Margarites Valley hike, Rethymnon
Alternative Crete
Margarites Valley: Hiking & Pottery Experience in Rethymno
Discover the Valley of the Margarites in Rethymno. A unique 10km hike that combines the lush green gorge with traditional pottery. Crete has the ability to combine wonderful landscapes with famous historical sites. Margarites valley is one of these trails. That trail is a scenic hiking route located in the region of Rethymno and it connects the ancient site of Eleftherna, which was a significant Minoan and later Hellenistic town, to the nearby village of Margarites, known for its traditional pottery.
The Trail: From Margarites Village to Ancient Eleftherna
The Ancient Eleftherna hike is one of the best hiking trails in Rethymno. Passing through the Margarites gorge initially and then through the Margarites Valley, the trekking offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including olive groves, vineyards, and great views to the rugged Cretan mountains. The archaeological site of Ancient Eleftherna features ruins from various periods, including Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian. Notable sites include ancient tombs, temples, and parts of the ancient city walls.
Discover the Tradition of Cretan Pottery
The Village of Margarites, which is known for its rich history of pottery, is a charming village where you can find local artisans crafting traditional Cretan ceramics at the oldest pottery workshops in Crete. After finishing the hike in Margarites, you can enjoy local taverns offering traditional Cretan cuisine, and...