Must-see villages in Crete

When you hear about the island of Crete, your mind goes straight to the local raki distillate, golden beaches and impressive gorges, which have made the island famous all over the world. Most visitors start by exploring the big cities such as Heraklion and Rethymnon, only to continue with the exotic beaches of Balos and Elafonissi and taste some adventure in Vai and the Samaria Gorge. The historical treasures of the island such as the Palace of Knossos and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos are here to seal the deal. Truth is, Crete has so much more to offer around the year, such as magical routes in valleys and rivers, waterfalls, traditional settlements with blooming trees and wildflowers shaping up a unique canvas. It is no coincidence that this is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean and a popular destination for Greek and foreign tourists. This spring, book your tickets and discover the alternative Crete. Step foot on land that looks and feels like Tuscany and experience the Cretan tradition with its fine cuisine, in full bloom. Tickets to Crete by ferry can be found at Let’s Ferry.

The Cretan villages that bloom in spring

Milia

Locals may not know this, but the village has received worldwide recognition. Ranked by Lonely Planet as one of the 50 secret places to see in Europe, it has also been featured in the London Times magazine, that has named it as one of the 30 best places in Greece to live after the pandemic lockdown. It is located in the mountainous part of Chania, in Kissamos, and is 55 km from the port. Access is only made by car, which you leave outside the settlement. The whole village has been turned into an ecological, traditional hostel. From here you have a unique view of hazelnut forests and natural springs.

Traditional stone house in the village of Milia, Crete

Vamos

Palms, tall trees and stone houses await you just 22 km from the port of Chania. Overlooking the White Mountains, here you will get to know the Cretan countryside and you will visit well-preserved buildings from the 18th century. The cobblestoned alleys of the village are something you should not miss, as well as a visit to the olive mill with the 12 shields. There you can take part in a Cretan cooking class and learn Cretan recipes like a local! The village is the capital of Apokoronas, an area with a high quality of life which has stayed away from mass tourism. Discover the neighboring villages of Gavalochori, Sellia and the seaside Georgioupolis.

The traditional village of Vamos hidden in Cretan nature

Upper and Lower Asites

If you dream of a quiet, romantic place to taste local delicacies such as snails, these two villages in Heraklion are ideal.

Local delicacies such as snails

They are located at the foot of Psiloritis and the Ano Asites have rich archaeological finds: From Roman baths to the ruins of an entire city. Here you will also find the centuries-old Oak, a rare tree in the Kouvdi spot. If you like strange caves, visit the Bat Cave, which is 100 meters deep, has water and hosts, what else, bats! Take a walk to the Women's Cooperative of the village to try unique flavors such as rusks and ouzo biscuits. One of the highlights is the wine tasting in the local wineries where you will admire the green vineyards up close. Tuscany what?

Traditional street in the village of Ano Asites

Zaros

In the area around Psiloritis, there are a few places that only experienced travelers will discover. One of them is Zaros, a rural town that belongs to the prefecture of Heraklion and is almost 50 km away from the port. Here you will find a vast valley reminiscent of a painting and water coming down from the mountain. You will surely pass by the most famous attraction of Zaros, the artificial lake that evokes a Swiss landscape. The locals suggest you try trout, directly from the lake farm. If you want a natural lake, you will go to Lake Faneromeni, another green spot made in heaven. Although Zaros is poor in inhabitants, as it only has 2000, the nature around it is rich. Explore the Rouva Gorge which is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

The artificial lake of Zaros

Amari

Once again, our reference point is Psiloritis, this time however we visit the mountain from the side of Rethymnon. 35 km from the port you will find the valley of Amari. Here you will witness a rich palette with every shade of green, since this is one of the spots with the most rainfall in Crete. The valley is also home to many rare species of wildflowers which offer their unique colors to the landscape, when in bloom. The lake of Rivers is one of the largest in Crete and one of the most important habitats of the southeastern Mediterranean. The area is known for its dairy products such as the gruyere of Crete (PDO), the goat milk tyrozouli and the xinomyzithra of Crete (PDO).

Church in Amari village

Spili

This Rethymnian village is built at the foot of Mount Vorizi. In the impressive settlement you will see Kefalovrisi, which consists of 25 fountains in a row shaped like lion's heads. In spring, however, what will give you a sight for sore eyes is the Yous Kampos Plateau with its countless crimson tulips. This endemic, protected species, is called Tulipa Doerfleri. Here is also home to many rare species of orchids, firs and plane trees.

Spili village in Crete

Whichever village you choose as your favorite, you will see unspoiled landscapes and you will experience Cretan hospitality at its best. A raki and a meze will welcome you to any destination. Re-introduce yourself to the Megalonisos (big island), by choosing to visit it in the spring. Just book your trip with a few clicks here, at Let’s Ferry.