Crete may be the largest island in Greece, but beyond its famous beaches and bustling towns lies a treasure trove of lesser-known wonders waiting to be explored. From secluded coves and dramatic gorges to charming mountain villages and historic fortresses, the hidden gems of Crete offer a richer, more authentic travel experience.
Swim in the turquoise waters of Seitan Limania and Kolokitha Beach, and hike through wild landscapes like Kourtaliotiko and Sarakina Gorges. Wander through traditional villages such as Spili, Pitsidia, and Anogeia, each with their own unique charm and character.
Marvel at the spectacular landscapes of Agiofaraggo and Preveli Beach, and taste Crete’s local flavour at the family-run Winery Stilianou. Step back in time at Spinalonga Fortress, a former leper colony steeped in history.
Wondering what is the best way to see all of these amazing landmarks of Crete? Rent a car and hit the road! Embarking on an exciting Crete road trip is the easiest way to see the island’s top highlights and hidden gems.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking to experience Crete beyond the crowds, this guide to the island’s hidden gems will lead you to its most unforgettable spots. So join me as we uncover the 12 best hidden gems in Crete!
Tucked away on Crete’s southwest coast, Loutro is a charming seaside village that feels like a well-kept secret. Accessible only by boat or on foot, this car-free haven offers an idyllic escape from the island’s busier tourist hubs. With its whitewashed buildings, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic mountain backdrop, Loutro feels more like a Cycladic island than part of Crete.
The village is perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood at waterfront tavernas. Hiking trails connect Loutro to nearby beaches and ancient ruins, including the path to Marmara Beach or the Aradena Gorge. Peaceful and picturesque, Loutro is ideal for travellers seeking authentic culture and natural beauty in a serene setting.
Loutro – a spectacular hidden gem of Crete
Kourtaliotiko Gorge
Nestled within the mountains of southern Crete, Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its rugged beauty and rich biodiversity.Stretching around 3 km, the gorge is carved by the Kourtaliotis River, which flows through steep limestone cliffs reaching heights of up to 600 meters.
You can explore the inside of it by following a steep pathway for 15 minutes that leads down to the gorge’s entrance. To enter the gorge and see the jaw-dropping waterfall, you must swim through a section of very cold water. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof phone case and a pair of water shoes!
Located about 25 km south of Rethymno, Kourtaliotiko Gorge is an easy day trip by car or bus and of course makes for a perfect addition to your Crete road trip itinerary. The otherworldly scenery inside this gorge truly blew me away and it’s easily considered one of my favourite hidden gems in Crete!
Braving the freezing water for a photo inside Kourtaliotiko Gorge
Preveli Beach
Preveli Beach is located on Crete’s stunning south coast, not far from Kourtaliotiko Gorge. This unique and enchanting hidden gem of Crete is where you can find a palm forest, river, and sea converge. Set at the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, the Kourtaliotis River flows through a lush, tropical landscape before meeting the Mediterranean Sea, creating an exotic and picturesque setting.
The beach itself features soft sand and pebbles, crystal-clear water, and dramatic rocky surroundings. Visitors can swim in both the river and the sea, explore the palm grove, or hike along nearby trails for breathtaking views. If you have a drone, this is the perfect place to capture the incredible scenery from above!
Preveli Beach is accessible via a steep path from the parking lot, which takes about 15–20 minutes to descend and offers panoramic views of the coastline—just be prepared for a more strenuous climb back up after your visit. If you’re staying in Rethymno, it’s easy to include a visit to Preveli Beach before or after your stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
Flying my drone at the amazing Preveli Beach
Seitan Limania
Seitan Limania Beach is a secluded gem of Crete located on the island’s north coast about 40 minutes by car from Chania. With its striking turquoise water framed by towering limestone cliffs, it’s easy to see why Seitan Limania is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete.
Getting down to the beach involves descending a steep, rocky trail from the parking area, it goes without saying that sturdy footwear is a must. Once you arrive, you will notice that there is limited space which fills up quickly during peak season, aim to get there early to secure a spot.
Enjoy basking in the sun, floating in the crystal-clear water and saying hello to the resident goats that keep beach-goers company. Bare in mind that Seitan Limania lacks basic facilities so be sure to come prepared with essentials like snacks, water and sun protection.
Seitan Limania is just as impressive as the more popular Balos Beach. It is well-worth the effort that it takes to reach, rewarding visitors with unparalleled views and a beach experience like no other. It’s one of Crete’s best Instagram spots that cannot be missed on your trip to the island!
Seitan Limania Beach
Winery Stilianou
Situated in the tiny village of Kounavi near Heraklion, Winery Stilianou is a family-owned boutique winery celebrated for its organic and sustainable winemaking. Established in 1922, the winery has been passed down through 5 generations producing traditional wines made from local Cretan grape varieties.
When visiting the winery, you can opt for a guided tour that offers insight into the winemaking process, from grape harvesting to fermentation. During my visit, I simply enjoyed sitting on their patio, taking in the panoramic vineyard views while sipping different wines accompanied by local cheeses, olives and oils.
Winery Stilianou offers an authentic glimpse into Crete’s rich winemaking heritage and a wonderful opportunity for wine enthusiasts to try the island’s local flavours. The winery operates on a seasonal basis, closing its doors during the winter period from November – March. Check their website for updated opening hours before visiting.
Enjoying delicious Cretan wine at Winery Stilianou
Spinalonga Fortress
Take a journey through time and discover Crete’s layered history at Spinalonga Fortress. Located on a small island off the coast of Plaka in eastern Crete, Spinalonga was originally a Venetian stronghold built in the 16th century to protect the area from Ottoman invasion.
Later it became one of the last active leper colonies in Europe, operating until 1957. Today the fortress stands as a powerful monument to Crete’s turbulent past with well-preserved ramparts, stone houses, and winding paths that offer insight into its former inhabitant’s lives.
A short boat ride from Elounda or Plaka brings you to the island, where you can explore at your own pace or with a guide. The views surrounding Spinalonga Fortres are stunning and the island’s atmosphere is both haunting and beautiful. Spinalonga is a must-visit for history lovers and anyone seeking a deeper connection to Crete’s rich cultural heritage.
Aerial view of Spinalonga Fortress
Kolokitha Beach
Beach lovers can’t miss this small, secluded cove located near Elounda in eastern Crete. With calm, shallow water, this is a true gem for those seeking a pristine beach off the beaten tourist path. Floating around this gorgeous bay one sunny afternoon was one of the highlights of my time in Crete.
Getting to Kolokitha Beach involves a scenic journey from Elounda crossing a historic stone bridge, passing by traditional windmills, and continuing along a dirt road to the chapel of Agios Loukas. From there, a short 5-10 minute walk leads to the beach (see location on Google Maps here).
I visited Kolokitha Beach after a hot and sweaty sightseeing trip to Spinalonga Fortress, it was the perfect way to cool off on a 38°C day! The beach is best reached by car and it’s easy to include on a day trip from Agios Nikolaos.
Drifting in paradise, Kolokitha Beach
Pitsidia
If you’re seeking a romantic escape in a charming Cretan village, look no further than Pitsidia near the island’s south coast. Located just 5 km from the more touristy Matala, Pitsidia maintains its authentic character, featuring whitewashed houses, narrow flower-covered alleys, and a laid-back vibe.
The famous Matala Beach can easily be seen on a day trip from Pitsidia. There, you can enjoy a swim at the town’s lovely beach and a visit to its historic caves, once a home for 1960s hippies.
My favourite part of staying in Pitsidia was returning to the the quiet streets of the village after a day of sightseeing in the more popular destinations nearby. It makes an excellent base for exploring the region.
Other moments that stand out from my time there include dining on traditional cuisine at the local tavernas and soaking up the village’s pretty scenes while taking a slow stroll through the photogenic streets.
You’ve heard of Samaria Gorge but why not escape the crowds at Sarakina Gorge, a hidden gem located near the village of Mithi in southeastern Crete. This 1.5 km canyon features narrow passages, towering walls, and a collection of pretty waterfalls and serene pools along the trail which offer year round swimming opportunities.
The hike is moderately challenging, requiring some scrambling over rocks and wading through water, making it a thrilling experience for those seeking a bit of adventure.
After completing the hike, visitors can relax in the nearby coastal village of Myrtos, the perfect place to enjoy a well-earned meal. Sarakina Gorge is best visited during the warmer months when water levels are manageable, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Combining the rugged allure of Sarakina Gorge with the relaxing vibes of Myrtos makes for a memorable day trip showcasing the diverse landscapes of Crete.
Spili Village
Escape to the traditional mountain village of Spili in central Crete, around 30 km south of Rethymno. A hidden gem of Crete that is easy to include on your Crete road trip itinerary.
Take a stroll on the cobblestone streets lined with stone houses, local craft shops, and inviting tavernas offering authentic Cretan cuisine. The Spili Folk Museum provides insights into the area’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing traditional artifacts and exhibits.
The main landmark of the village is the Venetian-era Lion Fountain, known locally as Kefalovrissi, featuring 25 lion head spouts that deliver crystal-clear, drinkable spring water year-round.This fountain is not only a functional water source but also a symbol of the village’s historical significance.
Spili village is a lovely base for exploring nearby attractions such as the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Preveli Beach.Its blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and warm hospitality make it an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic Cretan experience.
Agiofaraggo Beach
Hidden away on Crete’s southern coast, Agiofaraggo Beach is a true gem for adventurers seeking a quiet escape. Reaching this isolated paradise requires a 30-minute hike through Agiofaraggo Gorge, where you’ll wander between cliffs, wild olive trees, and grazing goats before arriving at the beach.
Once there, you’re rewarded with a scenic stretch of pebbly shore, shallow turquoise waters, and dramatic rock formations that feel worlds away from the crowds. The beach is lacking facilities, so pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection for your visit. You’ll also find a peaceful cave church along the path, an ideal spot for a photo break.
Whether you’re road-tripping around Crete or just craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Agiofaraggo Beach makes you feel like you’ve discovered your own secret slice of paradise. It’s relatively difficult to get there but its wild, untouched beauty makes it one of Crete’s best-kept coastal secrets.
Anogeia Village
Perched in the foothills of Mount Psiloritis, Anogeia is a traditional Cretan mountain village that offers a deep dive into the island’s rich culture and resilient spirit. Known for its strong musical heritage and welcoming locals, Anogeia is the perfect place to slow down and experience authentic village life.
Wander the stone-paved streets, stop by local workshops where artisans handcraft textiles and instruments, and enjoy a delicious meal at a family-run taverna. History lovers will appreciate the village’s poignant past, especially its role in WWII resistance.
Surrounded by rugged landscapes and panoramic views, Anogeia also serves as a gateway for hikes into the mountains or visits to the nearby Ideon Cave, mythologically linked to the god Zeus. A visit to Anogeia makes an easy day trip from Heraklion and promises a great opportunity to connect with the local culture and traditions.
How to Rent a Car in Crete
If you’re planning to rent a car during your trip to Crete, you’ll want to arrange it before you go. To do this I would highly recommend checking out this search tool that I use to find car rentals in every country that I travel to. Picking up your car at the airport is the best way to go.
This site is hassle free and always has plenty of providers to choose from with reasonable prices. Keep in mind that if you want to pick up/drop off in different cities, there may be an extra fee for returning the car in another location.
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