Colline del Candia (wine hills) - Image 1
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Candia Hills Wine Route Crete

4.7
·80 reviews·Massa, Italy

Discover Crete's serene Candia Hills, a picturesque wine route with rolling vineyards, olive groves, and stunning sea views. Perfect for peaceful walk...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Colline del Candia (wine hills) - Image 1

Candia Hills Wine Route Crete

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Crete's serene Candia Hills, a picturesque wine route with rolling vineyards, olive groves, and stunning sea views. Perfect for peaceful walks and wine tasting.

4.7
(80 reviews)

"A beautiful walk among terraced vineyards and a panorama that ranges from the sea with its islands to the Apuan Alps."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Perfect for Walks

Ideal for walking, running, or dog walking with minimal car traffic. Enjoy the serene landscape. :athletic_shoe:

🍷 Book Wine Tastings

Highly recommend booking winery visits in advance, especially for Terre Apuane. :wine_glass:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Throughout the hills

Breathtaking vistas of rolling vineyards, olive groves, and the sea. A photographer's dream!

Terre Apuane Winery

Terre Apuane Winery

Specific winery location

Highly recommended for wine tastings and experiencing local Cretan wines. A must-visit!

Via Francigena Trail

Via Francigena Trail

Ancient path through the hills

Walk or cycle this historic route, surrounded by nature and ancient charm. Peaceful and scenic.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Pace

Candia Hills is about slow exploration. Think leisurely walks, scenic drives, and savoring wine. Don't rush; immerse yourself in the tranquility and stunning views. It's perfect for unwinding.

Vineyard Visits

Many wineries offer tastings and tours. Booking ahead is wise, especially for popular spots like Terre Apuane. Check opening hours as they can vary, and some may close mid-afternoon.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Perfect for Walks

Ideal for walking, running, or dog walking with minimal car traffic. Enjoy the serene landscape. :athletic_shoe:

🍷 Book Wine Tastings

Highly recommend booking winery visits in advance, especially for Terre Apuane. :wine_glass:

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic views are stunning, stretching from the sea to the mountains. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:

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Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Perfect for Walks

Ideal for walking, running, or dog walking with minimal car traffic. Enjoy the serene landscape. :athletic_shoe:

🍷 Book Wine Tastings

Highly recommend booking winery visits in advance, especially for Terre Apuane. :wine_glass:

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic views are stunning, stretching from the sea to the mountains. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(80 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views of vineyards and olive groves, stretching from the sea to the mountains. The peaceful atmosphere, ideal for walking and cycling with minimal traffic, is a major draw. Many recommend specific wineries like Terre Apuane for enjoyable tastings.

"super!"

silvia n.

"The rolling hills below Carrara offer a beautiful panoramic view, planted with vineyards and olive groves. You can also cross the ancient Via Francigena and enjoy tastings along the wine route. I recommend the Terre Apuane winery."

Maura Crudeli

"New calm ideal for running walking walking the dog with almost no one"

Paolo Brignoli

What People Like

Breathtaking panoramic views
Peaceful walking/cycling
Excellent wine tastings

What People Dislike

Limited dining options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Candia Hills are best accessed by car or scooter from Heraklion. Renting a vehicle gives you the most flexibility to explore the wineries and scenic spots at your own pace. Public transport is limited in this area.

The roads are generally well-maintained, but can be narrow and winding in places. Drive cautiously and enjoy the scenic routes. Parking is usually available at wineries and viewpoints.

Yes, cycling is a popular activity here, especially on weekdays when there are very few cars. The rolling hills offer a good workout with rewarding views. :athletic_shoe:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no general admission tickets for the Candia Hills themselves. Entry to wineries for tastings or tours typically requires a fee or purchase.

Winery hours can vary. It's best to check the specific winery's website or call ahead. Many close mid-afternoon and may have limited hours on weekends or holidays.

It is highly recommended to book wine tastings in advance, especially for popular wineries like Terre Apuane, to ensure availability and a personalized experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best way is to take your time. Enjoy leisurely walks, stop at viewpoints, and indulge in wine tastings. It's a place for relaxation and soaking in the scenery. Reddit

While there aren't many official guided tours for the hills themselves, many wineries offer guided tours of their vineyards and production facilities. You can also hire private guides or join wine-focused tours from Heraklion.

Expect stunning panoramic views encompassing rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves, with the sea and distant islands visible on clear days. The Apuan Alps also form a dramatic backdrop. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the focus is on wineries, you can find traditional tavernas and restaurants in nearby villages offering local Cretan cuisine. Some wineries may also offer light snacks or platters to accompany tastings.

Look for local specialties like dakos, kalitsounia (cheese pies), fresh seafood, and lamb dishes. Pair them with the local wines for an authentic Cretan experience.

📸 📸 Photography

Anywhere with an open vista! Look for elevated points overlooking the vineyards and olive groves, especially during golden hour. The contrast between the green landscape and blue sea is spectacular. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon (golden hour) offer the most beautiful light for photography, creating long shadows and warm tones. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While primarily a wine destination, the Candia Hills can still be enjoyable for families. The open spaces and gentle trails are great for kids to explore and burn energy. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views. Some wineries might have space for children to roam, but it's best to inquire beforehand. Focus on the natural beauty and the experience of being outdoors in a unique landscape. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

This region is perfect for solo travelers and couples seeking a peaceful retreat. The scenic drives, quiet walking trails, and intimate wine tastings offer a romantic and relaxing experience. Enjoy the panoramic views together and savor the local wines. Consider booking a guided wine tour for a more structured experience, or simply rent a car and explore at your own pace. Reddit+1

🚴 Cyclists

The Candia Hills are a cyclist's paradise, especially during weekdays when traffic is minimal. The rolling terrain provides a good challenge, and the stunning scenery is a constant motivator. The Via Francigena trail offers a unique route. Ensure your bike is in good condition and be prepared for some inclines. :athletic_shoe:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Vineyards

The Candia Hills are a burgeoning wine region on Crete, known for its unique terroir that influences the character of its wines. The rolling landscape is dotted with vineyards and olive groves, creating a picturesque setting for wine tourism. Many wineries here focus on indigenous Cretan grape varietals, offering visitors a chance to taste something truly local.

Key grape varietals to look out for include Vidiano for whites and Liatiko for reds. Wineries like Terre Apuane are frequently mentioned for their quality and hospitality, offering tastings that showcase the best of the region. It's advisable to check their specific offerings and book in advance to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Beyond just tasting, many vineyards offer tours that delve into the winemaking process, from grape cultivation to bottling. This provides a deeper appreciation for the craft and the land. The experience is often enhanced by the stunning natural beauty surrounding the wineries, making it a holistic sensory journey.

Walking and Cycling Trails

The Candia Hills offer a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous paths perfect for walking, running, and cycling. The Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route, passes through this area, offering a historical dimension to your exploration. The landscape is characterized by gentle slopes, terraced vineyards, and olive groves, providing a peaceful environment with very few cars, especially on weekdays. Reddit

These trails are ideal for those seeking a calm and natural setting. Whether you're looking for a light stroll or a more vigorous bike ride, the well-defined paths allow you to immerse yourself in the Cretan countryside. The panoramic views are a constant reward, stretching from the sparkling sea to the majestic Apuan Alps. Reddit

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. The tranquility of these trails makes them a highlight for many visitors who appreciate a more active and less crowded way to experience the region.

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