Back to newsThe Asterousia Mountains in southern Crete form one of the island's least-visited and most rewarding regions. Stretching along the coast between the Messara Plain and the Libyan Sea, this rugged range shelters ancient monasteries, abandoned settlements, and dramatic gorges. The area is notably quieter than Crete's northern coast, drawing hikers, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking solitude. Key sites include the Monastery of Odigitria, founded in the 14th century, and the coastal village of Matala, known for its sea caves. Roads into the Asterousia are narrow and partly unpaved, so a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. The region is accessible year-round, though spring and autumn offer the most comfortable walking conditions. Visitors should carry water and supplies, as services are limited throughout much of the area.
tourism
Asterousia Mountains: Crete's Remote Haven for Hikers and History
Related news
Discover Crete
Как передвигаться по Криту на автобусе
- Bus Agia Galini до Heraklion
- Bus Agia Galini до Matala
- Bus Agia Galini до Rethymno
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Heraklion
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Hersonisos
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Ierapetra
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Siteia
- Bus Chania до Heraklion
- Bus Chania до Kissamos
- Bus Chania до Paleochora
- Bus Chania до Rethymno
- Bus Heraklion до Hersonisos
Stay informed.
Get the weekly Crete briefing · news, weather, events. No spam.