Arkoudiotissa Cave
Discover the legendary Arkoudiotissa Cave, a holy site with a bear-shaped stalagmite, nestled on a scenic hike from Gouverneto Monastery in Crete.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Arkoudiotissa Cave
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the legendary Arkoudiotissa Cave, a holy site with a bear-shaped stalagmite, nestled on a scenic hike from Gouverneto Monastery in Crete.
"A cool, legendary stop on a beautiful hike, offering a glimpse into history and nature."
Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is rocky and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in summer, the hike can be warm. Stay hydrated on your journey to the cave. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'She-Bear' Stalagmite
Inside Arkoudiotissa Cave
A unique rock formation said to resemble a bear, giving the cave its name and legendary status.
Chapel within the Cave
Arkoudiotissa Cave
A sacred space where monks once worshipped and locals still gather for prayer and warmth.
Scenic Hike from Gouverneto Monastery
Trail from Gouverneto Monastery
An easy to moderate hike through Cretan nature, leading to the cave and beyond to Katholiko Beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hike Smart to Arkoudiotissa Cave
Legendary Bear Cave Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is rocky and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in summer, the hike can be warm. Stay hydrated on your journey to the cave. :droplet:
Explore Beyond the Cave
The hike continues to Katholiko Beach and old monastery ruins, offering more stunning views. :camerawithflash:
Respect the Holy Site
The cave is a place of worship. Be mindful and quiet during your visit. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is rocky and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in summer, the hike can be warm. Stay hydrated on your journey to the cave. :droplet:
Explore Beyond the Cave
The hike continues to Katholiko Beach and old monastery ruins, offering more stunning views. :camerawithflash:
Respect the Holy Site
The cave is a place of worship. Be mindful and quiet during your visit. :pray:
Check Monastery Hours
Gouverneto Monastery may have specific visiting hours. Plan your hike accordingly. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Arkoudiotissa Cave a worthwhile stop on a hike from Gouverneto Monastery, appreciating its cool respite and the legend of the bear stalagmite. While the cave itself might not be overwhelmingly grand, its historical and religious significance, coupled with the scenic trail and continuation to Katholiko Beach, make it a memorable experience for many.
"A merely 20 minutes walk from the monastery. The trail is paved with stones so it’s an easy route. Arkoudospilio (Arkouda = Bear in Greek, the name comes from the rocky formation in the middle of the cave that resembles a bear) is the first checkpoint on the route to Katholiko Beach. From there you can enjoy magnificent views of Cretan nature. Check SUBATOUR for more!"
Andreas Terzidakis
"The cave itself is not too interesting. If it's on your way to the ruins of the old St. John's monastery, pay a short visit, but don't turn back yet! The good parts of this hike are still ahead of you!"
Timo
"It is believed that Arkoudiotissa Cave, which you can reach on foot by following the path starting from the Gouverneto Monastery, has been used for worship since ancient times. Arkoudiotissa literally means "she-bear" and the cave takes this name from its stalagmites that look like she-bears. It is thought that monks from the Gouverneto Monastery used to live in the ruined buildings that you will see around the cave.
There is also a chapel inside the cave, and people in the region spend the night in this cave every year on February 2 to pray. The burn scar you can see on the ceiling of the cave are also caused by the fire that people lit to keep warm during their worship.
According to local legend, a bear once lived in the cave and drank all the water dripping from the stalactites. The thirsty monks prayed to the Virgin Mary for help, and the Virgin Mary, who answered their prayers, turned the bear into stone like stalagmites.
I know the cave is not very impressive, but if you have come here starting from the Gouverneto Monastery, I recommend you to continue your walk and you should definitely see the Monastery Katholiko."
Murat Yıkılmaz
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cave is accessible via a hike starting from Gouverneto Monastery on the Akrotiri peninsula in Chania, Crete. The trail is well-marked and takes about 20 minutes to reach the cave.
Yes, there is parking available at Gouverneto Monastery, which serves as the starting point for the hike to Arkoudiotissa Cave.
Public transport options to Gouverneto Monastery are limited. It's best to have a rental car or arrange a taxi for convenient access.
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months.
The trail is paved with stones, making it a relatively easy route for most visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Arkoudiotissa Cave. It is a natural and religious site accessible to all.
The cave is generally accessible during daylight hours as it's part of a hiking trail. However, the adjacent chapel may have specific times for visitors.
Gouverneto Monastery itself may have visiting hours, but typically there is no entrance fee to access the grounds from where the hike begins.
While the cave is naturally accessible, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the surroundings.
As a holy site, visitors are expected to be respectful. Avoid loud noises and dress modestly if you plan to enter the chapel area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cave's main draw is the stalagmite formation resembling a bear, and its historical significance as a holy site with a chapel.
Yes, the hike is relatively easy and the cave offers a unique experience. However, supervision is recommended for young children on the trail.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Light clothing is recommended for the hike, and a light jacket might be useful inside the cool cave.
Restroom facilities are typically not available at the cave itself. You may find them at Gouverneto Monastery before starting your hike.
Legend says a bear drank all the water from the stalactites, and monks prayed for help, leading to the bear turning into stone, forming the bear-like stalagmite.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique bear-shaped stalagmite, the interior chapel, and the scenic views along the hiking trail from Gouverneto Monastery. 
Photography is generally allowed inside the cave, but be respectful of the chapel area and any worshippers.
Morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful soft lighting for your photos, especially on the hike.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
The entrance to the cave with the bear stalagmite and the view looking back towards the monastery on the trail are popular spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The cool interior of the cave can be a welcome relief on a hot day. Encourage children to be respectful of the chapel area. The continuation of the trail to Katholiko Beach also provides opportunities for exploration and play.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Consider extending your hike to explore the ruins of St. John's Monastery and the stunning Katholiko Beach. This area is a haven for photographers and anyone looking to immerse themselves in Crete's natural and historical heritage. The cave itself provides a unique geological and spiritual experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Bear Cave
This legend adds a layer of mystique to the natural wonder. The cave also holds religious significance, featuring a small chapel inside. It's a place where monks historically worshipped and where locals continue to gather, even spending the night on February 2nd to pray. The burn scars on the ceiling are remnants of fires lit by worshippers seeking warmth during their vigils.
Hiking to Arkoudiotissa: The Journey
As you descend from the monastery, the path winds through the terrain. After about 20 minutes, you'll spot a small gate on your right, marking the entrance to the cave. Inside, you'll find the 'bear' stalagmite, a water reservoir, and the small chapel. Many visitors find it a refreshing break from the summer heat due to the cave's cool and moist environment.
For those seeking more, the trail doesn't end at the cave. It continues onward to the ruins of the old St. John's Monastery and eventually leads to the picturesque Katholiko Beach. This extended hike offers a more comprehensive experience of the area's historical and natural attractions.
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