Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

Crete's Hidden Gems: A Day of Trails and Tranquility

Today was a beautiful blend of adventure and relaxation, a perfect representation of what Crete has to offer. We traded the well-trodden tourist paths for a day immersed in nature, exploring the verdant Richtis Gorge and unwinding on the peaceful sands of Gournes Beach. It’s days like these that remind me why I love sharing these experiences with my family.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Richtis Gorge, a hidden hiking paradise in Crete with stunning landscapes and tranquil waterfalls.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arismari & Varsamo. The restaurant had a relaxed, Greek tavern-style atmosphere, and the food was excellent. I savored the grilled lamb while Hans enjoyed the meat pies, and Sofia devoured her cuttlefish. It was the perfect start to fuel our adventurous day. With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Richtis Gorge.

Trekking Through Richtis Gorge

The drive to Richtis Gorge was scenic, offering glimpses of Crete's rugged beauty. As we approached the gorge, the landscape transformed into a lush, green oasis. The contrast was striking, a welcome change from the arid landscapes we had seen earlier in our trip. The hike itself was an experience. The trail wound through a dense forest, the air filled with the sounds of birds and the gentle rush of water. Sofia was in her element, her curiosity piqued by every plant and insect we encountered. I was so glad I packed our comfortable walking shoes; they were essential for navigating the rocky terrain.

The path was well-maintained, with small wooden bridges crossing the stream at various points. The hike wasn't too strenuous, making it manageable for Sofia, yet still invigorating enough for Hans and me. Along the way, we passed old water mills, remnants of a bygone era, adding a touch of history to our natural exploration. The anticipation grew with each step, the sound of the waterfall becoming more pronounced.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

Finally, after about thirty minutes of hiking, we reached the Richtis Waterfall. It was a stunning sight, the water cascading down the rocks into a cool, clear pool. The brave ones in our group, Hans and Sofia, didn't hesitate to dive in for a refreshing swim. I, on the other hand, dipped my toes in and enjoyed the cool spray on my face, content to watch them revel in the invigorating waters. I captured some beautiful photos of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. It's moments like these that I cherish, forever etched in my memory.

After our refreshing break, we hiked back to the entrance, feeling rejuvenated by the natural beauty and the exercise. The entire experience was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life – the beauty of nature, the joy of discovery, and the warmth of family.

Gournes Beach: Coastal Relaxation

With the Richtis Gorge hike behind us, we decided to spend the afternoon at Gournes Beach. It was a short drive from the gorge, and the change of scenery was welcome.
Discover the enchanting allure of Gournes Beach, a serene escape with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Gournes Beach is a long, sandy stretch of coastline, known for its shallow waters, making it ideal for families. As we arrived, the sun was shining, and the sea was a beautiful turquoise. We found a spot on the beach and set up our little camp. Sofia was thrilled to be back on the sand, building sandcastles and splashing in the gentle waves. Hans and I took turns swimming and soaking up the sun. The beach wasn't too crowded, which was perfect for us. We enjoyed the peace and quiet, the only sounds being the lapping of the waves and the occasional chatter of other beachgoers.

I took a leisurely stroll along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the sea breeze. It was incredibly relaxing, a perfect way to unwind after our morning hike. We stayed at Gournes Beach until the late afternoon, watching the sun slowly descend towards the horizon. The sunset was spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, one that we all appreciated.

Culinary Delights and Evening Indulgences

As the day drew to a close, we were ready for a good meal. For lunch, we stopped by PATSAS AGNOS - TRADITIONAL COOKING - MARMARITSAKIS STAMATHS, where we enjoyed traditional Greek cuisine. I had heard about their delicious soup, pastitsio, and moussaka, and I was not disappointed. The staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was charming, making it a delightful culinary experience.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Salis. The restaurant is known for its modern twists on traditional Cretan cuisine, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The ambiance was elegant, and the service was impeccable. We savored every dish, from the appetizers to the desserts, accompanied by a carefully selected wine. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

After dinner, while Hans and Sofia headed back to our Airbnb, I decided to check out the Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar. I had heard good things about their cocktails, and I was in the mood for a nightcap.
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar in Rethymno, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The bar had a lively atmosphere, and the bartender was friendly and skilled. I ordered one of their signature cocktails and enjoyed the music and the ambiance. It was a fun way to end the day, a little indulgence just for me.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on today, I am grateful for the experiences we shared as a family. Crete continues to surprise and delight us with its natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ancient Eleutherna and the Sculpture “Timeless Encounters”. I am excited to delve deeper into Crete's past and discover more of its hidden treasures. For now, I will rest and dream of waterfalls, beaches, and sunsets, ready for another day of adventure in this beautiful island.