
The 16th Minoan Route: A Mythical Journey

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, the Municipalities of Minoa Pediada, Lassithi Plateau, and Hersonissos are jointly organizing the 16th Minoan Route, an event that revives a legendary journey from Cretan history. This walking route follows the mythical path that King Minos was said to have taken every nine years to the Dikteon Cave. There, he would meet with his father, Zeus, to receive the “Divine Laws” that governed the Minoan civilization.
The hike offers participants a unique opportunity to walk through the Cretan landscape, following a well-marked path for approximately four hours. The journey begins at the Church of the Holy Cross in Ancient Lyktos and concludes in the village of Psychro, nestled on the Lassithi Plateau. Along the way, hikers will traverse a historically significant area, including a stop for the revival of the tradition of casting the “anathema stone” at ‘Tsouli’s Tomb’. Upon reaching the destination in Psychro, attendees will be greeted with local hospitality, featuring a treat, a demonstration of Minoan-style cooking, and a performance of traditional Cretan dances. This event provides a wonderful connection to the island’s deep mythological roots and the natural beauty of its rural heartland.
A Path of Gods and Kings: Three Municipalities Unite to Revive the Legendary Minoan Route
For the convenience of participants, bus transportation will be provided to the starting point from Kastelli (Municipality of Minoa Pediada), Kato Metochi (Municipality of Lassithi Plateau), and Hersonissos (Municipality of Hersonissos). Return transport will also be available from the square in Psychro after the festivities conclude.
For further information, interested parties can contact the organizing municipalities:
- Municipality of Minoa Pediada: 28913 40115 & 6979 790002
- Municipality of Lassithi Plateau: 28443 40143 & 6936 589930
- Municipality of Hersonissos: 28134 04600 & 6973 600255
Event Program
Date |
Time |
Location |
Description/Details |
28/09/2025 |
Morning (TBA) |
Bus Departure Points |
Transportation to the start from Kastelli, Kato Metochi, & Hersonissos. |
28/09/2025 |
Morning (TBA) |
Acropolis of Ancient Lyktos |
Start of the 4-hour hike. |
28/09/2025 |
During Hike |
Route checkpoints |
Toichos – Sykias Nero – Ai Giorgis Fleges – Volites – Tsouli Mnima – Chortasa – Chonos – Kato Metochi – Ag. Charalambos – Plati. |
28/09/2025 |
Afternoon |
Psychro Village |
End of the hike followed by local treats, Minoan cooking display, and traditional dance performance. |
28/09/2025 |
Afternoon |
Psychro Square |
Bus departure for return journey after the event concludes. |