Rent a Car and meet the Routes of Wine in Crete
The “wine roads” of the Heraklion Prefecture lead visitors to age-old vineyards, historical villages, old monasteries, antiquities, contemporary cultural sites, as well as wine factories that are open to the public.
Wine has been made in Crete for some 4.000 years now, since the time of the Minoans, who cultivated grapevines and then carried their famous wines in amphorae all over the Mediterranean. Therefore, it would be only fair to say that the Minoan wine routes can still be traced here.
From Vathipetro, where a grape treading trough which is considered the oldest in the world was found, until Gortyna, where the Code of Gortyn, an ancient text of law which contains the rules that govern viniculture was unearthed, we have the chance to get acquainted with a region, the history of which has always been linked to winemaking.
During your visits to the modern winemaking factories located inland the Heraklion Prefecture (which can be traced on the map, and in the left-hand menu), you will also have the opportunity to discover the history and the culture of the region, both old and contemporary.
The routes recommended include all the basic points of interest, for visitors who wish to explore the winemaking area of Heraklion. Of course you can make your own plans, according to your interests, and schedule a route of your own choice which will include the winemaking facilities that you wish to visit.
Many of Crete’s best-known wine villages are located within easy driving distance of Heraklion. Book your car rental in Heraklion and plan a flexible route through the island’s vineyards and traditional villages.
