Exploring the Rich History of Crete with Family

Whispers of Zeus and Ancient Woods

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Crete, both literally and figuratively. We explored the echoes of mythology in a sacred cave and immersed ourselves in the serene beauty of an ancient forest. It was a day where the past and present intertwined, creating memories that I know will stay with us long after we've left this enchanting island.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine in Chania. The restaurant is nestled in a historic Venetian mansion, and the ambiance was simply captivating [I made a mental note to try to replicate some of the decor in my Leipzig apartment, perhaps by adding some Greek-inspired pottery]. We enjoyed a variety of traditional Cretan dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Hans-Peter particularly enjoyed the sea bass, while Sophia devoured the kids' menu options with gusto. I savored a green salad with pomegranate and some Cretan pasta with smoked pork. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards the center of the island, our trusty rental car eating up the miles. Our destination: the legendary Ideon Cave. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the Cretan landscape. As we climbed higher into the mountains, the air grew crisp and cool, a refreshing change from the warmer coastal breezes. I made sure to pack the light jacket I had, remembering how last week I forgot it and regretted it that evening.

Reaching the Ideon Cave required a bit of a hike, but the effort was well worth it. The cave, also known as the Idaean Cave, is steeped in Greek mythology, believed to be the very place where Rhea hid the infant Zeus from his father Cronus. As a librarian specializing in ancient Greek history, standing in this cave felt like stepping back in time. I could almost hear the echoes of the Kouretes, the mythical warriors who clashed their shields to mask the cries of the baby Zeus.

The cave itself is quite impressive, with a large main hall and a side gallery. The descent into the cave was steep, and I was glad we had worn our comfortable walking shoes. Inside, the air was cool and damp, and the silence was broken only by the occasional drip of water. It was easy to imagine this place as a sanctuary, a hidden refuge where the future king of the gods was nurtured and protected. Sophia was fascinated by the stories I shared, her eyes wide with wonder as she imagined the baby Zeus playing in the cave.


Explore the Idean Cave in Nida, a historical landmark where mythology meets stunning natural beauty amidst the enchanting landscapes of Crete.

Myth and nature intertwine in Crete, creating a landscape where every stone has a story to tell.

Leaving the Ideon Cave, we continued our journey towards the Rouvas forest. Located on the southern slopes of Mount Ida, this forest is one of the best-preserved ecosystems in Crete. The drive to the forest was equally stunning, taking us through picturesque villages and past rolling hills. As we approached the forest, the landscape transformed, with lush greenery replacing the rocky terrain.

The Rouvas forest is a haven of biodiversity, home to a variety of native flora and fauna. We decided to take a hike along one of the many trails, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the forest. The air was filled with the scent of pine and the sound of birdsong. Sophia was thrilled to spot a few wild goats along the way, their nimble hooves carrying them effortlessly across the rocky slopes. Hans-Peter, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the resilience of the oak trees, some of which are said to be over a thousand years old.


Explore Rouvas Forest, a stunning natural attraction in Crete, featuring lush greenery, scenic trails, and rich biodiversity for nature lovers.
The hike was moderately challenging, with some steep inclines and uneven terrain. However, the views from the higher elevations were simply breathtaking. We could see the entire valley stretching out before us, with the distant sea shimmering in the sunlight. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of this remarkable island.

After our invigorating hike, we worked up quite an appetite. We stopped for lunch at Chagiati, a local restaurant known for its authentic Cretan cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a selection of traditional dishes, including dakos, moussaka, and souvlaki. The food was hearty and flavorful, a true taste of Crete. Sophia even tried a bit of the moussaka, declaring it surprisingly delicious.


Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at Chagiati in Heraklion – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Chania, eager to experience the city's nightlife. We decided to visit The Bitters Bar, a stylish establishment known for its expertly crafted cocktails. The bar had a speakeasy vibe, with dim lighting and vintage décor. Hans-Peter and I enjoyed a couple of classic cocktails, while Sophia sipped on a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage. The atmosphere was lively and sophisticated, a perfect end to a day of adventure.


Experience the essence of Heraklion's nightlife at The Bitters Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Before heading back to our accommodation, we had dinner at TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA. The restaurant is housed in a former Turkish bathhouse, adding to its unique charm. We indulged in a variety of Greek and Cretan dishes, all bursting with flavor. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to savor our last moments in Chania for the day.


Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at Tamam Restaurant in Chania's enchanting Old Harbour – where every dish tells a story.
Reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Crete with my family. From the echoes of mythology in the Ideon Cave to the serene beauty of the Rouvas forest, every moment was a treasure. And, of course, the delicious food and vibrant nightlife added an extra layer of enjoyment to our adventure.

Tomorrow, we'll be venturing eastward to explore the Minoan Palace of Phaistos and relax on the sands of Matala Beach. I'm particularly excited to see the palace, as it will provide further insight into the fascinating Minoan civilization. I'm sure Sophia will enjoy Matala Beach too. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of Cretan adventures.

Oh, and I also managed to pick up a few Cretan crafts as souvenirs at the Alexander Natural shop and souvenirs. I am excited to add them to my collection!