Experiences and Things to do in Gouves Village

Listed below are the top activities in Gouves Village:
  • CRETAquarium

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.

  • Analipsi

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.

  • Hersonissos

For all you wine lovers – visitors of Crete, we have created this tour specially for you! A tour that combines tastes of authentic products of Crete. All the areas that you visit are famous for their olive groves, the vineyards, and the wine production since the Minoan era. First stop is a local modern olive mill surrounded by olive groves where you have a tour at the olive grove and the olive mill, also you will have the chance to meet the olive oil maker and learn everything about olive oil production. In the end, you will taste a fresh olive oil combined with local snacks. Second stop is of course a winery, a family-owned winery which uses organic methods for cultivating, where you will get a tour around the vineyards and the winery and you will experience wine tasting of 5 different organic wines. Next stop is another winery at the same area but with a different winemaking philosophy and techniques, where you will also get a tour around the winery and the cellar, and you will taste 4 different wines combined with platter. At this tour, you will have the chance to meet the wine makers and exchange views of wine flavors and methods. Lastly, we are taking you to a picturesque village, having lunch at a local traditional tavern, with some wine and local dishes.

  • Hersonissos

We start from our main office in Hersonissos. After the instructions from the very professional guide Andreas on how to operate and use the Quads, we will go straight to the mountain. Using the tiny road (no traffic) so you can try steering the Quad, accelerating, and braking. Our journey begins.

Drive-thru 7 small and beautiful traditional villages, gorges, and olive groves, pass by little farms- stables with goats and sheep, if we will be lucky to see some wild horses, the Sfentili lake to the top of the mountain with the company of eagles, taste a shot of the authentic Cretan tsikoudia with fruits or some small snacks until the magnificent nature’s magical and special moment, sunset on the Beach.

Starting time: 16:00
Approx. return time: 21:00

You should take Driving license, sunglasses, sun protection, and a small bottle of water.

Visit stunning Beaches near Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest beaches in Gouves Village:
  • 2.8 km
Gouves beaches is located 2.8 km away.

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.

  • Gouves beaches
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue
  • 3.1 km
Aposelemis beach is located 3.1 km away.

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.

  • Aposelemis beach
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue
  • 4.2 km
Analipsis beaches is located 4.2 km away.

Analipsi, or Ascension, is a village situated 20km to the east of Heraklion and is named after the Ascension of Christ church. Positioned in a fertile valley, the area is primarily utilized for olive groves. In the early 20th century, it was known as Svourou Metohi, after the Turks who owned land there. Upon Crete’s liberation from the Ottomans, Analipsi was given to the shepherds of Agios Georgios village in Lasithi Plateau as a winter grazing ground. Now, these shepherds’ fortunate descendants own expansive properties featuring hotels, shops, restaurants, and various tourist amenities.

Compared to neighboring resorts, Analipsi is less touristy and more peaceful, making it a preferred destination for families. The village front features a quaint pier with a charming church dedicated to Agia Marina. To the west of the chapel, the coast is rocky, save for a small harbor with a lovely beach. East of the chapel, you’ll find the main sandy beach of Analipsis, which is well-maintained. Though the water isn’t deep, summer months often bring waves.

A leisurely afternoon can be spent wandering through the charming alleys of the old traditional village, admiring the beautiful gardens and stone-paved square. You might also want to visit the four-aisled Ascension church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Ascension of Christ, the Holy Cross, and Saint Efrosinos. The village’s main street, lined with cafes and shops, runs perpendicular to the coast.

  • Analipsis beaches
  • Rocks in places, Sand
  • Normal
  • Blue
  • 4.4 km
Gournes beaches is located 4.4 km away.

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.

  • Gournes beaches
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue

Discover Archaeological Sites near Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest archaeological sites near Gouves Village:
  • 7.6 km •
  • Smari Citadel

Perched atop the rocky hill of Prophet Elijah (Profitis Ilias) near Smari, at an elevation of 590 meters, lie the remnants of a fortress surrounded by a robust defensive wall. This location offers sweeping views over the fertile plains of Kasteli and Smari. Archaeologist Hadji-Vallianou believes this fortress to be the site of ancient Lyttos mentioned by Homer. The city was continuously inhabited from 1800 BC to 630 BC before being deserted by its residents.Inside the city walls, three oblong structures can be found, and a sanctuary of Athena Ergani was identified on the northern side, confirmed by ceramic plates depicting the goddess Athena. These plates are considered the oldest representations of Athena in Crete. A settlement was constructed around the peak, enclosed within a secondary wall. A stone-paved street connects the village to the citadel. Large buildings, likely used as warehouses and workshops, were located outside the second wall.The terraces outside the citadel are also fascinating, as they demonstrate how the city’s inhabitants managed to preserve the minimal soil in the area and cultivate wheat. Furthermore, the city’s development in such a rugged and rocky location would not have been possible without the presence of the water spring now found inside the Prophet Elijah church, situated just a few meters below the peak.

  • 12.9 km •
  • Ancient Lyktos

Ancient Lyktos, also known as Littos, can be found near the settlement of Xidas. This city was one of the most powerful in ancient Crete, a perpetual rival of Knossos, and it controlled the port of Hersonissos. Many ancient historians have written about Lyktos, mentioning that it was the oldest city in Crete, well-organized and constructed, and the place where Rhea’s parents advised her to give birth to Zeus.

Lyktos was a colony of the Lacedaemonians, and the deity Karnian Apollo was worshiped here. The city participated in the Trojan War, during which the leader of the Lyktaeans, Kiranos, sacrificed himself to save Idomeneus from Hector’s spear.

Lyktos held dominance over Eastern Crete and was in continuous conflict with its archenemy, Knossos. In 343 BC, Knossos occupied Lyktos, but the Spartans assisted the Lyktaeans in regaining their city. However, in 220 BC, while Lyktos was at war with Ierapytna, Knossos invaded the unguarded city, destroyed it completely, and captured the women. The returning Lyktaeans were too afraid to enter the city and instead sought refuge in Lappa (present-day Argiroupolis). This event led to the formation of an alliance against Knossos and the beginning of the First Cretan War.

With Sparta’s help, Lyktos was rebuilt and once again became one of Crete’s strongest cities. During the Roman period, the city fiercely resisted the Roman general Metellus, who eventually occupied it. Statues of Marcus Aurelius and Trajan from Lyktos can be found in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

To supply water to Lyktos, water from the Kournia spring, located between Kera and Krassi, was transported to the city via a massive aqueduct. A portion of this aqueduct still stands north of Kostamonitsa village, resembling a wall (tihos).

The emblem of Lyktos coins featured an eagle with open wings and the head of a wild boar, accompanied by the word ΛΥΤΤΙΩΝ (Lyktaeans). Numerous artifacts have been discovered, including sculptures and two inscriptions of the city’s laws written in boustrophedon (alternating text direction per line).

  • 6.8 km •
  • Agii Theodori Minoan Shipyard

On the eastern end of the extensive Vathianos Kambos beach, near the Agii Theodori church, lies a rocky peninsula. Here, one can still see the carved rock that once housed a large shipbuilding yard during the Minoan Era.Researchers have found that this large carving, measuring 48 meters in length and 11 meters in width, could have been used by the Minoans to build ships up to 50 meters long. Additionally, there is a smaller carving to the south that was likely used for storing timber.It is interesting to note that the surrounding area has sunk into the sea over the centuries, with remnants of Minoan buildings both inside and outside the water. The carving was likely filled with water when the ship was completed, allowing it to be easily lowered into the sea.

  • 9.9 km •
  • Ancient Amnisos

On the eastern side of the expansive Karteros bay lies the small hill of Paleochora, which was once home to the Minoan settlement of Amnissos. The name Amnissos can be traced back to the Linear B tablets, the Minoan script, as a-mi-mi-so. Discoveries at Amnissos include a Minoan harbor, numerous buildings, and an outdoor archaic sanctuary where the god Zeus was worshiped. The settlement of Amnissos dates back to the 19th century BC.

Mythology tells us that when Zeus was just a newborn baby, he had to be taken to the Dikti cave to hide from his father, Cronus. While en route and above Amnissos, his navel fell here, which led to the area being called Omfalio Pedio (Navel Valley) in ancient times.

At the eastern side of the hill, near the parking lot of the bustling Amnissos beach, the Minoan mansion of Lilies can be found. Dating back to the 16th century BC, the mansion features murals with floral motifs and blooming lilies. It is believed to have housed an important person, possibly the king of Knossos, Minos, during his vacation. The villa consisted of a hall, bathroom, sanctum, kitchen, and stone-paved areas.

The murals with lilies likely depict a sacred garden and are the primary evidence of Minoan artificial gardens. This is suggested by the lilies drawn in jagged frames, which may represent artificial ponds. Similar ponds can be seen in numerous Egyptian depictions of luxurious gardens.

The mansion was destroyed by fire in the 15th century BC but was ultimately abandoned during the 12th century BC. The building was excavated in 1932 by professor Spiros Marinatos, but sadly, it was severely damaged by German troops during World War II.

To the west of Paleochora hill, you will find the ruins of one of the largest temples of ancient Crete, the Temple of Zeus Thenatas. The temple was built in the 7th century BC and operated until the second century AD. Surrounding the temple, you will see a strong wall with boulders, a part of which is on the sandy beach. Inside the temple, a circular altar can still be discerned.

Discover Monasteries near Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest Monasteries near Gouves Village:
  • 16.4 km •
  • Agia Irini Hrysovalandou

Located on the southern fringes of Heraklion, the Holy Monastery of Santa Irene Hrysovalantou is a male monastery established on April 14, 2002, by Father Methodios Samaritakis. Presently, a small group of monks are involved in producing wax and incense, as well as overseeing the House of Elders, which accommodates senior citizens.The monastery commemorates its annual celebration on July 28.

  • 10.5 km •
  • Monastery of Virgin Mary Theogennitor

The Monastery of Virgin Mary Theogennitor, situated near Mohos, boasts a prime location overlooking the Stalis coastline. Despite being relatively new, this monastery has earned a significant reputation, primarily due to its founder, Father Apostolos. Previously a monk at the St. John Monastery in Anopolis, Apostolos was evicted in 2009 and subsequently established this monastery.

  • 17.4 km •
  • Vidiani Monastery in Lassithi Plateau

Situated at the base of Louloudaki mountain, near the village of Kato Metohi in the Lassithi Plateau, the Vidiani Monastery is easily accessible as it lies just beside the plateau’s peripheral road.

Dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi (Life-Giving Spring), the monastery has been transformed from its previously abandoned state. The monk cells and other buildings within the complex have been restored, and it now functions as a male monastery. During the summer, flowers bloom throughout the grounds, and a small fountain in the courtyard, surrounded by towering cypress trees, symbolizes the spring of Life. Visitors can also enjoy a small café nestled under the shade of the trees. In partnership with the University of Crete, the monastery houses a modest natural history museum.

Constructed in the 19th century, both the monastery and the church are relatively new, likely built upon the ruins of an earlier monastery. The stone-built church features intricate masonry, stone-carved windows, and an exquisitely carved temple.

The area was once under the control of the Vidon family (hence the name Vidiani), who were descendants of a Venetian family that had been granted a portion of the plateau as a fief.

  • 14.9 km •
  • Agia Marina monastery by Voni

Agia Marina Monastery is situated 500 meters south of Voni village, and on its feast day (July 17), it attracts massive crowds from all across Greece. The number of visitors to Agia Marina is the highest in Crete, resulting in car queues stretching for kilometers. Numerous vendors can be found along the way to the church. Many devotees make vows to Agia Marina and walk to the monastery from Heraklion city.

Established in 1895 by John Kaparounakis, the monastery was built at the site where he claimed to have miraculously recovered from a severe illness after drinking water from a spring. A small chapel already existed there, but it was owned by a Turk, Hosref Pasha, who refused to permit the monastery’s construction. Legend has it that Agia Marina intervened, causing Pasha’s three children to fall ill. Upon realizing what had occurred, Pasha sold his property to Kaparounakis, who then renovated the existing church and built the Agia Marina Convent.

Agia Marina is considered the patron saint of sick children, and numerous miraculous events have been reported at the monastery. Visitors are often struck by the room filled with personal items from those who have experienced miracles, such as crutches.

Dine at the Best Restaurants in Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest restaurants in Gouves Village:
  • 0.0 km •
  • Gouves 700 14
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 0.2 km •
  • Gouves 700 14
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 1.8 km •
  • Kon/nou kavafi 1
  • 4.5 of 5

  • 2.0 km •
  • Αγίου Κωνσταντίνου
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 2.0 km •
  • Bus stop
  • 4.5 of 5

  • 2.1 km •
  • Ioannoy Konstantinidi 81
  • 4.8 of 5

Have a Drink at the Best Bars in Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest bars in Gouves Village:
  • 2.0 km •
  • Αγίου Κωνσταντίνου
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 2.1 km •
  • Ioannoy Konstantinidi 81
  • 4.8 of 5

  • 2.2 km •
  • Καζαντζάκη Τ.Θ. 3034
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 2.3 km •
  • Ioannoy Konstantinidi
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 2.6 km •
  • Sirroco restaurant
  • 4.5 of 5

  • 2.6 km •
  • Δασκαλογιάννη
  • 4.8 of 5

Grab a Cup of Coffee at one of the Best Cafes in Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest cafes in Gouves Village:
  • 2.6 km •
  • Kato Gouves 700 14
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 2.3 km •
  • Ioannoy Konstantinidi
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 2.8 km •
  • Kato Gouves 700 14
  • 5 of 5

  • 2.8 km •
  • Paraliaki
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 2.6 km •
  • Leoforos posidonos
  • 4.4 of 5

  • 2.6 km •
  • Vlyhadas
  • 4.1 of 5

Discover Museums in Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest museums in Gouves Village:
  • 3.6 km •
  • Gournes Gouvon 715 00
  • 4.5 of 5

  • 8.9 km •
  • Μουσείο "ΛΥΧΝΟΣΤΑΤΗΣ" - θέση Πλάκα
  • 4.7 of 5

Go hiking to the nearby Gorges

Listed below are the nearest gorges to hike in Gouves Village:
  • 3.1 km

The Aposelemis Canyon, also known as the longest and most significant geological canyon in the northern part of the Heraklion prefecture, terminates at the settlement of Agrianá (locally known as Adrianna), near Hersonissos. The Aposelemis River traverses this canyon, though water is only present in parts of the canyon following heavy rainfall. However, the river at higher altitudes retains water throughout the wet months, thanks to the phyllite rocks. Despite its length, accessibility, and proximity to Heraklion, the canyon remains relatively undiscovered by the local population. The Aposelemis Canyon is characterized by strikingly beautiful and imposing vertical walls that reach up to 200 meters in height, along with several rock shelters. The canyon floor is smooth throughout, posing no technical challenges. In recent times, the Hersonissos Municipality has constructed a lovely trail along the canyon floor, making the walk both enjoyable and easy. The trail also features recreational areas with wooden benches at the start and end points.

This crucial ecosystem is home to waterfowl and birds of prey. A hidden riparian forest, particularly in the upper region of the canyon, is the real gem. The mixed forest is made up of ancient trees with massive trunks, truly natural marvels. Trees such as the plane, holm oak, oak, holly, carob, osier, among others, can be found here. The dense forest often obscures the trail. An old stone bridge, Xerokamares, is located just before the southern entrance, within the river. The most convenient way to access the canyon is via its northern exit. A dirt road from the bridge of the old national road leads to the Aposelemis gorge. Following this dirt road, you’ll pass the picturesque yet ruined settlement of Plevris, and eventually reach the bridge of the new highway, where the trail begins. It takes at least two hours to traverse the gorge.

  • Aposelemis Gorge
  • 3.5 km

The Agia Anastasia Gorge commences from Kenourgio Horio in the Pediada Province (at an elevation of 160m) and concludes at the coastal village of Gournes. It’s named after the cavernous chapel of Saint Anastasia situated near its entry point. The stream that flows within it collects water from the region east of Sgourokefali and originates near Agia Triada.

Its plant life mainly consists of oleanders and the gorge narrows at various points along its path. A descent through the gorge typically takes around three hours. Regrettably, the gorge has been heavily polluted by trash and waste from nearby sheepfolds. Despite ongoing appeals from hiking clubs to the Hersonissos municipality, the situation remains dire.

  • Agia Anastasia Gorge
  • 10.7 km

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.

  • Astrakiano Gorge
  • 12.3 km

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.

  • Kounaviano Gorge

Accommodations in Gouves Village

Listed below are the nearest hotels in Gouves Village:
  • 9 / 10
  • Επαρχιακή Οδός Κόξαρης - Γουβών

Offering garden views, Kagiabis’ Home is an accommodation set in Gouves, 5.1 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos and 21 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It has a terrace, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.

The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a bidet. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.

Venetian Walls is 22 km from the apartment, while The Palace of Knossos is 23 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 14 km from Kagiabis’ Home.

from

€58

/night

    • 40 m
    • 9.8 / 10
    • Eparchiaki Odos Koxaris -Gouvon

    Located 2.7 km from Gouves Beach, “Theeporto” Maisonette with pool offers an outdoor swimming pool, barbecue facilities and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.

    Each unit comes with a patio, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, a seating area with a sofa, a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, a hairdryer, 2 private bathrooms with shower and a private pool. There is also an oven, stovetop and a coffee machine.

    The holiday home provides a terrace.

    Marina Beach is 2.7 km from “Theeporto” Maisonette with pool, while Aposelemis Beach is 2.7 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 16 km from the accommodation.

      • 190 m
      • 8.6 / 10
      • Eparchiaki Odos Koksaris - Gouvon

      Utopia Luxury Villas has mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, situated in Gouves, 5.6 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos.

      The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

      At Utopia Luxury Villas guests are welcome to take advantage of spa facilities.

      Guests can swim in the outdoor swimming pool, go snorkelling or fishing, or relax in the garden and use the barbecue facilities.

      Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 21 km from the accommodation, while Venetian Walls is 22 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 15 km from Utopia Luxury Villas.

        • 470 m
        • 9.3 / 10
        • Eparchiaki Odos Koksaris - Gouvon

        Situated in Gouves and only 5.7 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos, Villa Aggeliki with Private Swimming Pool features accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. Boasting a private pool, the villa is in an area where guests can engage in activities such as snorkelling, fishing and hiking.

        The villa features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

        Guests can relax in the garden at the property.

        Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 21 km from the villa, while Venetian Walls is 22 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 15 km from Villa Aggeliki with Private Swimming Pool.

          • 550 m

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