Mountainous Rethymno for a Spiritual Retreat
Starting from Heraklion, you'll be treated to a breathtaking mountain drive, unveiling the rugged beauty of Crete’s interior.
No matter where you set off from, the mountainous heart of Crete is sure to captivate you.
A stop in Anogeia is a must, then continue on to the village of Axos for a visit to the Woodcarving Museum.
After a break for food, head to the historic Monastery of Diskouri, which has a fascinating story to share!
*You can follow this plan no matter when you find yourself in Crete—it's a year-round kind of experience!
Photo of Mount Psiloritis: Incrediblecrete
Make a stop in Anogeia, a village celebrated as the birthplace of the "Archangel of Crete," the legendary musician Nikos Xylouris.
This is a place of genuine Cretan spirit, where locals readily open their homes to guests. T
ake a coffee break in the square of Perachori, where time feels like it has slowed down, before continuing deeper into Crete’s highlands.
At Michalos Skoulas’ traditional kafeneio, marked with the sign “Syntagma Square,” you can pair a strong Greek coffee with a mouthwatering galaktoboureko—the perfect pick-me-up before diving back into your explorations!
Next up is the village of Axos, a place rich in history and tradition, nestled among olive groves, vineyards, and orchards.
Wander through the area to discover some of its beautiful, historic churches.
Be sure to visit the Woodcarving Museum in Axos.
Here, life-sized sculptures bring historical figures and folklore legends to life, creating a unique glimpse into Crete’s past and its cultural tales.
From Axos, it’s only a short 10-minute drive to the Monastery of Diskouri, a site with an intriguing past.
According to an old tradition, shepherds accused of livestock theft who claim innocence still come here to swear an oath before the ancient icon of Saint George.
