Boasting garden views, Konstantinos Villa features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 200 metres from Koutsoura Beach. This property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
The villa offers a picnic area. If you would like to discover the area, diving, fishing and hiking are possible in the surroundings.
Beach Maheridi is 2.3 km from Konstantinos Villa, while Kalamokanias Beach is 2.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 37 km from the accommodation.
Set in Koutsourás, 10 km from Ferma, Paradisos offers elegantly decorated villas with private terraces, garden and free WiFi.
Each unit is fitted with a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, a seating area with a sofa and a flat-screen TV. A microwave, a fridge and oven are also featured, as well as a kettle and a coffee machine. The villas include a terrace with BBQ facilities. One of the villas boasts an outdoor hot tub while the others include a private pool. Some villas feature a fireplace. A shared washing machine is available.
Ierápetra is 23 km from Paradisos luxury villas next to beach, while Sitia is 36 km away. Sitia Airport is 36 km, while Heraklion International Airport is 114 km from the villa.
from
€319
/night
Located in Ierápetra, Okeanis Mystique South provides accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and access to a garden with an outdoor swimming pool.
All units come with a seating area, a sofa, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen. A fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a kettle and a coffee machine.
The aparthotel offers a terrace.
Elounda is 32 km from Okeanis Mystique South, while Agios Nikolaos is 27 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport,106 km from the accommodation.
from
€89
/night
Blue Sea Villa & Apartments is a beachfront property located in Makry Gialos, 200 metres from Kalamokanias Beach and 1.1 km from Makrigialos Beach. This country house features free private parking and a 24-hour front desk.
With free WiFi, this country house provides a satellite flat-screen TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with a dishwasher and oven. Towels and bed linen are provided in the country house.
The country house offers a barbecue. Guests at Blue Sea Villa & Apartments can enjoy snorkelling and walking tours nearby, or make the most of the sun terrace.
Koutsoura Beach is 2 km from the accommodation. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 35 km from Blue Sea Villa & Apartments.
from
€123
/night
Plakakia Luxury Apartments features pool views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Makry Gialos, a few steps from Kalamokanias Beach.
Each unit is equipped with a terrace offering sea views, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a well-fitted kitchen and a private bathroom with shower, slippers and a hair dryer. An oven, a fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at the apartment.
Makrigialos Beach is less than 1 km from Plakakia Luxury Apartments, while Lagoufa Beach is 2.5 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 35 km from the accommodation.
Located in Makry Gialos in the Lasithi region, Olivias house has a balcony. The accommodation is 200 metres from the Kalamokanias Beach and features free WiFithroughout the property.
Leading onto a terrace with garden views, the air-conditioned holiday home consists of 1 bedroom and a fully equipped kitchen. A flat-screen TV is featured.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Makrigialos Beach is 800 metres from the holiday home, while Lagoufa Beach is 2.5 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 35 km from Olivias house.
from
€85
/night
Enjoy the unforgettable panoramic view over the entire north-east coast of Crete. In the mountains, it smells of the most aromatic herbs that will be shown and explained to you. Our adventure will take you to the rustic mountain village “Stavrohori”. There will be time to stroll around, visit the old church and sit down to savour a refreshment. Your tour guide, who has lived in Crete for the past 33 years, will share with you some Greek secrets with pleasure as well as some little anecdotes.
Nature lovers will experience the ultimate adventure wrapped into a half day excursion!
Explore the “wild heart” of East Crete, undiscovered by tourism, where “time” seems to
stand still. A combination of tar and off roads, will guide you from Ierapetra to the mountains of Thripti . A highlight of the tour is the stop at the summit Afentis (850 m) with an unforgettable panoramic view on both seas (Libyan/Aegean). We continue to Kavousi, where you can admire the oldest olive tree in the world (3250 years). In Mochlos, you can enjoy the “greek cuisine” in a typical tavern. Our trip continues through the vine yards and olive fields, among small chapels, towards authentic villages with their simple lifestyle (Sfaka, Lastros-known as the “cat village”). To end this adventures day, refresh yourselves in the crystal clear water at the bay of Tholos.
An unforgettable day for nature lovers and adventurers
Explore one of Crete’s most beautiful landscapes while hiking by the small river that will lead you to the 20m waterfall of Richtis. During the hike you will see some small ponds and waterfalls, as well as many different endemic plants, flowers, trees and animals. Richtis Gorge is part of the Sitia Geopark. On the path you will pass over small wooden bridges, old water mills and amazing view points. The hike is about 7km long. Richtis gorge is a green oasis where you definately want to be during the Cretan summertime.
On our ATV-Quad tour from Ierapetra we go off-roading in the rugged landscapes of Crete’s southern coast. We start with a theoretical introduction and a small driving practise, before we start the adventure. Lonely tracks away from main traffic, in the midst of the most beautiful nature will take you to a beautiful landscape on the Cretan mountains. Splash through streams, wind along ancient gorges, and look for island wildlife from behind the wheel of a personal quad vehicle. Get a taste of Cretan history and culture during several stops along the way, including a traditional Greek brunch at Kalamafka Village. The off-road quad safari from Ierapetra explores hard-to-reach areas of Crete’s southern coast. A Great way to experience Cretan culture and nature off the beaten path.
After arrival by bus in Makris Gialos to the southern coast of Crete, the boat trip begins with on the pirate ship “Eydokia” to Koufonisi. The trip through the crystal clear waters of the Libyan Sea takes about an hour. Approaching the island admire the views of caves and the steep cliffs.
The island is surrounded by 36 fantastic beaches and a walk around the island gives you the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the countryside, the emerald waters, and the fine golden sand.
The self-service bar is open throughout the cruise so you can enjoy lunch, snacks, salads, and drinks.
Sailing trip is designed for half a day – just enough time to enjoy sea and swimming activities.Afternoon sailing trip is suitable for those who prefer waking up late and avoid the hottest hours. The boat trip starts at the port of Agios Nikolaos. Guests will have the opportunity to see famous island Spinalonga from the water. Our catamaran Lagoon 450F* will comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests. For adults, we have snorkel equipment, SUPs, tackle and fishing bait. For children – a box with toys, colouring books, board games. And inflatable flamingos and unicorns for the entire family. Food on a cruise is our pride. For our guests, we have compiled a Mediterranean-style menu with seafood** and unlimited drinks.
* Catamaran model may change,
** The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change.
Situated 55km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 20km east of Ierapetra, Koutsouras lies on the primary road between Ierapetra and Makrigialos. This coastal village is nestled in a valley surrounded by pine trees, greenhouses, and olive groves, resting on the southern slopes of Mount Thripti. Despite being equipped with a police station, pharmacy, clinic, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and more, Koutsouras maintains a serene atmosphere.
The village is bordered by beaches featuring coarse black sand and tranquil waters. The primary beach, located to the west of the village and adjacent to the old settlement, is well-maintained and dotted with tamarisk trees for shade. A secluded pebble beach near the village harbor offers a quieter option, situated 1.5km west next to the Apiganias woodland. Additionally, the family-friendly Koutsourelis beach, boasting sandy shores, lies 1km east of Koutsouras.
Sights to See
Koutsouras’ surrounding region, a heavenly landscape of Eastern Crete, is worth exploring. The southern slopes of Thripti are blanketed by a lush pine forest, providing an oasis in Lasithi’s arid landscape. Despite significant damage from a 1993 fire, the forest has gradually regenerated. The Apiganias park, 1.5km west of the village, offers a glimpse of the pine trees and also hosts cultural events. This park also marks the end of the Red Butterflies gorge, a unique canyon filled with pine trees and fresh water springs. For a complete experience, consider visiting the village Orino on Mount Thripti, which marks the starting point of the gorge.
Situated on the western side of the Makrigialos settlement, Kalamokanias is 57km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 22km east of Ierapetra. It rests on the western flank of Katovigli hill, which towers over the harbour area. The area is named Kalamokanias after the migratory stilt bird (Himantopus himantopus) – a red-legged creature resembling a miniature stork that frequents local streams.
The beach at Kalamokanias is tranquil, featuring coarse black sand that doesn’t cling to the skin. While not extensively developed, it offers some amenities including tamarisk trees for shade and a few taverns and rental rooms. Mainly frequented by locals, it provides a respite from the more tourist-heavy beach of Makrigialos.
To reach Kalamokanias from Ierapetra, make a right turn toward the sea just 100m before entering Makrigialos. Additionally, a coastal road links the beach with the local harbour.
The beaches of Maheridia by Koutsouras village are a series of three different beaches with high cliffs. These beaches are all beautiful with crystal clear water and are only accessible by boat. The only one that can be accessed from the coast is the last beach to the east, accessed through two different trails hidden in the dense piney wood. The beach is only a few meters east of the well-known woods Apiganias at Koutsouras, in an area with many pine trees.
From the main road, a very short dirt road descends to the parking area where we meet a cluster of high pine trees. From here we have beautiful panoramic views of the eastern bay of Maheridia. Maheridia is a favourite destination for locals and you will very rarely see tourists. The picturesque bays are sandy and pebbly with some scattered rocks in places. The east bay at Maheridi is calm and windless almost all the time, being ideal for families with children.
The area is full of water springs, especially in winter and spring water gushes from everywhere and after a short distance reaches the sea. At some point the water is gathered, so one can see running water even in the dry summer months.
The beach known as Mavros Kolimbos or Agios Panteleimon is situated 51km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 16km to the east of Ierapetra. This quaint coastal settlement has experienced gentle growth over recent years. The area boasts several rental accommodations and small eateries. The beach itself is a charming spot with dark grey pebbles and typically tranquil waters. Some parts of the seabed are rocky, making it perfect for snorkelling. Although the beach is not organized, there are tamarisk trees nearby that provide natural shade.
To reach Mavros Kolimbos from Ierapetra, take the main road east towards Makrigialos, which runs along Crete’s southern shoreline. Public bus services are also available to Makrigialos and can stop in the area. If you’re driving, consider stopping by the mountainous Orino village in the Thrypti Range and the Gorge of Red Butterflies. Within the settlement, pay a visit to the Agios Panteleimonas church, from which the beach derives its alternative name.
In the vicinity of the verdant and water-rich springs of Orino village, we encounter one of Crete’s most precipitous rivers. The river’s sources are found high up on the Abelia plateau, nestled within the Thripti and Papouri mountains. These springs quickly form a river which traverses the village square before making its way into the rugged Orino canyon. To navigate the canyon along the riverbed, canyoneering gear is necessary. The river carves out stunning waterfalls and pools, with the final section being particularly breathtaking. The last trio of waterfalls at Peristerionas are among Crete’s most beautiful. The river’s water volume is also noteworthy, particularly in the typically dry region of East Crete. Even in the summer, the gorge maintains a steady water flow.
The river continues its journey downstream, passing through the Red Butterflies canyon before reaching Koutsouras beach. Despite suffering considerable damage in a 1993 fire, the gorge’s vegetation remains lush, serving as a green oasis in the warm eastern Crete. The gorge begins near the exit of the Orino Gorge and concludes at Koutsouras after a 3-4 hour walk (starting from Orino village and circumventing the wilder parts of the Orino gorge). Signposts along the route guide the way. At the route’s commencement, there are a few small springs and waterfalls which dry up during the summer. Winter, however, makes hiking in the gorge quite challenging. The gorge earns its name from the red butterflies that flutter amongst the bushes and flowers, creating a truly unique spectacle. Regrettably, their numbers have significantly dwindled in the aftermath of the fire.
The Pefki Gorge, also known as Anegyrous Gorge, is a stunning small gorge located in East Crete. Its beauty is characterized by breathtaking rock formations molded by nature and lush greenery. The gorge extends for approximately 4.5 km, with an elevation difference of 300 meters between the entrance and exit. The gorge begins south of Pefki village and concludes at the Aspros Potamos settlement, 2km north of Makrigialos. The stream running through the gorge collects water from the area south of the Romanati peak (937m) and carries it to the Analipsi beach. The gorge features a well-defined path that traces the riverbed for most of its length. At certain points, benches are available for rest. A 2-hour journey through the gorge is part of the E4 European long-distance path.
The Journey
The journey through the gorge commences slightly south of Pefki, where the familiar black and yellow E4 signs direct you to the entrance, adjacent to the old Ilias water mill (1925). From here, an easy path skirts the edges of the canyon before descending to the river bed at the heart of the gorge. The canyon is vibrant with pine trees, while the riverbed is predominantly surrounded by platans and herbs. Spectacular white rock formations, unique to Crete and over 100 meters tall, flank the sides of the canyon.
Upon reaching the southern exit of the gorge, you’ll find a spring of clean, drinkable water for refreshment. The gorge’s exit is located in the Pisokaminos area, near the Aspros Potamos village, rather than by the sea. Further along, you’ll encounter the remarkable large rock known as Volakas Sarakinou (Saracen’s rock). Legend has it that a Saracen pirate once took refuge here after being left behind in Crete. The rock is covered in small pebbles, believed to be the remnants of an old children’s game. The kids would throw stones at Volakas, and if a stone stayed on the rock, they would find food at home. If not, they wouldn’t. Following Aspros Potamos village, you’ll reach the main road connecting Makrigialos and Pefki. If no one is waiting to pick you up by car, you’ll need to walk the remaining 2km to Makrigialos.
Commencing from the west of the village of Skinokapsala, at the Kipos spot, lies the petite yet fairly broad Ahlia gorge. This gorge, blanketed by pine trees, concludes at the Ahlia beach, also referred to as Galini. Throughout the winter season, the Thripti Range feeds a river with its waters, creating a string of waterfalls that vary in height from 5 to 8 meters. The gorge’s sandstone walls are wide enough to make hiking a breeze, eliminating the need for any canyoning gear.
The Mylonas or Saint John Gorge is situated 18km to the east of Ierapetra. It commences near the St. John village at a height of 500m and concludes at the Kakia Skala beach. It is not feasible to descend the gorge from Saint John due to a tall waterfall, necessitating the use of canyoning equipment.
Nonetheless, there are two ascending trails that start near the Kakia Skala beach, providing access to the high fall of the Mylonas canyon. The first trail (easy – 20’) takes you through the pine-wooded side of the gorge, a large portion of which is the old concrete ditch, formerly used to transport water to Koutsounari. The other trail follows the riverbed and can be quite exhausting, especially in winter (takes approximately 1:30 hour).
Upon reaching the end of the ascending trails at a height of 300m, you will encounter the tall fall of Milonas, which stands at 20m. Below it, you will find a small pond filled with crystal-clear water, perfect for a refreshing swim. In winter, and after heavy rainfall, a second waterfall appears to the left of the main fall, creating a breathtaking view.
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