Well situated in the centre of Heraklio Town, Valide Suite by Estia offers a balcony, air conditioning, free WiFi and flat-screen TV. This apartment is 2.6 km from Amoudara Beach and 5.7 km from The Palace of Knossos.
The kitchen comes with a microwave, a fridge and a stovetop and there is walk-in shower with bathrobes and slippers.
Popular points of interest near the apartment include Venetian Walls, Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Cultural Conference Centre of Heraklion. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 3 km from Valide Suite by Estia, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Find below list of things to do near Valide Suite by Estia:
Meet our local escort in front of the archaeological museum who will have your name on a sign to identify him and wander charming Heraklion, starting with iconic sights such as the open-air market, where you’ll sample fine olive oils and cheeses.
Explore the historic Venetian Loggia and the majestic Cathedral of Agios Minas or the Church of Agios Titos, The Venetian Castle of Heraklion ”Koules,” the Castle is a massive fortress with two storeys that used to guard the entry to the port (entrance fee to the castle 4€ p.p). Visit the unique ”Pastry Museum” includes 232 rare exhibits with 32 of them being unique in the world !! Each of which reveals unique aspects of Cretan heritage.
Then enjoy the culinary journey:
Bougatsa with Greek Coffee: Start with the classic Cretan pastry, Bougatsa, paired with rich Greek coffee. Indulge in flaky layers of puff pastry filled with sweet or savory delights.
Tavern Experience:
Enjoy a feast of flavors in a traditional mezedopoleio (tavern), where the table overflows with Cretan mezes. Enjoy lively dishes such as: Eggplant Salad: A delicious mix of eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, herbs and olive oil. Roast goat or mezes Bekri: Slow roasted goat or pork in red wine sauce, highlighting the richness of Cretan meat dishes. Sausage: Enjoy delicious Cretan sausages, either with vinegar or as delicious meatballs. You will have the oprtunity among the “mezedes” to taste the Cretan olive oil and the Cretan cheese. Raki accompaniments: Complete your meze experience with a taste of raki, the traditional Cretan spirit.
Discover the vibrant city of Heraklion in an extraordinary way with our ecobike wine tasting tour. Pedal through scenic landscapes and indulge in the flavors of exceptional Cretan wines. This unique experience combines the thrill of biking with the pleasure of wine tasting, offering an immersive adventure that will delight your senses.
Your journey begins as you hop on our eco-friendly bikes and set off on a leisurely ride through the captivating city. Feel the wind on your face as you explore the streets and soak in the local atmosphere. As you drive through the charming neighborhoods, you’ll witness the city’s vibrant energy and discover its hidden gems.
Throughout the tour, you’ll visit carefully selected wines, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process from passionate experts. Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of Cretan viticulture.
Our knowledgeable sommelier will guide you through tastings of a variety of exceptional wines, allowing you to savor the unique flavors and aromas that characterize Cretan wine.
Indulge your taste buds and expand your knowledge as you experience the diverse range of wines produced in this region. From crisp whites to robust reds, each sip will take you on a journey through the terroir of Crete, showcasing the distinct characteristics of the local grapes.
As you pedal and taste your way through Heraklion, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. Capture the beauty of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as you make unforgettable memories along the way.
The ecobike wine tasting tour in Heraklion concludes at a central location, leaving you free to continue exploring the city at your leisure. Whether you choose to relax at a local café, visit historical sites, or wander through charming streets, you’ll be captivated by the city’s charm and cultural richness.
Join us on this unique adventure that combines biking, wine tasting, and exploration. Book your ecobike wine tasting tour today and get ready to experience the best of Heraklion in a truly unforgettable way.
Together in this Free Walking Tour (tip based) we will explore the past and present of the city while visitng all the important landmarks such as:
Koules fortress
Venetian Loggia
St. Titus Church
Lion’s Square & Morosini Fountain
Central Market
Cathedral of Saint Minas
Heraklion’s backstreets
Cultural Conference Centre
Resting place of Nikos Kazantzakis
Garden theaters
Venetian Walls
We ‘ll make sure your tour is not just about sightseeing, you will learn about the city’s past and present while at the same time not boring you to death about insignificant details.
Also we will give you all the hidden gems of Heraklion and recommendations about what more to see and where to eat.
Board a high-speed vessel and enjoy a nice ferry cruise from Heraklion or Rethymno to the island of Santorini.
Upon arrival in Santorini, you will be transferred from the port to the magnificent village of Oia in the north.
During the transfer, an experienced guide on the bus will share many interesting facts about Santorini, its history, features, and secrets.
In Oia, you will have approximately 2 hours of free time to visit picturesque spots and viewpoints and enjoy breathtaking views.
The town of Oia is famous worldwide for its iconic panoramic views, Cycladic architecture with white houses and churches with blue domes.
After Oia, the tour continues to the capital of Santorini – the town of Fira.
Fira is just as beautiful as Oia, with breathtaking views of the sea and Caldera from its streets.
You can visit the big Orthodox Cathedral on the main square in the center of Fira and walk through the city.
Fira is full of interesting and picturesque spots and corners. You will have almost 1.5-2 hours there to explore on your own.
The tour will end with a transfer to the Santorini port, where you will take a return trip to Crete.
The day trip ends at the port of Heraklion or at your hotel area if you select the option that includes hotel transfer.
Travel from Crete to Santorini on a high-speed cruise ship with an open deck and comfortable lounges for passengers.
Santorini (Thira) – the southern island of the Cyclades, with an area of 76 km square and a coastline of 70 km long. Many legends take place in this island, as it is called the “Lost Atlantis” or the “Pompeii of the Aegean”. Around 1450 BC, as a result of powerful volcanic explosion, most of the island sank into the sea, shaping the island as warped crescent
You will have the opportunity to learn the fascinating history of this amazing place, take unique photos.
tour on the Santorini island starts at the Port of Athinios.
The tour starts at the Port of Athinios and will be by bus with free time in the towns of Oia and Fira.
Transfer from hotels located in the Heraklion area: Amudara, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Carteros, Kokkini Hani, Hersonissos, Malia, Stalida (except for hotels in the city of Heraklion itself).
Tickets for the comfortable and fastest ship.
English speaking staff at the port. Accompanying throughout the trip with a guided tour in the language of your order:
Monday: English, German, French, Polish, Russian, Romanian
Tuesday: English, German, French, Polish
Wednesday: English, German, French, Polish, Russian
Thursday: English, German, French, Polish, Romanian
Friday: English, German, French, Polish, Russian
Saturday: English, German, French, Polish
Sunday: English, German, French, Polish, Russian, Romanian
ATTENTION: Departure from Santorini is sometimes a delay, but the bus transfer in Crete is always consistent with the time of arrival of the ship.
Duration:
2 hour 30 min – On the ship, between Crete and Santorini.
6 hours – Stay in Santorini.
Early in the mornisg we will pick you up from your hotel or at the nearest suitable pick up point with one of our air conditioned and comfortable buses so that we lead you at first to Knossos Palace, where for one and a half hour you can explore and admire the most important ruins of the Ancient Minoan civilazation. After our visit to Knossos we will go to the centre of Heraklion city outside the Archaelogical Museum, in case you would like to visit it and admire the treasures of the Ancient times. In Heraklion you will have three and a half hours free time, to enjoy a visit to Lion Square, the Loggia, St.Titus cathedral, Koules fortress, shopping or having a drink or a snack in one of the picturesque little cafe in the alleys of the town. We will meet you again outside the Archaelogical Museum to start our way back to Rethymno city, where our trip will come to an end.
Find below list of beaches near Valide Suite by Estia:
Ammoudara, a beach extending 7km west from River Giofyros, located 1km west of Heraklion’s centre, draws in thousands of tourists annually, predominantly due to its expansive sandy coastline. Now a suburb of Heraklion, the beach is known for its unique brownish sand, with a rocky strip about 50m inland signifying the ancient shoreline.
Whether you prefer bustling environments or more private settings, Ammoudara caters to all. The coastline offers organized beaches equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, and a plethora of water sports. Known for its year-round strong winds, Ammoudara is a popular spot for windsurfers. For a quieter experience, the beach’s western area, starting from the Pancretan Stadium and extending east towards the Xeropotamos wetland and dunes, is ideal. River Almiros and River Gazanos’ mouth areas, along with the Ellinoperamata industrial area, also offer peaceful beach spots.
The surrounding locale is also remarkable. The Almyros river spring, Crete’s largest water source, forms the area’s most extensive habitat. Nearby lies the Almiros gorge, an easy location for a leisurely walk. Alternatively, you can opt for a hike up the Stroumboulas mountain, Heraklion’s volcanic-like mountain.
The Karteros Bay, situated at the exit of the synonymous Karteros Gorge, lies 7km east of Heraklion and stretches 3.5km to the east. It pays homage to the Byzantine General, Krateros, who in 824AC attempted to liberate Crete from the Saracens by landing his ships on the bay’s beach, but unfortunately, he was defeated. The bay encompasses two villages, Karteros and Amnissos, which have now merged due to the area’s rapid evolution. The area’s development can be attributed to its proximity to Heraklion and the presence of an exquisite beachfront featuring fine golden sand.
You’ll find numerous hotels, eateries, and beach bars in close proximity to the bay. Karteros Bay is exposed to the northern winds, and as a result, the water tends to be wavy. The water is shallow with almost no rocks, except for a few areas. The least crowded part of the beach is situated next to the “Nikos Kazantzakis” airport, 7km west of Heraklion, known as Florida. This part got its name from an old tavern that no longer exists and is the most serene of all the beaches. Compared to the easternmost beaches, Florida has fewer umbrellas and facilities. The river from the Karteros Gorge empties into Florida, creating a small wetland on the beach, which dries up during the summer. It’s certainly worth a visit, especially in the spring.
While in Florida, you should stop by the old Church of St. John and St. Nikon Metanoite, constructed within a large cave. Moreover, don’t be startled if you spot horses on the beach as it’s home to the Heraklion Riding Club.
Situated 8km west of Heraklion city, Linoperamata, also known as Ellinoperamata, is a scenic sandy beach stretching up to 7km long, beginning from Linoperamata and culminating at the Pancretan Stadium, 1km west of Heraklion. The beach is uniquely bordered by the Almiros river in the west.
The locals do not frequent Linoperamata as much due to the presence of a local Power Station and heavy industries in its western region. Nevertheless, the beach boasts of clean water and a serene atmosphere. Unlike the highly organized beaches in the neighboring Ammoudara, Linoperamata has a more natural appeal, although there are a few hotels in the vicinity.
Open to the northern winds, the beach is often wavy, making it a favorite among windsurfers. Getting to Linoperamata from Heraklion is convenient via the city’s bus service.
Pantanassa, situated 12km west of Heraklion, is named after the Monastery of Panagia Pantanassa, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The beach lies adjacent to the quaint port of Pantanassa. Prior to the establishment of the port, Pantanassa boasted an enchanting beach, concealed by a small pine forest and possessing crystal-clear waters. Now, the beach has been divided by the port, causing Pantanasa beach to lose some of its former allure. Nonetheless, it still retains its beauty, featuring pebbles and clear waters.
The beach offers amenities such as umbrellas and sunbeds, and some pine trees still grace the nearby cliffs. A pathway from the port allows for easy access. If hunger strikes, there are eateries in the port of Pantanassa and nearby areas. Visitors can combine their beach visit with a trip to the Pantanassa Monastery, perched atop the pine-covered hill above the beach. Built in the mid-20th century, it was envisioned to serve as a charity monastery, but the founder, Nikolaos Xenos, passed away before realizing his dream. Today, the monastery functions as a nunnery.
The Lefkadia area lies to the west of Pantanassa beach. Here, two secluded bays, largely unknown to most Heraklion residents, provide an ideal spot for relaxation. Recently, a beach bar was established and a trail leading to the beach was opened. Helidoni beach, featuring sandy and pebbly areas with a predominantly rocky seabed, is perfect for snorkeling. The western view is captivating, with the ruins of the old Paliokastro castle visible. Visitors can park in the nearby small pine grove and hike up to the castle.
Find below list of gorges near Valide Suite by Estia:
Almyros Gorge, situated in Ellinoperamata, is the closest canyon to the west of Heraklion city. The gorge, a small oasis near the bustling city, is formed between Keri hills and the post-Minoan town of Kastrokefala. It serves as a crucial habitat, primarily due to the largest holly wood (Phillirea media) in Crete located on its eastern side. Other species like platan trees, carob, and wild olive trees also thrive here despite overgrazing.
The gorge has various names, such as Keri Gorge, named after the adjacent hill, or Almiros, due to its closeness to the Almiros river. It’s also called Ellinoperamata, the area where the gorge terminates. Frequently termed Porofarago, a common name for Cretan gorges, it’s also known as the Three Churches, in honor of the three chapels — Santa Marina, St. Antonios, and St. Paraskevi. Its commencement point near the Strouboulas peak gives it the Strouboulas name, while stories of Satanist assemblies and ghost sightings have resulted in its spooky moniker, the Ghosts’ Gorge.
Despite its proximity to Heraklion, few people have ventured here. Cars can reach the location where the 14th-century monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis (Saint John inside the Gorge), dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, was constructed near the canyon exit. The surviving chapel of Saint Marina was used as a cemetery, while the main temple was the present two-aisled chapel of Saint Anthony and Saint Paraskevi with significant frescoes. A little further, a shrine dedicated to Saint George can be found, and after nearly 1:30 hours of walking, the chapel of Lord Christ at the gorge’s starting point is reached.
The trail is lined with various trees, and the vegetation thickens as one ascends. Initially, the gorge is typically dry but transitions into a small stream during spring. While ascending, one can encounter three small waterfalls, which form at a site with a pinkish limestone hue after prolonged, heavy rainfall.
Almiros Gorge is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers. To reach this wild beauty, navigate towards the equally breathtaking Lake of Almiros. Located just a short distance from the path leading to the gorge, this lake is a wonder in itself. The lake’s crystal-clear water, flowing directly from the spring-fed mountain cliffs, offers an extraordinary view all the way to its bed.
The Astrakiano and Kounaviano canyons are two verdant gorges that converge near Skalani village and empty out onto Karteros beach. The combined length of these canyons is roughly 21 km. Situated to the east of Heraklion city, these gorges are part of the broader Mount Jiouktas area. They offer easy walking trails, making them perfect for families and children.
The longer of the two, Astrakiano, begins at the Paliarda location in Kolomodi and extends to the area beneath the deserted Kato Astraki village, after crossing the picturesque Astrakiani Kamara bridge. From Kato Astraki, a brief trail leads to the Neraidospilios site, known for its stunning pond and gushing water caves.
The path along the Karteros river commences from this point, offering a lush green trail equipped with wooden bridges and railings. After crossing the Aitania bridge at Kaki Rachi, we reach Kali Rachi where the Astrakiano and Kounaviano Gorges, originating from Peza, merge. From Kali Rachi, the river continues to Karteros along a well-structured path. This section, known as Karteros Gorge, passes by ancient water mills and the historic Saint Nicholas Church (Agios Nikolaos). Near the Karteros gorge exit, at the Mesa Karteros spot, you’ll find an old inn and a second chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas. This location, accessible by car from Karteros, is an ideal picnic spot.
The Astrakiano canyon (Astraki – Kali Rachi) measures about 7km, with a hiking duration of 3-4 hours. The Kounaviano Gorge (Peza- Kali Rachi) is roughly 4km long, requiring about 2 hours for trekking. The shared section of the Karteros gorge (up to the second Saint Nicholas chapel (Kali Rachi – Mesa Karteros)) is approximately 6km.
The canyons’ route is abundant in natural, morphological, aesthetic, historical, and cultural aspects. The landscape boasts exceptional natural beauty, featuring springs, ponds, rivers, mini waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Prior to World War II, the canyon housed 10 watermills, and locals would fish for eels and crabs, some of which still exist today.
A petite gorge forms to the west of the Rogdia village and opens up at the Paliokastro area. The journey begins from the ancient Koukos watermill, situated on the primary road linking Rogdia to Achlada, and takes you down to its most striking feature, the 10-meter tall Rechtra waterfall, which can be accessed through a relatively steep descent with ropes. As you traverse down the gorge, you’ll encounter several small waterfalls, the cave-like chapel of Panagia Spiliotissa, and finally arrive at the Paliokastro beach.
One of the most astounding sights is a cave situated right in the heart of the gorge, which has been converted into a studio for creating Christian icons by a hagiographer, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. It is highly recommended to stop by this unique site, engage in conversation with the artist, admire the icons, and perhaps purchase a few.
You can also conveniently reach the fall by trekking up the gorge from Paliokastro.
The Kounaviano gorge, known for its lush vegetation, is the greenest canyon in the entire Heraklion prefecture, serving as a verdant oasis in the heart of Pediada province. The gorge is named after the village of Kounavi in its district, even though it actually begins from the village of Peza, hence it could be referred to as Pezzano Gorge. This gorge is a tributary of the Karteros river and runs parallel to the Astrakiano gorge. The Astrakiano and Kounaviano gorges converge at the Kaki Rachi area near Skalani, forming the Karteros Gorge. Kounaviano’s entrance is situated at the northernmost point of the fertile Peza plain, collecting all the area’s water. It has numerous springs along its bed, some of which retain water throughout the year.
In recent years, the gorge’s trail has been marked and cleared, with the addition of small bridges, wooden railings, and informational signs. Walking along this trail is a delightful and easy experience, shaded by perennial plane, oak, and other trees. The riverbed walk is simple, without significant altitude changes or difficulties. At the gorge’s starting point, two small waterfalls can be seen. Old watermills, once used to grind the area’s cereals, can be found at three different points along the trail. This region has always been one of Crete’s most productive. Additionally, limestone kilns and various fruit tree gardens can be spotted. A walk from the gorge’s entrance at Peza to its exit at Kaki Rachi near Skalani takes approximately 2 hours.
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