Paleochora is located on a small peninsula with beaches on either side perfect for windsurfing as one of them will always be catching the wind. Fortunately, the prices in Elounda dont have a Hollywood price tag. Transfer time: 2hrs from Heraklion International airport, 10 minutes from Sitia Public Airport. Its perfect for mature couples who dont need excursions and are happy to rent a car to explore the south coast. Most of these are connected to town by regular bus. NORTH: Rugged and unpopulated, with quiet but windy beaches. There are churches tucked away in winding streets, and for those of you who want to enjoy a waterside view without the sand, the town is built around a beautiful lake (Lake Voulismeni), where you can take in the views, whilst also dining in style in one of a multitude of lakeside restaurants. The beach is a mix of shingle and sand, and the water is crystal clear and calm. Sumptuous suites and villas have cool contemporary interiors and fabulous sea views, and many with their own private pool. The long-distance hiking route passes through the area, and there are several smaller gorges and empty beaches such as Sweetwater to discover. The nation boasts nearly 5,800 miles of coastline, stretching along the warm Gulf of Mexico to the east and the . Dont expect anything in the way of amenities when you get there (its actually a nature reserve and is treated accordingly). The main tourist street is Odos Halidon, which divides the old and new city. In addition to 14 freshwater outdoor and indoor pools, it has a 350-meter beach with umbrellas, beach chairs, water sports (for a fee), beach volleyball, and beach parties hosted by the entertainment team.
Best beaches in Crete - Lonely Planet Greece has over 1000 islands of which only 227 are inhabited. Outside Heraklion centre is the vast and swanky kid-friendly resort Amirandes Hotel. Plakias is one of the nicest small resorts on Crete. The surrounding hillsides are home to a swathe of lovely resort hotels and a few minor beaches. Heraklion itself is not quite an attractive destination in the same way that Chania and Rethymnon are much of its historic architecture was damaged during heavy bombing in WWII. Smart rooms and suites have modern furnishings, all the modern gadgetry, balconies, and some have private pools. Set on an unspoiled beach, the resort offers bespoke suites and private bungalows with custom-made furniture and natural accents inspired by the landscape. ); Nearby is the Palace of Malia, one of the best Minoan ruins on the island. If it gets a bit too quiet for you, Diskos is only around the corner, where tented villagers of camping earthy types take up half the beach, and you can buy handmade trinkets from pop-up hippy shops. However, Balos Beach caught our eye for its clean waters and beautiful offshore reefs. Despite its size, Pacific Grove has more B&Bs than any other coastal . The area is also crisscrossed with donkey paths that make it fantastic for walking (its possible to walk to Plaka). Another sleepy Crete village, Tsoutsouros is undeveloped and charming (just how we like it). On the beach: Check out LUX.ME White Palace and Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort for sheer whitewashed bliss right on the beach. If youre planning on staying in the area for more than a few days in the summer then it makes sense to be out in one of Chanias coastal resorts, to take advantage of beach access and/or parking (which is very difficult in the centre). There are numerous beaches dotted about, and if you are staying for more than a few days it can be good fun to try a different one each day. The five restaurants serve a range of food from sushi to Greek and there's a fabulous spa too. Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection Show prices Enter dates to see prices Most hotels and rooms in Matala are simple and value. The southeast coast is one of the least touristed parts of the island. Pick of the pack is the uber-chic Serenissima Boutique Hotel its located one block back from the main harbour in a 15th-century Venetian mansion. One of the main things to do in Heraklion is to catch a ferry to visit Santorini, Mykonos and other places. There are only a few places to stay in Plaka try Athina Villas, Plaka Beach Cottages, and Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa. Stavros Bay aerial: Mike Drosos / Shutterstock, Matala rocks: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock, Map of Crete: The Mediterranean Traveller, Map of Chania region The Mediterranean Traveller, Elafonissi: Zakhar Marunov / Adobe Stock, Paleochora: Vladimir1984 / Shutterstock, Map of Rethymnon region The Mediterranean Traveller, Panormo: Jaroslav Moravcik / Shutterstock, Agia Galini: Georgios Kritsotakis / Shutterstock, Map of Heraklion region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agia Pelagia: Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock, Map of Lasithi region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agios Nikolaos: olgaarkhipenko / Adobe Stock, Elounda: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock. Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort 3. Rooms mirror the outdoors, blue and breezy, some suites come with terraces and pools. Chanias maze of old town streets have been prettied up for the tourists, but they still retain a charming atmosphere especially if you can catch them in spring before the masses arrive. There are seven restaurants to choose from, a kids' club, and a wide range of activities - a real crowd pleaser. There are few roads in the area, and some of the villages are accessible only by boat. What was once a small Greek village has now become a cosmopolitan town, with bars, restaurants and hotels surrounding picturesque Lake Voulismeni. All rooms boast sea views and Egyptian cotton sheets; the best have a private terrace hot tub and marble bathroom. Crete is filled with fine beaches, ancient treasures, dreamy villages, wonderful cuisine, and hospitable locals who hold their traditional culture in high regard. Essentially, Myrtos has something to offer everyone from a secluded, sandy seafront to a large dose of historical culture. Transfer time: 50 minutes from Heraklion International airport. The City Hotel & Suites is a clean and modern hotel offering excellent value at a lower price point, as are Menta City Boutique Hotel and Omiros Boutique Hotel. A wonderful place to visit and stay in Crete! Honeymoons - This is . They get progressively smaller, more village-like and quieter the further out you get. Slap bang in the middle of the northern coastline, the city of Heraklion (also spelt Iraklio or Iraklion) is the capital and its surrounding coastline is some of the busiest and most developed on Crete. See More, A modern North Western Crete resort and spa, surrounded by acres of lush landscaped gardens. Koutouloufari is awash with luxury adults-only complexes. This amazing place is like the Caribbean side of Crete. Located in the south-eastern corner of the island is this tranquil, pristine, white-washed village full of traditional charm. It is home to a substantial palm date forest, which is accessible by foot or by car. . 17. Ranked as a top Travel Authority in the UK by Agility PR Solutions, Nominated as the best female travel blogger in the Teletext Holiday Awards 2019, British Annual Canada Travel Awards Finalist 2018, Nominated for the Best UK Travel Blog 2018, Cheapflights Travel Blog Awards Nominee 2017, GLOBAL GRASSHOPPER. Mykonos has the best beach clubs (and nightlife). The beach is in a protected park and no development is allowed with 1km. Transfer time: 1hr 5 minutes from Heraklion International airport. It doesnt matter where you go you will always find greenery spots. See More, A holistic approach to wellbeing underlies this luxury Cretan resort in Malia. Its a year-round Greek town that attracts tourists and expats, rather than a purpose-built tourist town.
Crete's Best Beach Hotels | The Hotel Guru Off the beaten track, this tranquil hotel is ideal for a simple seaside holiday for families. The White Houses are traditional waterfront houses decorated in local antiques and cool whites and blues. Triopetra Beach is located on the south of the island around a 2 hour drive from Heraklion airport. Our hotel experts have scoured the length and breadth of the island to bring you a collection of Crete's best beach hotels selected on their location, designs, service, and amenities. It has a sand-and-pebble beach and a handful of good tavernas to choose from. I loved Ligaria a small and charming seaside village located on the north side of Crete especially its lovely beach which has the same name. Also along the main harbour, youll find the stylish Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel and the funky Alcanea Boutique Hotel. As about as non-commercial as it gets, Sissi is everything you want from a pretty Mediterranean fishing village. Three excellent restaurants, salt water pools and an extensive spa complete the picture on this luxe stay. But it would be a shame to miss out on the excellent tavernas in Panormo. Plaka is located on the coast on the east of Crete around an hours drive from Heraklion Airport. Apart from organized beaches in Chania Greece, there are also plenty of deserted coves and lovely bays to enjoy total privacy. Transfer time: 2 hours 30 minutes from Heraklion International airport. Sifaka & Gavaladon 5, Old Town, Chania, Crete Island, 73101. It has a pretty setting in the Gulf of Mirabello with waterfront bars encircling a small lake its made for people watching, and there is a cosmopolitan cafe-bar scene. !" Breakfast included 2022 2. See More, Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary, stylish decor and sea views. Its a relaxed south coast village, about 30km from Agia Galini, and has a wide, sandy Blue Flag beach and a spacious feel. Both a beautiful and quiet place to visit in Crete. Most of the visitors are locals in the high summer months. Although elements of the walk can be tiring, its most definitely worth it. The main town in the region is likeable Agios Nikolaos (or Ag Nik, as its affectionately known), which makes up the quartet of north coast main cities. Best Places in Crete to Stay for First-Timers and Sightseeing: Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos.
The Best Luxury Hotels on Crete, Greece | The Hotel Guru $148. But its also possible to use Plakias as a base for walking and hiking. There are 3 main beaches and a long waterfront area thats full of seafood restaurants, bars and clubs, and is popular in the evening. Swimmers will prefer the deep water at Episkopi. Boutique and luxury: Cressa Corona Boutique Hotel is the best address in town. Again due to its relative remoteness, youll be able to leave your disco shoes at home as well have none of that here, thanks very much. Enjoy the many dining options, good spa and lots of activities - tennis, water sports and nearby nightlife. If you want a bit of light culture there is a church (Agios Panteleimon) on the Western side of the village, it has a gorgeous mosaic floor and is not commercial in any way (if you want to see it youll have to go to the kiosk on Sougia beach and ask for the key yourselfseriously)! There are some bars, but they are more likely to be full of civilised locals than your standard 18-30 gangs. Transfer time: 1hr 45 minutes from Chania International airport. } Belvedere Apartments are box fresh and have spa access. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches. Theres a regular bus to Heraklion, and its possible to reach Rethymnon and Agios Nikolaos for day trips too.
THE 10 BEST Quiet Resorts in Crete 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor forms: { If you are a true adventurer take your flashlight and head up to Milatos caves. #7 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete "The resort location gives quiet seclusion and comfort with its own small beach, sun terraces and infinity pool all with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay." "Secluded enough to be quiet and relaxing but also close enough to the picturesque town of Agios St Nikolas." Special offer 2022 8. BEST HOTELS RIGHT ON THE BEACH: Domes Noruz, Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort, Domes of Elounda.
THE 10 BEST Crete Beaches (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Due to the presence of cold spring water streams, the seawater can be cold, even in summer but the beach itself is stunning. Transfer time: 1hr 15 minutes from Heraklion airport. Numerous beautiful beaches with soft sand or colored pebbles are found in the prefecture of Chania in western Crete. Sougia is located on the South West coast of the island around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion airport. Agia Roumeli: Lots of budget rooms all around the same price point thanks to the proliferation of walkers tryAgia Roumeli Hotel or Gigilos which are both right on the beach. Definitely one of the most unspoiled places to visit in Crete, the pretty peaceful village of Loutro evokes some strong emotion when you land here it is truly like stepping back in time! The main village is set 1km back from the beach and is a popular area for villas and expats. The walk can take upwards of two hours depending on ability and speed, but also inclination, make sure you take your time to soak up the beautiful views and atmosphere. Triopetra is surrounded by Siderotas mountain, olives groves, and of course, the seafront, the area is named after the three majestic rocks that rise out of the ocean at the edge of the peninsula. Crete is a large island the fifth largest in the Mediterranean and you can find whatever youre looking for in each region. Check the rooms and prices on Booking.com. On the harbour: If youre after a harbourfront hotel with a sea views balcony just bear in mind that noise and light from the restaurants below go on until late. Check out cheery Sunday Life.
The best beaches in Crete | CN Traveller There are of resort hotels in Bali strung out along the coast many are looking a bit dated but there are a few standouts. Kids go free to the Minoan Amusement Park. The most famous part of the gorge is the stretch known as the Gates where the sides of the gorge close into a width of only four meters and soar up to a height of almost 300 meters. Pick the Nana Princess in Hersonissos for a relaxing getaway. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( If you are staying one or more nights, you dont need to worry about thumping music or all-night parties. That said, there are bus links to Rethymno and Heraklion so car hire is not necessary. Heraklion Archaeological Museum is fantastic its worth visiting before you head out to the ancient sites if you can. Blue Palace Elounda 9. Beach Life - The property has a private beach area (complete with an open-air cineam in the evenings) - ideal for a quiet beach getaway. Lyttos Mare 5. #7 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete "The resort location gives quiet seclusion and comfort with its own small beach, sun terraces and infinity pool all with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay." "Secluded enough to be quiet and relaxing but also close enough to the picturesque town of Agios St Nikolas." Visit hotel website 2022 8. It lacks the sweeping white sand of some of our other suggestions, but it also lacks the footfall, making it ideal for a day trip.
15 Best Resorts in Crete | U.S. News Travel In the small grid of streets behind the main beach, you will find souvenir shops, mini-markets, and small hotels/rooms to let. Stay in Ierapetra: The Cretan Villa Hotel is a handsome restored 18th century building, or try apartments like the Big Blue Suites. Bali is roughly halfway between Rethymno and Heraklion there are bus services both but not as frequent as other resorts. It feels a little like the end of the known world, and Sfakions are known for their fierce independence and excellent cheese pies. Bozzali. Lasithi, the easternmost province of Crete, is home to some of its most luxurious hotels as well as its wildest and most traditional areas. #30 Best Value of 32 Crete Luxury Beach Resorts Ferries leave Sitia once a week for Rhodes, Karpathos, and Kassos. Anissaras beach http://www.flickr.com/photos/brownieboy27/4986950206/in/set-72157624948245648 Report inappropriate content roseyManchester manchester Perhaps, Domatas unspoiled beauty has been preserved this long because the region has no roads or infrastructures. Set in landscaped tropical gardens, it has 7 pools, a spa, and access to a rocky private beach.
THE 10 BEST Crete Beach Hotels of 2023 (with Prices) - Tripadvisor Transfer time: 35 minutes from Heraklion airport. Transfer time: 30 minutes from Heraklion airport. Transfer time: Ierapetra minutes from Heraklion airport, Makrigialos 1 hr 50 minutes from Heraklion airport. The remote area of Sfakia on the southern coast is one of the most beautiful parts of Crete but you have to be prepared for an adventure to get there. The best of the rest are: Creta Blue Boutique Hotel & Suites, Villa Ippocampi,Casa Bianca Boutique Hotel,Abaton Island Resort & Spa, Cooks Club. Paleochora is the main resort town on the south-west coast. There are plenty of options for self-catered too, likeVilla Niki. Plakias is located along the south coast of the island around an hour and 40 min drive from Heraklion Airport. Value 4.1. Most accommodation is in Paleokastro village which is a short drive from several excellent beaches including Kouremenos, Hiona, and Mandati. 9 Theofanus Street, Chania, Crete Island, 731 00. With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. The most well-known landmark is the blush pink Yiali Tzami mosque on the waterfront, with the main (outer) harbour on one side and the Venetian (inner) harbour and arsenal on the other. The resort itself is sleepy but like most in the area the beach gets very busy in the summer. Or the clean and modern Central City Hotel and Aeolios Design Hotel. Its deliciously quiet in shoulder season. On a budget? Sitia, windsurf and nice beaches For a taste of the less touristy places on the island, Sitia is your town where to stay in Crete. But at the end of the day, Mexico will always be known as a beach destination - and for good reason. Few make it out this far, despite its calling card the impressive (but empty) Venetian castle on its shore. "If you are looking for delicious food, spacious luxury rooms, a marvellous location directly on the beach and an excellent service, Mitsis Laguna is the answer.". Cleanliness 4.3. 302 reviews. #1 Best Value of 80 Beach Resorts in Crete "Highlights were Excellent, clean sandy beach and lot of sun beds on beach, around pools etc. Although the hippies have long since been moved on, and the caves protected and closed to the public, the town retains a laidback feel despite the explosion of tourism here.
The Top 3 Best Crete Family Resorts | Oyster.com If youre bringing the familiy you may prefer a villa with a pool have a look at Philoxenia Villas which has fresh modern decor and is 200 yards from the beach. There is no shortage of boutique in the winding Venetian streets of the old town. Top things to see and do in Agios Nikolaos include: Porto Maltese Boutique Estate is Ag Niks most stylish des res, with a waterfront location, courtyard, and sympathetic restoration. And if you'd like your own private pool, as well as access to a private beach, Refine your search to our Guru's recommendations for. Angela Suites Boutique Hotel is all whites and blues and has a pool. Fantastic food served up and two bars for you to try out.
THE 10 BEST Crete Beach Resorts 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor Development is focused around a small harbour and excellent beach sandy, with shallow child-friendly waters. Yes: Sougia is the best quiet beach in Crete, without a doubt. Agiofarago Beach / Best Beaches in Crete Agiofarago Beach is the perfect beach in Crete if you want to sidestep the crowds. One of the most beautiful cities in all of Greece, Chania is unsurprisingly a popular tourist destination. T Hotel Premium Suites is the most comfortable place in town. The Akrotiri Peninsula is where youll find the airport, a swathe of villas, and a few spectacular beaches such as Stavros Bay and Seitan Limani. Budget alternatives include Axos Hotel and Swell Boutique Hotel. Inland Heraklion region is home to farmland and vineyards, whereas the coastline spreading east from Heraklion is also the most developed on Crete, and home to its most famous (and infamous resorts). It does attract some tourists, mainly from the continent. This is Crete off-the-beaten-track. There is also a domestic airport in Sitia with flights from Athens. Elafonisi Lagoon is located on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Chania. Some of the most beautiful and unique beaches are in the area nearby Damnoni is sandy with shallow clear waters, perfect for kids. Did somebody say wine? The resort offers 75 airy and well appointed rooms and suites fully equipped with satellite TV and minibar. This is tucked away in a remote pocket of Crete's south-western corner, so you could be forgiven for thinking you might have it all to yourself. What delights visitors the most about the White Mountains is the central and southern part of the Lefka Ori which, due to the high altitude, resembles a lunar landscape and offers visiting hikers a surreal experience of walking on the moon which, is wholly unique to the northern hemisphere. Greeces largest island has quickly developed a reputation as a party island with crowds of revellers in the busier resorts looking for their next shot of ouzo, but you shouldnt let that put you off visiting this sun-soaked island. The local fare in many of the harbour tavernas is about as close as you can come to freshness, maybe even caught meters from where you sit. And oh the food! The Greek islands with the best beaches are Crete, Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, and Rhodes. Large rooms offer mountain views or sea views from the large glass windows. Chora Sfakion: A few upmarket options here such as the No Problem Luxury Suite (it has a bathtub), and the excellent value Livikon Hotel and Samaria Hotel which both have fresh white and blue decor and seaview balconies. Historically all of the tourist accommodation has been outside the city in the summer resorts. 8. Bored of sunning yourself? My must-do highlights of Falassarna Experience a paragliding ride overlooking the coast to admire the island from a different perspective. Several of Eloundas top luxury hotels are actually in Plaka, so read the section above if you havent already. })(); For all the legal bits go to myDisclaimer and Privacy Policy, Cretan cooking experience in the mountains, check rooms and availability on Booking.com, 10 Perfect Gifts for Foodies Who Love Greece (Ideal for a Hamper), 10 Best Places for a Sunny Winter City Break in Europe. Be aware that roads and bus routes in the south are sparse, its easier to plan an itinerary that takes in one region or travels along the north coast. The walk between these two areas is truly stunning, the path along the way is marked with cairns to guide your route thankfully as it is easy to get distracted by the views! Sougia is located on the South West Coast of Crete around 3 hour and 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
The best beaches and coves in Crete incl. insider tips - Corissia Suites have private pools. Start the day with farm-to-table breakfast before a bike ride. Atlantica Kalliston Resort. And its one of the warmest places in the Mediterranean in winter. Ligaria is located on the north coast of Crete around a 30 minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Elounda is located in east Crete around an hours drive from Heraklion Airport. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 bars/lounges.
16 best beaches in Mexico, from surf escapes to peaceful bays | CN But most options are traditional apartment complexes such as Petritos Rooms or small houses like Arodamos Sea House. For those on a smaller budget, have a look at the small and friendly Nostos Hotel which is a few minutes from the main harbour. If you are looking for a bit of space then Plakias offers one of the largest beaches in Crete. One of the main attractions of this part of Crete is Vai Beach, the famously exotic palm beach and former hippie colony.
The best quiet beach in Crete? - Crete Message Board - Tripadvisor There are actually three beaches within walking distance from the cobbled stone street village, all of which are pretty shallow and nestled amongst some really lovely local topography, allowing for some rather nice snorkelling experiences. Its a bit of a trek from Chania airport, so if youre going, fly to Heraklion. #8 Best Value of 35 Exclusive Resorts in Crete. Most visitors wont venture far outside the old town, the nexus of which is the pretty 14th-century Venetian harbourfront, but surrounding it is a decent-sized the modern university city with a year-round population of 60,000 people. Accommodation in Frangokastello is all self-catered and around the same price point. As with the other northern cities, it has a Venetian Fortress (the Kazarma) and an Archaeological Museum. See More, An ultra-luxurious haven combining the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools. Hersonissos is the biggest resort in Crete, its a large and lively resort town with something to suit every taste and budget. As Chania is a regional capital and in close proximity to so many beach resorts, it makes a great base to explore the west of the island. Transfer time: 55 minutes from Heraklion International airport. Giannoulis - Grand Bay Beach Resort (Exclusive Adults Only) Kolymvari. There are more Minoan ruins worth discovering though head further afield to Malia and Phaistos. A small village consisting simply of a few hotels and tavernas, shops and restaurants, and a church, but what Loutro lacks in modernity it makes up for in nostalgia and panorama. The resort boasts an outdoor hot tub. Head east from Sitia and you eventually reach is Paleokastro, a windswept resort with an edge-of-the-world feel and some of the best windsurfing in Europe. callback: cb Many boat trips, excursions, and day tours are available, and its possible to make some journeys (such as hiking the Samaria Gorge) yourself by bus. Top hotel pick is Palazzo Greco, a small hotel with a boutique feel the terrace pool and balconies have impressive sea views. Malliotakis Beach Hotel and Aggelo Boutique Hotel are both close to the beach and offer stylish places to lay your head. 1,438 reviews. Oceanview Designer Beach House (4 guests): $300/night. 9. It has a tranquil fishing village vibe, although the heart of the village does feel a bit commercialised, and there are some small beaches a short walk away (the main one is Boufos). A lively beach town, the resort of Bali is set around a handful of coves in a scenic bay. Other options include Hotel Loutro Bay,SifisandDaskalogiannis Hotel. See More, A luxury boutique hotel with quirky design and a private stretch of beach. Meanwhile, the main beach of the area, West Triopetra or Chatzi, is characterised by beautiful coarse sand which casts unusual colours across the beach and water.
Where to Stay in Crete: 14 Best Areas - The Nomadvisor A few Venetian buildings remain but most of the city is a modern concrete jungle that always seems to be dusty and full of building works that were halted during the crisis. Transfer time: 20 minutes from Heraklion International airport. Glika Nera Beach 190 Beaches By 849jeremyn Anissaras, Hersonissos, Crete. On a budget? Its not particularly health and safety friendly, but if you are brave enough youll be rewarded with a view of a hidden church built within the caves. All rooms come with an outdoor pool and private hot tubs. Excellent Mediterranean dishes are served up in the restaurants.