Aspros Potamos

Creta, Greece

Holistic, Sports

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Experience the unusual inside an ancient settlement.

Located in south-east Crete, a thousand meters above sea level and the coastal village of Makrys Gialos, the Aspros Potamos experience...

Aspros Potamos

Experience the unusual inside an ancient settlement.

Located in south-east Crete, a thousand meters above sea level and the coastal village of Makrys Gialos, the Aspros Potamos experience is a must-visit. Located just 8 kilometres away from the sea, this area is famous for its natural beauty, which comprises of numerous unspoiled beaches, traditional picturesque villages, and its four magnificent gorges.

Aspros can be found within an ideal location, since the area combines both beaches and mountains covered by lush greenery and endogenous pine, olive and citrus trees. It is thought that early Aspros Potamos was originally much larger; however, probably the constant attacks and raids from pirates forced the inhabitants to abandon the settlement. So, they sought refuge in the higher mountain ranges, where it was more safe and isolated and they used the settlement to house their life stock during the harsh winter months or they would venture down in order to maintain their vegetable gardens. The old inhabitants of Aspros Potamos are considered to be the first settlers of the mountain area of Pefki. This comes as no surprise, since the location is spectacular with densely covered mountain sides and valleys giving an intense green foliage. The valley on the south side reaches all the way up to Analipsi and the stream Aspros Potamos, which the settlement takes its name from.

Nowadays, all the relics and the old stone and soil built houses have been renovated and fully restored. The settlement of Aspros Potamos has been characterised as traditional and its authenticity is protected by the Greek government. The architecture of the area is typical to south-east Crete. The stone built houses - 10 in total - are in harmony with nature and the guest will feel as if living in the old times. The houses were built 300 years ago and they were last renovated in 2011. The decoration is simple and plain using traditional objects such as small tables, old wood, accessories for traditional bread making, old woven fabrics and pots and pans.

Beds are made from stone, original windows and bedrock walls, ceilings of crossed beams, use of straw and soil for insulation, all help to create their traditional style. The houses are connected by a network of traditional stone paths. Thick outer walls made of stone and rock keep the houses cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

In respect for nature and the environment, Aspros Potamos uses only renewable energy sources. To support the belief that beauty lies in simplicity and not exaggeration, Aspros has restored the old settlement Aspros Potamos with respect for the original features and intervention and renovation was kept to a minimum. Many nature lovers, hikers, mountaineers, and people simply looking for something different on their vacation, visit the are every year. The location is ideal for those looking for tranquillity and relaxation, as it combines country and sea holidays.

A visit to the Pefki Gorge, which starts from the village Pefki and ends at Aspros Potamos is without a doubt a must during your stay. The guest house is also suitable for Yoga or Tai Chi seminars, and painting course, etc.