Argiroupoli Springs

Below the village of Argiroupoli, water emerges from the rock in dozens of separate springs and runs down a wooded slope in channels, small falls and pools, keeping the whole area green and cold even in August. Tavernas are built across and beside the streams, several with tables set among the water, and most keep trout in tanks fed by the springs. The village above stands on the site of ancient Lappa, an important Cretan city, and Roman remains are scattered through it: mosaic floors, a necropolis of rock-cut tombs at Pente Parthenes, and Venetian doorways reused in later houses. An enormous plane tree, reputedly two thousand years old, stands near the springs.

What you actually see

• The springs - water pouring from the hillside into pools and channels.
• The stream tavernas - tables set among the running water.
• Ancient Lappa - Roman mosaics and rock-cut tombs around the village.
• The great plane tree - a huge old plane beside the water.

When to go

Late spring to early autumn, when the tavernas are open and the cool is welcome; the water runs year-round but winter closes most businesses. Weekends bring Cretan families and can fill every table.

Honest expectations

The springs area is entirely commercialised, with tavernas occupying nearly all of the water's edge, so sitting by it usually means ordering. Parking is tight on the narrow road. The archaeological remains are scattered and poorly signed.

Nearby

Rethymno is half an hour north; the Kourtaliotiko gorge and Preveli lie southeast.