The Vosakos Monastery – Aleppa Monastery trek in Rethymno perfectly balances pastoral charm and cultural intrigue. Starting at the northern foothills of Mount Kouloukonas (50 m above sea level), this trail is a steady, uphill climb that leads to treasures hidden among Crete’s rugged beauty.
The first stop on this journey is the charming Vosakos Monastery. Perched at 300 m, this impeccably restored site offers a peaceful escape amid the island’s rich history. The air here carries a sense of quiet reverence mingled with the faint scent of wild herbs. If monasteries could talk, this one would likely share tales of resilience and revival.
Nature, History and a Reminder to Breathe
From Vosakos, the path combines dirt roads and trails, taking you higher to the historic Aleppa Monastery at 450 m. This place has seen more history than your grandparents’ photo album. The highlight? An ancient fountain featuring ornate carvings that are nothing short of mesmerising.
The hilltop location grants sweeping views—enough to make even the laziest non-hiker feel smug about the effort. It’s one of those places where you could sit for hours, soaking in the serenity and wondering why modern life ever became so complicated.
Trek Details
- Distance: 13 km
- Duration: Around 5 hours (yes, with breaks for snacks and endless photo ops).
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate (not Everest, but not a city stroll).
- Departure time: 8:00 AM sharp (don’t be that person who shows up at 8:15).
Info & Sign-Ups
Get your name down or ask for more info:
- When: Monday to Friday, 8:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Where: Mountaineering Club of Heraklion, 53 Dikastionis Street, Heraklion
- Phone: 2810 227609
Tips for a Better Walk
- Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear. Unless you fancy souvenirs in the form of blisters.
- Bring water. Lots of it. This isn’t an Instagram stroll.
- Don’t rush. Pause to absorb the views (and catch your breath).
- Mind the time; monasteries may have odd opening hours.
- Respect the surroundings. It’s a hike, not a shopping centre.
The trail starts early, so you’ll want to shake off the cobwebs by 8:00 AM. It begins near the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, which is a fancy way of saying, “Don’t be late.”