10 Best Road Trips to Take in Crete A Guide to Exploring the Islands Hidden Gems

1. 10 Best Road Trips to Take in Crete: A Guide to Exploring the Island's Hidden Gems Crete is one of the most amazing Greek islands, where you can discover plenty of culture, history, and natural beauty through many of its destinations. With so much to do and see with so little time, you’ll want your own reliable mode of transportation. Plus, public transport is limited, making it inconvenient to take buses if you want to see places off the beaten path. All the more reason to considercar hireinCrete! With a rental car, you have more freedom to go anywhere, and you are your own boss when it comes to your time. Not sure where to go? Here are 10 suggestions to inspire your itinerary. 1. Southwest Hania The southwestern side of Crete is home to some of the most stunning natural attractions of the island, particularly the beaches. Try stopping at the unspoilt village of Lakki to see its old church and indulge in 360-degree views, then continue to Omalos to behold Samaria Gorge. If you just came for the beaches, visit Paleochora, then move to Elafonisi to see its pinkish sands. 2. Amari Valley Make the most of yourcar hireinCreteby going on a road trip through unspoiled mountain villages and Psiloritis Natural Park. Mt. Psiloritis is the highest peak on the island, and the park houses many natural, cultural, and religious attractions. Don’t forget to explore the fruit orchards and olive groves. 3. Moni Arkadiou While in Amari Valley, take the coastal road from Rethymno and stop at Moni Arkadiou, a symbolic and sacred monastery. From there, go south to Thronos to find Agia Panagia church and adore its 14th-century frescoes. 4. Iraklio Wine Country

2. Consider assigning a second driver if you’re planning a road trip to Crete’s vineyards, especially if you want to taste the local wines! 5. Knossos While exploring Iraklio, make a stop at Knossos, one of the top ancient sites in Greece. Head south of the palace to find a 19th-century aqueduct and visit Koronekes to check its olive oil estate. 6. Eastern Crete Drive through the mountain roads at Eastern Crete and be treated to Mediterranean views. The route between the Libyan Sea and the Bay of Mirabello brings you to the less crowded areas of the island. Drop by Agios Nikolaos as your start-off point for exploring attractions like the chapel at Timios Stavros and Sarakinas Gorge. 7. Drive north Most visitors considercar hireinCreteto simplify their journey between Hania and Heraklion. However, it’s also convenient when you want to stop at the Venetian port town Rethymno along the way. 8. Kaliviani to Balos Beach One of the most enjoyable road trips in Crete will take you across an 8-kilometre dirt road from Kaliviani to Balos Beach, a picture-perfect location with stunning views. 9. Kallikratis to Kapsodasos If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Southwestern Crete and traverse the 11 km paved road from Kapsodasos to Kallikratis. However, this isn’t for the faint of heart because of the narrow and steep roads. However, the brave will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of the Libyan Sea. 10. Skinakas Mountain Located 1,752 metres above level is Skinakas Mountain, the heart of Crete, where you’ll find the highest paved road on the island. It will take you half an hour, plus 17 km, to get

3. to the top coming from Anogia. When you reach the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic 360- degree views of the whole island. Enjoy these road trips with ease! Book yourcar hireinCretewith CRETARENT. They’re an established care rental company in Crete with the best prices and reliable customer service. Visit their website to make arrangements at your preferred pick-up location, or call 0030 6945805577 if you want to book your car by phone.