Crete's Hidden Gems

Explore Crete through its specialized crafts, wartime history, and geological formations. This selection includes the Cretan Olive Oil Farm for traditional workshops and Douloufakis Winery for local viticulture. Historical sites include a World War II shelter in Platanias maintained by volunteers, while the Stivanadika district preserves the island's leatherworking heritage. For natural landmarks, Voulismeno Aloni presents a massive sinkhole at the foot of Mount Stroumboulas, utilized for its unique terrain and climbing routes.

Cretan Olive Oil Farm

A great chance to learn all about various Cretan crafts in a refreshing environment - and perhaps even take some home.

Historic shelter of Platanias

A well-maintained museum by World War II enthusiasts who volunteer out here to keep the place running.

Leather Lane

Historically the center for hand-sewn Cretan boots known as stivania, this lane features workshops and shops specializing in traditional leather goods and footwear produced using long-standing local techniques.

Douloufakis Winery

A great local winery offering a tour of the process of making wine and their cellars.

Voulismeno Aloni

Voulismeno Aloni is a sinkhole located at the feet of Mt Stroumboulas, next to the old national road, at the 14th kilometer from Heraklion…