Family Adventure in the Samaria Gorge

A Day in Rethymno: More Than Just a Stopover

Today, our family adventure took us to Rethymno, a city that effortlessly blends history with modern charm. While initially planned as a simple break from our Samaria Gorge treks, Rethymno surprised us with its Venetian architecture, Byzantine artistry, and vibrant atmosphere. It was a day of spontaneous exploration, delicious food, and unexpected discoveries, proving that sometimes the best travel moments are the ones you don't plan too meticulously.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Taverna Tarra. I enjoyed some traditional Cretan breakfast, while Greta opted for a lighter meal. Marko, of course, wanted pancakes. Fuelled up, we set out to explore the city. Our first stop was the Orthodox Church of Holy Prophet Elias. While not as grand as some of the other churches we've seen, its serene atmosphere and intricate details offered a moment of peaceful reflection. I always appreciate the artistry and history embedded in these religious sites; it reminds me of the beautiful churches back in Croatia.


Discover the Orthodox Church of Holy Prophet Elias in Chania, a serene spot offering stunning views and a rich cultural experience in the heart of Crete.

Next on our list was the Rimondi Fountain. Located in Platanou Square, this Venetian-era fountain, built in 1626 by Rector A. Rimondi, was once the heart of the city's water supply. The fountain features three lion heads from which water still flows, a testament to the ingenuity of Venetian engineering. Marko was fascinated by the lion heads, and we spent a good while splashing water and taking photos. It's amazing how something so old can still capture the imagination.


Discover the historical beauty of Rimondi Fountain, a stunning landmark in Rethymno, Crete, reflecting the island's rich Venetian heritage.

“Sometimes, the most memorable travel experiences are the unplanned detours that lead to unexpected discoveries.”

After our fountain visit, it was time for lunch. We found a cozy spot called Rousios. The restaurant had a beautiful garden setting, with vines and bougainvilleas providing shade. I had the grilled chicken souvlaki, which was incredibly flavorful, while Greta enjoyed a fresh salad. Marko, predictably, devoured his pasta. Rousios, it seems, is a popular spot for those who've hiked the Samaria Gorge, and I can understand why. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was relaxing.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Rousios in Agia Roumeli, where tradition meets stunning landscapes and unforgettable flavors.

After lunch, we wandered through Rethymno's old town, admiring the Venetian architecture and browsing the local shops. The town is a maze of narrow alleyways, each turn revealing a new hidden gem. I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs, including a hand-painted icon and some local olive oil. Greta found a beautiful piece of jewelry, and Marko picked out a toy sword (of course).

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break at Barfly. This bar had a lively atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. I enjoyed a local beer, while Greta sipped on a glass of wine. Marko had a juice box and entertained himself with his new toy sword. It was the perfect spot to relax and people-watch.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Barfly in Chania, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every night.

For dinner, we chose SAMARIA restaurant. We enjoyed traditional Cretan dishes, savoring the flavors of the island. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was a fitting end to a day filled with delightful experiences.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Samaria, where every meal comes with stunning sea views in Agia Roumeli.

As we strolled back to our accommodation, the sky was painted with the colors of sunset. We stopped to admire the view, reflecting on the day's adventures. Rethymno had exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. It was a reminder that sometimes the best travel moments are the ones you don't plan too much.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Samonas Cave and the Kakos Poros trail, seeking out more of Crete's natural beauty before our journey comes to an end. I'm particularly excited about the viewpoint on the Kakos Poros trail, hoping it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It feels bittersweet knowing our adventure is nearing its end, but I'm determined to make the most of our last day on this beautiful island. I'm also hoping to pick up a few last-minute souvenirs at Anemi. Until then, goodnight from Crete!

Looking back on today and looking forward to tomorrow makes me think about how lucky I am to be able to share these experiences with my family. I hope that these stories inspire others to explore new places and create lasting memories with their loved ones. As a software engineer, I spend most of my time in front of a computer, but these trips remind me of the importance of disconnecting and connecting with the world around me.