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Stalis or (Stalida), a charming coastal town on Crete’s northern shores, is a treasure trove of activities for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant Cretan culture and scenic beauty. One of the top things to do in Stalida is to dive into the array of watersports offered along the expanse of Stalis Beach. Here, the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean beckon adventurers to partake in thrilling activities like jet skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing, providing an adrenaline rush against the backdrop of the island’s stunning coastline. As the sun dips lower in the sky, the beach transforms into a picturesque spot to indulge in traditional Greek cuisine at one of the many tavernas dotting the seafront, where the fresh catch of the day is served with a side of spectacular sea views.
The allure of Stalida extends beyond its golden sands, inviting visitors to explore the lush surrounding countryside on horseback, an experience that offers a unique perspective of Crete’s natural landscape. As the evening draws in, the vibrant beach bars along the seafront become a hub of nightlife, with lively music and refreshing cocktails. For those with a thirst for exploration, Stalida serves as an excellent base to visit nearby gorges and secluded beaches, offering serene natural settings for relaxation or hiking. History buffs can delve into Crete’s past through its archaeological sites and museums, uncovering the rich heritage that has shaped this island. To experience the best of Cretan leisure and culture, see below the full list with the best things to do in and near Stalida, ensuring a holiday filled with memories to cherish.
Experience the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum and dive into Cretan culture dating back thousands of years. See traditional houses, windmills, distilleries, everyday tools of the past. Enrich your visit with an audio guide and audiovisual film or private tour.
Learn what it means to be a Cretan at a museum dedicated to promoting the understanding and awareness of Cretan folk cultural heritage. Explore the museum’s collections that focus on themes of Cretan folk tradition and ethnology, Cretan nature and environment, and Cretan folk culture.
Visit traditional dwellings, the chapel, olive oil press, tsikoudia (raki) distillery, threshing floor, ceramic shop, weaving and plant-dying workshop, bees and wax workshop, shoe-making workshop, carpentry, herbarium, Cretan fruit garden, herb garden, mineral and stone exhibition, Cretan folk artists’ gallery, and more.
Stop at the auditorium featuring 100 seats for audio-visual shows, seminars, and more, or visit the open-air theater with 250 seats for cultural and artistic evens. Check out the temporary exhibitions hall, library, café, and souvenir shop during your visit.
The event starts at 11:00 a.m. every Wednesday (1st July- 1st November 2023).
First, you will start by pressing the grapes with your own feet -in the traditional way-, in the Museum’s wine vat.
After that, you will taste cheese-pies, potatoes baked in the oven, grapes, figs and watermelon from our garden, as well as by-products of grapes (like Cretan wine and “tsikoudia’’ – Raki ) and the healthy dessert “Μoustalevria” (derived from the grape-juice, with no sugar or preservatives added).
At the same time, you will enjoy Cretan traditional music with local dancers (voluntary participation).
The event, ends with a Museum guided tour/audio guide and a short Film in several languages.
At the end, you will be able to explore the Museum on your own, take pictures, relax in the Museum’s beach and enjoy the drinks and snacks from the Museum’s beach-bar.
Embark on an adrenaline-pumping tour aboard an innovative jet boat combining boat and plane technology. Glide across the water at top speeds and gaze at Crete’s vibrant shore from the water. Take a break from your adventure to go swimming and snorkeling.
Climb aboard the jet boat at Hersonissos Port to begin your exhilarating journey. Feel the thrill of making fantastic 360° maneuvers at high speeds, and experience how the boat dashes across the ocean and stops quickly. Stay safe at all times as you ride a stable vessel steered by a professional.
During your fun ride we explore places like Malia,Stalis and Analsipsi and after we enjoy a stop at Saint George’s Bay, a paradisiac location, to unwind from the speed. Seize the chance to go swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters before making your way back to the port.
Starting off we climb on an off-road terrain between olive groves through this green place full of colors, we will go quad safari on an impressive off-road route between the vineyards and to explore the unknown Paths ofe Crete .After we will arrive to PACHALIGO forest where we will a litle relax ! We continue through dirt roads with impressive mountains and wild nature with rich flora and fauna and unique views. A chance to pick some local herbs and become one with nature! In NEAPOLIS we ill have free time and free coffee !!
We have the opportunity to take amazing photos and then continue to explore beautiful parts of the offroad route, ending up for a swim in the crystal clear waters of Boufos beach in Sisi!
After our bath we will have lunch in a traditional tavern relaxing!!!
We continue this adventure having fun on an amazing dynamic dusty-sandy off-road coastal route and through the narrow streets of the traditional village of Sisi.
Having experienced an incredible Gocretesafari Quad Trip in Crete and having the opportunity to learn about the authentic Cretan life, we are sure that you will come back full of amazing memories that will last a lifetime!
The coastal town of Stalis in Crete is a beach lover’s paradise, offering a variety of sandy retreats perfect for anyone compiling a list of things to do near Stalis. The main Stalida beach, with its golden sands and shallow, turquoise waters, is a family favorite, equipped with ample facilities including accommodations, food and water amenities, and opportunities for water sports, all under the watchful eyes of lifeguards. Fringed by inviting palm trees, it provides a picturesque setting for a day under the sun.
A short way off, the Drapanos beaches boast crystal-clear waters and a Blue Flag status, signaling their high environmental and quality standards. These shores are not only family-friendly but also cater to those seeking a more liberating experience with nudism-friendly areas and are ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts looking to explore underwater marvels. Malia beach, another stunning stretch, is known for its lively atmosphere and comprehensive facilities, ensuring every beachgoer’s needs are met.
Each beach near Stalis encapsulates the charm of Crete’s coastline, promising memorable moments of relaxation and recreation. For a detailed guide on where to soak up the sun, see below the list of beaches near Stalis, each offering a unique slice of Cretan seaside bliss.
Stalida Beach (or Stalis) is located 30km east of Heraklion, between Malia and Hersonissos. Originally a small seaside village formed by the inhabitants of Mochos, it has now evolved into a bustling tourist destination, harmoniously blending into the neighbouring town of Malia. Stalis caters primarily to families seeking a tranquil retreat, and is beautifully equipped with a range of accommodations, eateries, bars, and taverns, not to mention an ATM and a pharmacy for convenience.
Stalida makes for a perfect base to explore the nearby attractions and engage in an array of activities. The locality is teeming with stunning beaches, enriching archaeological sites, and captivating cultural spots. A short 6km trip from the beach takes you to the Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre – a place where you can acquaint yourself with a variety of marine creatures and reptiles. Nearby, the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum offers a deep dive into Crete’s natural history and culture.
For those seeking aquatic thrills, the Acqua Plus waterpark, the island’s largest, is not far from the coastline. To the west, beyond Malia and Potamos Beach, lies the Malia Palace Archaeological Site, home to the third largest Minoan palace complex and steeped in millennia-old history. A further 20km south, the ancient Minoan settlement of Karfi offers another slice of history, believed to have been home to around 3,500 inhabitants.
For those with a passion for hiking, the Bulgarian trail, starting from Stalis and leading up to Mohos, is a must. Named after the Bulgarian prisoners of war who constructed it during WWII, this 5km trail, though lengthy and ascending, is an experience in itself. Along the way, you’ll cross a pedestrian bridge spanning the highway and encounter the contemporary Panagia Theogenitor Monastery. Once in Mohos, enjoy a leisurely stroll along narrow lanes, relax with a coffee in the spacious square, and enjoy the warm company of the locals. You can choose to return via the same trail or follow a different one leading from Mohos to Malia.
Living on the island of Crete, about 28km east of Heraklion, you’ll find the popular tourist town of Hersonissos. It’s known for its array of beaches, particularly on the eastern side. Located a short 2km distance from the Hersonissos port, these delightful coves extend up to the Drapanos Cape. The most vibrant among them is Star Beach, known for being one of the island’s busiest spots.
As you travel further east, there are several small, scenic sandy and pebbly coves that offer a feeling of tranquillity. Some of these secluded spots enjoy cool water due to the presence of freshwater springs in the sea. Next to these coves, you’ll find the Lychnostatis Folklore Museum, a place where visitors can delve into the historical Cretan way of life.
The final beach in the Hersonissos vicinity is located in front of the Nana Beach Hotel, at the edge of Drapano Cape, and is accessible by heading east. This well-maintained beach has sunbeds and a lifeguard on duty, with a variety of water sports and beach bars available. Thanks to the protection offered by two long piers, this beach enjoys calm waters all year round, as it’s shielded from the north winds.
Situated 35km to the east of Heraklion, Malia is a vibrant hub known for its dynamic nightlife and historic appeal with the third largest Minoan palace in Crete, the Malia Palace. Malia’s appeal is augmented by its sandy beaches, a key catalyst for its tourism development.
The main beach in Malia forms the eastern stretch of a 6km long bay commencing from Stalis. This vast beach boasts fine sand and shallow water, often thrumming with life, so much so that there’s barely a gap between sunbeds! Catering to all your comfort needs, the beach offers not only standard amenities such as umbrellas and water sports but also exclusive services like beachfront massage, a beach gym, pool bars at the hotels, and more.
However, if tranquillity is what you’re after, Malia might not be the best fit. You could consider venturing east, beyond the local port, towards the serene beaches of Pirgos and Potamos.
Hersonissos, a bustling tourist hotspot in Crete situated just 28km to the east of Heraklion, is renowned for its tranquil beaches and calm seas – a rarity along the northern coast of Crete due to the prevailing northern winds. The most serene beaches can be found to the west of the port, shielded by the Cape Sarandaris. Towards the east of the port, however, lie the resort’s most frequented beaches.
As you venture east from the port of Hersonissos, the first sight to greet you is a sprawling, narrow, sandy beach, buzzing with throngs of beachgoers. It’s impeccably organized and conveniently close to the city’s amenities, though it may not be the best choice for those seeking a more serene environment.
Journeying further east, a series of small, sandy coves become apparent, primarily situated in front of hotels. Of these, Silva Maris Beach stands out with its high level of organization, a lifeguard, and numerous facilities. Continuing eastwards, you’ll encounter Star Beach, one of Crete’s most populous beaches, largely patronized by British and Dutch tourists. Lastly, near Cape Drapanos lie the peaceful beaches of Eastern Hersonissos, offering a quieter seaside experience.
Stepping into Stalis is like walking through the pages of history, and for those intrigued by the past, exploring the archaeological sites near this Cretan town is among the most enriching things to do near Stalis. A short distance away, the Malia Minoan Palace offers a journey back to an ancient civilization, with its ruins telling stories of Crete’s grandeur. Venture a bit further to the Boufos Minoan settlement, where the remnants of the past stand against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, offering a tangible connection to the island’s ancient inhabitants. Not far off, the enigmatic ruins of Ancient Lyktos invite visitors to ponder over the mysteries of an era long gone, surrounded by the whispers of history that echo through its stones and inscriptions. Each site is a chapter in Crete’s extensive historical narrative, waiting to be discovered by history buffs and curious travelers alike. For a deeper dive into the island’s rich past, see below the list of archaeological sites near Stalis, where each visit promises a fascinating glimpse into the Minoan civilization and beyond.
The Malia Palace is situated 3km east of Malia town, adjacent to the wetland and Potamos beach. It was a significant Minoan city that housed the third largest Minoan palace, following Knossos and Phaistos. According to mythology, Sarpedon ruled here, who was the brother of Minos and son of Zeus and Europa. Sarpedon was expelled by his brother Minos and then sought refuge in Lycia in Asia Minor.
Cave of Zeus is a legendary sanctuary where, according to mythology, the Titaness Rhea hid her son Zeus to protect him from his father Cronus, who had a grim habit of devouring his children. It also serves as the backdrop for the mythological tale of Zeus and Princess Europa. Nestled on the rugged northern slopes of Mount Dikti, at an elevation of 1,025 meters near the village of Psychro, the cave – often referred to as the Dikteon Cave or Psychro Cave – is one of Crete’s most visited archaeological and mythological sites.
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.
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).
The male monastery of Saint George Selinaris is nestled in the heart of the Selinari gorge, close to Vrachasi village and Neapolis. The National Road, which connects Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, runs alongside the monastery, making it a popular stop for many visitors daily. Cretans believe it is bad luck to pass through the canyon without stopping at St. George, a tradition that dates back to when travelers would stop to rest with their animals.As per tradition, a monk from Rhodes named Nikolaos was guided by God to a location where he discovered the icon of St. George, leading him to build a church. Nikolaos resided at Selinari until his death, at which point he was buried in a small cave at the summit of Anavlohos mount, which he had carved himself. Several years after his passing, sailors from Rhodes were led to Nikolaos’ tomb by a shining star. Recognizing this as a divine sign, they transported his bones back to Rhodes. Anavlohos cave can be found on the eastern side of the gorge, directly opposite the monastery. The exact location can be identified by looking up at the gorge walls and spotting a large cross. While the cave is accessible by foot, climbing the steep path requires good physical fitness.During the Ottoman Era, it is believed that the Turks attempted to destroy the monastery, as evidenced by the three bullets embedded in the old icon of Saint George, which is also considered miraculous.A visit to the monastery is well worth it, as you can admire the stunning beauty of the lush canyon and cool off at the local spring. The monks are very welcoming and eager to share the history of the monastery. The central church’s main body is modern, as are the wall paintings in the chapel of St. George (the original temple built by Nikolaos). A modern nursing home also operates here, constructed on the ruins of the old monastery cells.
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.
Located on a small hill adorned with oak trees near the villages of Agios Konstantinos and Marmaketo in the Lassithi Plateau, the Monastery of Panagia Kroustallenia is a historically significant site in Crete that is always worth exploring.
As per local tradition, the monastery’s name is believed to have originated either from its first founder, Kroustallenia, or from an icon of Panagia (Virgin Mary) discovered in a nearby cave, which was engraved on crystal (Kroustalenia also translates to “made of crystal” or “glass”).
The primary temple within the monastery is devoted to the Virgin Mary and observes its celebration on August 15. The monastery complex primarily features 20th-century buildings due to the multiple destructions it faced during the Turkish occupation.
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.
In the heart of Crete, Stalis unfolds its culinary map, offering an array of dining experiences that are quintessential things to do in Stalis. The town’s dining scene is a gastronome’s delight, particularly noted for its authentic Greek cuisine that captures the essence of the Mediterranean diet. The tavernas and restaurants in Stalis master the art of traditional cooking, turning simple ingredients into dishes that sing with flavor. Many dining spots are nestled along the seafront, allowing you to pair your meal with uninterrupted views of the azure Aegean Sea, adding a visual feast to the flavorsome journey. As you delve into the local specialties, your experience is often rounded off with a complimentary shot of raki, a gesture of Cretan hospitality that warms the heart as much as it does the palate. To discover the culinary gems where the locals love to eat and visitors are welcomed as friends, see below the list of the best restaurants in Stalis – a testament to the town’s reputation for outstanding food and memorable dining experiences.
Stalis, with its more laid-back approach to nightlife compared to the bustling party scenes of its neighbour Malia, offers a diverse and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. This coastal town is a blend of tranquility and entertainment, where the nightlife caters to a variety of preferences, making it a noteworthy mention among things to do in Stalis. The bars in Stalis are known for their cozy and friendly ambiance, inviting a crowd that appreciates a good mix of vibrant music, delicious cocktails, and the warmth of Cretan hospitality.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening by the sea or a fun night out with friends, you’ll find a selection of bars that promise an enjoyable experience without the extreme revelry. Each bar has its unique charm, offering everything from live music and DJ sets to quiet corners for intimate conversations. To experience the best of Stalis after dark, check the list below of the best bars in Stalis, where every night is an opportunity to make new friends and create lasting memories under the starry Mediterranean sky.
Immersing yourself in the cultural fabric of Stalis is incomplete without exploring the wealth of history and tradition preserved in the local museums, a highlight for those compiling things to do near Stalis. The Lychnostatis Open Air Museum, a short distance from the town center, is an exceptional venue that offers a vivid portrayal of Cretan life, capturing the imagination with its open-air displays that encourage engagement with the island’s heritage. Further enhancing the cultural tapestry, the Mochos Folklore Museum provides a colorful journey into the past, showcasing a collection that brings to life the vibrant traditions and crafts of the region. For a deeper understanding of the Cretan way of life, the Parlamas Museum of Rural Life presents an exquisite array of artifacts and exhibits, eloquently narrating the story of Crete’s agrarian roots. Each museum near Stalis is a gateway to the island’s soul, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the rich history that shapes contemporary Crete. For a curated exploration of this storied island, see below the list of museums near Stalis, each a chapter in the grand narrative of Cretan culture.
For those seeking adventure and natural beauty, exploring the gorges near Stalis is a captivating addition to the list of things to do near Stalis. Embasa Gorge, located a mere 7.7 kilometers from Stalis, offers a 2-kilometer hike that is both accessible and rewarding, with a paved road leading to the starting point. The trail invites hikers into a world of majestic cliffs and lush vegetation, perfect for a one-hour excursion into nature. Close by, the Aposelemis Gorge presents a longer route of 6 kilometers that can be traversed in approximately 2.5 hours, where hikers can immerse themselves in the serene Cretan landscape, with the path being conveniently accessible by a paved road.
For a more rugged experience, the Roza Gorge awaits, promising a 2-hour journey along a dirt track that rewards the intrepid with dramatic rock formations and a glimpse of Crete’s wild heart. Each gorge offers a different level of challenge and beauty, making them ideal for both novice and experienced hikers alike. To plan your exploration of these natural wonders, see below the list of gorges near Stalis, where each path leads to breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
The Embasa Gorge, also known as Apotyposi, begins its journey from the village of Kato Kera in the Pediada province and concludes near the village of Gonies, spanning a length of approximately 2km. The upper section of the gorge is notably steep, giving rise to several waterfalls during the winter season, with the tallest one measuring around 20m in height. The largest waterfall is particularly intriguing due to its division into several smaller cascades. It is possible to reach all the waterfalls without any special equipment as they can be circumvented from the sides.
Ascending the canyon from Gonies provides easier access to the waterfalls. However, the dense vegetation and steep inclines may pose a challenge for beginners. The gorge is predominantly populated by oak trees, planes, and brambles. The Life-Giving Spring church (Zoodohos Pigi) is located on the edges of the gorge, above the largest waterfall. According to local lore, a natural rock formation resembling the Virgin Mary can be found above this church. Hence, the gorge is also referred to as Apotiposi (Depiction). The church serves as the nearest parking spot to the large waterfall and can be conveniently reached from here, provided one can first overcome the initial hurdle of the fence erected by local shepherds.
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.
Roza Gorge, a branch of the larger Ambelos Gorge, originates near the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery in the Ano Kera region. It connects with the rural road that traverses the Ambelos Gorge close to the village of Gonies. Walking along the riverbed is not feasible due to the precipitous drops, but a well-marked hiking trail is available on the gorge’s sides. The gorge’s sides are visually striking, showcasing unique geological formations that captivate visitors. After heavy rainfall, surface water is visible in the gorge, evidenced by the growth of oleander plants in the riverbed.
The name ‘Roza’ is derived from the pinkish hue (‘roz’ translates to pink) of the gorge’s walls. Another theory suggests that the gorge was used as a disposal site for sterile animals like donkeys in the past. As a result, locals named it ‘Stira Za’ (meaning sterile animals), which eventually evolved into ‘Sti Roza’ (or in Roza).
Canyoning in the Roza Gorge
Roza Gorge is technical in nature, implying that hiking in its bed is not an option due to the numerous steep descents (rappels) that necessitate specific technical gear and training. For canyoning enthusiasts, it’s important to note that the largest rappel is approximately 18m high. The points are secured with relays from the speleological clubs of Crete, and the descent for a small group typically takes around 3 hours. The gorge’s proximity to Heraklion and easy accessibility make it a popular choice for canyoning schools.
Located approximately 45km east of Heraklion and 21km west of Agios Nikolaos, the Gorge Sellinari is nestled on the eastern slopes of Selena Mount, draining the valley west of Vrachassi. This gorge is a well-known location for all Cretans as the National Road from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos runs along it. Historically, it served as the natural passage from the region of Lassithi to the fertile north coasts of Heraklion.
The dense vegetation of Selinari can be enjoyed either by car or by taking a leisurely walk until its exit near Milatos. A route worth exploring is the old National Road, which runs parallel to the New Road and winds through the gorge. The gorge walls and surrounding mountains provide a haven for many birds of prey. Selinari was once a refuge for the rare Cretan wild goat, but sadly, it is now extinct. Several springs are scattered around the area, but the most renowned attraction is the historic Saint George Monastery. For the Cretans, it is considered a bad omen to pass a gorge without stopping at the monastery. This belief stems from the past when the Selinari Monastery served as a rest stop for travelers and their animals.
Mythical Escapes! is set on the seafront in Stalida, a few steps from Stalida Beach and 1.6 km from Alexander Beach. The property is located 1.7 km from Drapano Beach, 18 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos and 32 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum. The guest house features family rooms.
At the guest house, each room comes with a balcony. Featuring a private bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer, rooms at Mythical Escapes! also provide guests with free WiFi. At the accommodation every room has bed linen and towels.
Lake Voulismeni is 33 km from Mythical Escapes!, while Venetian Walls is 33 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from the guest house.
from
€125
/night
Situated a few steps from Stalida Beach, Mary Apartments offers accommodation with a patio, as well as a garden. Complimentary WiFi is availablethroughout the property.
Some units have a terrace and/or a balcony with sea or mountain views.
If you would like to discover the area, skiing, cycling and hiking are possible in the surroundings.
Alexander Beach is 1.5 km from the apartment, while Drapano Beach is 1.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Mary Apartments.
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€81
/night
Situated a few steps from Stalida Beach, Niro Beachfront apartments offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
Each unit features a terrace offering sea views, a cable flat-screen TV, a well-fitted kitchenette and a private bathroom with shower, a hair dryer and free toiletries. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Alexander Beach is 1.4 km from Niro Beachfront apartments, while Drapano Beach is 1.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 26 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Situated in Stalida, 70 metres from Stalida Beach and 1.4 km from Alexander Beach, Nostos luxury beach home features air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. Guests staying at this apartment have access to a patio.
The apartment with a terrace and garden views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Drapano Beach is 1.9 km from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 18 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Nostos luxury beach home.
from
€144
/night
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