Spili is a mountain village in the heart of the Rethymno region, halfway between the north coast and the Libyan Sea. Many visitors stop for a short break at the fountains and drive on. Those who stay a few days discover that the best of Spili is found on foot: old paths, green gorges, rare wildflowers and quiet corners. Here is what we recommend to our guests, with distances from Fontana Leone.
In the village, on foot
The Lion Fountains (Kefalovrysi Square) are the heart of Spili: 25 stone lion heads pour fresh mountain water all year round. They are a 3-minute walk (250 m) from the house, and they gave Fontana Leone its name.
The Venetian watermills by the river are also about 250 m away: twin mills from the Venetian era, carefully restored.
The Folk Museum and the Holy Metropolis are 2–5 minutes on foot. The exhibits tell the story of the area: Cretan weaving, historical objects and rare Byzantine relics.
Walks and trails
The European long-distance path E4 passes through Spili. Starting 250 m from the house, you can follow it up through pine slopes towards the chapel of Agio Pnevma, with views of Mount Kedros.
Agia Fotia gorge (1.8 km, 2 minutes by car) is a green ravine with an old stone aqueduct of 8 tall arches that once carried water to an early 20th-century watermill.
Spili has many beautiful places: paths, gorges and rare plants such as the wild tulips. But you only discover them if you walk them. Bring comfortable shoes, water and a hat, and give yourself time.
Wild tulips and the botanical garden
In spring, the Gious Kampos plateau (8 km, about 15 minutes by car) is covered with rare red wild tulips and native orchids. Admire and photograph them, but please do not pick them, so they can bloom again next year.
The Maravel Botanical Garden (1.5 km) is a quiet garden dedicated to the herbs and native plants of Crete.
Gorges nearby
- St Anthony (Patsos) gorge: 12 km, about 18 minutes. Wooden walkways and the cave chapel of St Anthony.
- Kotsifou gorge: 14 km, about 16 minutes. A narrow canyon with vertical cliffs on the way to Plakias.
- Kourtaliotiko gorge: about 15 minutes. High canyon walls, springs and waterfalls, on the road to Preveli.
Where to eat and have a coffee
In the village you will find tavernas and cafés for every taste. Ask us when you arrive and we will happily point you in the right direction.
Easy trips from Spili
The old town of Rethymno and its Venetian Fortezza are 27 km away (about 25 minutes). The beaches of the south coast are 25–30 minutes away; see our guide to the beaches near Spili. For many more ideas, visit our Places page.