On your way to Vai it is almost impossible to miss it. It looks like a fortress but it is a monastery, one of the wealthiest in Crete. In fact most of the land as far as the eye can see, it belongs to Moni Toplou as it is known informally the monastery. It possesses masterpieces of religious art too and it is incredibly well preserved. If these are still not enough to convince you for a visit, consider that they produce (and they sell) excellent products.
Category Archives: Crete
Crete: The palm forest of Vai and the wind of Kouremenos
Few hours later hoping that the situation would calm down we left Itanos heading towards Vai. We were right. This world famous beach (it is surrounded by the largest natural palm forest in Europe) was still busy but it was nothing compered to what was happening earlier in the day. We enjoyed the exotic beach and then, although we don’t surf, we decided to go to Kouremenos to spend the night.
Crete: Itanos, the ‘plan B’
We left Xirokambos with a heavy heart. Heading north but not in the mood yet to deal with the crowds, we decided to ‘skip’ for the time being the world famous palm beach of Vai and to stop in Itanos just 2 km further. The area is also known as Erimoupolis which means Desert City. It isn’t deserted of course but comparing to the bustling Vai it almost seems so. Great beaches, free access to the ancient ruins and even palm trees. This is our place!