Situated in Orné, 40 km from Psiloritis National Park and 43 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, Atalia Apartment, Orne Crete offers air conditioning. It has a terrace, quiet street views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with mountain views.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 45 km from the apartment, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 24 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 80 km from Atalia Apartment, Orne Crete.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, “Dafni Villa” a place to visit is set in Orné. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa is fitted with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
A a children’s playground is also available at the villa, while guests can also relax in the garden.
Psiloritis National Park is 40 km from “Dafni Villa” a place to visit, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 43 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 80 km from the accommodation.
from
€247
/night
Located in Kría Vrísi, 41 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and 44 km from Psiloritis National Park, Villa Harmony offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.
This holiday home comes with 1 bedroom, a kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom equipped with a bath. Towels and bed linen are featured in the holiday home.
Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km from the holiday home, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 27 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 83 km from Villa Harmony.
from
€85
/night
Sea Breeze Ecological Villa features mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Agia Galini, 45 km from Psiloritis National Park.
All units come with a terrace with sea views, a kitchen with a fridge and kitchenware, and a private bathroom with bidet.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 22 km from the aparthotel, while Phaistos is 24 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 78 km from Sea Breeze Ecological Villa.
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a patio, Vrachos luxury home is situated in Agia Galini. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Agia Galini Beach is 3 km from the villa, while Psiloritis National Park is 43 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 76 km from Vrachos luxury home, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€118
/night
Boasting a garden, pool with a view and garden views, Vrachos Luxury Home 3, private pool! is situated in Agia Galini. The air-conditioned accommodation is 43 km from Psiloritis National Park, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
The holiday home features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 20 km from the holiday home, while Phaistos is 21 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 75 km from Vrachos Luxury Home 3, private pool!.
from
€94
/night
The start point is west of Heraklion from the beach of Ammoudara and head south towards the hinterland of Crete. After leaving the urban area behind us, entering a rural area full of vineyards and olive groves. On one side of the route people can see the holy mountain of Yioukta and on the other the highest mountain of Crete, Psiloritis. The first village on the way is Gournes and after a few kilometers is the village of Athanati. The road becomes uphill until the almost uninhabited village of Xirolia. Riding west and after a few kilometers the group will reach the capital of wine in Crete, the village of Dafnes. Here the well-known wine festival takes place every year in July.
In this area there are many wineries that produce the best wines of Crete. Here the group of the bikers will taste 4 different wines, accompanied by Cretan cheese, rusks and olives. After the tasting the bikes will be left there and the group will go by car back to the starting point.
This e-bike tour is possible to be done by everybody who is able to ride a bike. It is 24 km long and the net riding time ist about 90 minutes.
If it has rained recently, then the route will change, because the previous route has some dirt roads and there will be mud.
Discover the long kept secrets of wine and olives and Cretan tastes as you travel through Cretan villages in a semi private group of 6-8 persons in each vehicle.
Our day safari in the secrets of the Cretan tastes and culture begins with a visit to Klados winery in Panormos. There we will be welcomed by the owner of the winery for a wine tour and a mouthwatering wine tasting experience unraveling the secrets of high longevity in Crete. Continuing our day we follow the north coastline through traditional villages of Sisses, Aloides in the heart of Cretan mountains admiring the unique view of Psiloritis and Mylopotamos area will inspire you to take pictures, combining the highest mountain top of Crete with the beautiful valley until we reach the historic Vosakos Monastery, that used to be a refuge for Cretan rebels during civil wars. Afterwards our amazing route continues with panoramic views that will take your breath away and If we are lucky, we will get to marvel up close some wild eagles and goats and take some photos. Driving through picturesque villages of Doxaro, Apladiana, Agia nestled amongst lush vegetation we will have plenty of opportunities to take photos of picturesque chapels, sheep, goats, sprawling vineyards and gorgeous olive groves. An asphalt route will lead us to a traditional and modern olive mill in Melidoni village in Rethymnon. There you will have the chance to be guided in three different olive oil factories (ancient handmade production, by the help of diesel engines and modern production with centrifuge) learn everything about the olives harvesting, olive oil production and taste some local olive oil.
Working up our appetite we arrive at a small village tavern in Melidoni, where we will introduce you to the Cretan cuisine with plenty of Cretan delicacies and let you feel the very essence of the renowned Cretan hospitality. On the way back we will follow an easy asphalt route through the national road before we reach back into Rethymnon town.
A unique wine and olive escape, an exciting adventure to embrace the renowned Greek hospitality, enjoy the sights and professional and relaxed service!!!
Combine some of the most unique panoramic views, visit a honey factory and taste, drive through traditional Cretan villages and find out all about the lifestyle of a Cretan shepherd by exploring an original shepherd’s hut called ‘’Mitato’’ with a small group of 6-8 people in each vehicle. Learn about the history and the traditions of the Island, meet the locals, explore the wildlife of Crete, embrace the renowned Cretan hospitality and taste the delicious Cretan cheese and cuisine.
Our day starts from Rethymnon city heading south east through coast line road until Melidoni Village and Apithano Honey factory where we make our first stop for a guided tour in the factoiry and tast some honey. After our morning stop and driving through the traditional villages of Milopotamos (Melidoni, Apladiana, Doxaro, Agridia Tsaxiana) and areas with dense vegetation, fresh aromas and unique views. The amazing route and views continue until we reach the historic Halepa Monastery, that used to be a refuge for Cretan rebels during civil wars where we make our second stop. The unique view from the monastery will inspire you to take pictures, combining the highest mountain tops of Crete with the beautiful valley.
Afterwards our amazing off-road route continues and on the way up to the shepherd’s hut called “Mitato” the panoramic views will take your breath away. If we are lucky, we will get to marvel up close some wild eagles and goats and take some photos. The road will lead us up to a traditional Shepherd’s hut where you will find out all about the lifestyle of a shepherd and the cheese making process.
Leaving the shepherd’s hut and already working up our appetite we will soon arrive at a traditional Cretan tavern in Axos village, where we are going to introduce you to Cretan cuisine and heartfelt hospitality with plenty of local platters. Enough time will be provided after lunch for those who wish to enjoy a cup of coffee. On our way back we will follow an asphalt road that will lead us to the city of Rethymnon.
Embark on semi private safari tour for up to 6 or 8 persons per vehicle
Get picked up from your hotel in Gazi and head straight off-road along the river bed to the picturesque village of Pendamodi. Here, enjoy a quick stop to see the picturesque church and natural springs. Journey through the vineyards of the largest wine producing area on the island to the village of Krousonas and sample some local produce such as olive oil and raki. Enjoy some free time here to get a coffee and take in the stunning views.
Continue towards Livadi Plateau with views of the many apple orchards in the area and meet some friendly local goats. Next, stop at the Nida Plateau, the highest point of the day, and enjoy spectacular views of Crete’s highest snowcapped mountain ‘Psiloritis’. Listen to tales of the resistance and Crete’s chequered history, visit a very unusual monument and a traditional Shepherds ‘mitato’, and experience the traditional Cretian method of cheese making.
Next, visit the Ideon Andron cave, where mythology states that Zeus took refuge and escaped death. Head to the famous village of Anogeia for a delicious BBQ lunch with unlimited wine (vegetarian option available) with views of the highest plateau on the island. Once refreshed, go for a short walk to the center of Anogeia (optional).
Finally, slowly head back off-road to the home of El Greco, the village of Fodele, and take some time to relax before beginning your journey back to the hotel.
Learn more: https://transfer-plus.gr/tour/faistos-palace-tour-matala/
Embark on a journey through time to explore the Palace of King Radamanthys, a stunning relic of the Minoan Civilization nestled amidst the fertile plains of Messara. Located between the imposing peaks of Psiloritis and Asteroysia Mountain, this archaeological gem offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Crete.
As you wander through the well-preserved ruins of the palace, you’ll be transported back to a bygone era, where Minoan kings ruled over vast territories and flourishing cities. Learn about the intricate trade routes that connected Crete to distant lands, fostering a thriving economy and cultural exchange.
Marvel at the architectural marvels of Phaistos, renowned for the discovery of the enigmatic Phaistos disc – an ancient artifact inscribed with mysterious symbols in Linear A script, the meaning of which continues to elude scholars to this day. Housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, this iconic relic serves as a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of the Minoan civilization.
Immerse yourself in the art and culture of ancient Crete as you explore the palace’s storied halls and chambers, adorned with vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings that offer a window into Minoan life. From religious rituals to everyday activities, each mural tells a story of a society steeped in myth and tradition.
As you soak in the atmosphere of this ancient site, don’t forget to capture the moment with your camera – the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.
A visit to the Palace of King Radamanthys is more than just a journey through history – it’s an opportunity to connect with the legacy of one of the world’s most fascinating civilizations. So come, explore the wonders of the Minoan past, and discover the secrets of a bygone era that continue to captivate and intrigue us today.
And then, Matala invites you to immerse yourselves in its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and bohemian charm. Renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and crystalline waters, this coastal village beckons sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike to bask in the Mediterranean sunshine and take a refreshing dip in the azure sea. But Matala is more than just a beach destination. The iconic caves carved into the cliffsides serve as a reminder of the village’s storied past, once famously inhabited by hippies seeking refuge in the 1960s. Today, these caves offer a glimpse into a bygone era, while the vibrant waterfront promenade buzzes with life, lined with cozy tavernas, lively bars, and colorful shops offering a taste of local culture. Whether you’re exploring the ancient Roman ruins, marveling at the breathtaking views from the cliffs above, or simply soaking in the laid-back atmosphere, a visit to Matala promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Crete’s coastal charm.
See Crete from a different angle on this all-day Land Rover safari tour.
Begin the day in Heraklion, where you will get to know your guide and listen to a short presentation of the excursion before heading to the Livadi Plateau.
Enjoy the incredible views of Heraklion and the Cretan as the Land Rover climbs through the mountainous, provincial road to the eastern slopes of Psiloritis. Marvel at the breathtaking atmosphere of the plateau, including the thousands of apple and pear trees that are scattered throughout the area.
Drive through the off-road route to the plateau of Nida, where you will visit Idaion Andron, the cave where Zeus was born. On the way back, stop at Ancient Zominthos, which was only discovered in 1982 but is considered one of the most important archeological discoveries in Crete.
Have lunch in a local tavern in the village of Anogia.
Situated 3km west of Agia Galini, 69km southwest of Heraklion, and 60km south of Rethymno, you’ll find the tranquil valley of Agios Georgios. This spot is home to two small bays, each boasting beautiful pebbly beaches separated by a rocky shore. The weather is often mild, making these beaches perfect for year-round swimming.
The area remains relatively undeveloped, but on the eastern beach, known as Lichnistis, you’ll find a handful of rooms, a tavern, and some umbrellas for shade. A visit to Agios Georgios offers the chance to explore the rugged Cretan countryside and take a stroll to the historic Monastery of St. George, located 500m to the north. The church’s sloping walls show signs of age and soil sedimentation, and inside, you’ll find ancient frescoes.
For those seeking solitude, the western beach, Kolimbistiri, or “swimming area”, is the ideal location. Here, you can swim in peace, and the seabed offers excellent snorkelling opportunities. To reach Agios Georgios’ beaches, take the asphalt-paved road from Agia Galini to Agios Pavlos, or hop on a boat from Agia Galini.
Agia Galini, a well-loved seaside resort in the southern part of the Rethymnon prefecture, is located near the Amarianos or Platys River mouth. It’s 61km south of Rethymno city and 68km southwest of Heraklion. This quaint town flourishes with activity in the summer and offers all necessary tourist facilities. The stunning green beaches, the fascinating caves in the west, the legends of Icarus and Daedalus, the hippie memories and the peaceful sea, make this village a popular spot for numerous visitors.
Starting east of the port, a long beach extends to Kokkinos Pirgos. The sea here is typically serene. The beach section near the port is well-facilitated and features fine pebbles and chilled water, due to the nearby Platys or Amarianos River, located 200m east of the port. Near the river, remnants of an ancient Artemis temple have been discovered.
Crossing the river via a metal bridge leads to the second beach, which stretches another 1km to the east. This beach, with small pebbles and less organization, is adjacent to the Agia Galini camping site. As you progress eastwards, the beach becomes narrower and more rugged. A 1.5-2 hour walk will take you to Kokkinos Pirgos. This beach, inaccessible by road and favored by nudists, is completely unorganized so be sure to bring food, water, and umbrellas.
On the beach’s west end, beneath a hill with houses, there’s a small network of tunnels from World War II. You can explore these to reach the hilltop.
Louros, nestled between the settlements of Agios Georgios and Agios Pavlos, is characterized by its rocky terrain and a collection of small, pebbly beaches. A scenic coastal road provides stunning views of the two Paximadia islets. Heading west from Agios Georgios, travelers will encounter the quaint beaches of Armenopetra, named after a solitary boulder found in the sea. These beaches offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Two kilometers before reaching Agios Pavlos, another beach, either known as Agios Markos or Ligiolakos, is found across from the rock known locally as Prasonisi. The waters here are typically tranquil, making it a favorite spot for local families from Melambes. The seabed is also a great place for snorkeling and spearfishing. Further east of Prasonisi, more similar beaches can be found, usually accessed on foot.
The next beach, Aniforas or Vigdolidi, is difficult to reach due to private property blocking the path. The beach is situated near a striking rocky cape, and while the beach itself is unremarkable, the towering rock formation provides excellent photo opportunities.
The final beach, located 500m east of Agios Pavlos, is positioned at the mouth of a stream. Ancient Cretan date palm trees, known as Theophrastus, line the banks of the stream, giving the pebbly beach its name – Finikidia.
Agios Pavlos, a quaint seaside village, lies 58km south of Rethymnon city and to the west of Agia Galini, situated conveniently close to the extremity of Cape Melissa. The village, mainly owned by locals from nearby Sachtouria, can be accessed via a scenic drive from there. This hidden gem nestled in a shielded bay is perfect for serene family getaways.
A breathtakingly beautiful beach with emerald deep waters and an impressive rocky seabed characterizes the bay. Several accommodations and taverns dot the area near the beach, offering various amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and pedal boats. An intriguing point of interest here is the quaint church of Saint Paul perched above the beach. Legend has it that Saint Paul resided here during his voyage to Rome – a folklore shared by other regions in Crete such as Kali Limenes and Selouda.
The village’s beach is certainly picturesque, yet some visitors choose to lodge and dine in Agios Pavlos, preferring to swim in the nearby stunning beach known for its enormous sandhills. This beach, referred to as Akoumiani Gialia or Melissa, lies beyond the western rim of the Agios Pavlos bay. Although it’s often wavy, it’s considered one of Rethymno prefecture’s finest beaches, accessible via a pathway originating from Agios Pavlos.
The vibrantly coloured geological rock folds at the Apoplystra location, situated between Agios Pavlos village and Melissa’s Sandhills, are incredibly striking and have been recommended for inclusion in Greece’s Natural Monuments list.
In the quiet, almost abandoned village of Chordaki, located in the Amari district, we discovered the hidden gem of Kynigospilios Canyon. Situated south of the village, this small but stunning canyon remains a secret, its location hidden from view, which contributes to its relative obscurity. The Kynigospilios Canyon boasts a significant water flow from the slopes of Mount Kedros, which lasts from winter through to late spring.
However, traversing the canyon requires the use of ropes and canyoning equipment due to the presence of eight stunning waterfalls along its path, with the last one being particularly breathtaking. Unfortunately, the canyon’s safety measures, installed by canyoners around 2011, are not ideally positioned, making them inaccessible during periods of high water flow. The canyon was christened ‘Koutsouna’ (meaning ‘small’) by the first group to cross it, as they couldn’t find an existing name for it.
At the canyon’s entrance, you’ll find two adjacent watermills, and the surrounding area is lush with greenery, including platans and oaks that provide ample shade. Beneath most of the waterfalls, you’ll find ponds perfect for swimming in the canyon’s crystal-clear river waters. The Kynigospilios Canyon eventually merges into the Platys River bed at its termination point.
Located approximately 100km southwest of Heraklion city, north of Ano Meros village, you’ll find the Kalamafka or Gorge Smiliano. The Lygiotis river, originating from the Gerakari valleys and the Samitos Mount slopes, flows through this gorge. The 2.5km long canyon begins near Vrysses village, close to the deserted settlement of Smile, and concludes north of Ano Meros, accessible via an asphalt road.
During winter, the gorge is filled with water, making entrance risky even for experienced canyoners. However, an alternative route via a dirt road descending from Drygies village leads just above the gorge. Here, the canyon’s steep walls form a slope with a trail, allowing relatively easy descent to the gorge’s heart, precisely at the point where the stunning waterfalls are formed continuously. The gorge comprises about 10 remarkable rappels, with the tallest waterfall being 13 meters. The ponds formed beneath each waterfall are equally breathtaking, and it’s worth noting that Gorge Smiliano boasts the largest and deepest ponds compared to any other gorge in Crete.
A journey through the canyon (as described in June of a particularly rainy year)
Starting near Smile, we first cross a small arched bridge. After just 50m, we enter the gorge’s main section, greeted by a large pond. The canyon then narrows to about 2m and forms a deep pond, 2-3m deep, requiring swimming. The first small rappel we encounter ends in a large, deep pond (perfect for jumping), where the depth exceeds 3m.
Following this, a rock lodged between the canyon walls forms a natural arch. After swimming for several meters (over 25) without touching the ground, we continue our journey unimpeded. We soon encounter the first high waterfall, and the gorge narrows further (1-1.5m). To continue through this narrow section of the canyon, ropes are required. Alternatively, we can walk alongside the canyon until we reach the 15m high rappel that ends in a very deep pond, perfect for a big jump.
The gorge extends eastward, and the deep ponds gradually become small, shallow ponds. Towards the end of the gorge, the water almost disappears, making it impossible to anticipate the aquatic paradise that lies just a few meters ahead.
Located just 1km north of Kissos village in Agios Vasilios province and 34km southeast of Rethymnon, Kissano Gorge serves as a link between Kambos Kissou settlement and the small Gious Kambos plateau. The gorge’s river is a primary tributary of the Gorge Frati. The canyon, though not lush with vegetation, boasts small waterfalls, the tallest of which measure between 5-7m. These waterfalls make it an ideal location for canyoning, but it’s also possible to bypass them carefully from the sides without any specialized equipment.
The journey begins at the Gious Kambos plateau, a small haven of diverse flora. A 0 to 30-minute walk along or beside the riverbed leads you to a point where the river intersects the road connecting Kissos with Gerakari. Here, you’ll find a striking reddish rock peppered with numerous caverns known as Kokkinos Detis, leading locals to also refer to this area as the Kokkinos Detis Gorge.
While this marks the end of the main part of the canyon, the river continues its descent, creating more small waterfalls. It then passes through the 60-hectare artificial pine forest of Vatolakki, before continuing towards Spili and eventually to Frati.
The Platania Gorge, positioned above the Platania village, links the southeast slopes of the Psiloritis range to the Amari valley, approximately 38km southeast of Rethymno. The river flowing through it collects water from the west of the Migia (1584m) and Spathi (1779m) peaks and channels it to the River Platys, which terminates in Agia Galini. A challenging yet secure trail winds its way up to the starting point at Kokkinoharako, skirting its steep slopes. The trail provides hikers with breathtaking views of the towering cliffs, vertical limestone rocks displaying yellow-red hues of erosion, rock shelters, and numerous caves.
At roughly 800m altitude, a small plateau hosts the cave-like church of Saint Anthony (Agios Antonios), constructed near a spring. The trail from Agios Antonios continues its ascent northwest, meeting a dirt road originating from the Vistagi village. On the opposite side of the gorge, in the east, lies the Panas cave, named after the ancient god Pan, god of the wild, shepherds, and flocks, who, as per local folklore, was born here. The cave houses petroglyphs from the Minoan era, indicating continuous worship at the site. The same dirt road from Vistagi provides access to the nearby church of Saint Mammes (Agios Mamas), the patron saint of shepherds in Christianity.
The Platania Gorge’s interior is stunning, though few get to witness it due to its steep waterfalls, which require technical canyoning equipment to navigate. The tallest waterfall stands at approximately 40m. The first known crossing of the gorge was in 2008 by the canyoning group of Giannis Bromirakis and Christoforos Cheiladakis. The cliffs provide a nesting habitat for various bird species, including vultures, hawks, wild pigeons, and crows.
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