Monastery Katholiko: Crete's Ancient Hermitage
Explore Crete's oldest monastery, Katholiko, with a scenic hike through Avlaki Gorge, revealing a hidden world of ancient monastic life and stunning ruins.
Discover the abandoned Monastery Katholiko, believed to be Crete's oldest, dating back to the 11th century. Hike through the stunning Avlaki Gorge to explore its historic ruins, including a stone bridge and monks' caves, offering a glimpse into a secluded monastic life.
A brief summary to Monastery Katholiko
- Chania, 731 00, GR
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the hike, as the trail is rocky and uneven.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there is no shade or water available along the trail.
- Visit during the spring or fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Consider visiting the nearby Gouverneto Monastery and Arkoudiotissa Cave to enrich your trip.
Getting There
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Walking
The final approach to Katholiko Monastery involves a 3.2km (2.0-mile) roundtrip hike from Gouverneto Monastery. The trail starts at Gouverneto Monastery, about a 25-minute drive from Chania Old Town. From the parking area at Gouverneto Monastery, walk past the monastery to the trailhead. The path descends into Avlaki Gorge, passing Arkoudiotissa Cave. Continue down the stepped stone path to reach the ruins of Katholiko Monastery. Allow 1-1.5 hours for the hike to the monastery and back.
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Taxi
From Chania, a taxi to Gouverneto Monastery, the starting point for the hike to Katholiko Monastery, costs approximately €18-20 each way. Arrange for the taxi to return at a specific time, as there are no taxi stands at Gouverneto Monastery. From there follow the walking directions.
Discover more about Monastery Katholiko
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Venizelos Graves
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Pay tribute to Greek history while enjoying stunning panoramic views of Chania and the Cretan coastline from this peaceful Akrotiri Peninsula landmark.
Souda Venetian Fortress
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Chania Venetian Harbor Guardhouse
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Chania Harbor View
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Agios Nikolaos Redan
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Explore Agios Nikolaos Redan in Chania: a blend of history, architecture, and local culture with harbor views.
Splantzia Square
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Splantzia Square in Chania, Greece, where history, culture, and local cuisine converge in a picturesque setting.
Venetian house old town Chania
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Byzantine Walls
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Konaki/Seragio
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Kastélli
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Sofoklis Venizelos Square 2
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Ahmet Ağa Minaret
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MonEs
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Chania Boat Trips - Glass Bottom Boat | Catamaran
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Chania experience tours
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gouverneto Monastery
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Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery
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Seitan Limania
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Paralia Tersanas
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Paralia Macherida
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Experience the beauty and tranquility of Paralia Macherida, a hidden beach gem in Akrotiri, Greece, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
SUP in Crete - Water Activities in Crete - SUP tours
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Experience the beauty of Crete with thrilling stand-up paddleboarding at Sosorides Beach, the ultimate water sports destination.
Marathi Beach
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Loutraki Beach
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Orthodox Church of Holy Prophet Elias
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Saint Kyriaki Church
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Kouloura Chalepa
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Tampakaria
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Eleftherios Venizelos House
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Allied War Cemetery Souda Bay
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Archaeological Museum of Chania | Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Χανίων
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Delve into the ancient history of Crete at the Archaeological Museum of Chania, where fascinating artifacts and rich culture await your discovery.
Essential places to dine
Blue Restaurant Chania
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Aktaion Theory restaurant Bar
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To Stachi slow food
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Glossitses
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Salis
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Kariatis Restaurant
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Kouzina e.p.e.
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To Maridaki
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Το Φαγητό Της Ζωής
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PALLAS
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Orearte Gastro Bar
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Adespoto Music Taverna
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Μεσογειακό Mediterranean Restaurant
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Palazzo Almare Restaurant
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Oinopiio
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mini Art Shop
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Agora Products Boutique
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Elia Gifts and Decoration
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Dirtydolls
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Elegant Spirit
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Memorabilia
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Anemi
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Secret Paradise Chania
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Evangelia Gnafaki
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KURKUTA
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Agora_Shop
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Xamam Wear
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Temple Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Black Sheep
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Bras de Frères
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Ka Mon Irish Pub & Bar
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THE KINGS CHANIA
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Βoulevard of broken dreams
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Plaka
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Barfly
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Peacock Tail Bar
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EMPRIME
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Vazaki Reloaded
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Avalon Rock Pub Chania
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Karamela All Day Bar
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Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania
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No Name All Day Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sexypoppies strip club
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XS CLUB
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XSchania
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DNA Night Club
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BLESSED CLUB
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KLIK Bar
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Dolce Vita Club Private
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AFTER CHANIA
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Garage
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Senso Club
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Elotis Bar
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Splendid
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DIELEFSIS Scandinavian DJ Bar
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Coconut Republic Bar
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Mylos Club
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