Discover the ancient charms, archaeological treasures and simple culinary delights of this restored village, perched in a crook of the Cretan Mountains above Heraklion.
Explore the Archanes-Asterousia municipality and journey through the hilly landscape above the Archanes village. Browse precious relics of the area’s history in the Archaeological Museum and then take a peaceful hike on nearby mountain trails. Take a moment’s rest in the old town square, where you can savour a meal and a fine wine at one of many cafés.
As you explore the narrow streets of this ancient settlement, enjoy the colours and aromas of its flower displays and fruit trees. Find the village’s closest archaeological site at the old Minoan graveyard on the village outskirts. Nearby, three other sites have produced some fascinating finds. Browse the exhibits of the Archaeological Museum and see Greek ceramics, precious artefacts and ancient tools on display. The museum does not charge admission and is open daily except Tuesdays.
Get the heart pumping and the lungs working with a hike up the E4 hiking trail. This trail begins in the village centre, past an ancient chapel, Afentis Christos and up Mount Yiouhtas. Photograph picturesque vistas of mountain valleys and goats grazing along grassy ridges. Be sure to close any gates you pass through. From the top, you’ll get some of the best views of the landscape, Heraklion, and beyond.
Return to the Archanes main square in the evening and watch crowds of locals heading home for the day. Take a seat at one of several restaurants serving traditional Greek cuisine around the square. Compliment your dish of seafood, goat stews, flaky pastries or olives with a fine wine produced in the vineyards surrounding the village.
Archanes is situated south of Heraklion. Getting there by car will take around 30 minutes, making it an easy destination for a daytrip. Though some accommodation is available, book in advance as places are limited.
