’ll encounter several small waterfalls, the cave-like chapel of Panagia Spiliotissa, and finally arrive at the Paliokastro beach.
One of the most astounding sights is a cave situated right in the heart of the gorge, which has been converted into a studio for creating Christian icons by a hagiographer, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. It is highly recommended to stop by this unique site, engage in conversation with the artist, admire the icons, and perhaps purchase a few.
You can also conveniently reach the fall by trekking up the gorge from Paliokastro.
Almiros Gorge is a 3 km walking gorge in Ellinoperamata, the closest canyon to the west of Heraklion city. The route takes about 1.5 hours, gains 150 meters in elevation, and rates 1 out of 10 for difficulty, so it suits families and first-time hikers who want a short walk close to the city. A paved road reaches the trail, water runs here only until spring, and the path links a 14th-century monastery, three small chapels, a spring-fed lake, and three seasonal waterfalls.
Almiros Gorge is a small canyon and hiking trail in Ellinoperamata, formed between the Keri hills and the post-Minoan town of Kastrokefala. Almiros Gorge sits west of Heraklion and counts as the closest gorge to the city on that side. The eastern side holds the largest holly wood (Phillirea media) in Crete, and platan trees, carob, and wild olive trees also grow here despite overgrazing.
The gorge carries several local names, each tied to its geography or folklore: Keri Gorge after the neighboring hill, Almiros after the nearby Almiros river, Ellinoperamata after the area where it ends, Porofarago (a common Cretan gorge name), the Three Churches after its three chapels (Santa Marina, St. Antonios, and St. Paraskevi), Strouboulas after the Strouboulas peak near its start, and the Ghosts’ Gorge, a spooky local nickname. Few visitors make the trip despite the short distance from central Heraklion.
Almiros Gorge rates 1 out of 10 for difficulty, which makes it one of the easiest gorges to hike near Heraklion. The full walk covers 3 km and takes about 1.5 hours, with 150 meters of elevation change along the way. The chapel of Lord Christ at the gorge’s starting point is reached after nearly 1 hour 30 minutes of walking.
The gentle grade and short length make the gorge a good option for a half-day outing rather than a demanding trek. Because the terrain stays easy throughout, most walkers of average fitness finish the route without difficulty.
A paved road leads to Almiros Gorge, and cars can reach the location near the canyon exit. The 14th-century monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis stands near that exit, which gives you a clear landmark to aim for on arrival.
The gorge lies a short drive west of Heraklion, so most visitors arrive on their own wheels. Having a car also makes it easy to combine the walk with the nearby villages and coast, and you can compare options on the car rental page.
Almiros Gorge packs a monastery, three chapels, a seasonal stream, three small waterfalls, and a spring-fed lake into a single short walk. The trail is lined with trees, and the vegetation thickens as you climb.
The 14th-century monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis (Saint John inside the Gorge) was built near the canyon exit and is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. The monastery gives the gorge much of its religious character and its “Saint John inside the Gorge” name.
The surviving chapel of Saint Marina was used as a cemetery, while the main temple was the two-aisled chapel of Saint Anthony and Saint Paraskevi, which holds significant frescoes. Further along, a shrine dedicated to Saint George appears, and the chapel of Lord Christ marks the gorge’s starting point.
The gorge is usually dry and turns into a small stream during spring. Water stays in the gorge only until spring, so plan a visit for the wetter months to see the streambed flowing. After prolonged, heavy rainfall, three small waterfalls form at a site with a pinkish limestone hue.
Lake Almiros sits beside the gorge and is a wonder in itself. The lake’s crystal-clear water flows directly from the spring-fed mountain cliffs and stays clear enough to see all the way to its bed. For more swimming spots along the coast nearby, the beaches near Heraklion are a short drive away.
Almiros Gorge needs only light hiking gear, because the trail is short and easy. Pack for a half-day walk in a mostly open canyon:
Several gorges sit within a short drive of Almiros, which makes it easy to pair this walk with another. Each of the following canyons lies in the wider Heraklion area:
You can browse the full set of routes on the Crete gorges guide.
No. Almiros Gorge rates 1 out of 10 for difficulty, one of the easiest gorge walks near Heraklion, and the route gains only 150 meters over its length.
The trail is 3 km long and takes about 1.5 hours, with 150 meters of elevation change from end to end.
Yes, until spring. The gorge is usually dry and turns into a small stream in spring, and three small waterfalls form after prolonged, heavy rainfall.
Yes. A paved road reaches the gorge, and cars can get to the location near the canyon exit, where the monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis stands.
“Ghosts’ Gorge” is one of several local names for Almiros, alongside Keri Gorge, Porofarago, and the Three Churches, each tied to the gorge’s geography, chapels, or folklore.
Just a stone’s throw away from Heraklion city, near the Agios Panteleimonas Monastery in Fodele, you’ll find the Santorinios canyon. This canyon carries water from the Marathos village and the western slopes of Platani to the Fodelianos river. Although the canyon is relatively short, it remains unexplored due to the challenging access caused by thick vegetation and numerous ponds. Trekking through the riverbed, despite getting wet, simplifies the journey but calls for a change of footwear. The canyon’s name originates from the soil’s resemblance to that of Santorini Island, which was previously used in Crete’s construction.
Upon entering the gorge, you’ll encounter the ruins of a two-room watermill, its walls still standing tall, supported by an ivy branch woven into them. After some time, you’ll reach the first pond, Azilakokolymbos, which appears to be the path’s endpoint. However, if you manage to bypass the lake by either swimming or rock climbing, there’s more to discover. After overcoming this hurdle, the journey continues smoothly until you reach a majestic waterfall that forms a stunning pond at its base.
The adventure intensifies from this point. To proceed, you’ll need to scale the right side of the waterfall, approximately 15 meters, to reach the hilltop. To access the waterfall’s edge from here, a rope is necessary due to the steep and slippery terrain. As you continue up the canyon, you’ll be greeted by two awe-inspiring twin waterfalls.
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.
Offering garden views, Tranquil chic retreat is an accommodation situated in Heraklio Town, 17 km from Venetian Walls and 18 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It has a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The villa features 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with sea views.
The villa offers a sun terrace.
The Palace of Knossos is 21 km from Tranquil chic retreat, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 33 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 20 km from the accommodation.
Located in Rodia, 17 km from Venetian Walls and 18 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Πετροχτιστο Αρχοντικό με υπεροχή θεα provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. The property has city and quiet street views, and is 21 km from The Palace of Knossos.
The holiday home with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a bath.
A car rental service is available at the holiday home.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 33 km from Πετροχτιστο Αρχοντικό με υπεροχή θεα, while Palaiokastro is 3.3 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 21 km from the accommodation.
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€72
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Situated in Rodia, 16 km from Venetian Walls and 17 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Athene place 1 features air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. The property has city and quiet street views, and is 20 km from The Palace of Knossos.
The apartment features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 32 km from the apartment, while Palaiokastro is 4.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 20 km from Athene place 1, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€72
/night
Located in Rodia, Rodia apartment with pool, jacuzzi & endless view provides accommodation with a private pool, a balcony and sea views. This property offers access to a terrace and free private parking.
This air-conditioned apartment is equipped with 1 bedroom, a cable flat-screen TV, and a kitchenette with an oven and a fridge. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
At the apartment guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub. Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Venetian Walls is 17 km from Rodia apartment with pool, jacuzzi & endless view, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 18 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 21 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
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