The village
Zaros is a picturesque traditional village, 45 km from Heraklion at the plain of Mount Psiloritis, blessed with natural water springs and a small lake.
The village dates back to ancient times and this is reflected on the presence of a Roman aqueduct, on its traditional alleys built according to ancient architectural motives and on its temples. The village is famous for its beautiful lake as well as for the trout fish farm. Also, we recommend you to visit "Vegera" cafe-tavern at the centre of the village, where traditional Cretan cuisine is served with homemade wine and raki (the famous Cretan alcoholic beverage made by distilling grape pomace).
The famous gorge of Rouvas with its kermes oak forest is located near the village, as well as the old monasteries of Valsamonero, Vrontisi, Agios Nikolaos. Among other sites worth visiting we find the Nida plateau, the old settlements of Kourites, Fari, Drosou, Paliamas and the Laloumas' dam. The area is perfect for hiking.
Furthermore the town of Moires is just a 15-minute drive away where you can shop at the local shops and at the open-air market (pazari) every Saturday. The archaeological sites of Faistos and Gortyna are also very near. Following a 25-minute drive you reach the magnificent beaches of Matala, Komos, Agia Triada, Kokkinos Pyrgos and others
