Hike & Take In The Views At This Monastery On Holiday In Crete

Those who holiday in Crete will quickly discover that it is truly a paradise anyone who likes to get outside and get active. While the island has a rich history and cultural heritage to dive into, lots of culinary gems to explore, and much more besides, the diverse and incredibly beautiful landscape of the area is truly mind-blowing and ripe with possibilities. Spend days enjoying her wonderful beaches, of course, but make sure to also set aside some time to see the other natural beauties that Crete has to offer. In particular, if you’re looking for a destination where you’ll have plenty of excellent hiking routes surrounded by stunning views to choose from, then a villa in Crete is just the thing as you will find yourself absolutely spoiled for choice. We have mentioned some notable examples in the past including the famous gorge routes of the island (Samariá Gorge, Imbros Gorge, and Richtis Gorge), the breathtaking trails through the White Mountains, the charming coastal walks and trails around the Gramvousa Peninsula, and more. However, if you’re looking for a lovely hike and a visit to a stunning architectural gem steeped in history in Greece combined, then a visit to Gouverneto Monastery will tick all of your boxes in one!

Located about 20km from Chania, the picturesque Gouverneto Monastery is one of the oldest in Crete, dating back to 1537, and was also one of the biggest monasteries ever on the island, housing a maximum of 60 monks during its height in 1637, according to the census. Also known as Our Lady of Angels, this Greek Orthodox monastery doesn’t necessarily actually look like a monastic building at first glance but, rather, almost more like a palace due to the fortified elements including the towers at each end and the ornate Venetian and Baroque styles implemented. However, once you step through the outer building, into the courtyard, you will quickly discover the exceptionally pretty domed church inside with some of the oldest frescoes in Crete in addition to two other chapels in the narthex. Throughout the grounds, one will find fascinating monsters carved into the relief of the front of the church, lovely gardens, and a little museum of ecclesiastical works. Despite interruption of the initial expansions of the original buildings back in the 17th century by the Turkish Invasion and then the use of the building by Germans as a guardhouse and base for controlling the area during WWII, restoration work begun by the monks in 2005 has ensured that the great beauty of this gem of a place has been returned and maintained.

Visitors today will discover that not only are the monastery and grounds well worth exploring but they are also only the beginning of a day out. The area around Gouverneto Monastery is incredibly scenic and there are wonderful hiking and walking trails to be explored. In fact, a path goes directly from the monastery down into the Avlaki Gorge and right down to the coast. Best undertaken early in the day or late in the afternoon if you are on vacation in Crete during the summer months as the heat can make the return journey rather difficult, the route is a relatively easy descent but, as one might imagine, walking back up is not as simple. While not an incredibly difficult trail, those who are unused to hiking might want to proceed with caution and make sure to bring some water and comfortable closed shoes along with you no matter what.

Taking this route through the gorge from the monastery for about ten to twenty minutes, you should come to the famous Αrkoudospilios or “Bear Cave”, where you will find a great rock that local legend claims is a bear that was turned to stone, which is also the site of a former temple to Artemis. Continuing on again, you will eventually reach the well-known abandoned Katholiko Monastery and the church of St John the Hermit. Then, once you have had a look around and are going to set out once more, you will need to walk for 15 to 25 more minutes before you meet the coast and a beautiful little cove that was once used as a harbour. While it is an exceptionally lovely, with wonderful jewel-toned waters, do keep in mind that swimming in the cove is strictly prohibited by the monks and prevent yourself from jumping in for a dip. Not the longest or most difficult hike in the world, this is a nice option for those looking for an interesting walk without heading out on a serious expedition and who like to have lots of things to see along the way. The surrounding scenery is utterly charming and this is a stunning little haven to explore.

Those who have found a villa in Crete and are looking to plan a wonderful day of light hiking, taking in lots of incredible views and scenery, discovering some incredible artistic and architectural gems, and more at the lovely Gouverneto Monastery should, however, keep a few things in mind. First of all, do not forget that it is still a functioning monastery and should be treated with respect. They have very strict opening hours and if you arrive on either Wednesday or Friday you will not be able to gain access to the buildings or grounds. If you arrive when they are open but you are not appropriately dressed (i.e. if you are wearing shorts, swimwear, or a sleeveless blouse), you will not be allowed to enter. When inside the monastery itself, you should also remember that it is not permitted to smoke or to use cameras or video cameras. As long as you keep this in mind, there should be no problems in visiting one of the loveliest monasteries in all of Greece and enjoying a short but sweet hike in some of the best scenery on the island.

Gouverneto Monastery
Chania 731 00, Greece
+30 2821 063319

Opening hours:
Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 09:00 – 12:00 and 17:00 – 19:00
Saturdays and Sundays 09:00 – 11:00 and 17:00 – 20:00

Entrance fee: €2.50