Attractions Around Viannos, Crete – Explore Within a 100 km Radius

Viannos, built on the southern slopes of Mount Dikti, is an ideal starting point for exploring a wide variety of attractions within a 100 km radius. From gorges and archaeological sites to traditional villages and stunning landscapes, the region offers unique experiences for every visitor.

1. Arvi Gorge & "Vigla" Cave

• Distance from Viannos: ~20 km south
• Why visit? The Arvi Gorge is impressive, with cliffs reaching up to 454 meters in height.
• "Vigla" Cave: Located at the top of "Kerato" hill, this cave extends 200 meters and features stalactites and stalagmites.
• Route: From Viannos, drive towards the village of Arvi.

2. Minoan Settlement of Pyrgos (Myrtos)

• Distance from Viannos: ~30 km southeast
• Why visit? Discover the ruins of an important Minoan settlement, offering insight into the early history of Crete.
• Route: From Viannos, head towards Myrtos, where signs direct you to Pyrgos.

3. Sarakina Gorge

• Distance from Viannos: ~30 km
• Why visit? One of Crete’s most impressive gorges, featuring narrow passages and stunning rock formations. Perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
• Route: From Viannos, drive towards Myrtos and follow signs to Sarakina Gorge.

4. Lassithi Plateau & Dikteon Cave

• Distance from Viannos: ~50 km north
• Why visit? The Lassithi Plateau is famous for its traditional windmills and fertile plains.
• Dikteon Cave: According to Greek mythology, this is the birthplace of Zeus. The cave boasts impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
• Route: From Viannos, drive north via the provincial road towards Lassithi Plateau.

5. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

• Distance from Viannos: ~65 km northwest
• Why visit? The Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses one of the largest collections of Minoan artifacts, providing a comprehensive insight into Crete’s ancient civilization.
• Route: From Viannos, drive north towards Heraklion via the main road network.

6. Spinalonga Island

• Distance from Viannos: ~90 km northeast
• Why visit? Spinalonga is one of Crete’s most historical islands, known as Europe’s last leper colony. Its well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman fortifications attract thousands of visitors.
• Route: From Viannos, drive towards Elounda, where you can take a boat to Spinalonga.

7. Odigitria Monastery & Agiofarago Gorge

• Distance from Viannos: ~70 km southwest
• Why visit? The Odigitria Monastery is an impressive religious site with centuries of history. Nearby, Agiofarago Gorge offers a stunning hiking route leading to a secluded beach.
• Route: From Viannos, drive towards Moires, then follow signs to Odigitria Monastery.

8. Milatos Cave

• Distance from Viannos: ~55 km northeast
• Why visit? A historical cave, notorious for the 1823 massacre of Cretan villagers by the Ottoman army. It features impressive natural formations and significant historical importance.
• Route: From Viannos, drive towards Neapoli, then follow signs to Milatos.

9. Phaistos & Matala

• Distance from Viannos: ~80 km southwest
• Why visit?
  • Phaistos: One of Crete’s most important Minoan palaces.
  • Matala: Famous for its caves carved into the cliffs, once inhabited by hippies in the 1960s.
• Route: From Viannos, drive towards Moires, then continue towards Phaistos and Matala.

Conclusion

Viannos and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions for day trips, combining nature, culture, and history.