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Bring your family or friends along to one of Heraklion’s most fun attractions with a full day pass. Bask in the sun and enjoy the tropical weather as you go down the water slides, float along the lazy river, or take the kids to the unique playground.
Spend a day at WaterCity and take part in the many activities, meant to help you unwind, but also to get your adrenaline pumping. Experience the wide range of water games and feel like a kid again. Playgrounds, slides, a jacuzzi, and a 385-meter lazy river are waiting for you to visit.
Make the most of your day with a delicious cocktail or meal from one of the restaurants and bars open at the park, with exciting options to purchase at your own expense. And don’t worry about your family’s safety while you’re away, as there are lifeguards present at all times.
Bring your family or friends along to one of Heraklion’s most enjoyable attractions with a full-day pass. Bask in the sun and enjoy the tropical weather as you slide down the water slides, float along the lazy river, or take the kids to the unique playground.
Spend a day at WaterCity and participate in the many activities designed to help you unwind and get your adrenaline pumping. Experience a wide range of water games and feel like a kid again. Playgrounds, slides, a jacuzzi, and a 385-meter lazy river are waiting for your visit.
Make the most of your day with a delicious cocktail or meal from one of the restaurants and bars open in the park, with exciting options available for purchase at your own expense. Don’t worry about your family’s safety while you’re away, as lifeguards are present at all times.
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.
Every day we organize safari with Quad, Buggy1000cc, Monster800cc and Jeep.
Our adventure starts in the small village of Karteros, where we will have a 30-minute briefing on safety and instructions on operating ATVs.
(Only Quad ) We start by passing a deep stream at the end of which we will come across a cave of historical importance, where we will stop for a while.
(Only Jeep & Buggy) Our next stop will be in the forest near the church of St. Irene, where we will visit the old church and enjoy the countryside.
***The route is subject to change due to unfore seen circumstances
(Only Quad )Τhen we will climb to the highest hill in the area where we will enjoy the panoramic view of the area of Heraklion.
Αnd we return through the village of Passa in the direction of Karteros gorge.
(Only Jeep & Buggy)We will continue to the Mt. Juktas Ecological Park in Archanes, an extraordinary archaeological site of Fourni where we will see the Municipal Contemporary Theater and enjoy the panoramic views.
***The route is subject to change due to unfore seen circumstances
After we will continue our route and explore the Gorge of Karteros. All the way through our journey we will have the opportunity to take photos of some of Crete’s most amazing scenery, and our guide will share information about each location we visit.
We’ll have lunch at an Greek tavern.
To finish our adventure, we will make our last stop at Karteros beach for a swim (if the weather is good).
Note: the remaining time is for the round tour.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 along the road to the University Hospital of Heraklion, the Holy Monastery of St. Theodore was established by Timothy Tzannis circa 1980.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Armilides Luxury 3 bedroom maisonette is located in Kokkíni Khánion. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony and free WiFi.
The holiday home is equipped with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Popular points of interest near the holiday home include Kokkini Hani Beach, Thalassa Konaki Beach and Themis Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 8 km from Armilides Luxury 3 bedroom maisonette.
Situated right in the centre of the resort and just 100 metres from the sandy beach Kokkini Hani, Julies Apartments features a fragrant, well-tended garden and offers self-catering accommodation with a spacious, private balcony or patio. Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport is a 10-minute drive away.
Julies air-conditioned studios and apartments are spacious and enjoy garden views. They include a kitchenette equipped with electric kettle and fridge, and they all have a seating area and TV. Free WiFi and safety deposit boxes are provided.
Within walking distance, you will find cafes and taverns serving Cretan cuisine. You can also visit Watercity Waterpark at 3 km. Free parking is provided on site, while transfer from and to Kazantzakis Airport can be provided on request and at extra charge. Extra services include dry cleaning upon request.
from
€54
/night
Boasting pool views, Rodo Seafront Villa with private pool and jacuzzis by Volta Suites and Villas features accommodation with a private beach area, an infinity pool and a fitness centre, around a few steps from Kokkini Hani Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, pool at the pool table, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa with a terrace and sea views has 6 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 9 bathrooms with a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
The wellness area at the villa is comprised of a hot tub, a hammam and a spa facilities. A car rental service is available at Rodo Seafront Villa with private pool and jacuzzis by Volta Suites and Villas.
Thalassa Konaki Beach is 600 metres from the accommodation, while Themis Beach is 800 metres from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 8 km from Rodo Seafront Villa with private pool and jacuzzis by Volta Suites and Villas, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€133
/night
Situated in Kokkíni Khánion, 100 metres from Kokkini Hani Beach and 400 metres from Thalassa Konaki Beach, G&L – Beautiful apartment just a few steps from the sea! features air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi. This apartment is 14 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum and 14 km from Venetian Walls.
The apartment has 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with an oven, a fridge, a washing machine and a stovetop. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Vathianos Kampos Beach is 700 metres from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 3.6 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 7 km from G&L – Beautiful apartment just a few steps from the sea!.
from
€68
/night
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