Opus wine bar, Heraklion

Let's admit it. Heraklion is a big city and not a typical traditional one that someone expects to find on an island. People who live in Heraklion often complain about the lack of character in the vast majority of the bars and cafeterias that are plenty around town. That was our problem too. Even though we have lot's of choices for a lazy night out it seems that all places around town are copy paste of each other.

Drosia village on the old Heraklion-Rethymnon national road

An alternative way to drive from Heraklion to Rethymnon is through the old national road.  If you feel adventurous this is an excellent way to explore the rough Cretan landscape and the villages along the way. The road is snakelike and needles to say it will take you  significantly longer to arrive. A favourite destination about 30-40 minutes drive from Heraklion is small village called Drosia. The village is famous for its taverns on both sides of the road that specialise in grilled pork and lamb. Every weekend hordes of  hungry visitors, especially from Heraklion, arrive at the village to taste the specialities.