This Land Rover excursion is the perfect way to explore the central part of Crete, visiting 2 different plateaus and learning about mythology as well as local life.
We head out in the Land Rover to the plateau of Katharo, passing through the largest forest on Crete. The roads here are basically non-existent and the mountains reach heights of 1,500 meters. You’ll have a refreshment stop at a kafenion (coffee shop) somewhere in the wilderness.
The tour continues on along dirt tracks, through valleys, and across rivers, and the journey starts to get exciting! At the next stop you’ll have the opportunity to take photos from a spectacular viewpoint above the Lassithi Plateau. You’ll then head to the plateau to enjoy your BBQ lunch, along with unlimited wine.
After lunch you’ll travel back in time as you visit the Eco Village, where you can see local crafts being made by traditional methods. The next stop will be Zeus’s cave where, according to mythology, the father of the gods was born. If you’d like to enter the cave there is a EUR 4 entrance fee that’s payable at the site.
Your driver/guide will take you on to Seli, where you can take photos of the unique scenery. You’ll continue on to the village of Krassi, noted for its 2,000-year-old plane tree and natural spring water source. As you make your way back you’ll pass through Selinari, an area where you’ll be on the lookout for vultures, now an endangered species.
The ideal way to discover the island of Crete is with a private tour. Share a car and enjoy a full day with your group. Embark on an incredible island adventure with your friends or family, after planning the tour together with your professional guide. Beginning with pickup at your accommodation in Elounda, Agios Niklaos, Ierapetra, Malia, Crete, Hersonissos, or Ammoudara, the world is your oyster.
Settle into a comfy and luxurious Land Rover Discovery equipped with 6 seats and air conditioning. Discover local sites, hit the beach, or simply drive around taking in panoramic views. Perfect for a wedding trip or a birthday, relish in total privacy and the utmost luxury. Included in the tour is a fresh, high-quality dinner at a local taverna.
In this interactive Walking tour & Cretan food tasting, we will walk the coastline of Agios Nikolaos passing through Taurus Zeus with Europe and the horn of Amalthea telling the Greek myths, beaches and sightseeing continuing inside the town showing you local spots, telling information about area(shared also via email & maps) and we will enjoy a meal with 4 different meze(like tapas) talking about everyday living, general facts about Crete’s culture and traditions, sightseeing’s and myths.
Walking is about 40 minutes easy walking, about 2klm.
After we will visit the most famous restaurant in lake of Agios Nikolaos having a meal with 4 different meze(each person) that you can choose between fish or meat menu.
Water & one drink is included, wine, raki, beer or a soft drink.
Vegetarian or vegan menu can be arranged.
Changes in menu can be adjusted upon request.
Feel free to contact me for more information.
Visit Santorini on this full day-trip from the island of Crete. After pick-up from your hotel, head to the harbor and begin your sightseeing boat tour on the Cretan Sea.
Upon arrival, see the white houses of Fira that lie high above the edge of the crater, and decide whether you would like to spend more time on this volcanic island. Wander the small town of Fira or visit the picturesque town of Oia.
Enjoy the leisurely Greek lifestyle and visit a taverna or two. Relax on the beach, enjoy the day by the sea, and simply leave your cares behind.
Situated just 10km south of Agios Nikolaos before reaching Istron’s beaches, you’ll discover the lesser-known beach of Vathi. This hidden gem wasn’t on the map before 2010, as it’s a man-made creation and is not visible from the main road connecting Agios Nikolaos with Eastern Crete.
Nestled within a well-protected cove, Vathi remains largely unaffected by wind, except for the infrequent easterly gusts. The beach is characterized by its pristine white sand that enhances the mesmerizing hue of the sea. Managed by the nearby luxury resort, Daios Cove, the beach is well-equipped with amenities.
For non-hotel guests, accessing Vathi involves a descent down a concrete pathway and staircase. To find the entrance, take a left just before the hotel gates and follow the road until it leads to a narrow path heading towards the stairs. Vathi is an excellent choice for families thanks to its calm, waveless waters. For those keen on exploring, snorkelling along the rocky edges of the bay offers another dimension of this unique beach.
The picturesque Listi Spilios, situated 7km south of Agios Nikolaos along the old road to Sitia and Ierapetra, has become a bustling tourist spot over the years with a variety of accommodations, ranging from large hotels to smaller lodges. The beach is characterized by its rocky terrain and sandy patches, with a charming smaller beach nestled to the north of the main area. Unfortunately, recent extensive alterations by a major hotel in the vicinity have significantly changed the original rocky nature of the coastline, including the construction of a pier to retain sand. Visitors can enjoy amenities like umbrellas, a snack bar, water sports and a beach volleyball court. The quieter western side of the beach, boasting lush vegetation due to nearby freshwater springs, provides a serene escape.
The beach’s intriguing name, Listi Spilios, translates to ‘Robber’s Cave’ in Greek. This stems from a tale from the Middle Ages when the primary road used by locals to commute to island cities ran through this area. On the beach’s west end, there’s a petite peninsula home to several small caves, which, as the legend tells, were used as hideouts by robbers who targeted travellers on the road.
Agios Panteleimon beach, nestled in Istro, a village 12km east of Agios Nikolaos en route to Sitia, owes its name to a petite church located nearby. Featuring both sandy and pebbly stretches, the beach is set against the backdrop of vibrant turquoise waters. As it doesn’t draw the same crowds as the neighboring Voulisma beach, Agios Panteleimon is the perfect spot for those seeking relaxation and serenity.
In the vicinity, you’ll also find Karavostasi beach. This sandy, unspoiled beach is tucked away in the western part of Istro’s largest gulf and provides the perfect setting for peaceful moments. The surrounding area is rich in tamarisk, carob, and olive trees, adding to the beach’s charm. Just east of Karavostasi, there’s a large rock bearing the remnants of the Minoan settlement Priniatikos Pirgos.
Voulisma Beach dominates Crete’s coastline as a top destination, positioned in a sheltered cove between Agios Nikolaos and Ierapetra. Voulisma Beach provides direct access from Heraklion and includes shallow turquoise waters, smooth sand mixed with pebbles, and structured amenities. Voulisma Beach holds the Blue Flag award, confirming its environmental standards. Voulisma Beach experiences peak-time crowding but sustains appeal through its physical qualities.
Voulisma Beach provides access to the Gournia archaeological site, located 10 kilometres (6 miles) east near Pachia Ammos. Gournia is one of the best-excavated Minoan towns, which was destroyed by an earthquake and subsequently abandoned.
Voulisma Beach offers proximity to Panagia Faneromeni Monastery, positioned 11 kilometres (7 miles) southeast on a steep slope. Panagia Faneromeni Monastery is worth visiting for its stunning church built into a cave and the awe-inspiring sea views. Every year on the 15th of August, Panagia Faneromeni Monastery becomes a pilgrimage site, drawing visitors from across Crete.
Below is the list of the best restaurants near Voulisma Beach
The quaint, age-old Sanctuary of Afrodision Iero, also known as the Aphrodite Temple, can be found close to the village of Lenika and has a history that stretches back to the 10th century BC. Interestingly, this very location was utilized in the 2nd century BC to construct a more expansive, two-aisled temple dedicated to Ares and Aphrodite, a fact supported by inscriptions discovered at the site.
The ancient city of Itanos was a powerful city in Crete, particularly during the Hellenistic and Greco-Roman periods. The name Itanos comes from its founder, who originated from Phoenicia. At its peak, the city’s territory extended from Cape Samonio (now known as Cape Sidero) to Cape Erythrae (present-day Cape Goudouras). The city prospered due to the trade of glass, fishing, and Tyrian purple, a red dye derived from shell extracts. Koufonissi Island, owned by Itanos, was renowned for its purple production. Additionally, Palekastro was home to the temple of Diktaean Zeus, which brought significant profits to the region. The city was situated near the famous palm grove of Vai in East Crete.
Itanos’ power was evident in its impressive marble buildings, temples dedicated to Asclepius, Zeus, Tyche, Athena, and its own currency featuring the face of its protector, Athena. The city was a major rival of Praesus (near today’s Nea Presos) and Ierapytna (now Ierapetra). The primary point of contention was the majestic Temple of Diktaean Zeus and Koufonissi. Praesus managed to incorporate the Temple of Zeus into its territory, but Itanos regained it in 150 BC with the assistance of its Egyptian allies. A relevant inscription can still be seen on the wall of the Toplou Monastery, located a few miles to the west. After four years, the impoverished Praesus was destroyed by Ierapytna, leaving only Itanos and Ierapytna as the main players. As a result, disputes over the temple of Zeus and Koufonissi quickly escalated. Itanos began to decline in 795 AC due to an earthquake causing land subsidence, and it was further damaged by an Arab attack in the 9th century. However, even during this period, Itanos survived, as evidenced by its grand Christian churches. The city was not abandoned until the 15th century when repeated Arab raids forced its inhabitants to leave the coastal areas. It is believed that the residents founded the present-day village of Sitanos, near Nea Presos and Karydi, in the Zakros mountains.
Today, visitors can explore the archaeological site and admire various ruins such as the large tower on the western acropolis built with black stones, the grand Christian church in the eastern citadel of the Hellenistic settlement, the two Early Christian churches at the base of the hill leading to Vai, and the cemetery outside the town.
Not far from Elounda, close to the Venetian salt pans, we find a few remains of the ancient city Olous (most are submerged in the sea) or Oloundas, which was inhabited since the Minoan period. Olous was one of the hundred most important cities of ancient Crete, with a maximum population of over 30,000 people. The administrative system of Olous was Eunomia, a form of democracy. In Olous, Tallean Zeus, Apollo, and Vritomartis (Artemis) were worshipped.
Olous minted its own coin. The historian Svoronos identified 11 different types of coins. Most of them depicted Vritomartis Artemis on one side and Zeus with an eagle, a dolphin, or a star on the other. The development of Olous continued until the first Byzantine period, as evidenced by the basilicas of Poros with their marvelous mosaics and the Basilica of Kolokytha with its exceptional white marble parts.
The ancient Lato ruins can be found roughly 3km north of Kritsa, spread across two hills at an elevation of 380m. The site offers breathtaking views of Mirabello Bay. Lato’s name comes from the Dorian pronunciation of the goddess Leto, who was likely worshiped in this area. However, the city’s patron deity was Eileithyia, the goddess of childbirth, who is featured on Lato’s coins. Notably, Lato was the birthplace of Nearchus (360 to 312 BC), the admiral of Alexander the Great. Nearchus’ father, Androtimos, ruled Lato before moving to Macedonia and becoming an advisor to King Philip II. As a child, Nearchus followed his father and grew up with his friend Alexander, even having Aristotle as a tutor.
Although the town existed during the Minoan period, it truly thrived after the Dorian invasion. It remained inhabited until the Roman era, when it began to decline. Lato was one of the strongest cities in Crete, as evidenced by the surviving inscriptions of agreements with other towns. Lato’s port was situated at the site of present-day Agios Nikolaos and was called Kamara. In the 3rd-2nd century BC, Kamara surpassed its mother-town Lato in prominence, similar to many other seaside locations in Crete due to the growth of maritime trade.
Today, Lato is a popular archaeological site known for being the best-preserved town from the classical – Hellenistic period in Crete and one of the most complete in Greece. Visitors can explore the fortifications, market, prytaneum, small theater, temples, public buildings, cisterns, and more.
Located on a small hill adorned with oak trees near the villages of Agios Konstantinos and Marmaketo in the Lassithi Plateau, the Monastery of Panagia Kroustallenia is a historically significant site in Crete that is always worth exploring.
As per local tradition, the monastery’s name is believed to have originated either from its first founder, Kroustallenia, or from an icon of Panagia (Virgin Mary) discovered in a nearby cave, which was engraved on crystal (Kroustalenia also translates to “made of crystal” or “glass”).
The primary temple within the monastery is devoted to the Virgin Mary and observes its celebration on August 15. The monastery complex primarily features 20th-century buildings due to the multiple destructions it faced during the Turkish occupation.
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.
The Kremasti or Kremasta Monastery can be found south of Neapolis town, along the road that connects the town to Vrisses village, offering a stunning view of Neapolis. Its forting architecture is constructed on the steep, wooded slopes of Mount Kavalaras, giving the impression that it’s suspended in mid-air – a feature to which the monastery owes its name (Kremasti means hanging).
Officially called the Monastery of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel in Kremasti, it is dedicated to these saints. It is believed to have been built in 1593 and played a crucial role in educating locals during the Turkish Era. The main building is situated on the northern edge of the monastery. A newer church, dedicated to Myrrhbearers, was constructed outside the fortress complex. Additionally, a Laboratory for Religious Painting is operated by nuns from Romania.
The Panagia Koufis Petras Monastery, also known as the Virgin Mary “of the hollow stone” Monastery, is dedicated to the Annunciation and can be found west of Kremasta Monastery, not far from Neapolis.
From the nunnery in Mirabello province, visitors can enjoy a sweeping panoramic view. Nearby the monastery, the remains of a small temple built within a cavernous rock can be found. It is likely that the monastery’s name (Hollow Stone) is derived from this unique temple.
Visitors will find comfortable accommodations and well-equipped facilities at the monastery. The original church has been expanded with a new aisle dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Within the monastery’s courtyard lies the tomb of Bishop Meletius Chlapoutakis, alongside the grave of his sister Irene.
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The Kritsa Gorge, located 9.5km southwest of Agios Nikolaos, begins near the charming village of Kritsa and concludes at Tapes village. This 4 km long gorge, at some points, is only 1.5m wide. It is fairly easy to navigate, with a few areas requiring caution, where large rocks need to be climbed over. However, it is not advisable to visit the gorge following rainfall, as the resulting ponds can obstruct the paths.
The canyon’s entrance near Kritsa is striking. The mountain is split in two, creating the narrow Havgas passage (Havgas is a common term for gorges in East Crete). In addition to the main trail that begins near Kritsa’s stone bridge, there is an alternate path that starts in the village itself.
Close to the trailhead, you’ll find a large rock that can be scaled with relative ease. Beyond this point, the canyon becomes even more breathtaking, with slender passages and towering walls that block out sunlight. This natural wonder is particularly beautiful in spring when flowers are in bloom and water levels are low. The walls eventually recede, revealing a picturesque valley filled with olive groves. If you continue along the riverbed for approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll arrive at the lovely village of Tapes, where you can relax at the local coffee shop.
The Havgas Gorge, situated near the village of Kalamafka and just 12km north of Ierapetra city, is one of several gorges with the same name scattered across Crete. Other examples include the Havgas Gorge in the Lassithi Plateau, Plaka, and Kavoussi. The Havgas Gorge is nestled between the Megali Korfi (1103m) and Kokies (993m) peaks, and its stream, the Kapsous, serves as the primary tributary of the Kalamavkianos River that empties into the Stomio beach of Gra Ligia.
This stunning canyon boasts unique rock formations, sculpted by rare geological events. Many of these rocks are adorned with nature’s own “artwork”, etched over time by the elements. Despite its relatively short length, the gorge offers an easy and enjoyable walk along the riverbed, even for novices. The area’s altitude of around 500m provides the perfect environment for a lush pine forest. Regrettably, repeated fires have caused the forest to diminish in size. Nevertheless, the area is worth a visit, and visitors are sure to be charmed by the sight of small pine trees sprouting from the rocks, akin to bonsai trees.
The gorge’s depth extends to 300m. At one spot, two narrow rocks form the entrance to a series of caves that served as a refuge for Cretan rebels and Allies during the German Occupation. The locals refer to this area as the “Chinese Landscape”, due to the smooth rocks dotted with bonsai-like trees. Adjacent to the gorge’s exit, visitors can explore the village of Kalamafka with its inviting taverns and babbling water. Additionally, nearby attractions include an ancient olive oil mill and the churches of Saint John and Saint Anthony.
The Agriomandra gorge, though brief in length, leads to the charming, small beach of Agriomandra. To reach it, one must traverse the verdant meadows to the west of Kavoussi, known as the Lakos Ambelion area, via a dirt road until the gorge’s entrance is reached.
Commencing from this point, a straightforward trail leads to Agriomandra beach within a mere 10-minute walk. As you approach the beach, you’ll notice several petite caves embedded within the rocks. One of these has been constructed from stone and serves as a church, built during the Byzantine era by a hermit and dedicated to St. John the Theologian. This church is still occasionally used for baptisms.
A short walk further, approximately 650 meters from the parking area, you’ll arrive at the stunning pebble beach, graced with crystal-clear, emerald waters.
The Adrianos Gorge originates from the Adrianos village. There are areas within the gorge where large rocks obstruct the pathway, making navigation challenging, but achievable (it takes approximately 3 hours to traverse). In close proximity to the gorge, you can explore the Maridon and Atziganospilios caves.
The river that courses through the gorge is a segment of the Skoulikaris or Xeropotamos River. This river collects water from the Potami village valley and, after covering several kilometers, it finally drains near the Agios Nikolaos town stadium.
Set within the Vathi district in Agios Nikolaos, Olive Green Villa Heated Pool has air conditioning, a balcony, and garden views. It has pool with a view, a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
The villa offers a barbecue. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Olive Green Villa Heated Pool.
Karavostasi Beach is 2.1 km from the accommodation, while Vathi Kritsas Beach is 2.2 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public, 56 km from Olive Green Villa Heated Pool, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, mountain view and a balcony, Villa Hibiscus, piscine privée avec une vue splendide is located in Vathi. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home comes with 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a toaster. Towels and bed linen are featured in the holiday home.
Vathi Kritsas Beach is 1.5 km from the holiday home, while Cave Thief Beach is 2.1 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 58 km from Villa Hibiscus, piscine privée avec une vue splendide.
from
€149
/night
Situated within the Vathi district in Vathi, Villa Canes Heated Pool has air conditioning, a patio, and mountain views. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and sea views has 5 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 5 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa.
Karavostasi Beach is 2.1 km from Villa Canes Heated Pool, while Vathi Kritsas Beach is 2.2 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public, 56 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
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€41
/night
Situated in Agios Nikolaos and only 1.3 km from Vathi Kritsas Beach, VATHI SPIROS VILLAS features accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The villa has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Guests at the villa can enjoy hiking nearby, or make the most of the garden.
Cave Thief Beach is 2 km from VATHI SPIROS VILLAS, while Lake Voulismeni is 7.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 57 km from the accommodation.
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€261
/night
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