Heraklion to Sfentoni Cave and Arkadi Monastery: Day trip

Located in the UNESCO-protected Nature Park of Psiloritis, Sfentoni cave is a natural wonder with an impressive display of speleothems. One a guided tour, you'll pass through multiple chambers, each filled with unique formations in varying shapes, sizes, and colors. There's stalagmites and stalactites, water basins, and delicate “cave pearls”. As a natural habitat for many creatures of the night, including bats, cave crickets, and spiders, some of which are endemic to the region, the cave is a unique experience for spooky nature enthusiasts. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of human use of the cave throughout the ages dating back to the Neolithic period. One of the more fascinating discoveries was the skeleton of a young boy, which had been lying in the cave for several centuries. Not only is the cave an intriguing natural site, but it also offers a refreshing escape from the heat during hot summer days. The cave’s history is steeped in local legends, including tales of a rebel from Sfakia and a cursed love affair between a fairy and a shepherd. The site is disability-friendly and guided tours are included with the purchase of entrance tickets.

The 16th-century Eastern Orthodox Arkadi Monastery has quite a story to tell: it is a symbol of Cretan resistance to Ottoman rule, as almost a thousand Cretans blew themselves up on the monastery’s grounds rather than surrender to the conquerors during a siege in 1866. With origins allegedly dating back to the 5th century, this ancient pilgrimage site is famous for its church, the Katholikon, built in the Venetian style and influenced by Renaissance with Roman and baroque elements. Being one of the main landmarks of Crete, the church will look back at you from every postcard, and it only makes sense to see it in person. In the 16th century, the monastery was the center of education and manuscript culture and later – of the art of golden embroidery. In addition to the church, visitors can examine the monastery’s fortified walls along the perimeter, monks’ cells, a garden, a small museum with religious and historical artifacts, and even a building with skulls and bones from the infamous battle. The monastery is open throughout the year, but we recommend verifying seasonal opening hours. A small entrance fee applies to foreign visitors.