Why not take the back route, drive through mountains and villages and head east all the way to the unique Monastery of Toplou? While it is a small monastery, it is a beautiful place to stop, walk around and visit its museum: here, there are icons that date back all the way to the 15th century. Another good reason to stop here is the Monastery’s renowned winery! Try out Moni Toplou’s award-winning organic olive oil and wine before jumping back in the car.
1-day trip
to east
Crete
Toplou Monastery - Vai Beach
Ierapetra - Toplou Monastery - Vai Beach
One way approx. 83.0 km, 1h 35 min driving time
What To Do
- Explore the beauties of the monastery’s museum.
- Relish some traditional fish delicacies at the “Kakavia” tavern in Chiona.
- Sunbathe under the palm forest.
Just a 15-minute drive away and you will find yourself in the unique palm forest of Vai with a large grove of Cretan Date Palms (Phoenix theophrasti). A pure, sandy beach surrounded by palm trees that offer a peaceful paysage, Vai is one of the most famous beaches in eastern Crete and it’s definitely worth visiting.
Route
Gallery
