Discover the “Lesser-Known” part of Crete from East to West
In this article, we will take you on a journey through Crete. Traveling from East to West on this majestic island, you will discover the authentic side of Crete, as well as the most famous landmarks.
To embellish your journey, we urge you to book your East, West, and Central Crete experiences with Elissos here.
Lassithi, Rethymno, or Chania? Whatever you choose, look to the South, where the Libyan Sea touches the golden coasts of Crete.
To meet every face of Crete you need many summers. To visit every beauty you need countless kilometers of routes. Between historic mountain villages, seaside resorts, quiet fishing villages, Minoan palaces, and wonderful gorges, Crete is a truly sacred island.
If you have already got a taste of the island having visited the tourist areas, the tour of the lesser-known part of Crete, the quietest and “natural”, will meet a different, definitely more enchanting face.
Lasithi
Zakros
Our journey starts from Lassithi and the mountain village of Zakros, one of the most picturesque on the island, which is famous for the production of olive oil. It is worth visiting as part of your walk in the area, to walk on the old paved road that unfolds through walnuts and plane trees, and to lead you to a beautiful place full of trees and springs.
In its small square, you will find the library and the town hall and, after cooling off from the stone fountain, you will take the road to the “gorge of the dead”, as it is called the route in which the Minoans were buried dead in ancient times, which will lead you in Kato Zakros, the port of Zakros, and the archeological site. Kato Zakros, one of the least touristy seaside villages, is ideal for cool dips on the homonymous beach and good food in the traditional taverns that use only local ingredients.
The Mystical Palace of Zakros Experience by Elissos Travelling Philosophy
Your day will start with a Meditation Practice by the oldest olive tree in the Mediterranean- a 3250 years old natural monument. Hike the breathtaking Ravine “of the Dead”. The so-called Ravine of the Dead will accommodate your unique hiking in wild nature. The Ravine runs through the ancient site of Zakros. It is named after the numerous Minoan burials that have been found in the caves along its walls. Your hiking will take about three hours ending up at the entrance of Zakros Palace.
Visit Kato Zakros Minoan Palace. The palace at Zakros is the fourth in terms of size, among the Minoan palaces at 4000 years of age. It was located in an advantageous strategic position and was the center of commercial exchange and trade with the countries of the East throughout the Minoan period. Your tour will sum up with a tasty meal in the village of Kato Zakros, by the Minoan Palace.
Direction of Sitia
We continue in the direction of Sitia, to meet some more beautiful mountain villages. Before reaching Agios Nikolaos we make a stop in Mesa Mouliana. This is a great archaeological site, with many finds. Such as, two Minoan vaulted tombs and many objects that are on display today.
Ierapetra and Islands
Time to swim and head to Ierapetra, the southernmost city in Europe facing Africa, which receives the least rainfall of any other in Europe and whose temperature never drops below 12 degrees, even in winter. In the hottest neighborhood of Europe. At Ierapetra, you will find the cleanest and most protected beaches from the north. From these, we distinguish the large, sandy beach in Koutsounari, at a distance of about 7 km from Ierapetra, which is well organized in places and very quiet at its eastern end.
Just opposite Ierapetra is the famous Gaidouronisi, where you will find a boat that runs regularly. It is a tiny island, also known as Chrysi, with a stunning beach surrounded by a landscape of unique beauty.
Rethimno Villages
Plakias Village
Next stop in Rethymno, and the beautiful seaside village of Plakias, with the moderately developed tourist infrastructure, as much as you need to enjoy the necessary amenities, but without getting tired of the crowds. You can choose Plakias as a base and from there to excursions to nearby beaches. Such as Preveli, a unique sandy beach, with a small forest of palm trees that make it look exotic. The river Kourtaliotis flows into the beach, which, because it has enough water even in summer, forms a small lagoon before flowing into the sea, where you can also swim.
Rodakino Village
Quite close is Rodakino, a quiet village untouched by tourism, with traditional cafes and hospitable inhabitants. From there, if you follow the road to Koraka, you will find two beautiful beaches. The first is located at the end of a gorge and stands out for its turquoise waters and fine pebbles. To the east, you will see beautifully carved caves in rocks. Further west you will find a second unorganized beach, a crystal-clear bay with sand and gravel.
Mountainous Villages of Rethymno
However, mountainous Rethymno also has its beauties. The province of Amari, for example, is famous for its abundant waters, as it is crossed by small rivers that feed the vast areas of arable land. Cherries are one of the most famous products of the region, while the picturesque village of Gerakari is considered the Cretan mecca of sour cherries. On your walk there it is worth passing by the village of Meronas, built amphitheatrically with unobstructed views of the valley and Psiloritis, while Amari itself will fascinate you with its authentic beauty, where stone-built, Venetian houses meet humble and rural the small byzantine church.
Rethymno for Nature Lovers Experience by Elissos Travelling Philosophy
Your day will start with a scenic drive to the west of the town of Rethimnon. Your first experience will be the natural lake of Kourna, the only natural freshwater lake in Crete. In antiquity, the name was Koresia. It looks like there was an ancient temple in the area. Most probably it was dedicated to Athena Koresia (to the horse or the daughter). The lake is a famous nature reserve and has a unique geological interest.
Your next stop will be the beautiful Natural Park of Patsos. In the park, renowned for its natural beauty, you will feel your senses delighted thanks to the several species of fauna thriving. You will hike the Gorge of Patsos, also known as Agios Antonios Gorge, an 8kms long moderate hike. You will enjoy a delicious traditional meal in the local tavern of the gorge, including typical Cretan specialties. Moreover, visit Arkadi Monastery, a centuries-old Monument, a historic monastery, and a symbol of independence for the Cretan people. Explore its impressive architecture and decorations. Finally, learn about its history and its significance in the Cretan people’s struggle for liberation.
Chania
Frangokastelo
In the southeastern corner of the prefecture of Chania is the historic Frangokastelo, with the homonymous castle built by the Venetians in the 14th century. In 1828, during the Cretan uprising against the Ottomans, 5,000 Turkish soldiers slaughtered more than 600 Cretan warriors who had taken refuge in the castle. Since then, according to legend, every year on the anniversary of the massacre, the ghosts of the warriors, the Drosoulites, appear from the adjacent cemetery and form a procession that passes through the castle and ends at the sea. If you believe in legends and ghosts, do not visit the beautiful beach of Frangokastelo between May and June.
Mountainous Villages of Chania
We continue to the center of Chania, to visit some beautiful mountain villages, such as the green Armeni, with the huge plane trees at the roots of which rich springs gush. Plenty of water irrigates the entire area over the years. Therefore, you will see the transformation into a huge orchard with fruit trees and flowers. In the village, you will find some excellent taverns, with traditional cuisine. Perhaps you can taste amazing snails and Cretan stew. Therissos is another village worth visiting, mainly due to the amazing landscape and the nature-loving possibilities it offers. If you are a fan of hiking, from Therissos begins a beautiful route of 14 kilometers in the imposing gorge of the same name, at the roots of the White Mountains.
South of Chania
Further south you will find the historic Kandanos, a beautiful town, rich in Byzantine churches of the 13th and 14th centuries, and with the gorge of the same name, which leads to a stone road, suitable for either hiking or cycling. The port of Kandanos is one of the most touristic Paleochora. It is a perfect option for a quieter stay and has amazing beaches.
From Paleochora you can take the boat that will take you to Gavdos, the southernmost tip of Europe, with its picturesque settlements and stunning beaches. The beach of Ai Giannis is considered among the best beaches in the world.
Finally, west of Chania, Kedrodassos is another wonderful, tropical beach, that offers excellent shade by the juniper trees, which look like cedars, and the impressive dunes. At a distance of one kilometer is Elafonisi, the elongated peninsula with the crystal-clear lagoon. Elafonissi has joined the Natura protected areas, as it is full of dunes with lilies of the sand and cedar, while here the endangered Caretta-Caretta turtles and many species of rare animals nest. The beaches on both sides of the peninsula are reminiscent of the Caribbean.
Sail along with the South Cretan Coast Experience by Elissos Traveling Philosophy
This Experience will take you to the south of the Chania region. Being driven through the stunning landscapes of Chania countryside, you will reach the port of Chora Sfakion. From this picturesque and historic village, you will start your Sailing Cruise to the Libyan Sea. You will have the chance to sunbathe on board and enjoy the luxury of the sailing yacht. As a bonus, you will admire the stunning marine landscapes.
The yacht will be anchored by some of the most beautiful beaches of Crete located on the South Coast, like Agia Roumeli, Agios Pavlos, Loutro, and Sweet Waters beaches, as well as the impressive Marmara caves. During the stops, you will be able to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea. Onboard try Cretan traditional snacks, fresh fruit, soft drinks and beverages, wine, and water. You will have a delicious lunch onboard. Your meal will be based on the local Mediterranean cuisine and recipes of Crete.