Magarites is a village near Rethymon famous for its pottery shops. It’s said to be home to the largest number of working potteries and pottery shops in Crete, and they don’t lie! You may need to take your wallet and your credit card just in case!
What to expect
It’s best to go there in the morning before the coach parties so you can get round the shops before they get too busy. Although some of the shops sell the same or similar items there are some shops which sell very unique pieces, it depends on your budget and taste.
When you drive into the village there is a coach turning area and a taverna on the bend, there is some parking around a tree which grows in the middle of the road. Don’t be fooled that this is it but carry right up the hill and past the little church. Parking is a bit haphazard, which is another reason to get there early.
Refreshments
There are a number of tavernas where you can sit and watch the crowds walking by safely in the knowledge that you have your bargain piece of china / pottery tucked away in your bag.
One taverna, Taverna Mantalos is on the bend in the centre of the village serves good Cretan food. It’s opposite this shop (below) on a sharp left hand bend.
Up past that taverna there are more shops with little alleyways , look out for signs pointing down tiny cobble streets for other potteries as you wouldn’t want to miss them.
Weblinks
TripAdvisor (when the page opens the heading say Magarites Gorge but the reviews are actually about Margeritas Village, just scroll down)
You Tube video (MyCrete.Tv) a walk around the village and directions how to get there
YouTube video (Travel with Mansoureh) she walks around Magarites and shows you a little of Rethymnon too.