Rogdia, Crete: Complete Guide by a Local

Rogdia (sometimes spelled Rodia) is a small village in Crete, Greece. It is situated on the island’s northern coast, approximately 15 kilometers west of the capital city of Heraklion, and it’s a very peaceful settlement for a stay both close to the sea and surrounded by the Cretan mountains. In this post, I bring you all the info you need to spend a vacation in Rogdia Crete.

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Essential Things to Know about Rogdia

Rogdia is a tiny village perched on a hillside known for its relaxed Cretan atmosphere and beautiful views. It offers panoramic vistas of the Palekastro area and the surrounding countryside. The village’s elevated position allows you to enjoy spectacular sea views.

Rogdia is an excellent destination to savor authentic Cretan dishes made from fresh ingredients sourced from the region, including olive oil, cheese, and locally grown produce. It’s an excellent opportunity to try out some of the island’s gastronomic delights.

Rogdia is surrounded by natural beauty, boasting unique hiking and walking trails in the nearby hills and mountains. On the other hand, locals in Rogdia mainly engage in agriculture (vineyards, olive groves, citrus fruits).

Where is Rogdia

Rodia is about 20 km from Heraklion town. It is located on the eastern slopes of a hill overlooking the city and the bay of Heraklion. Its location offers an excellent view of Paleokastro and its beach.

How to Get There

The best way to Rogdia from Heraklion is to drive west along the National Road (in the direction of Rethymnon). This website has information about buses connecting Heraklion to Rogdia.

It’s also possible to take a bus to Agia Pelagia (a more frequent route) and then a taxi to Rogdia.

Overall, Rogdia is a peaceful hillside village that provides a glimpse into the traditional Cretan way of life.

Its scenic location, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality make it a charming destination for those seeking a more tranquil and authentic experience on the island of Crete.

Things to Do in Rogdia, Crete

Although the village is tiny and would look like there’s not much to do, the place is perfect for a laid-back vacation, and there are still a few gems to check out.

Visit Modino Mansion

One of the notable attractions in Rogdia is the 15th-century Modino Mansion, locally known as Megaro ton Modinon. This Venetian-era feudal villa is attached to the small Panagia Rogdia church. The former mansion was the residence of the feudal lords of the region of Rogdia and nearby Achlada and Fodele.

The building complex includes a tower, a villa, and the magnificent Church of Panagia tis Rogdia (Virgin of Rogdia), all preserved in very good condition.

The mansion was also used for military purposes. In July 1830, it played an essential role as the place where the Cretan Council accepted an armistice proposed by the Great Powers during the fights to eliminate the Ottoman presence on the island.

Enjoy a Meze in a Local Taverna

For those of us who enjoy immersing in the local vibe and being part of everyday rituals, there’s nothing like visiting an old kafenio or a taverna in Crete to taste simple but delicious flavors, interact with the villagers, and taste at least a slice of Cretan life in the countryside.

Rogdia’s main square is the right place to do so. Home to just one kafenio, head there to try a round of meze, a dish of fresh watermelon, and a glass or two of Cretan raki.

Be Amazed by the Views from the Village

A stay in Rogdia almost always comes with some of the most spectacular countryside and sea views. Since the village is amphitheatrically built on the side of a hill a few kilometers from Heraklion, no matter where in Rogdia you decide to stay, you will be granted incredible views of the island’s main port.

The scene is even better after dusk when the lights illuminate the center of Heraklion and reflect on the coast of the Cretan Sea.

Drive on Scenic Roads

Since you’re visiting Crete, you will probably want to go to the beach! Even though Rogdia is not a beachfront village, those who enjoy driving will have fun getting behind the wheel to reach the nearby beaches every day.

The short journey will take you through lonely mountain landscapes and winding roads filled with raw panoramas, a few olive groves, and plenty of goats!

Best Beaches Near Rogdia, Crete

While Rogdia is a hillside village and does not have direct access to the coast, several beautiful Heraklion beaches are near Rogdia.

Ammoudara Beach

Just a short distance east of Rogdia, Amoudara is a long sandy beach stretching several kilometers. It offers various facilities such as hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and water sports activities. The beach is easily accessible from Rogdia, and it’s a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Agia Pelagia Beach

Situated to the west of Rogdia, Agia Pelagia is a picturesque beach surrounded by rocky cliffs. The beach features crystal-clear turquoise waters and a tranquil atmosphere. Several waterfront tavernas and cafes offer relaxation and views.

Mononaftis Beach

Mononaftis Beach is a small, secluded cove with stunning natural beauty near Agia Pelagia. It offers calm waters and a peaceful environment, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Ligaria Beach

Adjacent to Agia Pelagia, Ligaria Beach is a charming bay with soft sand and clear waters. The beach is known for its natural beauty and calmness, making it suitable for families and those seeking a quieter beach experience. A few tavernas and cafes are along the shoreline.

Psaromoura Beach

Situated further west of Rogdia, Psaromoura Beach is a small but beautiful beach with pebbles and rocky formations. The beach is surrounded by cliffs, creating a sheltered and intimate setting. It offers a peaceful ambiance and is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Day Trips and Excursions from Rogdia, Crete

Apart from the fantastic beaches mentioned, you can visit some fantastic places near Rogdia.

Savvathiana Monastery

The Savatiana Monastery, also known as Savvathiana Monastery, is located near Rogdia, approximately 20 kilometers west of Heraklion. Situated 440 meters above sea level, the monastery is nestled in a protected position.

The monastery, which now operates as a nunnery, was built during Venetian times. Invaders continuously destroyed it, especially in the following centuries when the Ottoman Empire conquered the island.

You can also see Agios Antonios Church, partially built inside a cave that initially was not part of the monastery. Inside the church, there’s a secondary aisle that is much newer and dedicated to Agios Savvas.

Inside the monastery complex, visitors can also visit the cemetery, a former mill, an old guest room, an ossuary, the nuns’ cells, and an old water tower.

Fodele

Fodele is a beautiful Cretan village in the region of Heraklion. It is better known as the birthplace of Greek painter Domenikos Theotokopoulos, El Greco. The village is nestled in a lush orange grove a few minutes from the island’s northern coast.

The village of Fodele is only 20 min (15.4 km) from Rogdia, yet it is also possible to visit Fodele Beach, a few minutes from the old village.

When in Fodele, don’t miss visiting the El Greco Museum and stopping by the impressive Church of the Panagia, one of the oldest Byzantine churches in Crete.

Achlada

If you’re a fan of small and quiet Cretan villages, Achlada is another small settlement in the area you should visit.

Home to the gorgeous church of Agios Ioannis and Agios Trifonas, the settlement used to belong to brothers Georgios and Fragiskos Modinos, who also owned the Modino Mansion in Rogdia.

Tyllisos

Located 13 km from Heraklion Center and about 20 minutes from Rogdia, Tylissos was a critical Minoan settlement. Today, you can explore the ruins of three important Minoan Villas dating back to the Second Palace Era.

Over here, archaeologists have unearthed giant copper cauldrons, traditional clay pots (pithoi), and other objects (some exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion).

Arolithos Cretan Village

Although this place is not a truly authentic village, it can be the best model for learning about the way of life in most Cretan villages.

Arolithos (also written Aerolithos) was built during the 80s, and it is a pretty loyal reproduction of a traditional Cretan village. It features several artisan shops, a local kafenio, and even the Museum of Rural History and Folk Art. It features work instruments and home utensils once commonly used in most Cretan houses.

Heraklion Town

It would be a pity to spend a few days in Rogdia and skip devoting at least one day to discovering the wonders of the island’s capital. Just a short drive from Rogdia, Heraklion is the principal city in Crete and the fourth largest in Greece.

There are plenty of things to do in Heraklion town to keep you busy for weeks, although some of the most relevant landmarks could easily be seen in a day.

For many travelers, the main reason for visiting Heraklion is the Palace of Knossos, the second-most visited archaeological site in Greece after the Acropolis.

Also in town, you can explore the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, one of the most important museums in Greece, or visit the exhilarating Museum of Natural History.

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A Local’s Guide to Visit the Mountain Village of Rogdia in Crete