• Kria Vrisi

  • Kria Vrisi

  • Kria Vrisi

  • Kria Vrisi

  • Kria Vrisi

"Explore the Secrets of Kria Vrisi: A Enchanting Valley"

The mountain of Kedros, at the foothills of which lies Krya Vrysi and the olive grove in the intermediate area with the Vouvala region, defines the geomorphological characteristics of the place and has determined for centuries the terms of the economic, social, and cultural life of the residents. Kedros, with its imposing presence, rises abruptly to the north like a giant natural wall. It appears rugged and steep, yet offers interesting hiking trails for those who want to test their physical endurance, exercise, and discover the charm of the mountainous landscape. In the Kryovrysanis region of Kedros, there are 32 caves, 15 springs, and a remarkable wealth of flora and fauna (oaks, plane trees, laurels, hawks, partridges, wild pigeons, cormorants, hares, etc.).

Examples of the pastoral activity of earlier times are the many abandoned sheepfolds found in various parts of the mountain. Also, in many points along the ridge of Kedros, the so-called 'pyrgaria' are preserved, circular structures with a diameter of about 1.5 meters and a corresponding height. Anyone who wanted to convey a message using their voice would climb up there. The message was transmitted to the neighboring 'pyrgari' about 500 meters away, and so on.

An interesting ascent is the one that starts west of the village (location 'Vigla') and, following the route: 'Restovos' - 'Kouroupoi' - 'Chalastos' - 'Aploustis' - 'Potamos' - 'Vaniakes' - 'Vroules' - 'Frachtis,' descends from the east.

Points of interest on this route include:

The plateau at 'Vaniakes' with the impressive 'detes' on the right and left, the water source, and the excellent view of the southern side of Crete and the Libyan Sea.
The waterfall 'Rehtas' with abundant flow during the winter months.
The cave and the sheepfold in 'Chalastos,' where the source with the tasty water that supplies the village is located. From this point, a small but beautiful gorge, accessible in some parts, starts and ends at the steep, vertical 'dete' of 'Gre Daphnis' at the foot of the mountain. It has been confirmed by experts that 'Gre Daphnis' is suitable for those engaged in the risky sport of climbing.
In the descent of the aforementioned route, diverting towards the eastern slopes of Kedros, one encounters the elevation 'Kastellos,' at the top of which there are ruins, according to one interpretation, of an ancient Minoan acropolis.

Also, the western side of Kedros, from Krya Vrysi, has attracted the interest of paragliders as a suitable field for their sport.

In addition to what has been mentioned about Kedros, landmarks within the village include the monument to the victims of August 22, 1944, the huge rock - the 'Harakas' - on the southern side, haunted according to tradition, and the old covered spring with basins for washing clothes, drinking troughs, and the continuous aqueduct."

Krιa Vrιsi Ag. Vasileiou is one of the 11 villages in Greece with the same name and one of the three in Crete.

It is built on the southern foothills of Kedros at an altitude of 507 meters, 41 km from Rethymno towards Ag. Galini. The name 'Krιa Vrιsi' is derived from one of the 15 springs located south of the village, with scarce but icy water."