There are a few points of interest in Archanes, such as the Archaeological Museum which hosts the antiquities found in Fourni (Royal Tombs, Vathipetro, Tourkogeitonia, Youchtas Minoan Sanctuary), the Folklore Museum, the Museum of World War I & II and the museum of Cretan History and Tradition.
We also recommend visiting the Minoan Palace of Archanes which is located in Tourkogeitonia and came to light in 1964. The palace was equally big as the Palace of Knossos and apparently joined the latter with significant bonds.
The Morosini Aqueduct is also particularly interesting and it is located in the gorge of Agia Eirini.
The Minoan Palace of Knossos is 10 km away from Manili Boutique Suites and Vilas. It was a very important location in antiquity, which was inhabited continuously since the Neolithic perios until the 5th century AD. The palace of Knossos is connected with thrilling legends, such as the myth of the Labyrinth with the Minotaur and the story of Daedalus and Icarus in the Greek mythology.
In Heraklion town you can find the big Archaeological Museum which is definitely worth visiting but also the Historical museum, the Natural History museum as well as Morosini fountain located at Lions Square built in 1628. In Heraklion you can also visit the Cathedral of St. Minas and the St. Catherine of Sinai exhibition venue where unique icons, books and items are displayed.
Archanes is also famous for the vineyards and great local wines. In August and September months guests can watch or participate in the grapes picking and wine making process, and from late October to early January they can watch the distillation of grapes (Rakokazana) when raki is produced. Wine tasting tours are also available to book.
Crete is famous for its exquisite olive oil which is famous worldwide. From November onwards guests can visit the local restored olive oil factory where they can discover the timeless ways of this precious fruit’ oil extraction.
Mount Giouchtas (or Jiouchtas) is located west of Archanes. Walking to the top is easy because the trail is very nicely marked and visible. The trail that crosses the mountain starts right next to very famous archaeological site of Anemospilia and ascends to the south having panoramic views across the north side of the city of Heraklion, the Cretan Sea and west to the fertile valleys Heraklion and mount Ida.
Mount Ida (also known as Psiloritis) is the tallest mountain of Crete, reaching 2,456 m altitude. There are various trails to take for reaching the top, which are amazingly beautiful but can also be very challenging. It is a long hike to the top of the mountain, and weather conditions can change. There is snow at the top until the beginning of July.
Samaria Gorge is located in the south west of Crete and is the longest Gorge in Europe. It is a nature reserve and home to over 450 species of plants and animals, many of which can only be found in Crete. It is open to visitors from late April until the end of October and it is an outstanding experience for sure.
