Most people who land at the airport think Crete is just about the seaside. They are wrong. If you really want to see the soul of the island, you need to head south into the heart of the Heraklion prefecture. This specific route takes you from the cool, emerald waters of a mountain lake to the legendary, sun-soaked caves of the south coast. When you rent a car in Crete from MYTHOS Car Rentals, this is the kind of freedom you are paying for. No tour bus schedules. Just you, the open road, and a very full stomach.
Getting Started: The Drive from Heraklion Airport
The journey starts easily enough. Once you pick up your car hire in Crete, you will head toward the Messara plain. The drive to our first stop, Zaros, takes about an hour. You will pass through silver-green olive groves that seem to go on forever. It is a beautiful, winding climb into the foothills of Mount Psiloritis.
Your Route Map to Adventure
Here is the path from the arrivals terminal to your first breath of mountain air:
View Route on Google Maps
First Stop: Zaros Lake (Lake Votomos)
Zaros Lake, also known as Lake Votomos, is a total surprise. It is a man-made lake fed by natural springs that have been flowing for centuries. The water is so clean that it is actually bottled nearby. It feels more like the Alps than a Greek island, honestly.
What to See and Do in Zaros
• The Walk: There is a lovely, flat path that circles the entire lake. It takes about 15 minutes. It is perfect for stretching your legs after the flight.
• The Trout: The lake is famous for its trout farm. You can see them swimming in the clear water.
• The Gorge: If you feel brave, the entrance to the Rouvas Gorge is right there. Even if you only walk for ten minutes, the rock formations are incredible.
Expert Dining Tip: The “Taverna” Experience
You cannot leave without eating here. The lakeside tavernas serve fresh trout and salmon grilled over charcoal. It is simple, healthy, and tastes like the mountains. Order the local “Ntakos” salad to go with it.
Second Stop: The Legendary Matala Village
After your mountain lunch, jump back into your rental car in Crete and head further south. It is only a 35 to 40-minute drive to Matala Village. The landscape changes from lush green to rugged, golden rock as you approach the Libyan Sea.
Matala became famous in the 1960s and 70s when hippies from all over the world (including Joni Mitchell!) lived in the Roman-era caves carved into the cliffs. Today, it still keeps that “peace and love” vibe, but with much better cocktails.
What to Explore in Matala
• The Caves: For a small fee, you can climb inside the ancient caves. The view of the bay from inside a cave “window” is the best photo spot on the island.
• The Beach: The water is deep, blue, and usually very calm. Perfect for a late afternoon swim.
• The Street Art: The village streets are painted with rainbows and flowers. It is impossible not to smile while walking around.
A Quick Hidden Gem: Red Beach
If you have some energy left, follow the path over the hill to Kokkini Ammos (Red Beach). It is a 20-minute hike, but the terracotta-colored sand is something you will not see anywhere else.
Planning Your Day: Skimmable Tips
• Timing: Start early! Aim to be at Zaros Lake by 10:30 AM. This gives you plenty of time to reach Matala Village for the sunset.
• Driving: The roads are well-paved, but they are curvy. A compact or medium-sized car rental in Crete is usually best for navigating the mountain turns comfortably.
What to Pack:
• Sturdy shoes for the Zaros paths.
• Swimwear and a towel for Matala.
• A light jacket (the mountains can be 5 degrees cooler than the coast).
• Fuel up: While there are gas stations in the larger villages, it is always a good idea to have a full tank before heading into the mountains.
Why This Route is the Best Choice
This day trip gives you the best of both worlds. You get the cool, refreshing air of the mountains and the warm, bohemian spirit of the south coast. It is a journey that highlights why having your own wheels is so essential. You can linger over your coffee at the lake or stay late to watch the sun sink into the Libyan Sea at Matala.
Ready to explore? MYTHOS Car Rentals has the keys waiting for you at Heraklion Airport. Just grab a map, put on some music, and find the real Crete.