Agiofarago (Holy Canyon)

Agiofarago is a picturesque canyon south of Matala. Its name is a testament to the traveller's goal centuries ago. Legend has it that, centuries ago, the caves were inhabited by hermits who lived off of the fruits and vegetables the canyon offered. They were said to gather at the "goumenospilio", a cave that can be seen and admired today by any visitor. There, they each had a rock to sit on. If someone wasn't in attendance of the meeting, it meant that he had passed away.

You can cross the canyon and admire the rare beauty as well as the old church, Agio Antonio (St. Antonio), which was the area's religious centre during the time of the hermits. In the church's yard there is a well, which still has drinkable water. Around half an hour's walk further down, you can enjoy a swim and relax at the beach.

Moni Martsalou (Martsalou Monastery)

Moni Martsalou has taken its name from the canyon Martsalos, which is about 2 kilometres long and ends in the Libyan Sea at a small, picturesque beach with palm trees. The Monastery includes a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and built in a rock, and the caves surrounding the church. They are dated back to the first years of Christianism. The church also serves as a catacomb, where Christians would find sanctuary when chased by the then conquerors. Today, mass is said on the 15th August on the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

Kefali (Head)

Kefali is one of the southernmost points of Crete, rising to a height of 395 metres and offering a magnificent view of Messara along with Gavdo and Paksimadia. Bear witness to a unique sunrise and an unforgettable sunset.

Phaistos

The Minoan city of Phaistos is situated on the top of a hill, 5 kilometres from Kalamaki. The Palace of Phaistos was discovered in 1900 by the Italian Archaeology School, led by Frederico Halbherr and Luigi Pernier. It was the capital of Southern Crete during the Minoan Empire. Its king was the brother of the King Minoa of Knossos, Rodamanthi. Excavations are still being carried out today, though the palace is open to the public.

Kommos

Anyone can enjoy the 4-kilometre-long beach of Kommos on the southern coast of Crete. Right next to it are the ruins of a Minoan port, which was discovered during the 70's. Due to the archaeological findings and those that have not yet been brought to the surface, building is prohibited in this area. This is something that brings great joy to nature lovers. Aside from this, the Caretta Caretta turtles use Kommo beach to lay their eggs, which is, in itself, another reason to prohibit building. The prohibition of building stillstands today.

Agia Triada

Agia Triada is only 1,5 kilometres from Phaistos. An ancient city with the ruins of a Minoan "Condo", but with a name from the Byzantium era. Agia Triada is the name of the church which was built there on the ancient grounds. Near Agia Triada is where the Phaistos Disk was found on the 3rd June, 1908 by the Italian archaeologist Luigi Pernier. It is kept and maintained at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.