Kalo Chorio is a village located 25.7 km from Heraklion, Greece, at a height of 320m above sea level. It is situated at the crossroads at km 16.7 on the National Road to Agios Nikolaos and on the road to Gouves-Koxare-Kalo Chorio. The village was previously known as Stravorina, as mentioned in old documents. However, the present name was given in the decade 1830-1840. The village had 298 inhabitants in 1981, which remains the current population.
The Maza hilltop, southeast of the village, is 457 metres high and is believed to have been a town from the 10th to the 8th c. BC. The highest part of the hill was used as a shrine in the Middle-Minoan years, and clay figurines and offerings were found there. The shrine lay quite close to the town and stopped being used in Proto-Geometric years. Archaeologists, including N. Platon, believe that the name Maza comes from pre-Hellenic years and means Mother Earth.
Traces of ancient installations have also been found northeast of the village, by the country road that leads from Kasteli to Hersonissos. Remnants of water tanks by a source that is still in use today have been discovered, which probably belonged to the Hersonissos aqueduct. Parts of the aqueduct are still visible today in Aposelemi valley. Additionally, there is an interesting gorge close to Kalo Chorio, in the valley of Aposselemis river, which is worth seeing for nature lovers.
Crete Golf Club Hotel is situated at The Crete Golf Club, an 18-hole Championship course in Hersonissos, 1.8 km from Aquaworld Aquarium and features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. 2 km from Labyrinth Park, the hotel features a fitness centre and a garden. The restaurant serves European cuisine.
All units in the hotel are fitted with a flat-screen TV. Rooms have a private bathroom with a bath, private ultra high speed WiFi, free toiletries and a hairdryer. The rooms at Crete Golf Club Hotel come with a seating area.
A à la carte breakfast is available daily at the property.
Staff at the 24-hour front desk can provide guidance on what to do in the area.
Water City is 2.2 km from the accommodation. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport.
from
€281
/night
Village Heights Resort is situated in Hersonissos, just a step away from the Crete Golf club. It’s a relaxing getaway that features a spa centre with fitness area, sauna, hot tub, hammam, 2 outdoor pools, an indoor heated pool and 2 kids’ pools. Free WiFi access is available throughout the property.
In true traditional Cretan Village style, all studios, apartments and villas come with panoramic views of the stunning countryside and the sea. They also feature a satellite TV and DVD player, a fully equipped kitchen and coffee machine. Each unit features a private bathroom with a bath, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Guests can enjoy Cretan and international dishes at the on-site restaurants and poolside snack bar, while a range of refreshments, coffee and alcoholic drinks can be enjoyed at the pool bar.
On-site sports facilities include a tennis court, a mini golf and a volleyball court. Kids facilities include a mini club with a playground, a games room and table tennis. For family fun, the Crete Aquarium and the Labyrinth are at close proximity. Other on-site facilities include a mini market and a library.
The property can make arrangements for car hire, while daily shuttle from/to Hersonissos is also provided. The nearest airport is Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, 17 km from Village Heights Resort.
from
€68
/night
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, PENEMA VILLA is situated in Hersonissos. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa with a terrace and garden views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a kitchenware, and 1 bathroom with an a bath or shower.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 12 km from the villa, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 26 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 20 km from PENEMA VILLA.
from
€316
/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
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
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.
Benefit from hotel pick-up at approximately 08:00 and journey to Acqua Plus Water Park in Heraklion for an estimated arrival time of around 10:30. Then, enjoy the park at leisure until 17:00.
Situated just 5 kilometers from Hersonissos and 30 kilometers from Heraklion, Acqua Plus Water Park entertains thousands of visitors every year with its thrill rides and relaxation areas. Divided into 2 sections – one for adults and the other for kids – the park includes a large number of extreme slides and water features. Zig-zag your way through 3 different pools on the Crazy River, or ride through the Black Holes and experience beams of light that attack your senses before you emerge for the final splash!
Stroll around the gorgeous garden, filled with native plants and exotic flowers to create a Garden of Eden. Perched on a hill, the park is easy to work your way around with little effort. Save your energy for rides such as the Kamikaze waterslide or Tsunami. Take the little ones to the dedicated kids area and drift around on the Lazy River or just watch them play in the active playground.
Avoid waiting in lines with a unique system that ensures you can enjoy the slides and games as much as possible, and benefit from the park’s reputation for cleanliness, hospitality and safety. Qualified lifeguards and a stand-by doctor are ready to assist and protect you at any minute of the day.
Spend a special day in one of the largest water parks on Crete. Pre-book an entrance ticket to Acqua Plus Water Park, approximately 26 kilometers east of Heraklion, and enjoy over 50 different slides, games and facilities where the friendly and helpful staff await you.
Enjoy adrenaline thrills at different slides, and attractions, like the Aqua Slalom, Black Holes, and Crazy River. Alternatively, get in some serious relaxation on a lazy river. Visitors of all ages can find something to suit among the dozens of different slides, making it an ideal day out for the entire family.
Swim in the main pool, or slip and slide down the 262-foot (80-meter) hydrotube. Relax on the lazy river or at the hydromassage pool. The park even has a garden section where you can see Cretan flowers, palm trees, and bougainvillea, along with French marigolds and many other flowers.
Spend a special day in one of the largest water parks on Crete. Pre-book an entrance ticket to Acqua Plus Water Park, approximately 26 kilometers east of Heraklion, and enjoy over 50 different slides, games and facilities where the friendly and helpful staff await you.
Enjoy adrenaline thrills at different slides, and attractions, like the Aqua Slalom, Black Holes, and Crazy River. Alternatively, get in some serious relaxation on a lazy river. Visitors of all ages can find something to suit among the dozens of different slides, making it an ideal day out for the entire family.
Swim in the main pool, or slip and slide down the 262-foot (80-meter) hydrotube. Relax on the lazy river or at the hydromassage pool. The park even has a garden section where you can see Cretan flowers, palm trees, and bougainvillea, along with French marigolds and many other flowers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The tranquil beaches of Hersonissos Coves, also known as Limanakia, are located 27km east of Heraklion, extending from Cape Sarandaris to Hersonissos harbour. The beaches are protected from the strong northwest winds by Cape Sarandaris (Sarantari), providing calm waters for visitors. These coves are easily reachable and are situated near the vibrant town of Hersonissos with plenty of bars and cafes.
The western edge of the coves features a concrete dock ideal for diving, nestled on the rocky western side of Cape Sarandaris (Sarantari) near the quaint St. George Sarandaris chapel. A staircase leads to a sunbathing spot with hotel umbrellas and a rocky seabed perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Further down, at Cape Sarandaris’s base, you’ll discover the breathtaking Sarantari Cape beach, arguably the most picturesque and sheltered beach in Hersonissos. Its sandy beaches, shallow crystal-clear waters, and an intriguing sea cave make it a tranquil alternative to other beaches, despite the challenging descent through steep limestone cliffs.
Contrary to popular belief, Hersonissos also has a stony naturist beach located next to Sarandaris Cape, hidden discreetly by tall cliffs. This sandy, rocky cove provides a peaceful spot for swimming and solitude.
The well-known Sarandari beach comes next, popular among children due to its shallow waters and soft sands. The beach offers umbrellas, sunbeds, and a small canteen for convenience.
Next to Sarandari is Giofyri beach, situated under the main road and supported by a massive concrete wall. With its unique white coarse sand, deeper waters, and rocky seabed, it’s a popular choice among visitors, complete with umbrella and sunbed facilities.
Heading east from Giofyri along the coastal road, a series of small, slim beaches framed by white rocks awaits, their light-blue waters offering a truly mesmerizing sight. This captivating landscape stretches until you reach the large beach in front of the Creta Maris hotel, which extends up to Hersonissos port. This beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports facilities, and a beach volleyball court, becoming busier and more exposed to winds nearer the harbor.
Regardless of whether you decide to swim, a casual walk from the port to Cape Sarandaris offers stunning views of Hersonissos Bay and St. George’s chapel in Sarandaris. At Hersonissos port, consider visiting the lighthouse and the Agia Paraskevi church, partially built into the rock. On Kastri Hill, the remnants of the early Christian Hersonissos basilica and its preserved mosaics are a must-see.
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 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.
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.
Kalo Chorio is located 25.7 km from Heraklion to the right at the crossroads at km 16.7 on the National Road to Agios Nikolaos and on the road to Gouves- Koxare- Kalo Chorio. It is at a height of 320m above sea level.
The present name Kalo Chorio does not figure in old Venetian documents. The village was called Stravorina in the old days, and there is a reference by Barozzi in 1577 to a village Stravorina in the district of Pediados. In the 1583 Register, the village Stravorina is mentioned as having 76 inhabitants and in the Turkish census of 1671 Istavrine is quoted as having 21 charatsa. However, Chourmouzis Vizantios in 1842 mentions Kalo Chorio, the present name was therefore given in the decade 1830-1840.
The village counted 298 inhabitants in 1981 which is also the current population.
The Maza hilltop, southeast of the village, is 457 metres high. According to archaeologists, the name Maza comes from pre-Hellenic years and means Mother Earth. The pile of stones on the hill was a town from the 10th to the 8th c. BC. The highest part was undoubtedly used as a shrine in the Middle-Minoan years, and clay figurines and offerings were found there. The shrine lay quite close to the town. The shrine stopped being used in Proto-Geometric years.
Northeast of the village, by the country road that leads from Kasteli to Hersonissos, traces of ancient installations have been found along with remnants of water tanks by a source that is still in use today. These water tanks probably belonged to the Hersonissos aqueduct, parts of which are still visible today in Aposelemi valley.
There is an interesting gorge close to Kalo Chorio, in the valley of Aposselemis river, worth seeing for nature lovers.
The average temperature in Kalo Chorio Village ranges from 15°C to 30°C, depending on the season.
Kalo Chorio Village is located on the eastern coast of Crete, Greece.
The nearest airport to Kalo Chorio Village is Heraklion International Airport, which is approximately 45 km away.
Some popular attractions in Kalo Chorio Village include the Agios Nikolaos Archaeological Museum, the Voulismeni Lake, and the Kritsa Gorge. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches and traditional Cretan cuisine.
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