World Of Wanderlust

Dreaming of a sunny island with stunning beaches, charming towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes? Consider visiting Crete, an island south of the Greek mainland. Crete is a top travel destination, boasting crystal-clear waters, lovely towns, ancient Greek ruins, impressive natural landmarks, and beautiful coastlines. Additionally, Crete’s hidden gems are so special that they are not to be missed.

These lesser-known spots offer excellent landscapes and exciting experiences. Venture off the beaten path to discover them all! Here are some of Crete’s hidden gems you should check out during your trip.

**Hidden Gems in Crete – Summary**
– Lake Kournas
– Kedrodasos Beach
– Agios Pavlos Sand Dunes
– Kalypso Beach
– Spinalonga
– Margarites Village
– Loutro
– Stavrochori Village
– Richtis Gorge
– Kourtaliotis Gorge

**Lake Kournas**
This large freshwater lake looks like something out of a fairytale. Lake Kournas features clear waters, gentle brown hills, and sandy shores with lush vegetation. It is a sanctuary for aquatic species like eels, turtles, and ducks. Since it’s not crowded with tourists, Lake Kournas is one of the most peaceful hidden gems in Crete.

*How to get there:* Drive towards Georgiopuli on the national road, then follow the signs to Kournas village. Turn onto the village road of Kournas just before the exit to Georgiopulli.

**Kedrodasos Beach**
Kedrodasos Beach is a true hidden gem, located in a remote area outside the town of Chania. It’s known for its pinkish sand, aquamarine waters, and golden brown landscapes. Be prepared for a bit of a workout, as a 10-minute hike along a rocky hill is required to reach this beach.

*How to get there:* Drive for about 90 minutes from Chania to Elafonissi road, then walk for around 10-20 minutes to the beach.

**Agios Pavlos Sand Dunes**
If you love unique, picturesque beaches with deep blue waters, Agios Pavlos Sand Dunes is a must-visit. The area features stunning dunes and offers a serene beach perfect for a relaxing escape. It’s one of the overlooked hidden gems in Crete.

*How to get there:* Drive for about 90 minutes from Chania to Elafonissi road, then walk for around 10-20 minutes to the beach.

**Kalypso Beach**
Kalypso Beach, near the small village of Plakias, invites you to take a plunge into its brilliant blue sea. Unlike typical beaches, Kalypso Beach is surrounded by rugged, rocky cliffs instead of sandy shores. You can jump from these rocks into the crystal-clear waters.

*How to get there:* Drive from Plakias or Rethymno, or take a public bus from Rethymno.

**Spinalonga**
This uninhabited island is home to stunning ruins, beautiful natural scenery, and a rich, albeit tragic, history. Spinalonga was an isolation area for leprosy patients from 1903 to 1957. Today, it’s a captivating destination with several 19th-century and medieval ruins, including the notable Fortress of Spinalonga and Dante’s Gate.

*How to get there:* Take a public boat from Plaka or Elounda, or book a day trip from Agios Nikolaos, which usually includes a full itinerary and meals.

**Margarites Village**
Margarites Village is known for its ceramics and pottery, which are the main attractions. The village exudes a laid-back atmosphere with its sand-colored classic Greek buildings and pleasant neighborhood. Margarites also features old ruins and the remarkable Monastery of Arkadi, making it one of Crete’s prettiest hidden gems.

*How to get there:* Drive from Rethymno or take a public bus from Rethymno.

**Loutro**
Loutro is a picturesque seaside fishing village in south Crete, facing the Libyan Sea. The village features white buildings with blue accents, set against green-brown hills and a brilliant blue ocean, creating a scene straight out of a painting.

*How to get there:* Take a bus from Chania to Chora Sfakion, then a boat from Sfakia port. Alternatively, take a boat from Sougia or Agia Roumeli.

**Stavrochori Village**
Located in Eastern Crete’s Lasithi region, Stavrochori is home to historical churches and chapels, along with beautiful religious festivals. Notable sites include the Church of Agios Konstantinos South Village, built next to a waterfall. A short walk from the village center leads to the pristine Makry Gialos beach, making Stavrochori a true hidden gem.

*How to get there:* Drive from Heraklion to Makry Gialos or Sitia, or take a public bus from Heraklion that passes by Stavrochori Village.

**Richtis Gorge**
Crete is also known for its beautiful gorges. Richtis Gorge, located near the village of Exo Mouliana in eastern Crete, offers crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, and refreshing shades of green. It’s a serene spot with no crowds, perfect for hiking through its lush forests and moderate trails.

*How to get there:* Drive from Heraklion to Exo Moulina, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Alternatively, take a bus from Heraklion to Sitia, then a taxi to Exo Moulina.

**Kourtaliotis Gorge**
Hidden beneath a rocky and arid canyon, Kourtaliotis Gorge is a lush, beautiful spot. Located in the city of Agios Nikolaos, the gorge features roaring waters and a crystal-clear plunge pool under the Church of Agios Nikolaos Kourtaliotis. To reach the gorge, walk down the steep stairs beside the church and follow the rocky river path.

*How to get there:* Drive along the mountain roads south of Rethymno, starting from cities like Heraklion, Rethymno, or Agios Nikolaos. Park at the Church of Agios Nikolaos, then walk down the steps and take the right pathway to the river.

Exploring Crete and its hidden gems is a fantastic way to spend your time off. Whether you want to relax by the beach, hike, stroll around ancient cities, or dip in a waterfall, this beautiful island has it all.