Ideon Cave (Idaean): All you need to know by Locals!

The Ideon Cave (Ideon Andron), also called the Idaean Cave, Idaion Antron, or Cave of Ida, is a historical and mythological site located on the Psiloritis Mountain (Nida), the tallest mountain in Crete, Greece. Locals sometimes refer to it as Spiliara tis Voskopoulas (Cave of the Shepherdess) or Arkession Andron (Cave of Aid).

Ideon Cave sits at an altitude of 1,498 meters (4,915.35 feet), 22 kilometers (13.67 miles) from Anogia village and 77 kilometers (47.85 miles) southeast of Rethymno. The Idaean Cave is where Zeus was hidden and raised by his mother, Rhea, to protect him from his father, Cronus, who sought to devour him.

Ideon Cave was used as a place of worship from the Neolithic period through the Roman era, with archaeological finds such as votive offerings, pottery, and bronze shields, which are now displayed at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

Visitors can reach the cave by driving from Heraklion Airport in 1.5 hours or by hiking 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) uphill from the Nida Plateau, where parking is available. The Cave provides access to nearby hiking trails, cultural excursions, and Cretan culinary experiences, making it a multifaceted destination for travelers.

Where is Ideon Cave?

The Ideon Cave (Ideon Andron) is located on Nida Plateau, Anogia 740 51, Greece, on the eastern slopes of Mount Ida (Psiloritis), the highest mountain in Crete, Greece. The cave is at an altitude of 1,498 meters (4,915.35 feet) and lies above the Nida Plateau, 22 kilometers (13.67 miles) from the village of Anogia and 77 kilometers (47.85 miles) southeast of Rethymno. Visitors traveling from Heraklion can reach the cave via a 55-kilometre (34.18 miles) to 57-kilometre (35.42 miles) drive, depending on the chosen route. The cave is most commonly accessed through the Nida Plateau, where visitors walk 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) uphill along a rocky path to reach the entrance.

How to Get to Ideon Cave?

To get to Ideon Cave (Ideon Andron) from Heraklion Airport, visitors have several transportation options. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the cave, located on the eastern slopes of Mount Ida (Psiloritis) near the Nida Plateau, 59 kilometers from Heraklion Airport. The drive takes 1.5 hours and offers views of mountainous terrain. From Heraklion airport, follow signs to Anogia village, then continue towards the Nida Plateau. The road is paved and in good condition up to the plateau, but the final part leading to the cave may be rocky. Free parking is available near the cave, though visitors should expect to walk 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) uphill along a rocky path to reach the entrance.

Renting a car to get to Ideon Cave is the easiest option for travellers and Rental Center Crete, a local car rental company, recommends reserving an SUV for that trip.

Taxis are available at Heraklion Airport, providing a direct and comfortable option to Ideon Cave. A taxi ride to Ideon Cave costs €55 ($59.93, £47.89) to €70 ($76.22, £60.95) and takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Public transportation is another option, with KTEL buses connecting Heraklion to Anogia village, located 20 kilometers (12.43 miles) from Ideon Cave. Bus schedules can be limited, so it’s essential to check timetables in advance. From Anogia, visitors will need to arrange for a taxi or hike to the cave.

What is the history of Ideon Cave?

The Ideon Cave (Ideon Andron) on Mount Ida (Psiloritis) in Crete holds significance in Greek mythology and history. It is linked to the upbringing of Zeus, who was hidden there by his mother, Rhea, to protect him from his father, Cronus.

The Ideon Andron cave is a mythological birthplace of Zeus. Rhea hid Zeus in the cave to protect him from Cronus, who sought to devour him. The Dikteon Cave on Mount Dikti also claims to be Zeus’s birthplace. Archaeological evidence shows the Ideon Andron was a major site of Zeus worship, but mythology does not confirm his birthplace.

Cronus, fearing a prophecy that one of his children would overthrow him, devoured his offspring at birth. Rhea deceived Cronus by substituting a stone wrapped in swaddling clothes and hid Zeus in the Ideon Cave. Zeus was nurtured by nymphs Adrasteia and Ida and fed milk from the goat Amalthea. The Kourites, mythical warriors, guarded the cave by clashing shields and swords to drown out Zeus’s cries.

The cave was a significant worship site from the Neolithic period through the Roman era. Archaeological findings, including votive offerings, bronze shields, pottery, and jewelry, indicate its use for religious rituals. During the Classical period, the cave became a center for mystery cults and worship of chthonic deities.

What to See and Do Near Ideon Cave?

Visitors to the Ideon Cave can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions in the surrounding area, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, history lovers, and culture seekers. It is located within the Psiloritis Natural Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark, the area features geological formations, including fossilized corals and remnants of the ancient Tethys Ocean. For hiking lovers, the region offers trails suitable for all levels of difficulty.

The Platania Gorge in the Amari Valley provides a challenging hike with cliffs and rugged terrain, while the easier Mygias Trail near Anogia leads visitors through oak forests and cliffs. Cultural attractions include the Timios Stavros Monastery, a restored 12th-century site with historical significance, especially during the resistance against Ottoman rule.

On the south coast, Matala Beach is famous for its caves and hippie heritage, while Agia Galini features organized beaches and seaside tavernas. On the north coast, Amoudara Beach offers modern facilities and water sports, while Fodele Beach provides a quieter sandy shore and beachfront dining. Visitors can enjoy local dishes paired with tsikoudia, a traditional Cretan spirit. For wine lovers, wineries near Heraklion, such as Alexakis Winery and Michalakis Estate, offer wine-tasting experiences featuring fine local varietals.

What are the activities near Ideon Cave?

Visitors can engage in activities that blend nature, history, and local culture when visiting Ideon Cave. For cave exploration, the nearby Sfendoni Cave in Zoniana offers guided tours of its stalactites and stalagmites for €6 ($6.54, £5.18) per person. Hiking lovers can choose between the Platania Gorge for a challenging trek through cliffs or the Mygias Trail for an easier hike that offers views of rugged landscape.

Cultural visits include the Timios Stavros Monastery, a restored 12th-century site tied to resistance against the Ottomans, with free entry and optional donations. History lovers can also explore the Palace of Phaistos, one of the most significant Minoan archaeological sites, located about two hours away. Tickets for Phaistos cost €8 ($8.72, £6.91) per person.

Wine lovers can visit nearby wineries such as Alexakis Estate or Boutari Winery, where wine tastings are priced between €15 ($16.36, £12.96) and €30 ($32.72, £25.92) per person, depending on the experience. The nearby village of Anogia offers an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy traditional Cretan music and cuisine at local tavernas.

Published on February 18, 2025