Zaros, Crete Overview
Zaros is a charming village at the southern foothills of Mount Idi. The main attraction here is Lake Votomus, which is perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and dining at lakeside cafés. The village also has several springs, from where water is bottled and distributed across Crete. The traditional watermills from the 16th century give a unique touch to the beautiful landscape.
The lake also serves as the starting point for the hike through Rouvas Gorge, part of the E4 European Walking Path. This 12-kilometer trail offers a challenging but rewarding trek through a stunning landscape of kermes oaks, plane trees, pines, and maples.
The village is home to Byzantine monasteries like Agios Nikolaos and Moni Vrontisiou, as well as various archaeological sites. The local fish farms, known for their fresh trout and salmon, offer a unique dining experience, with tavernas like I Limni serving delicious, locally sourced meals.
Read More on Zaros
How to Reach
By Bus: There are two afternoon buses daily from Heraklion to Zaros.
By Car: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the region. The drive from Heraklion to Zaros takes about an hour.
By Taxi: Taxis from Heraklion to Zaros are convenient and relatively quick.
By Air: During the tourist season, direct charter flights to Heraklion Airport are available.
By Sea: An alternative travel option is to fly to Athens and take an overnight ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion.
Top Hotel Collections
Top Hotels Near Zaros
Zaros Reviews
Have a Question on Zaros?
experience.