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Pano Gouves is a charming village located in the district of Pediada in the prefecture of Heraklion, Greece. It is situated at an elevation of 100 meters above sea level and is approximately 20 kilometers away from Heraklion. The village is built on the western slopes of the Ederi hill, which stands at 322 meters. The name Pano Gouves is derived from the Greek word “edera,” meaning ivy, which symbolizes affection. The name Gouves, on the other hand, comes from “Gouva,” which means a hollow in the earth. During the Middle Ages, people used to store their wheat in such holes.
The village has a rich history, with the earliest reference dating back to 1387 in the Duke’s archives in Chandax. The famous poet Ioannis Konstantinidis was born in Pano Gouves. The village is home to several beautiful churches, including Zoodochos Pigis, Aghios Giorgos, Aghios Ioannis, and Panayia, which is dedicated to the birth of Our Lady. Visitors can enjoy exploring the village’s narrow streets and admiring its traditional architecture. Pano Gouves is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic Greek way of life.
Offering garden views, Kagiabis’ Home is an accommodation set in Gouves, 5.1 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos and 21 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It has a terrace, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a bidet. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
Venetian Walls is 22 km from the apartment, while The Palace of Knossos is 23 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 14 km from Kagiabis’ Home.
from
€58
/night
Located 2.7 km from Gouves Beach, “Theeporto” Maisonette with pool offers an outdoor swimming pool, barbecue facilities and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
Each unit comes with a patio, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, a seating area with a sofa, a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, a hairdryer, 2 private bathrooms with shower and a private pool. There is also an oven, stovetop and a coffee machine.
The holiday home provides a terrace.
Marina Beach is 2.7 km from “Theeporto” Maisonette with pool, while Aposelemis Beach is 2.7 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 16 km from the accommodation.
Utopia Luxury Villas has mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, situated in Gouves, 5.6 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
At Utopia Luxury Villas guests are welcome to take advantage of spa facilities.
Guests can swim in the outdoor swimming pool, go snorkelling or fishing, or relax in the garden and use the barbecue facilities.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 21 km from the accommodation, while Venetian Walls is 22 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 15 km from Utopia Luxury Villas.
Situated in Gouves and only 5.7 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos, Villa Aggeliki with Private Swimming Pool features accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. Boasting a private pool, the villa is in an area where guests can engage in activities such as snorkelling, fishing and hiking.
The villa features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 21 km from the villa, while Venetian Walls is 22 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 15 km from Villa Aggeliki with Private Swimming Pool.
Boasting mountain views, Anastasia Luxury Villa with Private Swimming Pool features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 5.7 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and sea views has 5 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 4 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
If you would like to discover the area, snorkelling, fishing and hiking are possible in the surroundings.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 21 km from the villa, while Venetian Walls is 22 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 15 km from Anastasia Luxury Villa with Private Swimming Pool, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€45
/night
Featuring pool views, Eva Luxury Villa with Private Swimming Pool offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 5.7 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos. This villa has a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and mountain views features 5 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 4 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
If you would like to discover the area, snorkelling, fishing and hiking are possible in the surroundings.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 21 km from the villa, while Venetian Walls is 22 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 15 km from Eva Luxury Villa with Private Swimming Pool.
from
€45
/night
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.
Embark on an off-road e-bike tour from Analipsi and discover the beauty of the Cretan countryside. Travel at a slow to moderate pace with many stops to rest, take photos, learn about Crete, admire the views, and visit the highlights of the area.
After a short safety introduction, jump on your bike and travel through low-traffic roads to the countryside following a route of farmer and quiet tarmac roads. Go uphill on rural smooth dirt tracks and back downhill on asphalt roads.
Hear stories about the cultivation of the olives, the use of plants, the traditional life, ethics, and the nature of Crete from your guide.
For all you wine lovers – visitors of Crete, we have created this tour specially for you! A tour that combines tastes of authentic products of Crete. All the areas that you visit are famous for their olive groves, the vineyards, and the wine production since the Minoan era. First stop is a local modern olive mill surrounded by olive groves where you have a tour at the olive grove and the olive mill, also you will have the chance to meet the olive oil maker and learn everything about olive oil production. In the end, you will taste a fresh olive oil combined with local snacks. Second stop is of course a winery, a family-owned winery which uses organic methods for cultivating, where you will get a tour around the vineyards and the winery and you will experience wine tasting of 5 different organic wines. Next stop is another winery at the same area but with a different winemaking philosophy and techniques, where you will also get a tour around the winery and the cellar, and you will taste 4 different wines combined with platter. At this tour, you will have the chance to meet the wine makers and exchange views of wine flavors and methods. Lastly, we are taking you to a picturesque village, having lunch at a local traditional tavern, with some wine and local dishes.
We start from our main office in Hersonissos. After the instructions from the very professional guide Andreas on how to operate and use the Quads, we will go straight to the mountain. Using the tiny road (no traffic) so you can try steering the Quad, accelerating, and braking. Our journey begins.
Drive-thru 7 small and beautiful traditional villages, gorges, and olive groves, pass by little farms- stables with goats and sheep, if we will be lucky to see some wild horses, the Sfentili lake to the top of the mountain with the company of eagles, taste a shot of the authentic Cretan tsikoudia with fruits or some small snacks until the magnificent nature’s magical and special moment, sunset on the Beach.
Starting time: 16:00
Approx. return time: 21:00
You should take Driving license, sunglasses, sun protection, and a small bottle of water.
Timetable Information:
Duration: 6 Hours
Start: 09:00 AM
Ends: 3:00 PM
Starting Point: Adventure Begins Here
Start with a safety briefing and ATV/Quad driving intro. Get equipped with all the necessary safety and hygiene gear for a fun and secure ride.
Scenic Coastal Ride (Approx. 1 hour)
Zoom along Hersonissos’s stunning coastline and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
1st Stop: Gouverniotisa Monastery (Approx. 15 minutes)
Visit the beautiful Gouverniotisa Monastery in Potamies for a quick break. Explore its serene atmosphere and rich history.
2nd Stop: Aposelemis Dam & Sfentili Village (Approx. 15 minutes)
Enjoy panoramic views of the Aposelemis Dam and explore the submerged village of Sfentili.
3rd Stop: Olive Oil Factory (Approx. 20 minutes)
Tour a traditional Olive Oil Factory, taste exquisite olive oils, and learn about the production process.
4th Stop: Traditional Lunch in Village (Approx. 45 minutes)
Recharge with a delicious traditional lunch at an authentic local taverna in the charming village. Savor authentic flavors amidst a picturesque setting. Spend your free time at a horse farm! Experience the thrill of riding and the joy of bonding with beautiful horses.
5th Stop: Cave of Agia Fotini (Approx. 20 minutes)
Discover the enchanting beauty of the Cave of Saint Fotini, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Delve into its rich history as a sacred site dedicated to Saint Fotini amidst panoramic vistas.
6th Stop: Beach Refreshment (Approx. 20 minutes)
Before reaching our final destination, indulge in a rejuvenating break at the beach. After the dusty and hot journey, immerse yourself in the serene coastal atmosphere, letting all your worries wash away. Take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear waters, adding an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.
7th Stop: Return to Base
End your adventure back at our office, filled with thrilling rides and unforgettable memories. We’ll provide transfers back to your hotel.
Embark on a multi-stop cruise from Heraklion to St. Georges Bay, Sissi, Stalis, and more. Hop on board the Black Rose pirate boat and enjoy a pirate-themed experience with face painting, music, dancing, and a BBQ meal.
The Black Rose sails daily from the Port of Hersonissos through the clear waters of the Cretan Sea. The first stop on the trip is St. Georges Bay. You’ll have around 2 hours to swim and snorkel and explore the area.
By the time you’re back on the boat, the pirate crew will have prepared a delicious BBQ meal for you to enjoy. Later, head for the coast of Malia and Stalis for the second swimming stop.
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 Aposelemis River, situated 19km east of Heraklion, between Analipsi and Gouves, is a significant wetland in northern Crete. The pond that forms near the shoreline serves as a natural habitat for various migratory birds and rare species. The river’s outlet gives way to a beautiful sandy beach with shallow cool waters. Although it’s in close proximity to large hotels and tourist spots, the beach lacks organization compared to other top beaches in the vicinity, with only a handful of umbrellas and sunbeds available.
There are two alternative routes to reach the beach. One option is to drive towards the beach of Analipsi and then follow the coastal road heading west. After traversing a few meters past the region’s rocky shores, you’ll arrive at the extensive Aposelemis beach. Alternatively, you can take the coastal road of Kato Gouves to its eastern end, where the road veers right and runs along a hotel’s walls. Aposelemis beach is directly across from this hotel, adjacent to Gouves’ soccer field.
Analipsi, or Ascension, is a village situated 20km to the east of Heraklion and is named after the Ascension of Christ church. Positioned in a fertile valley, the area is primarily utilized for olive groves. In the early 20th century, it was known as Svourou Metohi, after the Turks who owned land there. Upon Crete’s liberation from the Ottomans, Analipsi was given to the shepherds of Agios Georgios village in Lasithi Plateau as a winter grazing ground. Now, these shepherds’ fortunate descendants own expansive properties featuring hotels, shops, restaurants, and various tourist amenities.
Compared to neighboring resorts, Analipsi is less touristy and more peaceful, making it a preferred destination for families. The village front features a quaint pier with a charming church dedicated to Agia Marina. To the west of the chapel, the coast is rocky, save for a small harbor with a lovely beach. East of the chapel, you’ll find the main sandy beach of Analipsis, which is well-maintained. Though the water isn’t deep, summer months often bring waves.
A leisurely afternoon can be spent wandering through the charming alleys of the old traditional village, admiring the beautiful gardens and stone-paved square. You might also want to visit the four-aisled Ascension church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Ascension of Christ, the Holy Cross, and Saint Efrosinos. The village’s main street, lined with cafes and shops, runs perpendicular to the coast.
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.
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 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 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.
Pano Gouves is a village in the district of Pediada in the prefecture of Heraklion, Greece. It is located 20 km away from Heraklion, to the right at 17.3 km on the National Road to Aghios Nikolaos.
Pano Gouves is situated at a height of 100 metres above sea-level.
The name Pano Gouves comes from edera which means ivy and symbolises affection. The name Gouves, on the other hand, comes from Gouva and means a hollow in the earth. It also means, in Crete, a hole in which during the middle ages, people stored their wheat.
The earliest reference of Pano Gouves is that of Guves in 1387 documents of the Duke’s archives in Chandax. Later on, in 1577, Fr. Barozzi mentions Guvos in the district of Pediados, and then Guves in the 1583 Register, with 252 inhabitants. Finally, in 1630, Vassilikata refers to Vuves’. This is also the birthplace of the poet Ioannis Konstantinidis.
There are several outstanding churches in Pano Gouves, including Zoodochos Pigis, Aghios Giorgos, Aghios Ioannis, and Panayia (dedicated to the birth of Our Lady).
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