- Base
- Sitia or Palekastro
- North
- Toplou, Vai, Itanos, Kouremenos
- South
- Ano Zakros, Gorge of the Dead, Kato Zakros, Xerokampos
- Needs
- A car, water, walking shoes
Northern day
Start at Toplou monastery for its icons and winery, then drive to Vai for the palm forest and a swim. Continue 2 km to ancient Itanos and its quieter beaches, and finish at Kouremenos or Chiona near Palekastro, with dinner by the Minoan site.
Southern day
Drive to Ano Zakros, visit the water museum, and walk the Gorge of the Dead down to Kato Zakros (about 2 hours). See the Minoan palace, swim and eat by the beach, then take a taxi back up. With a car, continue on the coastal road to Xerokampos for quiet sandy coves.
Geology on the way
The geopark protects caves, gorges, fossils and the karst landscape. The Natural History Museum in Zakros explains what you are seeing.
Questions before you go
What is the Sitia Geopark?
A UNESCO Global Geopark covering much of the Sitia region in eastern Crete.
Can you see Vai and Zakros in one day?
It is possible but rushed; two days are better.
Where should I base myself?
Sitia or Palekastro.
