RETHYMNO CRETE

In the heart of Crete, the beautiful city of Rethymno invites
you to explore its rich history and vibrant culture

Built on the site of the ancient city of Rithymna, with an awarded Blue Flag beach spanning over 12km, Rethymno combines the allure of its centuries-old history with the comforts of a modern, flourishing city and the laid-back vibe of a summer resort. Charming streets lined with Venetian and Ottoman architecture await, with hidden gems to be encountered around every corner. The beachfront promenade brims with non-stop action, and its pristine stretch of golden sand is one of Crete’s main nesting beaches for the endangered Caretta caretta turtles. Beyond the city’s borders, picturesque villages, nestled amidst rolling hills and olive groves, and the dramatic landscapes of Psiloritis and the White Mountains invite you to discover the secrets of a unique destination.

Rethymno Old Town
In the enchanting streets of Rethymno's Old Town, just 6 km from Aquila Rithymna Beach, the echoes of history are all around you. This captivating town with its charming Venetian Harbor and colorful maze of alleyways is one of the best-preserved Renaissance settlements in Europe.
Explore the majestic Fortezza, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Palaiokastro Hill, visit the historic Loggia, the Mosque, and the Archaeological Museum, make a stop at Rimondi Fountain, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture in Platanos Square, and witness spectacular sunsets from the Egyptian Lighthouse whispering tales of maritime adventures.
Ancient Eleftherna
42 km from Aquila Rithymna Beach, Ancient Eleutherna, capital city of Crete at the dawn of Greek civilization, reveals all its secrets from approximately 3000 B.C. to the 14th century A.D.
The most revealing discovery, however, was the cemetery of Orthi Petra that shed light on the so-called “Dark Ages” (9th-6th c. BC) which correspond to the period referred to by Homer in Iliad and Odyssey – in fact, the finds illustrate actual verses from the Homeric poems!
The archaeological site has been excavated for the last 30 years and covers a vast area including the first on-site museum in Crete and the fourth largest in Greece.

Kourtaliotiko Gorge & Preveli Beach

This breathtaking 3 km long gorge is a true natural wonder and the perfect place to be if you love river trekking or just wandering by the water. Hike through the dramatic scenery, carved by the Kourtaliotis River, and marvel at the huge perpendicular walls reaching 600 meters high. Listen to the soothing sounds of waterfalls cascading down the cliffs -or better still, swim under the imposing Kourtaliotis waterfall- and cool off in the crystal-clear ponds formed by the rocks. The river winds its way to the famous Preveli Beach, a secluded sandy cove with an amazing backdrop: an exotic lush palm forest, the second largest in Crete.

Arkadi Monastery

Declared by Unesco as a European Monument of Freedom, Crete’s most historic monastic establishment stands as a symbol of the Cretan Revolution due to the Holocaust of 1866, when 964 monks and residents, besieged by Ottoman troops, chose to blow up the powder room, rather than surrender. The monastery is still in operation today and within its fortress walls, the beautiful architecture, blending late Italian Renaissance with local traditions, its peaceful courtyards, and rich cultural heritage await exploration.
Margarites Village
Immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of this charming village, 30 km from Aquila Rithymna Beach, renowned for its centuries-old pottery tradition. Wander through narrow streets lined with workshops and studios, where skilled artisans create exquisite ceramics using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Discover a variety of pottery styles, from the iconic terracotta pots to the delicate hand-painted ceramics. Take home a unique souvenir or participate in a pottery workshop to learn the secrets of this ancient craft.
South Rethymno
Imagine the endless expanse of the Libyan Sea stretching towards Africa, its energy and tranquil aura embracing you. In South Rethymno, this magical feeling comes alive. A land beyond time, with the imprint of hippies in its DNA, it offers a unique escape. Hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and some of Crete’s most iconic beaches dot the scenic coast. The golden dunes of Agios Pavlos and the serene shores of Triopetra, renowned as Crete’s major yoga retreat, invite you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Don’t miss Ligres, right next to them, an endless sandy beach with a unique laid-back, almost mystical, vibe.