Crete, Akrotiri’s monasteries

agia_triada
soudaOn our way to Chania, last stop on our tour to the four corners of Crete, we decided to make a short detour and to visit the two monasteries of Akrotiri peninsula, often classified as “must-see” of the island. The first, moni Tzagarolon, is well worth its reputation. The second, moni Gouvernetou, was closed for restoration works so we have to content ourselves with a hike down to the deserted monastery of Katholikon. And it was really unique!

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Crete: The Fortezza of Rethymno

Crete, Rethymnos Castle
rethymnosA visit to Rethymno is not complete without spending some time strolling through the fortress ruins largely considered the town’s main attraction. A typical example of the Venetian military architecture (which is reflected in its name,“Fortezza”) it was subsequently filled with buildings from the ottoman era and inhabited till the mid 20th century! Those who are not really interested in archaeology, will enjoy a pleasant walk with great views to the town!

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Crete: stopovers in Rethymno

Crete, Rethymnos
rethymnosNext day we headed to Rethymno driving through the hills. To be honest, we were trying to avoid as much as possible the north coast which is heavily affected, to put it politely, by tourism development. We made a quick stop at the campsite ‘Elizabeth’ to take a look at the ground and then we drove to the city where we found a great, super convenient parking spot by the sea and very close to downtown.

 

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