Three municipalities in Crete — Minoa Pediada, Lassithi Plateau and Hersonissos — are joining forces once again to host the 16th Minoan Route, taking place on Sunday, September 28, 2025.

This symbolic hike brings to life the ancient path followed by King Minos every nine years to visit the Dikteon Cave, where he would receive the “Divine Laws” from his father, Zeus.

The walk lasts around four hours and begins at the Church of the Holy Cross in Ancient Lyttos. It ends at the village of Psychro, right at the entrance of the legendary cave. The trail is fully signposted to make the route easy to follow.

The full path includes the following stops:
Acropolis of Ancient Lyttos – Toichos – Sykias Nero – Agios Georgios Fleges – Volites – Tsouli Mnimá – Chortasa – Chonos – Kato Metochi – Agios Charalambos – Plati – Psychro.

At the finish line in Psychro, hikers will be treated to traditional refreshments, a live demonstration of Minoan cooking, and a performance of local Cretan dances. There's also a unique ritual awaiting: the re-enactment of the ancient custom of casting a stone onto the so-called “Tsouli’s Grave” as part of a symbolic offering.

Getting There and Back
Participants can hop on free buses departing from the following locations:

• Kastelli (Municipality of Minoa Pediada)

• Kato Metochi (Municipality of Lassithi Plateau)

• Hersonissos (Municipality of Hersonissos)

Return transport will be available from Psychro Square after the festivities.

To register, fill out the online participation form here:
👉 Minoan Route 2025 Registration

Need more info? Feel free to call:

• Minoa Pediada: +30 28913 40115 / +30 6979 790002

• Lassithi Plateau: +30 28443 40143 / +30 6936 589930

• Hersonissos: +30 28134 04600 / +30 6973 600255