Marathi and Gouverneto

Marathi and Gouverneto are two more places you need to see in Akrotiri, besides Stavros. Marathi is another paradise little village split into two sandy beaches preferred especially by the local crowds mainly during the weekends.

The beaches’ proximity to the two fish taverns located literally on the wave, offering fresh & traditional dishes can be a dreamy combo for every visitor and since the locals seem to have such a timeless love for them, it’s as safe as it can get…

Other very noteworthy places in Akrotiri are the Monasteries of Agías Triados of Jagarolon, of Gouverneto & finally of Saint John the Hermit, very close to each other, in a line that forms the reason why the peninsula of Akrotiri is often called the “Holy Mountain of Crete”.

The Crusading Monastery of Agias Triados (Holy Trinity) is one of the most significant monastic complexes from the end of the Venetian occupation on the island. Jeremiah Jagarolo took over the reformation of the small monastery standing there before 1611, which went through several tidal changes through the years.

Today one can marvel at its great architecture but can also sample one of its famous products that include several different varieties of wine as well as olive oil made by its trees & vines.

Shortly after it, one can find the castle-like Monastery of Gouverneto (Lady of the Angels) built in 1537 & burnt by the Ottomans after their invasion in the middle of the 17th century but rebuilt later on.

After the visit to the second convent, a paved little path leads to the slopes of a beautiful canyon surrounded by wild nature ending with the famous Arkoudospiliá (bear cave) named after a large stalagmite that dominates its main chamber & the cave of Saint John the Hermit.

If you continue, further down, you will reach a small creek that was once used as a berth, where you can take a cooling dive before ascending the challenging path up to the top.