Milatos Village, Crete: A Local’s Guide
Milatos, Crete: A Local’s Guide
Milatos is a traditional village on the north coast of Crete, northwest of Agios Nikolaos, close to the resorts of Sissi and Malia but quiet and unspoiled. It has a hillside village with kafeneia, a small fishing port with fish tavernas, and a famous cave that is both a natural wonder and a place of memory.
Quick facts
Distance from Agios Nikolaos: about 30-34 km, roughly 30 minutes by car
Best for: history, a seaside lunch, a short walk, photography
Suggested time: half a day
Why visit Milatos
A historic cave with eight entrances, a chapel and a memorial to a tragic event in 1823
A traditional village of narrow streets and old stone houses
A small fishing port with good fish tavernas
A calm, sandy harbour beach that suits children
A peaceful base only a short drive from Sissi and Malia
What to see and do
In the village
Walk the old village. The village lies about a kilometre before the coastal settlement, with kafeneio-tavernas and narrow streets that reward a slow walk with a camera. Many old village houses have been restored in their original style.
Eat by the port. The seaside settlement has a fishing port with several very good fish tavernas. It is the best place in the area for fresh fish and seafood.
Swim in the harbour. The small sandy beach inside the harbour (Limani) is near the tavernas. It is quite well organised, the water is always calm, and it is suitable for children. It is the beach most visitors choose.
Try the main beach. Just before the harbour, this larger beach has pebbles and some rocks. It is not organised and can be affected by waves, but it is very close to the village amenities.
Find a quiet cove. About 1 km east of Milatos, at Pigada, a few small coves with narrow strips of sand sit below high cliffs. They are secluded, though the waves are usually high.
The Milatos Cave
Visit the cave of Milatos, also known as the Cave of Rapas. It lies about 3 km northeast of the village, at an altitude of about 155 metres. Drive east from Milatos, follow the road signs, then take a short uphill footpath to the entrance. The view over Milatos Bay from the path is worth the walk by itself.
Look inside. The cave has eight entrances side by side along a 40-metre face, and inside there are small halls with stalactites and stalagmites, a small chapel and, near it, an ossuary. Entry is free. The entrance is low, narrow and dark, and the ground is uneven, so bring a torch.
Know the story. In February 1823, during the Greek War of Independence, villagers from the surrounding area took refuge in the cave from the Ottoman army of Hassan Pasha. The army sealed the valley and shelled the cave from the opposite hill, and after a siege of about two weeks the refugees were forced out and many were killed. A liturgy is held at the cave every year in memory of those who died.
History
Ancient Milatos. The village stands near the site of the Minoan city of Milatos, which was destroyed in the 3rd century BC by the rival city of Lyttos.
Suggested routes
Half-day route: history and seafood
Morning: walk through the old village.
Late morning: drive to the Milatos Cave and walk up to the entrance.
Lunch: a fish taverna by the port.
Afternoon: a swim at the harbour beach.
Short route: cave and coffee
Morning: the Milatos Cave.
Midday: coffee at a kafeneio in the village, then a quiet lunch by the port.
Eat and drink
Milatos is known for its seaside fish tavernas, where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood by the port. In the village itself, you will find kafeneio-tavernas for coffee and a simple meal.
Local tips
Bring a torch for the cave. There is no lighting inside.
The cave entrance is low and the ground is uneven, so wear sturdy shoes.
The cave is a memorial site, so visit it quietly and respectfully.
For swimming with children, choose the harbour beach. The main beach can be affected by waves.
Getting there
By car: Milatos is about 30-34 km northwest of Agios Nikolaos, and the drive takes about 30 minutes. It lies a few kilometres east of Sissi and Malia.
To the cave: drive about 2.5 km east of Milatos, following the signs, and walk the short footpath uphill.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Milatos from Agios Nikolaos?
About 30-34 km, roughly 30 minutes by car.
Why is the Milatos Cave famous?
It is the site of a tragedy in February 1823, when villagers who had taken refuge there were besieged and many were killed by the Ottoman army.
Is the Milatos Cave free to visit?
Yes. Bring a torch, as there is no light inside.
Which is the best beach for children?
The small sandy beach in the harbour, where the water is calm.
Is Milatos crowded?
It is close to the resorts of Sissi and Malia, but it remains peaceful and traditional.
Nearby: build your day
Sissi and Malia, a few kilometres west of Milatos
Neapoli, the old capital of Agios Nikolaos area. See our Neapoli Guide.
Explore more of the area in our guide to the Villages around Agios Nikolaos.
