The unexplored parts of Crete no one talks about
We search for hidden ancient treasures in mysterious caves, explore Venetian castles, and dive into secret beaches and unspoiled coves, leaving behind the crowds of Balos and Knossos.
Isolated golden beaches, castles and archaeological treasures, wild landscapes, unexplored caves, famous gorges, traditional settlements, and the only palm forest in Europe form, among other things, the mosaic that the visitor to Crete is asked to compose.
On the other hand, the nature of Crete is also unique, with the changing landscapes, the thousands of unexplored caves, gorges and lakes, the lacy coastlines, and the imposing mountain masses – with Psiloritis at the top – show that it is no coincidence that the island has been inhabited since ancient times and favored the development of great civilizations.
Caves in Crete
One of the lesser-known graces of Crete are the thousands of unexplored caves, the most famous of which are Idaion Andros and Diktaion Andron, which even „argue“ about which hosted the birth of Zeus as Hesiod, in his Theogony, does not precisely specify the location of the birth of the leader of the gods in Crete.
Speleologists have found poachers‘ tools in the Labyrinth cave of Mesara, with many talking of a search for ancient hidden treasures. The cave is located north of the fertile Mesara plain.
It is estimated that the number of caves in Crete reaches 3,500, most of which remain unexplored. Recently, the largest cave in Greece was discovered, with a depth of approximately 825 meters.
Diktaio Cave
The Diktaion Cave, on the slope of the Dikti mountain range in Eastern Crete, seems to have been inhabited since the Neolithic era (6,000 BC). The visit pays off both because of the panoramic view along the way, and because of the impressive cave, with its lake and huge stalactites and stalagmites. One of them, the most impressive, in the middle of the lake, is also called „Zeus’s mantle“. According to the myth, Minos also had an appointment there with his father, Zeus, every nine years to get the laws he would apply.
Lasithi Plateau and Diktaio Cave – Elissos Experience
This is an excursion to the eastern province of Crete and the beautiful mountains of Dikti. Reaching an altitude of 850m above sea level and driving through wild nature and mountains with a breathtaking view, you will reach the fertile plateau of Lassithi with its unique traditional villages and Byzantine churches. At an altitude of almost 900 meters above sea level, you will visit the Cave of Zeus, one of the most impressive Temple – Caves on Crete. It is known as the birthplace of the Father of all Gods and Immortals, Zeus, according to Homer.
You can reach the Cave on a Donkey ride, which both kids and adults love and truly enjoy! Alternatively, you must hike for twenty minutes each way. In one of the Lassithi villages, you are welcome to experience the traditional Cretan Mountain cuisine and exquisite local wines. We also highly recommend a traditional Meal at a local’s house hosted by the local family!
Idaio Andron
The Idaio Andron cave, with a length of 40 meters and a width of 50 meters, also claims the honor of hosting the father of the gods, while it was one of the most important places of worship in antiquity. It is located in Psiloritis, while on the south side of the mountain, one comes across another cult site, the Kamares cave. The drive there, through a path through dense forest, is exciting. However, properly prepare yourself for 3–4-hour trek. The view, however, compensates as both the Mesara plain and the Libyan Sea are visible.
The Mysteries of the Cretan Born Zeus – Elissos Experience
Your day will start with the traditional village of Arolithos. There, you will have the chance to explore the architecture of a typical mountainous Cretan village. Visit several of the old-style Houses and the Folk Art Museum. Enjoy your Greek coffee in the village’s central square. For the lovers of interactive Folk Art, workshops will be there for you! You are welcome to try traditional themes such as Weaving, Mosaics making, Kneading, or even Cretan Cooking Classes. After driving through unique mountainous scenery and several traditional villages, you will reach the beautiful Plateau of Ida.
An amazing moderate hike (20 min each way) to the Sacred Cave of Ida will start! You will visit the second biggest Cave of Crete, connected with the Cretan-born Zeus and his worshiping. The ritual use of the Cave goes back to 6,000BC. Back then Idaion Andron was one of the most important Peak Sanctuaries for the worshiping of the prehistoric Minoan Goddess.
Pythagoras and many Greek Philosophers were initiated into the Cretan Mysteries in that Cave. Have you ever thought of a local meal in a“mitato” stone-built Shepherd’s Hut on the top of themountains?! This is your chance! Enjoy breathtaking views and taste the traditional mountain Cuisine. It consists of local specialties and the famous“antikristo” lamb roasted in a special way.
Castles in Crete
Apart from Knossos and Phaistos, the two most famous ancient cities on the island and their archaeological treasures, Crete also has more modern monuments, „heritage“ from the occupation of the Venetians and the Venetians.
Their architectural intervention has a catalytic effect on the formation of the city of Chania, with its Venetian Port. The island’s castles, the Castle of Fortezza in Rethymno, and the Venetian Castle on the island of Spinalonga in the bay of Mirabello, are of unparalleled beauty.
Spinalonga Island
The impressive castle of Spinalonga, in the bay of Mirabello, reminds us of other times. Times when the Venetians decided to build an impregnable fortress at the entrance of the bay. They did so to protect the port from frequent attacks. The great walls in the north of the island blend harmoniously with the granite of the island. The walls create an impenetrable barrier to the appetites of pirates and Turks. Even when the Turks conquered Crete in 1669, the island did not „fall“ into their hands until 1715. And indeed, not by force but by capitulation.
The Island – Elissos Experience
In this tour, you are driving along the Northeast Coast of Crete towards the areas of Elounda and Plaka. Reach the traditional village of Plaka, and take a small traditional boat. From there enjoy a short boat trip to the beautiful island of Spinalonga. One of the most important historic sites of Crete.
They turned the island into a fortress in the middle of the 16th century. It is one of the best examples of Venetian defensive architecture. From 1903-1957 Spinalonga’s impregnable castle was the last European leper colony. Explore the buildings from the Venetian, Ottoman, and Modern periods. Find out all about the different historic faces of that very special place.
An enjoyable fishing trip in and around the beautiful natural bay of “kolokitha” and a swimming opportunity from our private traditional boat will follow, with snacks, fruits, and drinks on board.
Lunch will be housed in a traditional restaurant in the village of Plaka, overlooking Spinalonga Island, while after lunch you will enjoy the last stop of the day in the traditional village of Kritsa, renowned for its handmade weaving art, embroideries and textiles.
The hidden treasures of Crete
Crete is full of large and organized beaches. However, there are also well-hidden local „treasures“. Such as, smaller beaches with more difficult access, which are worth more than the organized ones.
Vai, Elounda, and Agia Pelagia are great. However, such a large island as Crete offers a huge variety of earthly paradises. Paradises that a few are even aware of.
One such place, with blue-green beaches and cedar forests, is the island of Chrysi – you may have also heard of it as Gaidouronisi. The boat takes you from Ierapetra and „leaves“ you on a tropical island, with crystal clear waters and a unique landscape. The two taverns on the island „break“ the feeling of isolation, but they are useful.
The beach of Psili Ammos, in Loutro, South Crete, despite its commercial name, is not particularly popular due to the difficulty of access, as it requires a half-hour descent from the beginning of the Trachoula Gorge. However, the beach, blocked by the mountains, vindicates the adventurous.
Near the village of Loutro is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, that of Glyka Nera. Secluded beach, which one can reach either by boat or by hiking an hour or so from a path. It is famous for the formidable cliff that rises above it and the green-blue waters. Where does its name come from? If you dig in the sand, icy fresh water from the White Mountains gushes out.
Equally beautiful, but not so widespread, are the beach of Diskos, the beach at Agiofarango, Kokkini Ammos, and Komo next to Matala, the dozens of small coves between the villages of Damnoni and Sfinari, and the beach of Orthi Ammos to the east from Frangokastelo.
The 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Crete – Elissos Blog Article
Do you prefer the cosmopolitan Elafonisi or the completely deserted Agiofarago?
Selecting the most beautiful beaches in Crete is most definitely a difficult task. Because, as we all know, the most beautiful beaches in Crete are more than ten. Therefore, let this just be the beginning of a list. A list that could even expand to 20 or 50 of the most beautiful beaches in Crete.