Stay in Treis Ekklisies — a hidden coastal haven tucked deep within the dramatic Asterousia Mountains, 64 kilometers south of Heraklion. Named after its three ancient Byzantine churches, this remote village rewards adventurous travelers with wild beauty, silence, and some of the most unspoiled beaches in all of Crete.

Getting there is part of the experience: a winding 10 km road snakes down the mountainside from the village of Paranymfi, offering breathtaking views of the Libyan Sea. Along the way, don’t miss the 14th-century Monastery of Saint Paul, or the Ambas Gorge waterfall — a stunning 145-meter drop with sweeping views across the coastline and village below.

Treis Ekklisies is built along a quiet bay at the mouth of the gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs that shelter one of Southern Europe’s largest vulture colonies — including the rare bearded vulture, an awe-inspiring sight for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

The village’s name, meaning “Three Churches”, comes from its historic chapels dedicated to the Transfiguration, St. George, and the Annunciation. A long stretch of golden sand lines the front of the village, meeting crystal-clear waters that remain peaceful and uncrowded. While the beach is only lightly organized, there are a few rooms to rent, local cafés, and seaside taverns that complete the laid-back atmosphere.

If you’re up for a little exploration, follow the coastal dirt road east and you’ll reach a series of secluded spots: the rock of Kolovrehtis, the quiet Volakas beach, and finally Glykia Vlychada — a local favorite among wild campers and sunset seekers.

Treis Ekklisies isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place to truly escape.

© Alexandros Roniotis