Karteros is a coastal village on the north coast of Crete, 5.6 km east of Heraklion and 2.5 km from Heraklion airport. The village sits on a wide bay of fine golden sand that runs roughly 3 km east from the mouth of the Karteros Gorge. Karteros and Amnissos are the two neighbourhoods of that bay, and they have grown together as the area developed.
Hersonissos lies 16.7 km east and Agios Nikolaos 48.9 km. Karteros suits a first or last night on Crete because of the airport. 7 beaches sit within 12 km, Ancient Amnisos is 300 m away, and 2 gorges reach the coast within 7 km.
6 outings lie within about 7 km of the village, listed below from nearest to furthest.
Karteros takes its name from a battle. The name honours the Byzantine general Krateros, who landed on this bay in 824 AD in a failed attempt to free Crete from the Saracens. That bay is the one the village still sits on, running 3 km east from the gorge mouth.
Two things shape the village today: the airport 2.5 km away and Heraklion 5.6 km west. The settlement runs into Amnissos along the same shore, so the bay reads as one continuous front rather than two villages. Behind it, the Astrakiano and Kounaviano gorges drain out of the Mount Jiouktas area and finish at this beach, and the gorge mouth marks the western end of the sand.
7 beaches lie within 12 km of Karteros, and the closest one starts 800 m from the village. Most of them face north into the open sea.
The north wind is the common factor along this coast. It raises chop at Karteros, Gournes and Vathianos Kambos alike, and the piers at Vathianos Kambos and Kokkini Hani were built to break those waves and hold the sand.
Eating in Karteros means beach bars, a souvlaki house and a bakery, all within about 1 km of the village.
Karteros lies on the coast immediately east of Heraklion airport, 2.5 km from the terminal, so arrivals reach it without crossing the city. Heraklion is 5.6 km west and Hersonissos 16.7 km east along the same coastline.
Agios Nikolaos sits 48.9 km east, far enough to be a day out. Inland, the resort of Kato Gouves is 9.2 km away and rents cars and motorbikes on site, and the village of Archanes lies 11.2 km away.
Karteros lies 5.6 km east of Heraklion, on the north coast of Crete in the Heraklion region. Hersonissos is 16.7 km further east.
Heraklion airport sits 2.5 km from Karteros, and the beach runs directly beside it. Heraklion city is 5.6 km west of the village.
Karteros beach starts 800 m from the village and runs about 3 km east. The sand is fine and golden with some pebble, and the water is shallow with almost no rocks.
The name honours the Byzantine general Krateros. Krateros landed on this bay in 824 AD in an attempt to free Crete from the Saracens, and the attempt failed.
Yes, the Astrakiano Gorge ends at Karteros beach. It joins the Kounaviano gorge near Skalani, the pair run about 21 km in total, and the trails are easy enough for children. The Agia Anastasia Gorge, 6.8 km away, is the other option, though the descent takes about three hours and rubbish from nearby sheepfolds is a known problem.
WaterCity is a hillside water park above Heraklion with sea views from the terraces, and this day pass covers unlimited use of every slide and pool, a sunbed and an umbrella. The park holds around fifteen slides, a 385-metre lazy river, a jacuzzi and a children’s playground, with lifeguards on the water throughout. Tickets start at €32.50, and the pass carries a 4.46 rating across 465 reviews.
The pass buys a full day inside the gates with nothing rationed. Three parts make up the park.
First are the slides, roughly fifteen of them, split between drops built for thrill-seekers and gentler rides the whole family can use. Second is the lazy river, at 385 metres the longest in Crete, plus a jacuzzi and open pool areas. Third is the children’s zone, with a dedicated water playground away from the larger rides.
The park sits on high ground above Heraklion, so the terraces look out over the sea. Restaurants and bars operate on site and everything sold there is charged separately.
The park sits inland and above the city, a short drive from the coast.
The ticket covers the rides and your place in the sun, and nothing else.
Included:
Not included:
You cannot bring your own food or drinks into the park, so budget for the restaurants.
We recommend WaterCity as the better of the two big water parks near Heraklion, and the deciding factor is the hill. The park is terraced into a slope facing the sea, which means the views are genuinely good and the queues spread out across levels rather than bunching at one plaza. A French reviewer described arriving at 10:00 and getting round the whole park three times without waiting.
The slide range is what reviewers praise most. Around fifteen rides cover both ends, a British reviewer noted plenty for thrill-seekers and for the less brave alike, and a French one singled out the park decorations. Lifeguards are present throughout, which matters with children.
Timing is the single biggest lever on your day, and the reviews agree on it without exception. Everyone who arrived at or near opening reports no queues for the first couple of hours. Everyone who describes queues describes them from lunchtime onwards.
Three honest caveats, because value for money is the weakest score at 4.3 out of 5.
Queues build at the popular slides. GetYourGuide’s own review summary says travellers experience long queues at key slides and want clearer queue management, and a French reviewer described a lot of people at the thrill rides specifically.
The food divides opinion sharply. One Israeli reviewer found it tasty and reasonably priced and a Greek reviewer called the food court normally priced, while a German guest called it more than inadequate, crepes, waffles and hot dogs with ketchup as the only savoury option. A British reviewer found service slow once the park filled. Since you cannot bring your own food in, this is worth knowing.
Cleanliness came up once. A French reviewer rating four stars called the park not very clean and expensive for what you get. That is a single account against many positive ones, but it is in the record.
Arrive at opening, check the height limits before you queue, and eat before the lunch rush.
The pass is valid for a full day. Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel and sunscreen.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted, and pets are not allowed apart from assistance dogs. Some slides carry a minimum height requirement.
The park holds around fifteen slides, ranging from steep drops to gentler family rides, plus a 385-metre lazy river.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are included in the day pass, though they go quickly, so claim yours on arrival.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed. Restaurants and bars operate inside and are charged separately.
Arrive at opening, around 10:00. Reviewers consistently report no queues for the first couple of hours and long waits from lunchtime.
Some slides have a minimum height requirement, so check before queueing with younger children.
A dedicated children’s playground and shallow areas sit apart from the main slides, and lifeguards are present throughout the park.
Check dates and prices for the WaterCity waterpark day pass.
This is a full-day pass to WaterCity in the hills above Heraklion with the transfer built in, which is the part that usually complicates a waterpark day. The ticket covers unlimited use of the slides and pools, a sunbed and an umbrella, and the park runs on a cashless wristband so you carry nothing around. T4V run it over about 6 hours from €32.50, with a 4.33 rating across 290 reviews.
The day is a transfer, a full-day pass and a transfer back. Three parts.
First is the pick-up, which starts somewhere between 08:30 and 10:45 depending on how far your hotel is from the park, at the hotel entrance or a meeting point within short walking distance. Second is the park itself, with slides graded for different ages, pools at varying depths, a wave pool, a jacuzzi, a 385-metre lazy river and a dedicated water playground for toddlers. Third is the return, with departures at roughly 16:00 and 18:00.
Tickets are collected from the reception desk at the park on arrival rather than sent in advance.
The day is spent at one site inland from the coast.
The €32.50 covers the transfer, the entry and your spot by the pool.
Included:
Not included:
Outside food and drink cannot be brought in, so budget for eating at the park.
We recommend this version specifically because of the transfer. WaterCity sits up a hill outside Heraklion, a taxi each way turns a cheap day into an expensive one, and driving means someone spends the day sober and watching the clock. At €32.50 including the coach, sunbed and umbrella, the arithmetic is good.
The park itself reviews well on the things that matter for a family. A British parent took a 14-month-old and reported slides for all age groups and pools at different depths. Another British guest praised clean surroundings and well-maintained attractions. A third called it not too big and not too busy, which is a fair description, this is a mid-sized park rather than a mega-resort, and several reviewers count that as a positive.
The cashless wristband comes up again and again, and it deserves the mention. You pay for everything with the band, so nothing needs carrying, no wallet, no phone, no cash by the pool. Combined with the lockers, reviewers describe it as the thing that let them relax.
Three honest caveats, because 4.33 is a middling score and the reasons are consistent.
The transfer is the weak link, not the park. GetYourGuide’s own summary of verified reviews says pick-up timing and communication for transfers could be clearer and more reliable, and guide quality, which here effectively means the transfer operation, is the weakest dimension at 4.3. Your exact pick-up time arrives by email or chat the day before, not on the ticket, so watch for it.
Expect queues in high season. A British reviewer said to expect some, while calling them still manageable.
The slide range has gaps. A Dutch reviewer enjoyed the tyre slides but was disappointed there were no Category 2 slides without a tyre. If you are booking for teenagers chasing the steepest rides, check the current line-up.
Watch for the pick-up message, wear water shoes, and take a towel.
Pick-ups run between 08:30 and 10:45 depending on your distance from the park, and returns leave at approximately 16:00 and 18:00. Tickets are collected from reception on arrival.
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel and sunscreen. Outside food, drinks and alcohol are not permitted, and pets are not allowed apart from assistance dogs. Lifeguards are on duty throughout.
The trip runs about 6 hours, with pick-ups from 08:30 to 10:45 and returns at roughly 16:00 and 18:00.
Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included, with the exact time sent by email or chat the day before.
A sunbed and umbrella are included in the ticket, but towels are not.
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted. The park has restaurants and bars, paid by wristband.
Everything is paid with a cashless wristband, so you can leave your wallet and phone in a locker.
Yes, there is a dedicated water playground for toddlers and pools at varying depths, though some slides have minimum height limits.
Check dates and prices for the WaterCity waterpark day with hotel pickup.
Enjoy a tour of the mythological Labyrinth with your own licensed guide who will take you through Knossos, focusing on the highlights of the area and its most prominent features. Afterward, the driver will take your group to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion where your private tour will continue.
Discover Knossos, the capital of Minoan Crete, considered Europe’s oldest city. Hear about the islands long history from your guide and learn about the peak of the Minoan culture in 2000 B.C. Later visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion where you can marvel at the findings of the first civilization of Europe, the Minoans.
The tour will guide you through the ages, in a period of time that extends over a 5.000 years, from the neolithic to the roman era.
Get to know the lesser-known side of Crete with a guided tour of the Lasithi Plateau, Knossos Palace, and an archaeological museum. Tour traditional local villages, an olive oil factory to learn about olive oil making, and old windmills once used to make corn and flour.
Start off with the Lasithi Plateau, the highest plateau in Crete with an altitude of 900 meters above sea level. Step into history with a visit to old traditional villages and head to an olive oil factory where you can discover how olive oil used to be made as compared to its modern production.
After tasting some olive oil, visit Krasi village where the oldest plane tree in Crete is located. Visit old windmills that were used for corn and wheat production, as well as others that were used to pump water up to water the crops. See the cave where the mythical Zeus was rumored to have been born.
Visit Crete’s most important archeological sites, the Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological museum. Enjoy lunch and peruse the area before leaving.
Karteros beach is a wide, fine-sand bay on the north coast of Crete, about 7 km east of Heraklion and right beside the island’s airport. The bay stretches roughly 3 km east from the mouth of the Karteros Gorge and takes in two neighbourhoods, Karteros and Amnissos, which have grown together as the area developed. Its name honours the Byzantine general Krateros, who landed here in 824 AD in a failed attempt to free Crete from the Saracens.
The sand is fine and golden, mixed with a little pebble in places, and the water is shallow with almost no rocks. The bay faces the open sea and catches the northern winds, so the surface is often wavy, especially towards the eastern end. Those same winds make Karteros a popular spot for windsurfing. The shallow, gently deepening water suits children and families, and lifeguards watch the organised stretches in season.
You will find tavernas, cafes, and beach bars along the shore, together with umbrellas and sunbeds on the organised sections. A paved road and a city bus from Heraklion reach the beach, and there is a parking area by the shore, so getting here without a car is straightforward. Off the bay lies the small rocky islet of Monochorako, close enough for confident swimmers to reach from the sand.
The quietest part of the bay is Florida, at the western end next to Heraklion’s Nikos Kazantzakis airport. Here the Karteros River flows out of the gorge and forms a small seasonal wetland that dries up in summer, and there are fewer umbrellas and facilities than further east. The wetland is easiest to see in spring, before the summer heat dries it out. While you are at this end, look for the small church of St John and St Nikon, built inside a cave in the rock face across the old national road. Do not be surprised to see horses on the sand here either, as the Heraklion Riding Club brings them down to the beach.
A rental car makes it easy to combine Karteros with the beaches and sites further east along the coast. Compare options for your trip on the Crete car rental page.
Karteros beach is on the north coast of Crete, about 7 km east of Heraklion and directly east of the island’s airport. The bay stretches around 3 km and includes the Karteros and Amnissos neighbourhoods.
A paved road links Karteros beach to Heraklion, and a city bus serves the area, so you can reach it with or without a car. There is a parking area next to the shore for visitors who drive.
Yes. The water is shallow and deepens gently with few rocks, which suits children, and lifeguards watch the organised stretches in season. The sea is often wavy because the bay faces the northern winds, so keep an eye on the conditions and any warning signs.
The bay is exposed to the northern winds and the surface is frequently wavy, most of all towards the eastern end. Calmer conditions are more likely early in the day and on the more sheltered western sections.
The organised sections have umbrellas, sunbeds, showers, and lifeguards in season, with tavernas, cafes, and beach bars along the shore. The western Florida stretch, next to the airport, is quieter and has fewer facilities.
Yes. The steady northern winds make the bay well suited to windsurfing, and water-sports operators work the organised stretches in the summer season.
The beach is named after the Byzantine general Krateros, who landed on the bay in 824 AD to try to free Crete from the Saracens but was defeated. The nearby river and settlement carry the same name.
At the western Florida end, the Karteros River forms a small seasonal wetland, and the cave church of St John and St Nikon sits across the old national road. Off the bay lies the small islet of Monochorako, which strong swimmers can reach, and the eastern Amnissos area continues the same long stretch of sand.
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.
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.
The archaeological site of Fourni can be found on a hill with the same name, situated 17km south of Heraklion and southwest of Kato Archanes. To visit the site (which is not always open, but you can contact the guard), you can either walk along the Minoan path that starts from Kato Arhanes and crosses the stunning artificial grove of Fourni, or climb the stairs from the Apano Archanes ring road.
At Fourni, archaeologists have identified a preminoan cemetery (2800BC-2200BC) which is, in fact, the largest prehistoric cemetery in the Aegean Sea. Additionally, more graves have been discovered, dating back to the period between 2200BC and 1200BC. You can also see the quarry from which the materials for the cemetery’s construction were extracted.
Archaeologist Ioannis Sakellarakis began excavations in 1964, and so far, 26 buildings have been uncovered, with most of them being graves. The objects found in these graves suggest that ancient Archanes had strong connections with the Aegean, Egypt, and the East.
Due to its significant findings, Fourni is considered the most important Minoan cemetery on Crete. The most notable discovery was the unlooted sarcophagus of the “Queen,” containing jewelry (over 140 pieces) of immense value and other items believed to accompany her to the next world. Remains of an ox and a horse sacrifice were also found. Many of these findings are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and the Archaeological Museum of Archanes.
At the location known as Anemospilia, situated on the northern slopes of Mount Jiouchtas, archaeologists Giannis and Efi Sakellarakis discovered a small Minoan-era sanctuary in 1979 that took the global archaeological community by surprise. This modest sanctuary provided the first evidence of human sacrifices in Minoan Crete.
The two-story structure was constructed in the 17th century BC and was later destroyed by an earthquake a few decades afterward. To date, four sites have been uncovered, but there could potentially be more.
In the temple’s first room, numerous utensils were discovered, including around 150 pots of various shapes. The main room was filled with the largest temple utensils, pots, and jars. The east room, where bloodless rituals occurred, contained many objects and a stepped altar on which all worship utensils were placed. The bloody sacrifices took place in the temple’s west room, which had fewer findings.
The most significant discovery of the excavation was the presence of four human skeletons. Scientific investigations revealed that three of them (including one woman) were killed by the collapsing roof and a simultaneous fire. They were likely two priests and a priestess. The fourth deceased individual was the most intriguing discovery, as he was found lying on a trapezoidal table with a short sword or spear in his body. According to anthropologists and forensic experts, this man was a victim of human sacrifice, and the scene was preserved for posterity due to the earthquake.
Jiouchtas, in ancient times, was considered a sacred mountain, primarily because it resembles a human face that looks to the sky from the northwest. Even today, the mountain’s anthropomorphic shape sparks interest. According to legend, this is the face of the Greek god Zeus, and the mountain is his tomb. Indeed, the name Jiouchtas is a corruption of the Latin word for Zeus, Jupiter.
The mountain was very important for the Minoans, as it was the first mountain they saw while their ships approached the shores of Crete. Here, they built at least two Minoan sanctuaries, one at the highest point of the mountain (Psili Korfi) and the second at the position Anemospilia.
The sanctuary of the Giouchtas peak is the most important and largest peak sanctuary in Crete and was directly dependent on Knossos, with covered and open spaces for accommodation, storage, and rituals.
The Psili Korifi peak hosted an 8mx5m worship building with a precinct surrounded by a cyclopean wall, in the sanctuary of which archaeologists have revealed many idols of men, women, animals, body parts, offering tables, inscriptions on Linear A script, bronze and silver pendants, bronze axes, and golden items. The natural trench of the sanctuary on the mountain’s rock, where many of the archaeological findings were found, was used for placing the devotees of the worshippers.
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.
The Rodia nunnery, also known as the Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary, was established in 1990 by Bishop Nektarios Papadakis. The land for the monastery was generously donated by Agapi Sbokou to the Archdiocese of Crete for the purpose of founding the monastery.
In the center of the monastery’s courtyard, visitors can find the temple of the Virgin Mary, along with the cells, guest houses, and other facilities. The small, aisle church is constructed in the Aegean style and holds a celebration on November 21.
Located on a pine-covered hill by the sea at an elevation of 30m, the Pantanassa Monastery (Panagia Pantanassa) is situated approximately 14km west of Heraklion. This relatively new female monastery is dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, with celebrations held on September 8.
Initially, Pantanassa was established to perform charitable work, similar to the Kalyviani Monastery near Mires. Unfortunately, its founder, Bishop Nikolaos Xenos, passed away before he could realize his ambitious dreams of creating an orphanage, nursing home, kindergarten, nursery, and more.
Located in Ellinoperamata, Malevizi district, on the road to Rodia village, the Monastery of Agia Fotini the Samaritan was established in June 1991 by Archbishop Timotheos of Crete. Within the monastery, you can find the church of Agia Fotini, the chapel of St. Fanourios, the nuns’ cells, and the tomb of Timotheos, the monastery’s founder.
Martyr Fotini, who originated from the city of Sihar in Samaria, is mentioned in the life of evangelist John (D’1 – 38). Agia Fotini dedicated her life to spreading the Gospel throughout Africa and Rome during Emperor Nero’s reign (54-68 AD). She was ultimately martyred alongside her sons and five sisters.
The church observes celebrations on February 26th and the Sunday of the Samaritan woman.
Located along the road to the University Hospital of Heraklion, the Holy Monastery of St. Theodore was established by Timothy Tzannis circa 1980.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, sea view and a patio, Sea view villa with private pool close to the beach is set in Karteros. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace and free private parking.
The villa is located on the ground floor and has 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a toaster. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
The villa offers a hot tub. Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Amnissos Beach is 700 metres from Sea view villa with private pool close to the beach, while Karteros Beach is less than 1 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 2 km from the accommodation.
from
€371
/night
Located in Karteros and only less than 1 km from Amnissos Beach, United blue Resorts – Blue view provides accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. The property was built in 2020 and has air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
Staff at the villa are available to provide guidance at the 24-hour front desk.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Karteros Beach is 1.1 km from United blue Resorts – Blue view, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 8.7 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 2 km from the accommodation.
Right on its private area of Amnisos Beach with free sun loungers, Unique Blue! Resort and Villas Adults Only features an outdoor pool. Facilities include a fitness room with hammam. Free Wi-Fi is provided.
Bright and spacious, all air-conditioned rooms open to a balcony with views over the Cretan Sea or the hotel’s garden. Each includes a mini fridge and TV with satellite channels. The private bathroom is fitted with bathrobes, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Enjoying panoramic views of the Cretan Sea, the main restaurant of Unique Blue! Resort and Villas Adults Only serves Greek and international dishes in buffet style. Drinks and snacks are prepared at the beach bar.
For leisure moments, there is a games room with billiards. Small gifts and the essentials can be found at the on-site mini market.
Unique Blue! Resort and Villas Adults Only is located 5 km from Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport and 7 km from the city of Heraklion. Free, private parking is provided on site.
Set in Karteros, a few steps from Karteros Beach, Pnoe Breathing Life – Adults Only offers accommodation with a fitness centre, free private parking, a garden and a restaurant. This 5-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property is allergy-free and is situated 1 km from Amnissos Beach.
The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a coffee machine, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace and a private bathroom with a shower. At Pnoe Breathing Life – Adults Only all rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels.
Continental and American breakfast options are available every morning at the accommodation.
There is an on-site bar and guests can also make use of the business area.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 8.1 km from Pnoe Breathing Life – Adults Only, while Venetian Walls is 8.7 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 2 km from the hotel.
from
€543
/night
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