Overview
Margarites Valley: Hiking & Pottery Experience in Rethymno
Discover the Valley of the Margarites in Rethymno. A unique 10km hike that combines the lush green gorge with traditional pottery. Crete has the ability to combine wonderful landscapes with famous historical sites. Margarites valley is one of these trails. That trail is a scenic hiking route located in the region of Rethymno and it connects the ancient site of Eleftherna, which was a significant Minoan and later Hellenistic town, to the nearby village of Margarites, known for its traditional pottery.
The Trail: From Margarites Village to Ancient Eleftherna
The Ancient Eleftherna hike is one of the best hiking trails in Rethymno. Passing through the Margarites gorge ιnitially and then through the Margarites Valley, the trekking offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including olive groves, vineyards, and great views to the rugged Cretan mountains. The archaeological site of Ancient Eleftherna features ruins from various periods, including Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian. Notable sites include ancient tombs, temples, and parts of the ancient city walls.
Discover the Tradition of Cretan Pottery
The Village of Margarites, which is Known for its rich history of pottery, is a charming village where you can find local artisans crafting traditional Cretan ceramics at the oldest pottery workshops in Crete. After finishing the hike in Margarites, you can enjoy local taverns offering traditional Cretan cuisine, further enhancing your cultural experience.
Highlights
- The traditional village of Margarites with the small pottery workshops.
- The Acropolis of Ancient Eleftherna and the ruins of the city as well. Semi-abantonde small villages across the walk.
- The stunning beauty of the Cretan countryside surrounding by the impressive Cretan mountains full of ancient olive grows, prickly pears, vineyards etc.
Essential info
The tour is available all the time of the year and for the summer season every Thursday you can participate to a group tour.
Trail details
The terrain is mixed with some parts on asphalt roads, cobblestones paths, dirt roads and small trails. Not hard, with gentle inclines and minimal elevation gain.
Duration: 5 hours. It’s important to check the activity levels here.
Distance: 10,5 km | Elevation gain: 383m. / Elevation loss: 383m.
Minimum group size 2 persons / Maximum group size 8 persons
*For bigger groups, please contact us.
Transportation
The driving time to the meeting point from the big cities of Crete is:
From Chania, 1:30 hour
From Rethymno, 35 minutes
From Heraklion, 1:15 hours
Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking in Margarites
- How long does the hike to the Valley of the Margarites take?
The total route takes about 5 hours, covering a distance of 10 kilometres, including stops for sightseeing and rest. - Is the route suitable for children?
Yes, the hike is of moderate difficulty and is considered friendly for families with children who have some familiarity with walking in nature. - What will we see during the excursion?
The excursion combines a visit to the archaeological site of Eleftherna, a hike in the lush green gorge and a tour of the famous pottery workshops of Margarites. - What is the best time to visit?
The valley is beautiful all year round, but spring and autumn offer the best temperatures for hiking.
*Before you book the tour, please read the terms & conditions session.
Book The TourOverview
Margarites Valley: Hiking & Pottery Experience in Rethymno
Discover the Valley of the Margarites in Rethymno. A unique 10km hike that combines the lush green gorge with traditional pottery. Crete has the ability to combine wonderful landscapes with famous historical sites. Margarites valley is one of these trails. That trail is a scenic hiking route located in the region of Rethymno and it connects the ancient site of Eleftherna, which was a significant Minoan and later Hellenistic town, to the nearby village of Margarites, known for its traditional pottery.
The Trail: From Margarites Village to Ancient Eleftherna
The Ancient Eleftherna hike is one of the best hiking trails in Rethymno. Passing through the Margarites gorge ιnitially and then through the Margarites Valley, the trekking offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including olive groves, vineyards, and great views to the rugged Cretan mountains. The archaeological site of Ancient Eleftherna features ruins from various periods, including Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian. Notable sites include ancient tombs, temples, and parts of the ancient city walls.
Discover the Tradition of Cretan Pottery
The Village of Margarites, which is Known for its rich history of pottery, is a charming village where you can find local artisans crafting traditional Cretan ceramics at the oldest pottery workshops in Crete. After finishing the hike in Margarites, you can enjoy local taverns offering traditional Cretan cuisine, further enhancing your cultural experience.
Highlights
- The traditional village of Margarites with the small pottery workshops.
- The Acropolis of Ancient Eleftherna and the ruins of the city as well. Semi-abantonde small villages across the walk.
- The stunning beauty of the Cretan countryside surrounding by the impressive Cretan mountains full of ancient olive grows, prickly pears, vineyards etc.
Essential info
The tour is available all the time of the year and for the summer season every Thursday you can participate to a group tour.
Trail details
The terrain is mixed with some parts on asphalt roads, cobblestones paths, dirt roads and small trails. Not hard, with gentle inclines and minimal elevation gain.
Duration: 5 hours. It’s important to check the activity levels here.
Distance: 10,5 km | Elevation gain: 383m. / Elevation loss: 383m.
Minimum group size 2 persons / Maximum group size 8 persons
*For bigger groups, please contact us.
Transportation
The driving time to the meeting point from the big cities of Crete is:
From Chania, 1:30 hour
From Rethymno, 35 minutes
From Heraklion, 1:15 hours
Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking in Margarites
- How long does the hike to the Valley of the Margarites take?
The total route takes about 5 hours, covering a distance of 10 kilometres, including stops for sightseeing and rest. - Is the route suitable for children?
Yes, the hike is of moderate difficulty and is considered friendly for families with children who have some familiarity with walking in nature. - What will we see during the excursion?
The excursion combines a visit to the archaeological site of Eleftherna, a hike in the lush green gorge and a tour of the famous pottery workshops of Margarites. - What is the best time to visit?
The valley is beautiful all year round, but spring and autumn offer the best temperatures for hiking.
*Before you book the tour, please read the terms & conditions session.
Book The TourIncluded
- English speaking certified guide
- Walking sticks
- Light lunch after the hike at Margarites village
- Third party liability insurance
- All Fees and Taxes
Not Included
- Transfer to the meeting point (Transfer upon request with extra cost)
- Your meals
- Your personal expenses
- Everything not mentioned
