Pitsidia

Pitsidia, a charming village in the south of Crete, offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences and historical sights. Here are some of the interesting aspects for our holiday home guests.

Just a few minutes from Pitsidia, Komos Beach is a beautiful, expansive sandy beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing days by the sea. It is known for its unspoilt nature and quiet character as it is less crowded than other beaches in Crete.

Slightly further west, this famous beach is known for its caves carved into the rocks that served as living quarters in ancient times. Matala also has a long history as a hippie hotspot in the 1960s. This tradition is still remembered today with annual festivities.

Near Komos Beach is an ancient Minoan settlement. The Komos area was once an important port and religious centre. Tourists can visit the archaeological sites by arrangement, which are still relatively undeveloped and therefore offer an authentic experience.

The ancient Minoan city of Phaistos is just a short drive from Pitsidia. Phaistos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete and is famous for the discovery of the Phaistos Disc, which is one of the oldest examples of written communication. The writing on this disc has not been fully deciphered to this day.

The valley around Pitsidia offers wonderful hikes with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the sea. The region is ideal for hikers who want to experience Cretan nature off the beaten track.

Close to Pitsidia is the Agiofarango Gorge, a beautiful hiking trail that leads to a secluded beach. This place is known for its dramatic scenery and tranquility. The path passes the Odigitrias Monastery, which is definitely worth a visit. Be sure not to park your car under the trees, as the free-roaming goats (kri kri) will use it as a staircase to access the leaves of the trees...

Pitsidia is a traditional, quiet village that allows visitors to experience authentic Cretan life. There are many cafes and tavernas where you can enjoy local specialties such as "moussaka", "souvlaki" and "Cretan dakos".

In and around Pitsidia you can find smaller shops selling local handicrafts such as pottery, textiles and jewelry. In the nearby village of Kouses there is a well-known herbalist who also ships his goods online for post-holiday purchases.

During the summer, Pitsidia and the surrounding area hosts a variety of local festivals and cultural events, including music and dance festivals, often accompanied by traditional Cretan dances and music.

Nearby Matala, known for its caves and hippie cultural history, also offers interesting restaurants and shops in addition to its beach.

For those looking for a day trip, the city of Heraklion is just a short drive away, with its numerous historical sites, including the world-famous Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum.

Pitsidia is an ideal base for travelers seeking both relaxing days on the beach and adventures in nature or visits to historical sites. The combination of culture, history and unspoiled nature makes it an attractive destination for tourists.