Churches & monasteries Hidden gem

Exakousti Monastery

Ierapetra, Lasithi · Free

Highlights & amenities

Entry: Free

About

A monastery with views over the south coast.

The monastery of Exakousti lies near Kalamafka, in the mountains between Agios Nikolaos and Ierapetra. The road to it offers panoramic views of the Libyan Sea and the mountains.

The monastery welcomes visitors to explore its grounds in a peaceful setting.

Ierapetra is the southernmost town in Europe, and the area around it is known for its greenhouses, which produce vegetables for all of Greece. The coast stretches east to Makrigialos and west to Myrtos, with long beaches, small coves and a warm climate that allows swimming from April to November. Boats leave Ierapetra for Chrissi island, with its cedar forest and white sand. Inland, the Sarakina and Ha gorges and the Selakano forest offer cool escapes.

Around Ierapetra

Nearest town: Ierapetra, about 18 km by road
Nearest airport: Sitia airport (JSH), about 63 km by road

Lasithi, the eastern end of Crete, is quieter and greener than you might expect. Agios Nikolaos wraps around a small lake and a lively harbour, with cafés on the water and beaches within walking distance. Just north, Elounda and Plaka look across to the fortress island of Spinalonga, one of the most moving places on the island. More about Lasithi