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History and Name
The settlement takes its name from the three Byzantine churches that once stood here, dating from the 14th century, when the remote Asterousia Mountains were one of the most important hermitages in Crete. The three churches were dedicated to the Transfiguration, Saint George and the Annunciation.
A monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary operated here until 1995. The settlement has a rich history, and a stroll through its winding, narrow streets is enough to appreciate this.
Beaches
The wider area boasts some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Most visitors swim at the main beach, which is quite large with coarse sand and deep waters — ideal for snorkelling.
Beach | Type | Access | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Three Churches (main) | Coarse sand | Tarmac road | Ideal for snorkelling, shade from trees |
Voidomatis | Natural coastline | Dirt track (2 km south) | Beautiful, peaceful |
Krygia Vlychada | Fine, dark pebbles | Dirt track (to the east) | Sea caves, nudist-friendly |
Fine sand & Ornio | Natural coastline | Dirt track (west) | Within the carob forest |
Remote coastlines | Rocky | Accessible only by boat | Unspoilt, wild beauty |
Natural Environment — Carob Forest
One of the region’s most remarkable natural attractions is the impressive carob forest to the west of the village. The mountain slopes leading down to the beach are covered with tall carob trees (Ceratonia siliqua), forming an extensive, sparse forest. The carob forest of Tria Ekklisies is considered one of the largest natural carob forests in Europe.
These hardy carob trees thrive in arid and rocky areas. Their fruit is hard and sweet — in the past, Cretans used to eat it as a sweet, whilst today it remains a healthy substitute for chocolate. The entire Asterousia region forms Greece’s southernmost mountain range, with landscapes of exceptional natural beauty.
Hiking
The area offers excellent walking routes. The highlight is the ancient cobbled path linking the village of Paranymfoi with the Three Churches, winding along the edge of the cliff with a unique view of the South Cretan Sea.
Route | Length | Duration | Elevation gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Paranymfoi → Agios Pavlos → Three Churches | 7 km | ~2 hours | 550 m | Moderate |
The route starts from Paranymfos (alt. 510 m), passes by the ancient Monastery of St Paul (alt. 460 m, water source) and descends through a rugged gorge to the largest carob forest in Crete. The route is signposted. It is well worth making a detour to the impressive Amba Waterfall, which offers a breathtaking view of the sea.
Distances from Major Centres
The village is accessible by road via Paranymfoi (a 10 km mountain tarmac road with numerous hairpin bends).
Town / Centre | Distance (approx.) | Estimated journey time |
|---|---|---|
Heraklion | ~64 km | ~1 hour 15 minutes |
Mires | ~35 km | ~45 minutes |
Tympaki | ~45 km | ~55 minutes |
Arkalochori | ~40 km | ~50 minutes |
Zaros | ~42 km | ~55 minutes |
Kasteli Pediados | ~75 km | ~1 hour 30 minutes |
⚠️ The final stretch (10 km from Paranymfos) requires careful driving due to numerous bends — particularly for large vehicles or in bad weather.
Practical Information
- Access: Tarmac road via Paranymfos · dirt tracks to the more remote beaches
- Best time to visit: Spring (Apr–Jun) and autumn (Sep–Oct) for walking; Jul–Aug for swimming
- Suitable for: Families · independent swimmers · walkers · nature photographers · naturists (on specific beaches)
- Facilities: Limited — seasonal tavern/café. It is recommended that you bring sufficient water and provisions with you.
- Activities: Snorkelling · fishing · hiking · boat trips
- Note: The area is one of the most remote in Europe — its tranquillity and unspoilt nature are its main attractions.
