Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

Lost in Labyrinths and Nature's Embrace

Today was a day of contrasts, venturing into the depths of ancient myths and scaling the heights of natural beauty. Crete continues to surprise and enchant us with its layered history and stunning landscapes. It’s days like these that make me so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Hans and Sofia, creating memories that I know we’ll cherish for years to come.

Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Herbs' Garden. Perched on a rooftop in Heraklion, the restaurant offered stunning views of the Venetian harbor, a perfect backdrop for a relaxed family meal. The fresh juices and local pastries were a hit with Sofia, who declared it the best breakfast of the trip so far. I particularly enjoyed the Cretan herbs infused in the dishes, a testament to the island's rich botanical heritage.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for our first adventure: the Labyrinth Cave. The drive there was scenic, winding through olive groves and small villages. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I've always been fascinated by myths and legends, and the idea of exploring a labyrinth, even one not directly connected to the famous Minotaur story, was incredibly appealing. I had read about the park in the north-east of Crete, but the Labyrinth Cave seemed like a more authentic experience.

Arriving at the Labyrinth Cave, I was immediately struck by the sense of mystery surrounding it. The entrance was unassuming, a small opening in the hillside that led into a network of dark, winding passages. Sofia's eyes widened with excitement, and even Hans, ever the pragmatist, seemed intrigued. As we ventured deeper, the temperature dropped noticeably, and the air grew thick with the scent of damp earth. I must admit, a portable charger would have been great right about now, as I was trying to preserve my phone battery.

The cave was indeed a labyrinth, with tunnels branching off in every direction. Some passages were wide and easy to navigate, while others were narrow and required us to squeeze through. The walls were rough and uneven, marked with the pick marks of ancient quarrymen. It was fascinating to think about the people who had worked here centuries ago, extracting stones for buildings and monuments. While this cave isn’t directly linked to the Minotaur’s labyrinth of Knossos, it did make me think of the mythology camp for kids, and the mythology tours, which are popular here in Crete.

To truly appreciate a place, you must allow yourself to get lost in its history and beauty.

I made sure to keep a close eye on Sofia, who was darting around with the enthusiasm of a seasoned explorer. At one point, she turned to me, her face illuminated by her flashlight, and asked, Mama, do you think the Minotaur was really here? I smiled and told her that while we couldn't be sure, it was fun to imagine what it might have been like.

After what felt like hours of wandering, we emerged from the cave, blinking in the bright sunlight. Sofia was full of stories about the strange rock formations and the echoes we had heard. I was struck by a sense of awe and respect for the ancient world, and the ingenuity of the people who had shaped this landscape.


Explore the fascinating Labyrinth Cave in Crete, a historical landmark filled with natural beauty and mythological intrigue.

Our next destination was Kotsifou Canyon, a dramatic gorge located a short drive from the Labyrinth Cave. After our subterranean adventure, I was eager to experience the wide-open spaces and fresh air of the canyon. The drive itself was breathtaking, with hairpin turns and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. I was glad Hans was driving, as the roads were quite narrow and winding, and I tend to get a little nervous on such routes.

As we approached the canyon, the landscape transformed from rolling hills to towering cliffs. The sheer scale of the gorge was awe-inspiring, with vertical walls rising hundreds of meters on either side. We parked the car and began our hike along the canyon floor. The path was well-maintained but rocky, so I was grateful for my comfortable walking shoes. This made me think of the travel guidebooks I consulted before the trip, and how essential they are for planning.

The canyon was alive with the sounds of nature. Birds chirped overhead, and the gentle rush of water could be heard in the distance. As we walked deeper into the gorge, the walls narrowed, creating a sense of intimacy and enclosure. The sunlight filtered through the narrow opening above, casting dramatic shadows on the canyon floor. The Kotsifou Gorge is known for its endemic plant species, and I was delighted to see so many unique and beautiful flowers blooming along the path.

We stopped at a small church built into a rocky cavity, dedicated to Saint Nicholas. It was a peaceful and serene spot, a place for quiet reflection amidst the grandeur of nature. Sofia lit a candle and said a prayer, while Hans and I took a moment to admire the intricate stonework and the stunning views from the church's entrance.

Continuing our hike, we reached a point where the canyon narrowed to just a few meters wide. The walls were so close that we could touch them on either side. It was an exhilarating experience, a reminder of the power and beauty of the natural world. We paused here for a while, taking in the sights and sounds of the canyon, and feeling grateful for the opportunity to share this moment together.


Discover the breathtaking Kotsifou Canyon in Crete – a natural wonder perfect for hiking, photography, and soaking in the serene beauty of nature.

For lunch, we stopped at To Pigadi Restaurant in Rethymno, a charming spot housed in a 16th-century Venetian building. The courtyard setting was lovely, with flowers cascading from the walls and a peaceful atmosphere. The food was delicious, traditional Cretan dishes with a modern twist. Sofia devoured the lamb chops, while Hans and I savored the rabbit stifado. The complimentary cakes for dessert were a delightful touch.


Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at To Pigadi Restaurant in Rethymno, where every dish celebrates Cretan flavors with fresh ingredients.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way back to Heraklion. Before heading back to our Airbnb, we decided to stop at Blue N Blum, a bar in Gazi. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, and the drinks were refreshing. We sat outside, enjoying the cool evening air and reminiscing about our adventures of the day. Sofia sipped on a juice, while Hans and I enjoyed a glass of local wine. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover Blue N Blum, a charming bar in Gazi offering an array of drinks and a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

As I reflect on our experiences today, I am struck by the diversity and richness of Crete. From the ancient mysteries of the Labyrinth Cave to the natural beauty of Kotsifou Canyon, this island has something to offer everyone. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that I know we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Cretan adventure. We plan to visit Melidoni Cave and Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village, soaking up the last bits of culture and history before heading back to Bonn. We'll have breakfast at Myrtios Traditional Taverna, lunch at Pelagos Sea Side Restaurant, and a farewell dinner at Lemonokipos Restaurant. Of course, we’ll need to grab a souvenir at Cretan Tradition Hersonissos before our departure. It’s bittersweet to think about leaving, but I know we’ll carry the spirit of Crete with us always.