Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village?
School-age children enjoy a shallow pool, animal farm, free crafts, and family cooking, yet cobbled lanes, museum stairs, and hot summer sun mean parents must watch them closely.
Positives:
- Hands-on Learning: Children can feed animals and craft souvenirs for a memorable cultural experience.
- Safe Swim Areas: Shallow dedicated pool lets kids splash while adults relax nearby.
- Compact Layout: All activities are close together, reducing long walks with little ones.
Challenges:
- Uneven Paths: Cobbled lanes can be bumpy for strollers or small riders—bring a carrier if needed.
- Advance Booking: Popular workshops fill fast; reserve at least one day ahead to secure a spot.
- Limited Shade: Pool loungers and farm areas have few umbrellas; bring hats and sunblock.
What is Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village?
- A reconstructed traditional village built from local stone, featuring small chapels, a windmill and cobbled lanes
- An open-air rural history and folk craft museum that preserves vernacular architecture and traditional Cretan craftsmanship
- A hospitality complex combining suites, taverns and communal courtyards set amid olive groves in the Heraklion countryside
What is so special about Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village for with kids?
- Interactive animal farm and craft sessions delight kids.
- Shallow children’s pool offers safe summer fun.
- Hands-on bread kneading adds cultural flair.
- Compact village layout eases family movement.
- Advance booking ensures spot in popular workshops.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to explore the village lanes, visit the animal farm, enjoy the kids’ pool and join a quick craft workshop without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village
Village Walk & Folk Museum:
Stroll cobbled lanes and self-guide through the Rural History & Folk Craft Museum.
Tip: Look for interactive displays and ask staff for a kid’s map to keep children engaged.
Animal Farm:
Pet and feed goats, sheep and local poultry in a shaded farm area.
Tip: Visit in the morning when animals are most active and bring a small bag of feed sold on site.
Children’s Pool:
Splash in the shallow kids’ pool open May–October with loungers nearby.
Tip: Arrive early to grab shade and pack swim shoes for the stone deck.
Children’s Craft Workshop:
Join a supervised session making simple clay or mosaic souvenirs.
Tip: Call a day ahead to reserve spots; children can take home their own creations.
Bread-Kneading & Museum Tour:
Learn to knead traditional Cretan wedding bread then explore the rural museum.
Tip: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting flour on and ask to join the next family session.
When is the best time to visit Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village (Heraklion, Greece)?
Pool and farm activities run May–October. In summer, plan outdoor play before 11 AM or after 4 PM to avoid peak heat. In winter, focus on indoor museum tours and craft sessions.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village (Heraklion)
Steve Bowley
Very basic, but has all the facilities needed, it has a lovely pool, restaurant area, food and bar is good. Many steps, up and down to whete you need to go but it is a Traditional Cretian village set in the mountain. Views are stunning though.
Argiris Kardaras
Unforgettable Family Day at Arolithos Traditional Village! On August 15th, we celebrated the Feast of the Assumption at the stunning Arolithos Traditional Village – and it was an unforgettable family experience! This magical place is like stepping into a living postcard: charming cobblestone lanes, stone-built houses, blooming courtyards, and the unmistakable warmth of authentic Crete. We savore...
Paul Jones
We just came for a week and I can say this is one of the best places I have ever visited. The staff were friendly and accommodating, the pool was cool and refreshing and the hotel was stunning. We didn't want to leave! thank you making our much needed holiday amazing! thank you to you all again!
Eugen Ciuculete
A beautiful cretan village with amazing activities and beautiful museum of old cretan rooms .I was very impressed of the resembles with other European south est old villages. I visited Arolithos every year I have a holiday in Amoudara,relax to the pool and enjoy the traditional cretan food. This year I was very disappointed that I couldn't find there Cristina. I asked for her. She was amazing in a...
Relinda J L
We toured the village from our cruise ship and did not stay in any rooms. However, the experience was AMAZING! Beautiful and quaint village to walk around. Seeing the 'museum rooms' was so fun and enlightening. The food they served us for lunch was so fresh and tasty! The dancers were great. I joined them even though it was 98 degrees.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Lunch at Delfys Tavern (4 ppl) | EUR 48 |
| Children’s craft workshop (2 kids) | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 68 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village
- Early Start: Arrive when the site opens to beat the heat and secure prime pool seating.
- Workshop Reservations: Book craft and bread-kneading sessions via phone or email before arrival.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water shoes and a small backpack with snacks and water for kids on the go.
Map of Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village
Address: 11ο χλμ Παλαιάς Εθνικής Οδού Ηρακλείου Ρεθύμνου, Iraklio 715 00, Greece
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village (Heraklion)?
About Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+30 281 082 1050See available options
Promo on Trip.comExplore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
See available options
Promo on Trip.com