Zaros hotels & places to stay

Discover the Hidden Gems of Zaros: Fun Facts and Reasons to Visit

Nestled in the heart of Crete Island, Greece, Zaros is a picturesque mountain village that offers a unique and authentic Greek experience. This charming village is located at the foothills of Mount Psiloritis, the highest mountain on the island, and is surrounded by lush greenery, natural springs, and beautiful landscapes. Here are some fun facts and reasons to visit Zaros: - Zaros is famous for its natural spring water, which is bottled and sold all over Greece. The water is believed to have healing properties and is rich in minerals, making it a popular choice for those seeking a healthy lifestyle. - Zaros is also known for its traditional Cretan cuisine, which is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The village is home to several taverns and restaurants that serve delicious dishes such as lamb with stamnagathi (a type of wild greens), snails with rosemary, and apaki (smoked pork). - Zaros is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Rouvas Gorge, which is a popular hiking destination. The gorge is home to several species of birds, animals, and plants and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. - The village is also home to several cultural and historical sites, including the Monastery of Valsamonero, which dates back to the 14th century. The monastery features beautiful frescoes and is a must-see for history buffs.

Getting to Zaros: Your Ultimate Guide to Transportation

Getting to Zaros is easy, whether you're coming from within Crete Island or from other parts of Greece. Here are some transportation options: - By car: If you're coming from Heraklion, the capital of Crete Island, you can take the National Road towards Rethymno and turn off at the exit for Zaros. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes. If you're coming from other parts of Greece, you can take the National Road towards Heraklion and follow the same directions. - By bus: There are several daily bus services that run between Heraklion and Zaros. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs around €4 per person. - By taxi: Taxis are available from Heraklion and other parts of Crete Island. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and costs around €40-50.

Top Things to Do in Zaros: A Traveler's Guide

Zaros offers a wide range of activities and attractions for travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some top things to do in Zaros: - Visit the Votomos Lake: This beautiful lake is located just outside the village and is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. - Hike the Rouvas Gorge: This beautiful gorge is located just a few kilometers from Zaros and offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience. The gorge is home to several species of birds, animals, and plants and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. - Explore the Monastery of Valsamonero: This historic monastery dates back to the 14th century and features beautiful frescoes and architecture. The monastery is a must-see for history buffs and those interested in religious art. - Try traditional Cretan cuisine: Zaros is known for its delicious and authentic Cretan cuisine, which is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try dishes such as lamb with stamnagathi, snails with rosemary, and apaki. - Visit the natural springs: Zaros is famous for its natural spring water, which is believed to have healing properties and is rich in minerals. Be sure to visit the natural springs and try the water for yourself.

Book Your Dream Hotel in Zaros with Agoda.com

Agoda.com offers a wide range of hotels and accommodations in Zaros, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Here are some top hotels to consider: - Idi Hotel: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Zaros and offers comfortable and affordable rooms. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a garden. - Zaros Hotel: This beautiful hotel is located just outside the village and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool. - Keramos Hotel: This stylish hotel is located in the heart of Zaros and offers modern and comfortable rooms. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a garden. - Hariklia Rent Rooms: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the heart of Zaros and offers clean and comfortable rooms. The guesthouse features a shared kitchen and a garden.

The Best Time to Visit Zaros: A Seasonal Guide

Zaros is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here's a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip: - Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit Zaros if you're interested in hiking and outdoor activities. The weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush and green. - Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Zaros, and the village can get crowded. However, the weather is perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. - Fall (September to November): Fall is a great time to visit Zaros if you're interested in cultural and historical sites. The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. - Winter (December to February): Winter is a great time to visit Zaros if you're interested in skiing and winter sports. The village is less crowded, and the landscapes are covered in snow.

Zaros Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Here are some travel tips to help you plan your trip to Zaros: - Currency: The currency in Greece is the Euro (€). - Language: The official language in Greece is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. - Weather: The weather in Zaros can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all seasons. The summers are hot, and the winters can be cold and snowy. - Transportation: The best way to get around Zaros is by car or taxi. Buses are also available, but they can be infrequent. - Safety: Zaros is a safe and friendly village, but it's always a good idea to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings.

Where to Stay in Zaros: Accommodation Options for Every Budget

Zaros offers a wide range of accommodation options for every budget, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Here are some top options: - Budget: Hariklia Rent Rooms is a great option for budget travelers. The guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. - Mid-range: Idi Hotel and Keramos Hotel are both great mid-range options. Both hotels offer comfortable and modern rooms at a reasonable price. - Luxury: Zaros Hotel is the top luxury option in Zaros. The hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and features a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool.

Indulge in the Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Zaros

Zaros is known for its delicious and authentic Cretan cuisine, which is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes: - Lamb with stamnagathi: This dish is made with lamb and a type of wild greens called stamnagathi. The dish is cooked with olive oil, lemon, and herbs and is a staple of Cretan cuisine. - Snails with rosemary: This dish is made with snails and rosemary and is a popular appetizer in Cretan cuisine. The dish is cooked with olive oil and garlic and is served with bread. - Apaki: This dish is made with smoked pork and is a popular meat dish in Cretan cuisine. The pork is marinated in herbs and spices and is smoked over a fire for several hours.

Exploring Zaros: How to Get Around the Town and Beyond

Zaros is a small village, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you'll need transportation. Here are some options: - Car rental: Car rental is the best option if you want to explore the surrounding areas. Several car rental companies are available in Heraklion and other parts of Crete Island. - Taxi: Taxis are available in Zaros and other parts of Crete Island. However, they can be expensive, especially for longer journeys. - Bus: Buses are available between Zaros and other parts of Crete Island. However, they can be infrequent, and the schedules can be unreliable.