Take and airconditioned bus trip through South Crete on this day trip with pickup from Heraklion. Travel back in time as you explore Cretan history at the Gortys archeological site and have plenty of free time to soak up the vibes of at the colorful, seaside town of Matala.
Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation in selected locations on Crete in the morning. Drive for 1.5 hours to the Gortys archeological site. Purchase a ticket to the site to uncover sights from 5000 years of Cretan history.
Take a short drive to Matala and spend 4.5 hours of free time where you can go swimming, sunbathe at the beach, purchase a ticket to the local caves or have lunch at a charming seaside café.
Return to your accommodation in Crete at the end of your free time in Matala.
A special excursion to the South of the island, starting our exploration with a visit to the emblematic lake of incomparable beauty in Zaros in a highly impressive landscape in central Crete! Then driving among the biggest valley of Crete, Messara, where we drive through pre-Minoan, Minoan, ancient Greek, and Roman ruins. We continue to the gorge of Trypiti through the biggest valley of Crete, this of Messara where our descent inside the gorge and through huge vertical rocks ends at the well hidden and exotic beach of Trypiti. Landscape of incomparable natural beauty rich in flora and fauna. Arrival at the beach and time for swim in its crystal clear waters. Quiet beach for moments of relaxation just before our lunch with authentic Cretan food in the center of the wild olive tree forest in the canyon of St. Savvas. Satisfying experiences and good traditional food, we return to your hotel with the best memories !
Our Cretan cooking class is a 100% hands-on experience, perfect for those eager to explore and indulge in the flavors of Cretan gastronomy. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, what truly matters is your open heart and eagerness to embrace the warmth of Cretan culture, becoming a cherished part of our family along the way!”
Mama Stella, my wonderful mum, loves to share her culinary knowledge and techniques with you! We will cook a 4-course meal, by providing all you need, from aprons to fresh, farm-sourced ingredients ensuring a 100% hands-on cooking experience! Local homemade refreshments and water will also be provided. After your cooking adventure, revel in the joy of your creations accompanied by local Cretan wine. Leftovers are carefully packed for you to take along.
Immerse yourself in this unique, 3.5 to 4-hour experience at our olive oil farm. Cooking unfolds in an outdoor space beneath a beautiful wooden roof, surrounded by olive trees on one side and a lush garden on the other. Engage your senses—smell, taste, and feel our culture through a one-of-a-kind cooking adventure. Join us, cook with passion, and savor the moments!”
Born and raised in Crete, we would love to guide you through our way of life and explore the rural aspects of Crete!
We carefully designed this tour for those who wish to see Crete through the eyes of a local family! The journey begins with an engaging walking tour in our family’s olive groves and greenhouses. Discover the secrets of olive cultivation, the meticulous process of harvesting, and the art of producing the finest extra virgin olive oil.
Explore how locals cultivate greenhouses, learn about the variety of vegetables and fruits grown, and understand why these local products hold significance not only for local markets but also for the metropolitan markets of Greece. We are eager to share this information and more with you!
The walking tour concludes in an outdoor space beneath a beautiful wooden roof, surrounded by olive trees on one side and a lush garden on the other. There, we’ll have the pleasure of meeting my lovely mother, Mama Stela, and savoring authentic Cretan food prepared by her! Of course, the Cretan spirit, Raki, is an integral part of our meal! You might even get the chance to meet more members of my family.
A standout moment during the food tour is witnessing my mom demonstrate the crafting of Cretan cheese, followed by the delightful experience of tasting it!
The entire event will last approximately 2.5 hours. Our sincere desire is for you to become a part of our world and immerse yourself in the authentic way of Cretan living!
The Salamia(s) Bay, situated 74km south of Heraklion and between Agios Ioannis and Tripiti, is one of Crete’s most secluded regions due to the absence of nearby roads. It can be accessed via boat or an easy walk from Agios Ioannis, following a crossing at the Avolakias beach. The bay’s name, Salamia, has its origins from the Italian word ‘salamentum’, meaning brine, which shares a root with the word salt – a product still harvested by locals in the Salamia area.
The Salamiano Gorge, one of several canyons found in the Asterousia Mountains, opens out at Salamias. At the gorge’s exit, numerous beaches with rough sand are formed. The area is adorned with a small grove of wild olive trees, providing a serene setting for swimming and fishing, particularly for those with a boat. As the area is often deserted, naturism is permissible.
The gorges surrounding Salamias (including Flomias, Koumos, Gerakia, Goula, Eligia, and others) serve as crucial habitats for a variety of rare avifauna and plants. These regions remain among the few places in Crete that are authentic and untouched by human activity.
Located in the Kalokambos region, approximately 73km south of the city of Heraklion, Leprias, also known as Lepries, is a quaint pebbly beach nestled amidst the rugged and awe-inspiring landscape of the Asterousia Range, southwest of Kofinas peak. The beach is accessible via a hiking trail that starts at Tripiti beach and leads to Agios Ioannis. Leprias beach is set against a steep dirt slope that erodes and crumbles, reminiscent of a leper’s skin, giving the beach its name, derived from the Greek word for leper.
The safest way to descend to the beach from the trail is from the bay’s western end. The eastern part of the beach boasts impressive caves that provide shade throughout the day. As you travel between Leprias and Tripiti, you will encounter other beautiful beaches in the Kalokambos area, characterized by their rocky bottoms and favored by local fishermen.
The petite stone-strewn beach, Vourlidia, situates at the termination point of the Flomias gorge, on the western region of Salamis bay, and at the bottom of Cape Oxa. This remarkable beach is accessible after a demanding hike from either the Agios Ioannis settlement to the east or from Tripiti beach to the west. The area surrounding the beach can be reached via a poorly maintained dirt path from the villages of Koumasa or Kapetaniana.
Tripiti, also known as Trypiti, lies 73km south of Heraklion and 12km east of Lendas, nestled in a small plain near the exit of the gorge of Tripiti. Its name originates from the Panagia Tripiti church, nestled within a cave near the beach and the canyon exit.
Two unpaved paths lead to Tripiti. The first commences near Lendas harbour and stretches for 6km, leading east to Kroto’s village. At the crossroads, a turn to the right, past Cape Trafoulas, reveals stunning views of the authentic Cretan countryside before arriving at Tripiti. The second route starts from the village of Vassiliki in the Messara plain, accessible via the village of Agii Deka. This route traverses the untamed Asterousia Mountains, the Trypiti gorge, and the olive grove of Agios Savvas, replete with striking karstic formations.
Regardless of the route chosen, visitors are treated to dramatic landscapes, the tranquillity of the beach juxtaposed with the rugged mountainous terrain. Upon arrival, a serene beach with pebbly shores and clean, dark green waters await. Tamarisk trees, a stone’s throw from the shoreline, provide ideal camping spots.
Overlooking the beach, in the Kalokambos area, are the ruins of the Minoan settlement of Papouri. Small windows and doors suggest that dwarfs once inhabited the dwellings. The southern view of the Cretan Sea is simply breathtaking.
While Tripiti is not a developed beach, it has a small tavern and attracts a significant number of visitors in August. The only eyesore in the landscape is the illegally constructed rental rooms and the permanently stationed caravans by locals.
For those seeking solitude, especially in August, two nearby secluded beaches offer respite. Both beaches feature coarse sand and calm waters. The first, hidden at the base of Fylakas Cape, is a haven for nudists, with its green-blue waters and rocky seabed. The second, located about 1km to the west, is Vyzaroplaka beach, a small bay aside from the Trafoulas Peninsula, perfect for snorkelling and fishing.
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.
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 prepalatial cemetery Koumasa is situated between the villages Loukia and Koumasa in the northern Asterousia range. This Minoan archaeological site was initially excavated by Stephanos Xanthoudides between 1904 and 1906, uncovering four graves (three vaulted graves and one rectangular). Each tomb contained various objects and burials from the Early Minoan Period.
Within the cemetery, remarkable pottery featuring rich dark decoration was discovered, and the style was named Koumasa style in honor of the location. The finds included clay and stone vessels, seals, figurines, tools, and three silver knives. A Minoan settlement, which has now been completely destroyed, was located above the tombs and included a sanctuary.
Minoan tholos, about 10 meters in diameter and a couple of meters in height, are believed to be the tombs of the elite and are often richly stocked with valuable objects. Although the site is primarily known for these sepulchral remains as part of Xanthoudides’ fundamental studies, the site extends further east. There, on the steep moundside and on top of the mound itself, Minoan archaeologists anticipate the location of the actual city and a precinct of bronze-age Koumasa.
Kofinas, the highest peak in the untamed Asterousia Range, stands at an altitude of 1231m and is named after its inverted basket-like shape (known as kofini in Greek). The peak boasts breathtaking views of the South Cretan Sea and is now home to the Holy Cross (Timios Stavros) temple, which celebrates its feast day on September 14. During this celebration, an ancient dendrolatric (sacred tree) custom is observed, where whitebeams from three “sacred” trees are blessed and distributed to those in attendance.
Archaeologists uncovered perhaps the most significant Minoan peak sanctuary in south-central Crete in 1960. This sanctuary consists of a quadrilateral enclosure and stage, and it thrived between 1700 and 1600 BC. However, worship continued until the Roman Era, albeit with some interruptions. Excavations at the site have revealed clay signs, figurines, metal plates, seals, and other devotional offerings.
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 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.
The Goula Gorge, a rugged canyon nestled in the Asterousia Range, begins just south of the village of Kapetaniana and concludes at the coastal settlement of Agios Ioannis. Like its counterparts in the area, such as Flomias, Salamiano, Koumos, Gerakia, and Valahas, it is untraversable without the correct canyoneering gear. Nonetheless, there is a hiking trail on the eastern side of the gorge that takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete.
Entry to the gorge is via Kapetaniana, with the closest access point being the telephone antenna en route to Agios Ioannis. The gorge boasts 18 rappels, the tallest of which is 55m, and others measuring 25m, 15m, 13m, and smaller. The gorge spans roughly 1700m in length and a team of five would require around 4 and a half to 5 hours to traverse it.
The gorge’s beauty lies in its wild and haunting rocky landscape, caves, and rock shelters. The primary vegetation is pine trees. Although it is generally dry, the name “Goula” translates to “spring” in the local Cretan dialect. True to its name, Goula is home to the area’s main spring, which provides for the water needs of the Agios Ioannis settlement.
The Koumos Gorge, nestled in the Kapetaniana region, concludes near the coastal village of Agios Ioannis, amidst a landscape abundant with pine trees. This relatively undiscovered gorge requires technical equipment for access, making it exclusively passable for canyoning experts. Typically, the gorge remains dry, but intense rainfalls transform it into a spectacle of stunning waterfalls. The tallest waterfall reaches a height of 60m, accompanied by approximately 10 smaller cascades.
The Trafoulas Gorge, located in the Asterousia Range, begins southeast of Krotos village and concludes at the Psili Ammos beach on the southern coast of the Cretan Sea. The majority of trekkers only explore a small portion of the gorge, typically from where they park their vehicle to the beach, despite the gorge’s origin being at a greater altitude. Even this limited section of the gorge is quite striking, characterized by narrow walls and towering rocks. According to local lore, the most narrow section of the gorge is referred to as the Pidimatou Gorge, or Jumping Gorge, given that a goat could feasibly leap from one side to the other.
Surrounded by olive trees, in Vasiliki Village, the stone-built Amazing Stone Villa offers self-catering accommodation with free WiFi access and views over the lush surroundings. Guests will find traditional cafes, a mini market, a pharmacy and a gas station within a short drive.
Featuring vintage furniture and decoration, all units come with a fully equipped kitchen, a living area and a bathroom with shower. Facilities include a TV, an oven, a fridge, and a stovetop. A bottle of olive oil and a bottle of local wine , produced by the owners are offered upon arrival.
All bedrooms have air conditioning.
The property offers a large shared courtyard with flowers , BBQ and outdoor furniture.
The isolated sandy beach of Tripiti is 8 km from Amazing Stone Villa, while Matala is 25 km away. Heraklio Town is 41 km from the accommodation and Agia Galini is 30 km away. Heraklion International Airport is at a distance of 42 km.
from
€75
/night
Set in Áyioi Dhéka, 42 km from Venetian Walls and 43 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, AlexandRos Home offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment with a terrace and mountain views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a toaster and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower.
The Palace of Knossos is 46 km from the apartment, while Phaistos is 17 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 45 km from AlexandRos Home.
Situated in Áyioi Dhéka, 42 km from Venetian Walls and 43 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Like Home Luxury House features air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. The property has garden views and is 46 km from The Palace of Knossos and 17 km from Phaistos.
The 3-bedroom apartment has a living room with a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and oven, and 1 bathroom with a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 17 km from the apartment, while Pankritio Stadium is 41 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 45 km from Like Home Luxury House.
Set in Áyioi Dhéka, 43 km from Venetian Walls and 44 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Gortis House offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. With city views, this accommodation provides a patio.
The holiday home is fitted with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with garden views.
The Palace of Knossos is 46 km from the holiday home, while Phaistos is 16 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 46 km from Gortis House, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€51
/night
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