The Heraklion hinterland blends tradition, nature, and antiquity in a singular way, revealing three distinct facets of Cretan identity.
From the traditional village of Skalani, with its fragrant vineyards and stone-built houses, to the trails of mythical Mount Juktas that command the plain, and finally to the archaeological site of Tylissos, which carries you back to the Minoan era. This route is a captivating exploration for every visitor who wants to discover an authentic piece of Crete.
Stop 1: Skalani
Your excursion begins in Skalani, a charming village a few kilometers southeast of the city of Heraklion. The village stands out for its traditional houses, cobbled alleys, and stately mansions that still reveal the eras of prosperity and flourishing the settlement once enjoyed.
Here, viticulture reigns, inviting you on a journey of flavor. As you drive, look for signs to local wineries – ambassadors of the Cretan varieties Vidiano, Liatiko, and Mandilari – and treat yourself to a guided wine tasting amid the vineyards.
In Skalani, you can wander the lanes or enjoy a coffee at the square’s kafeneio. It is, without a doubt, the ideal starting point for a unique exploration of the wider Heraklion area – a place where tradition meets local hospitality and the wonderful flavors that the Cretan land offers so generously.
Hike Mount Juktas
Mount Juktas rises like a natural guardian above Archanes. According to mythology, the tomb of Zeus lies here, making it one of the most distinctive points of interest in all of Crete. The mountain’s trails lead you through landscapes scented with aromatic herbs and dotted with wildflowers, opening up to a breathtaking panorama. From the summit, the land unfurls at your feet and your gaze reaches the Cretan Sea. Hiking on Juktas connects you with the ancient myths of Crete, adding a spiritual dimension to your route.
Visit the archaeological site of Tylissos
The final stop on your route is dedicated to culture. The archaeological site of Tylissos, just 16 kilometers west of the city of Heraklion, reveals three Minoan mansions that showcase the organization and wealth of the area in antiquity. Surviving sections of walls, rooms with intricate floors, and cisterns remain, while the finds attest to the zenith of a settlement that flourished alongside the great Minoan centers. Tylissos may not be extensive, yet its atmosphere is notably authentic and offers you a more personal encounter with Minoan civilization.
A route with many faces
The road trip through the Heraklion hinterland is an introduction to three different aspects of the Cretan experience. From the traditional life you will experience on the edges of Skalani, to the landscape of Juktas linked to significant mythological references, and from there to the archaeological testimony of Tylissos, your route becomes a mosaic of images and emotions. A route that proves that in Crete every step carries the energy of yesterday and the beauty of today, inviting you to experience it with all your senses.
Read also:
Discovering Central Crete Beyond the City of Heraklion
A Whistle Stop Visit to the Cretan Capital of Heraklion
Traditional village in the heart of Crete with an extensive history
