Crete is one of those places that rewards curiosity. Beyond the popular beaches and bustling towns, the island is home to remote villages, untouched landscapes, and lesser-known historical sites—places best reached by car. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore these hidden corners at your own pace, away from crowded bus routes and group tours.
Whether you’re landing at Heraklion Airport or Chania Airport, a rental car is the gateway to authentic experiences across the island. Here are some of Crete’s hidden gems worth discovering on four wheels.
1. Zaros Village and Lake Votomos
Located at the foothills of Mount Psiloritis, Zaros is a quiet village known for its natural spring water and traditional way of life. A 45-minute drive from Heraklion, the road to Zaros winds through olive groves and rugged landscapes.
Stop at Lake Votomos, just outside the village—a small, clear freshwater lake where you can enjoy a meal by the water or walk the nearby nature trails. For hikers, the Rouvas Gorge offers a scenic and relatively undisturbed trekking route.
2. Loutro: Only Reachable by Foot or Sea
Loutro is a tiny coastal village on the south-western coast, accessible by a short ferry ride from Chora Sfakion. While the village itself can’t be reached by car, driving to the ferry point is an adventure in itself. The route takes you through mountain passes with panoramic views over the Libyan Sea.
Once in Loutro, you’ll find whitewashed buildings, peaceful pebble beaches, and a complete absence of roads. It’s the kind of place where time slows down.
3. Argyroupoli Springs
About 25 km south of Rethymno lies Argyroupoli, a village built on the ruins of ancient Lappa. This area is famous for its natural springs, which flow through stone terraces and create a peaceful setting surrounded by plane trees.
The village has several traditional tavernas that make use of the running spring water to keep produce fresh. It’s also a great spot to sample Cretan goat cheese and local wine, all produced nearby.
4. Thronos and the Amari Valley
The Amari Valley remains one of Crete’s most untouched regions. The village of Thronos, in particular, offers remarkable views of the valley and nearby Mount Kedros. This area is rich in history, with ancient ruins and Byzantine churches scattered across the landscape.
Driving here from Rethymno or Heraklion takes you along winding, peaceful roads, dotted with small farms and traditional settlements. It’s an ideal route for travellers looking to understand the island beyond the coastline.
5. Tripiti Beach
For those willing to take a slightly rougher road, Tripiti Beach on the south coast is a secluded spot with almost no facilities—and that’s exactly the appeal. A high-clearance vehicle or 4×4 is recommended, as the road is unpaved in parts.
The reward is a wide, quiet beach with turquoise water and views of the surrounding cliffs. It’s best to bring your own food, water, and sunshade, as you won’t find shops or cafes nearby.
6. Margarites: A Village of Pottery
Located near ancient Eleutherna, Margarites is one of Crete’s most famous pottery villages. While many tourists visit the nearby archaeological sites, few take the time to explore this traditional artisan village.
Driving into Margarites, you’ll find narrow streets lined with pottery workshops. Many of the potters here come from long family traditions and are happy to explain their craft or offer a short demonstration. It’s a good place to pick up handmade souvenirs that are genuinely local.
7. Kritsa and the Katharo Plateau
A short drive inland from Agios Nikolaos brings you to Kritsa, a hillside village with narrow alleyways, traditional architecture, and a strong sense of Cretan identity. From here, continue up to the Katharo Plateau, a flat agricultural area 1,150 metres above sea level.
The drive is steep and winding, but the views are impressive. In spring and early summer, the plateau is filled with wildflowers and offers a peaceful contrast to the island’s busier areas.
Tips for Exploring Crete by Car
- Plan your fuel stops: Petrol stations are limited in remote areas and often close early, especially on Sundays.
- Choose the right car: Compact cars work well for towns and villages, but consider a small SUV for mountain routes or beaches accessed by dirt roads.
- Drive with caution: Local roads can be narrow, with occasional sharp turns and livestock crossings.
- Watch for signage: While most major roads are well-marked, rural signs may be in Greek only. Having an offline map is useful.
Final Thoughts
Crete has far more to offer than its tourist hotspots, and the best way to uncover its quieter, more authentic side is by car. With flexible access to remote beaches, mountain villages, and cultural landmarks, a self-drive holiday lets you explore at your own pace.
MYTHOS Car Rentals provides reliable, affordable car hire in Crete, including pick-up and drop-off at Heraklion Airport, Chania Airport, and other key locations. With a wide selection of vehicles and comprehensive insurance cover, we make it easy to focus on what matters—getting to know the real Crete.
For your next visit, skip the tour buses and explore freely with MYTHOS Car Rentals—your trusted partner in discovering Crete’s hidden gems.