We soon discover that from Sougia you can go take some interesting, shorter and less demanding hikes than the Samaria Gorge. So we decide to test our physical condition by first making a visit to the archaeological site of Ancient Lissos. A relatively easy walk, on the E4 path, that takes a couple of hours round trip,
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The path that leads to the archaeological site of Ancient Lissos starts from the western side of Sougia, after the small harbor for fishing boats. The trail is very well marked and not particularly demanding, still it is not a promenade, it takes definitely suitable hiking boots and a hat. The time to get to the bay of Lissos is little more than an hour, half an hour uphill, ten minutes flat, then a half hour to get down to the sea level. Add to this the time to visit the temple of Asclepius, the Roman necropolis and the churches. A taxi boat makes the journey every day starting at 10.00 from Sougia and return at 15.30 (5 euro each way) and many prefer to walk there and come back with the boat. To be sure it is better to arrange it with Captain Yorgos from the day before.
The temple is fenced, but only to protect it from goats. Just push the gate to enter. A few steps from the entrance of the temple you will find a fountain of drinking water that comes from the famous, ancient, source of Lissos, that apparently had therapeutic properties. So enjoy!
A few minutes more and you’ll get to the sea, passing the small church of Panagia, built with blocks of marble taken ‘on loan’ from the Roman buildings nearby.
For those who love nature ancient Lissos is an excursion not to be missed and it is also excellent preparation for those who are a bit out of practice, before you going for longer hikes.
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