Leave Rethymnon in the morning towards Arkadi, turning right in the village of Platanias to Tsesmes, Adele, Pigi, Loutra and Kiriana. A visit to the impressive Arkadi monastery, symbol of the Cretan struggle for freedom and independence, is not to be missed. Restoration work to the church of the monastery has recently been completed, which makes the visit even more pleasurable. After possibly having purchased some �Holy Raki� continue the journey on the road to Thronos in the Amari valley. Here you can visit the archaeological site, dating from Roman times. Go across the Amari valley towards Gerakari, maybe making a quick stop to stock up on the local cherry brandy, and then on to Spili with its famous lion head springs (currently undergoing serious renovation). From Spili take the road back to Rethymnon for about 3km as far as the village of Mixorouma Take a left to Frati, from where you descend towards the Kourtaliotou gorge. After the village of Asomatos, bear right towards the village of Mariou and then on to Myrthios � a village with one of the most impressive views on Crete; an ideal place for a lunch break.
The bays of Plakias, Damoni, Amoudi and Schinaria offer good swimming and snorkelling.
The journey then continues through the village of Lefkogia, after 500m turn right to the village of Gianniou. After this village the road becomes a dirt track but continue because once across the ridge the view of South Coast is absolutely fantastic, with Preveli Monastery just below to the right. Again time should be taken out for a visit of this important monastery and to absorb the atmosphere. From here take the paved road back, passing the Peace and Friendship memorial, and continue on this road back to Asomatos, through the Kourtaliotou gorge and on to the village of Koxare. Continue on this road until the junction with the main Rethymnon � Agia Galini road. Turn left and head back to Rethymnon.
A varied and very satisfying day out.
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A daytrip suggestion
Posted - 15/05/2006 : 19:57:06
