When the thermometer shows no more than 25 degrees, a two-hour or so hike from the monastery of Gouverneto down to the abandoned rock monastery of Katholiko and back again, completely without shade, is one of the most beautiful experiences in western Crete.
The monastery portal is a clear indication that the buildings date from Venetian times. The façade of the rock church bears clear traits of the High Gothic and Renaissance. More impressive than the church is the building that spans the narrow gorge below the monastery terrace as a bridge.
24 steps before the monastery portal, on the left is the inconspicuous entrance to a 150 m long and up to 20 m high dripstone cave. On the left is an improvised altar, on the right a now empty tomb carved into the rock. The holy hermit Ioannis was once buried in it, who came here from Azogires on the south coast near Paleochora in the 10th century and whose reputation as a holy man attracted so many other hermits that the monastery was founded.
If you like, you can descend into the gorge at the bridge and walk on to the sea in about 20 minutes.
Our secure 3-step booking procedure with personal support by your dedicated booking advisor.
1. Room SelectionPlease choose your desired room type on your prefered travel dates, select any extra options available and add the room to your personal room selection. You may add multiple rooms to your selection, if required.
2. Booking RequestWhen you are ready, just send us your selection as a booking request, using the corresponding form. The booking request is absolutely non-binding. You will not be charged and you can cancel your booking request any time. Our dedicated team will get back to you to answer all questions or queries you may have, to confirm the current room availability and, if required, to assist you find the best available flights to Crete. We will also take care of your transfer from the airport to the hotel and back. Our personal support will be provided in writing by e-mail or in a follow up phone call, if you wish so.
3. Booking ConfirmationTo complete your booking, we kindly ask for a deposit of 20% of the total room rate. The balance can be settled upon arrival at the hotel. You can cancel free of charge (with deposit refund) at any time up to 15 days before arrival or alter your booking depending on availability.