Our first stop for this excursion will be the famous Monastery of Agia Triada which is located on the Akrotiri Peninsula, in the north of Chania. It was built in 1634, on the site of a small church dedicated to the Holy Apostoles. Tzagarolon Monastery is a square building complex with the monastery church standing in the centre. Even if you are not into religious tourism, the Monastery of Agia Triada Tzagarolon is well worth a visit as it is a lovely, peaceful and impressive place.

Afterwards we will visit one of the oldest monasteries in Chania, Couverneto Monastery situated on a rocky site at an altitude of 260m and built as a fortress with 4 towers. It is believed that the monastery was founded by hermits and monks near the entrance of the gorge Avlaki so as to protect themselves from pirate raids. St. John the Hermit lived in a cave in the gorge Avlaki, adjacent to the monastery, and is considered as the founder of it. You can walk in Avlaki gorge by following the stone paved trail that descends to the sea.
Avlaki gorge is one of the most important gorges in Crete with a particular religious value, as many monks and hermits found shelter in its caves. The walk through this beautiful gorge lasts approximately 1 hour and at the end of it you will see a narrow rocky fjord with green waters.

After your descent we will stop at Stavros, one of the most popular beaches in Chania as scenes of the famous “Zorba the Greek” starring Anthony Quinn, were filmed here in 1964. At the beach, and against the backdrop of the hill of Stavros, the Zorba danced the famous Sirtaki. At this stunning beach you will have plenty of free time to enjoy the sun and the sea.

Duration: 3 hours (free time at Stavros) Driving Time: approximately 1h

Importance Notices:

• The above prices do NOT include admission fees, wherever those apply.
• For most of these destinations we can arrange your lunch break for you and suggest a traditional “taverna” nearby, in order to experience the traditional Cretan cuisine (please contact us for pricing details).
• Our driver will take you to the entrance of the gorge, where you will start your hike and pick you up again from Stavros Beach  at the time you will request.