Western Rethymno stands out for its raw natural beauty, serene villages, and landscapes that merge into the deep blue of the Libyan Se This journey blends the authenticity of Crete’s hinterland with the freshness of its springs, the thrill of hiking through dramatic gorges, and the calm of remote southern beaches.
From historic Argyroupoli to the striking Kotsifos Gorge and the tranquil shores of Rodakino, this road trip captures Crete’s diversity in all its forms.
Argyroupoli and its Springs
Begin in Argyroupoli, built on the ancient city of Lappa. The village is steeped in history, with ancient ruins, Byzantine chapels, and timeworn stone houses that tell stories of centuries past. Wandering its narrow alleys feels like stepping into another era, while the village square, shaded by plane trees and filled with the hum of conversation, reflects the warmth of Cretan hospitality.
Just below lie the famed springs of Argyroupoli—an oasis of flowing water, waterfalls, and towering trees. Tables from nearby tavernas sit beside the stream, creating an idyllic setting for a long, lazy meal surrounded by the sound of rushing water. It’s a place that reconnects you with nature’s rhythm.
Hiking the Kotsifos Gorge
Leaving Argyroupoli behind, the road leads to the Kotsifos Gorge—one of Rethymno’s most impressive natural landmarks. The steep cliffs and narrow passageway create a wild, awe-inspiring landscape. The hike is relatively easy, following the riverbed and allowing for close contact with the rugged terrain. Along the way, small chapels carved into the rock and traces of old paths recall the generations that once moved through this land, blending faith and endurance with the natural world.
The Beaches of Rodakino
The journey ends at the beaches of Rodakino, where the mountains meet the Libyan Sea. The area remains peaceful and unspoiled, its beaches defined by their simplicity and crystalline waters. Korakas, with its inviting turquoise shallows, Polyrizos with soft golden sand, and the quieter Peristeres offer options for every mood. Rodakino is the kind of place where time slows down, where travelers can unwind in nature’s silence far from mass tourism. It’s a pocket of authenticity that feels like Crete before the crowds.
A Journey with Many Faces
A road trip through Western Rethymno is a condensed experience of Crete’s soul—its history, wilderness, and sea. Each stop reveals a different facet of the island, from the ancient village of Argyroupoli to the dramatic Kotsifos Gorge and the serene beaches of Rodakino. Though it can all be done in a single day, the feeling it leaves lingers much longer: the sense of having touched the real heart of Crete, where life still follows the old, unhurried rhythm of the island.
Read also:
Exploring Rethymno the Third Largest City in Crete
Beaches in the North and South of Rethymno Crete
