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Located 16km east of Heraklion, between Kokkini Hani and Kato Gouves, lies the tourist resort of Gournes. The area of Gournes, originally a separate village, is now part of a 23 kilometer stretch of unified beachfront that begins in Vathianos Kambos and ends in Malia. The fertile plains of Gournes are abundant with vegetable crops and olive groves.
The name ‘Gournes’ is derived from the Latin word ‘urna’ which means water troughs for livestock. However, there is another theory suggesting that the name comes from the Minoan larnakes (urns) that were found in the area.
The beaches of Gournes, like most on Crete’s north coast, are exposed to north winds. The beachfront is dotted with small artificial piers constructed to absorb wave impact and to preserve the sand. This has resulted in the formation of several sandy coves between these piers. The area’s long beach, located on the west part of Gournes, is well organized with lifeguards and umbrellas.
As you head east, the coast becomes rockier and you’ll come across a small torrent. A kilometer further east, you’ll find the former American Airbase of Gournes, which was abandoned in the early 1990s. Despite the derelict buildings, the area is home to the International Exhibition Center of Crete, the Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), the City Hall, and the Aquarium. There is also a small port and the longest beach of Gournes, a beautiful sandy stretch that extends to the beaches of Gouves. Particularly noteworthy is the well-organized municipal beach of Gouves, located west of the Old Base boundary.
During your visit to Gournes, don’t miss the chance to see the old church of the Annunciation in the old village and the picturesque church of Agios Ioannis Pezetis with its ancient frescoes. An excavated Minoan settlement and cemetery nearby have revealed many vases, figurines and seals. One of the most popular attractions in Gournes is the Cretaquarium. Once the largest aquarium in southern Europe, it continues to attract thousands of visitors daily and is located within the former U.S. base.
The Gournes beaches are a series of beaches located in the Gournes area of Crete, Greece.
Yes, the Gournes beaches are suitable for families with children as they have shallow waters and are generally safe for swimming.
Yes, there are water sports available at the Gournes beaches, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Yes, you can go snorkeling at the Gournes beaches as there are several areas with clear waters and interesting marine life.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near the Gournes beaches where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.
Yes, there is a parking area near the Gournes beaches where you can park your car for a fee.
Yes, there are several hiking trails near the Gournes beaches that offer stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding hills.
Yes, you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds at the Gournes beaches for a fee.
The water colour of the Gournes beaches is blue.
The Gournes beaches has sand.
The water at the Gournes beaches is shallow.
The sea surface at the Gournes beaches is usually wavy.
Yes, the Gournes beaches is a crowded place.
The Gournes beaches has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, and showers.
The Gournes beaches can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.
No, there is no other information available about the Gournes beaches.
Find below list of things to do near Gournes beaches:
Intro:
A visit to Heraklion, the capital of the island, the fourth largest city of Greece and one of Europe’s fastest growing tourism destinations. Experience the busy life of the citizens and come with us to the biggest open air market of the city. Also visit Cretaquarium or Thalassokosmos located in the small town of Gournes, just outside Heraklion city that hosts sea organisms from over 250 species in more than 60 tanks!
Full Description:
Our day begins with a visit to the city’s biggest open air market that is located in the neighborhood of Pateles, a few minutes away from the city center of Heraklion. Walk around the dozens of stands and be greeted by the friendly merchants who offer their products at very good prices and are willing to give you a taste. Shop around like the locals do and try the high quality products of the Cretan soil.
Next up is the city center of Heraklion. We will have our stop in the city’s main square, the Liberty square and you will have time to scroll around the city center. Visit Daidalou, the main commercial street, have a cup of coffee in the Lions Square or visit the Archaeological museum of Heraklion and discover the greatness of the Minoan civilization. You can furthermore visit the fortress of Koules, one of the strongest fortresses built by the Venetians that is located in the old port of Heraklion. Admire the Venetian walls of the city while learning about the capital of the island.
Our last destination is the Cretaquarium where you can admire various Mediterranean marine species. After the tour, you can have a small break in the aquarium’s bar-restaurant before we head back to your hotels.
Bring your family or friends along to one of Heraklion’s most enjoyable attractions with a full-day pass. Bask in the sun and enjoy the tropical weather as you slide down the water slides, float along the lazy river, or take the kids to the unique playground.
Spend a day at WaterCity and participate in the many activities designed to help you unwind and get your adrenaline pumping. Experience a wide range of water games and feel like a kid again. Playgrounds, slides, a jacuzzi, and a 385-meter lazy river are waiting for your visit.
Make the most of your day with a delicious cocktail or meal from one of the restaurants and bars open in the park, with exciting options available for purchase at your own expense. Don’t worry about your family’s safety while you’re away, as lifeguards are present at all times.
Bring your family or friends along to one of Heraklion’s most fun attractions with a full day pass. Bask in the sun and enjoy the tropical weather as you go down the water slides, float along the lazy river, or take the kids to the unique playground.
Spend a day at WaterCity and take part in the many activities, meant to help you unwind, but also to get your adrenaline pumping. Experience the wide range of water games and feel like a kid again. Playgrounds, slides, a jacuzzi, and a 385-meter lazy river are waiting for you to visit.
Make the most of your day with a delicious cocktail or meal from one of the restaurants and bars open at the park, with exciting options to purchase at your own expense. And don’t worry about your family’s safety while you’re away, as there are lifeguards present at all times.
Every day we organize safari with Quad, Buggy1000cc, Monster800cc and Jeep.
Our adventure starts in the small village of Karteros, where we will have a 30-minute briefing on safety and instructions on operating ATVs.
(Only Quad ) We start by passing a deep stream at the end of which we will come across a cave of historical importance, where we will stop for a while.
(Only Jeep & Buggy) Our next stop will be in the forest near the church of St. Irene, where we will visit the old church and enjoy the countryside.
***The route is subject to change due to unfore seen circumstances
(Only Quad )Τhen we will climb to the highest hill in the area where we will enjoy the panoramic view of the area of Heraklion.
Αnd we return through the village of Passa in the direction of Karteros gorge.
(Only Jeep & Buggy)We will continue to the Mt. Juktas Ecological Park in Archanes, an extraordinary archaeological site of Fourni where we will see the Municipal Contemporary Theater and enjoy the panoramic views.
***The route is subject to change due to unfore seen circumstances
After we will continue our route and explore the Gorge of Karteros. All the way through our journey we will have the opportunity to take photos of some of Crete’s most amazing scenery, and our guide will share information about each location we visit.
We’ll have lunch at an Greek tavern.
To finish our adventure, we will make our last stop at Karteros beach for a swim (if the weather is good).
Note: the remaining time is for the round tour.
Embark on an off-road e-bike tour from Analipsi and discover the beauty of the Cretan countryside. Travel at a slow to moderate pace with many stops to rest, take photos, learn about Crete, admire the views, and visit the highlights of the area.
After a short safety introduction, jump on your bike and travel through low-traffic roads to the countryside following a route of farmer and quiet tarmac roads. Go uphill on rural smooth dirt tracks and back downhill on asphalt roads.
Hear stories about the cultivation of the olives, the use of plants, the traditional life, ethics, and the nature of Crete from your guide.
Choose the pick up and the dropp off point based on your needs.
Τhe fleet of our company consists of premium class cars and serves the entire island of Crete every day. if the point you receive or the point of delivery is not shown in our price list, contact the service department of our company to receive an offer.
Website : www.groundtransportationservices.gr
Email : [email protected]
Our company is based in Crete and provides a wide variety of ground transportation services throughout the island while being the most reliable partner for every incoming visitor or travel agent. Our highly trained staff as well as our remarkable fleet are available to satisfy even the most demanding guests with responsibility,comfort and safety.
Find below the list of hotels near Gournes beaches:
Small studio next to the beach features a balcony and is located in Gournes, within just 300 metres of Gournes Beach and 500 metres of Kokkini Chani Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace and free WiFi.
The apartment includes 1 bedroom, a kitchenette with an oven and a fridge, as well as a kettle. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
American Base Beach is less than 1 km from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is a 14-minute walk away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 9 km from small studio next to the beach.
Situated in Kokkíni Khánion, a few steps from Gournes Beach, Coralli Beach Hotel features accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. Built in 1989, this 4-star hotel is within 200 metres of Kokkini Chani Beach and 1.2 km of Themis Beach. This pet-friendly hotel also has free WiFi.
All rooms at the hotel are fitted with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a shower. Coralli Beach Hotel provides some units with sea views, and the rooms have a balcony. Guest rooms at the accommodation have air conditioning and a desk.
A continental breakfast is available each morning at Coralli Beach Hotel.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 1.5 km from the hotel, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 15 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 9 km from Coralli Beach Hotel.
from
€57
/night
The beachfront Golden Bay Boutique Hotel & Bungalows is located in Gournes Village. It boasts free Wi-Fi access and an outdoor pool surrounded by umbrellas and sunbeds. The tastefully decorated accommodation looks out onto the courtyard.
Opening out onto a balcony, the studios and apartments offer a kitchenette with coffee-tea-facilities, fridge and microwave. Each comes with air conditioning, safe and TV. The bathroom includes bathrobes and a hairdryer. Some have a seating and dining area.
Guests can enjoy a variety of cocktails, refreshing drinking and beverages from the variety of bars available at Golden Bay Boutique Hotel & Bungalows. The on-site tavern serves local and international cuisine on its sea-view terrace.
The 24-hour front desk can provide information on the palace of Knossos that is 22 km away from the property. Other facilities include billiards, a paddling pool and children’s playground.
Golden Bay Boutique Hotel & Bungalows is a distance of 15 km from Heraklion City and Herkalion International Airport. Hersonissos Village is within a 10-minute drive.
from
€57
/night
Situated in Gournes, 700 metres from Gournes Beach and less than 1 km from Kokkini Chani Beach, Comfy Villa Eleni w BBQ, 3min walk to the sea features air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. Guests benefit from a patio and a picnic area.
The villa with a terrace and sea views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
The villa features a barbecue and a garden, which can be enjoyed by guests if the weather permits.
Popular points of interest near Comfy Villa Eleni w BBQ, 3min walk to the sea include American Base Beach, Gournon Beach and Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 10 km from the accommodation.
Set in Gournes, near Gournes Beach, American Base Beach and Kokkini Chani Beach, Nikolas Villa features a garden. Complimentary WiFi is featuredthroughout the property.
All of the air-conditioned units feature a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, fully-equipped kitchen and terrace.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 1.2 km from the holiday home, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 16 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 10 km from Nikolas Villa.
from
€57
/night
Set in Gournes, 800 metres from American Base Beach and 1 km from Gournes Beach, Marions Haus offers a garden and air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony and free WiFi.
Offering a terrace and mountain views, the apartment includes 1 bedroom, a living room, satellite flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchenette, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Diving can be enjoyed nearby.
Gournon Beach is 1.3 km from the apartment, while Kokkini Hani Beach is 2.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 10 km from Marions Haus.
from
€43
/night
Find below list of beaches near Gournes beaches:
Situated 15km west of Heraklion and to the west of Vathianos Kambos, Kokkini Hani is a thriving resort, nestled amidst numerous crops grown in the region’s fertile plain. Its name, meaning “Kokkinis’s Inn,” harks back to the early 1900s when an inn run by a man named Kokkinis provided a resting place for weary travellers en route to Heraklion.
The resort boasts numerous beaches, safeguarded by artificial mini piers. Characterized by sandy shores and shallow turquoise waters, these beaches, though located in front of hotels, are open for public access. The resort is replete with shops and restaurants, and the beaches are well-equipped with umbrellas, lifeguards, and water sports facilities, providing all the necessary tourist infrastructure. In comparison to Malia and Hersonissos, Kokkini Hani’s nightlife is rather subdued.
Close to Vathianos Kambos, on Kokkini’s eastern side and near the coast, lies the small archaeological site of Niros Villa. This mansion from the Late Minoan Times served as the dwelling of a high-ranking Minoan priest, presumably overseeing the local Minoan harbour. Open to the public, this site offers visitors a glimpse of the architecture of a Minoan religious structure from 4000 years ago. Excavations at the villa have unearthed several large bronze axes – the emblem of the Minoans, along with jars, offering tables bearing raw clay, and a host of other smaller artefacts.
Kato Gouves, often referred to as Gouves, is a sought-after holiday destination nestled 18km east of Heraklion, at the base of Mount Ederi. Historically, the valley of Kato Gouves was a fertile ground for vegetables, olives, and cereals, cultivated by the inhabitants of Ano Gouves. Today, it’s been transformed into a tourism hub, featuring numerous hotels. Unlike the bustling resorts of Malia and Hersonissos nearby, Gouves offers a tranquil vacation experience, making it an ideal spot for families and the elderly. The sandy beaches here are loved by families, and are conveniently close to all necessary amenities.
Gouves beach is well-equipped with facilities such as umbrellas, sunbeds, lifeguards, water sports, and diving centres, alongside showers and changing rooms. The sea, featuring fine sand and shallow waters, is exposed to the common north winds. As a result, there are several small piers and marinas in the vicinity where you can enjoy a swim, shielded from the waves. The coastal road of Gouves runs parallel to the coastline, simplifying the task of locating your perfect beach spot! Enjoy an evening stroll on this road while admiring the sunset. The road also boasts numerous cafes and restaurants, offering panoramic sea views. Furthermore, Gouves’ main road houses a number of supermarkets, shops, pharmacies, clinics, and ATMs.
One must-visit spot is the Church of St. Constantine, nestled in a quaint pine forest adjacent to the sea. Its picturesque seaside location makes it a popular wedding venue, especially for couples from Heraklion. If your visit falls on a Saturday, you’re likely to witness a traditional Greek wedding or baptism. Beyond the shoreline, 2km to the north, lies the village of Ano Gouves. Its narrow streets, churches, and coffee shops exude a traditional charm. Further north, you can explore the Cave of Agia Paraskevi near the village of Skotino. To the east, Mount Ederi stands tall, home to radars used by the Americans for the operation of the erstwhile US air base in Gournes.
Situated 15km east of Heraklion lies the well-liked tourist resort of Vathianos Kambos. It derives its name from the nearby village of Vathia, found just a few kilometers to the south. The region is known for the Vathianos River that drains into the area and dries up during the summer. It is characterized by several contiguous bays with golden sands and shallow waters. Due to its north-facing beach front, the area experiences regular wave activity in the months of July and August, leading to the construction of numerous small piers that help to break the waves, retain the sand, and safeguard swimmers.
The most developed beach of Heraklion is found in the westernmost part of Vathianos Kambos, within the Estavromenos settlement. It is widely recognized as Arina, named after a local hotel. This extensive sandy beach attracts thousands of locals who flock there daily for a swim. The beach is teeming with umbrellas, bustling beach bars, and offers a plethora of beach sports options.
Moving east of Arina, you’ll come across the small bay of Agii Theodori. Here, you can still find the carved Minoan shipyard visible in the sea. Further on, you’ll encounter the successive coves of Vathianos Kambos, hidden from the main road due to the hotels interspersed between them. These bays are somewhat protected due to the presence of small piers. Only a handful of locals are privy to these secluded beaches, which extend all the way to Kokkini Hani.
The Aposelemis River, situated 19km east of Heraklion, between Analipsi and Gouves, is a significant wetland in northern Crete. The pond that forms near the shoreline serves as a natural habitat for various migratory birds and rare species. The river’s outlet gives way to a beautiful sandy beach with shallow cool waters. Although it’s in close proximity to large hotels and tourist spots, the beach lacks organization compared to other top beaches in the vicinity, with only a handful of umbrellas and sunbeds available.
There are two alternative routes to reach the beach. One option is to drive towards the beach of Analipsi and then follow the coastal road heading west. After traversing a few meters past the region’s rocky shores, you’ll arrive at the extensive Aposelemis beach. Alternatively, you can take the coastal road of Kato Gouves to its eastern end, where the road veers right and runs along a hotel’s walls. Aposelemis beach is directly across from this hotel, adjacent to Gouves’ soccer field.
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