Located in Mokhós, 24 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos and 39 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Malamatenia ‘s Maisonette offers air conditioning. It has a terrace, city views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home with a balcony and garden views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
Lake Voulismeni is 40 km from the holiday home, while Venetian Walls is 40 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 33 km from Malamatenia ‘s Maisonette.
from
€57
/night
Situated in Mokhós, 25 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos and 40 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Traditional Fine Living provides accommodation with amenities such as free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. Guests benefit from a patio and a sun terrace.
The air-conditioned holiday home consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are available in the holiday home.
The holiday home offers a barbecue.
Lake Voulismeni is 40 km from Traditional Fine Living, while Venetian Walls is 41 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 33 km from the accommodation.
Boasting mountain views, Anixiatiko Villa offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 1.5 km from Stalida Beach. 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 2 bathrooms with a bath.
The villa offers a picnic area. A outdoor play equipment is also available for guests at Anixiatiko Villa.
Alexander Beach is 2.3 km from the accommodation, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 17 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 25 km from Anixiatiko Villa.
Set in Stalida and only 1.6 km from Stalida Beach, Villa Ete Premier Luxury Villa offers accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. With mountain views, this accommodation features a terrace and a swimming pool.
This villa has 4 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 3 bathrooms fitted with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Drapano Beach is 2.3 km from the villa, while Alexander Beach is 2.4 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Villa Ete Premier Luxury Villa.
from
€647
/night
Only 200 metres from Stalida Beach, in a peaceful environment, Everest Apartments and Suites features a spacious swimming pool and a snack bar. It consists of self-catered accommodation with views of the Cretan Sea from their balcony. A poolside playground is available, while free WiFi is provided in the pool area.
The Everest Apartments and Suites are well suited for those who wish a tranquil place away from the large tourist resorts of Greece. Guests can enjoy the privilege of a private swimming pool just next to the apartments. Each opens to a blossomed patio and balcony with sea views. There is also a playground where the children can spend their time.
Guests can start their day with continental breakfast on request, while refreshing drinks can also be enjoyed at the on-site bar.
Stalida is a relaxed town and still manages to boast a fine variety of bars and taverns. It is also popular for its long sandy beach. If you are looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday experience, Stalida is the right option for you.
from
€99
/night
Set on an elevated position, Villiana Holiday Apartments offers charming self-catering accommodation with furnished verandas overlooking the Cretan Sea. It has a swimming pool with sun beds and umbrellas, while Stalis Beach is just 200 metres away.
The air-conditioned Villiana studios and apartments are decorated in earthy tones with the respect to the local style. They feature a well-equipped kitchenette with dining area and a living room. Each unit also comes with a satellite TV and toiletries in the private bathroom.
The centre of Stalis village is 50 metres away from the complex. At 100 metres, guests can reach a supermarket and a bus stop. Heraklion International Airport is 27 km away. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property.
from
€63
/night
Explore the Cretan mountains outside of Heraklion from the seat of a Land Rover during a guided day tour. Witness a stunning sunset over the Lassithi Plateau before stopping off for a local-style BBQ dinner with wine.
Begin your journey with hotel pickup and make your way through the magnificent mountains of Crete. Visit the Aposelemis Dam and an ancient Roman aqueduct as your guide shares interesting insight.
Next, stop off in the picturesque village of Kastamonitsa, nestled in the foothills of the Afendi Mountains. Enjoy the chance to sample local products such as olive oil and raki, a distilled alcoholic drink made with grapes and anise.
Back in the vehicle, brace yourself as you venture down dirt tracks and follow the Minoan path through mountain passes. Catch spectacular views of wildlife and unbelievable scenery, learning about mythology and history along the way.
Take a break to relax over a glass of prosecco and fresh fruit salad while admiring the sunset. Be sure to take plenty of photos to share of the amazing backdrop.
After building up an appetite, head to a local tavern for a delicious Cretan-style meal that will include appetizers and main courses as well as vegetarian options. Wash down the food with unlimited wine served with dinner.
Make your way back down the mountain roads as you head toward your hotel, marveling at the views of the moonlit coastline and illuminated towns along the way.
Through this route we will explore the central part of Crete climbing to an altitude of 1150 meters
We will learn a lot about mythology as well as we will have a lot of information about Crete and local life
We will drive through a beautiful route with lush olive groves and we will first reach the aposelemi dam where we can see the sunken village of sfentili Then we will visit the traditional olive mill where we will learn how to produce Cretan olive oil and have the opportunity to buy products pure olive oil. Then we will reach the shepherd’s farm and we will have the opportunity to learn how the traditional Cretan cheese is produced.
Our next stop is the zeus cave where mythology states that the father of the gods was born there (There is a ticket of 6 euros) After we will enjoy a genuine Cretan meal with traditional cuisine in one of the best local taverns
Then we will follow a beautiful dirt route at an altitude of 1150 meters where we will definitely be enchanted by the landscape and the photos we will take from this point will be the best of our vacation.
We descend and reach the traditional village of kastamonitsa where we will visit the remains of the roman aqueduct learning about its usefulness for the surrounding areas
Finally through a beautiful route with a very nice view we end up at the hotel full of memories
This day will be full of surprises and will surely fill you with memories that will accompany you for a lifetime.
With this route we will learn the secrets of southern Crete and be amazed by its beauty. We combine ultimate exploration on land and sea.
We explore unique traditional villages, we visit folklore museums, we admire breathtaking views over the mountains, experience the wild beauty of the Cretan mountains with the beautiful canyons, we take pictures of the unique beauty of the waterfall and relax in the calm blue sea of calm blue waters Southern Crete
Our first stop is in the traditional village thrapsano where we will visit a family pottery business where we will have the opportunity to see up close and learn how many clay products are produced.
Then we arrive in a small traditional village where we will visit a traditional olive mill and winery and we will learn how the Cretan olive oil and the Cretan alcoholic drink raki are produced and we will be able to try both the oil and the raki.
After we will visit the traditional village viannos where we can get acquainted with the architecture of the last century in Crete and the truly traditional way of life of the residents of Crete. We will have the opportunity to visit the unique beauty museum of Viannos and have our coffee under the perennial huge plane tree.
Then we climb up a beautiful off road to reach an altitude of 850 meters at kavoussi where the view we get will be unique. In front of us is the amazing beauty of kavousi canyon and besides the amazing view we will have the chance to see close up and take a picture of the vultures of crete. It is the best location for great photos
Going downhill we reach the one and only point of Crete where we can see the meeting of two canyons that lead to the richtra waterfall which we will visit closely.
The flow of waterfall is very intense during May and becomes slightly weaker from june to october.
Then we arrive at skouros beach where we will have the opportunity to enjoy our swim for about 45 minutes in crystal clear and turquoise waters.
Finishing our swim, we will have lunch at an amazing tavern with full lunch and unlimited wine and water
Full of pictures through a beautiful route we return to the hotel having done so much in just one day
Our journey starts from your hotel making our way through the breathtaking mountains of Crete we visit the Aposelemis basin reservoir and an ancient Roman aqueduct. From here, we will visit the quaint village of Kastamonitsa nestling in the foothills of the Afendi Mountains where you will be introduced to a local product, Raki.
Now brace yourselves for dirt tracks, following the Minoan path going through mountain passes, experiencing spectacular wildlife, unbelievable scenery, mythology, history and enjoy seeing the local nature at its best.
For our next stop, we will relax with a glass of prosecco with fruits whilst admiring the birds-eye view of the plateau of Lassithi and the North coast, a great photo opportunity not to be missed.
After building up an appetite we head for a Cretan-style evening meal at a local taverna with lots of surprises. Where you will have the opportunity to try a selection of traditional local starters and main courses (vegetarian option available) and enjoy a glass or two of the unlimited wine!
Leaving the tavern, meandering down the mountain roads we will take in the views of the moonlit coastline dotted with the twinkling lights of the towns and villages.
Are you an adventure enthusiast or a history buff? Take this trip to find out and enjoy a breathtaking view. Begin with a guided tour to the traditional olive mill and learn all about the process of olive oil production. Grab the opportunity to taste one of the healthiest olive oils, straight from the source of production. Continue with a 15 minute hike to Zeus cave, located in Psychro village in Lasithi plateau and merge into Greek mythology. According to ancient Greeks, Rhea hid into this cave to give birth to Zeus because Cronus, his father, was murdering his children out of jealousy. Take the chance to walk around 100 steps inside the cave that Rhea hid; discover the nature’s awesome formations over the years. After your exploration, optionally make a stop to Kera village to find the ideal place to relax. The orthodox Kera Kardiotissa monastery, is worth a visit. Admire the mesmerizing architecture in the stone-built Byzantine church. Visit the museum of the church to learn more about the religious traditions through its educational exhibits. Lastly, we are taking you to the picturesque and charming village of Krasi. This traditional village is famous for its plane tree, and you will have the chance to see one of the oldest plane trees in Europe, estimated to be 2000 years old! Enjoy the rejuvenating view of the stone springs gushing water straight from the Selena mountain. Relax and recharge with a view; we are finally having lunch at a picturesque traditional tavern, with some wine and local dishes.
If you are a nature lover, if you are curious about the bucolic way of living, or if you are just willing to create unforgettable, lasting memories, this trip experience is for you! Before we begin, we make a stop at the charming, picturesque village of Anogia. Located on the slopes of Psiloritis mountain, in this scenic village we will have the opportunity to stop at a traditional café for a refreshing beverage and take a moment to enjoy the serenity of the landscape. The adventure starts with a visit to the Shepard’s farm, situated at the foothills of Psiloritis mountain and hosts the natural heritage park protected by UNESCO. There you will find yourself in the farm’s garden, where the protected farm animals live; deers, Kri Kri goats, pigs, sheep and donkeys. You will be let to feed them and interact with them! Time for you to learn about sustainable farming practices and appreciate them; not only you will try making your own cheese at the shepherd’s cave, but you will also have the honor to use this cheese to make cheese pies! Combine the freshness of the local product with the knowledge of its production. Completing your rustic practices, it’s lunchtime. The shepherd will cook for you the traditional recipe of Antikristo lamp. Enjoy a genuine farm-to-table experience! End your trip with wildlife observation, cherish the picturesque setting and capture the moments of rural life.
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.
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.
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.
The primary beach of Malia, situated in the heart of the town, is often teeming with visitors. As a result, those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle tend to head towards the sandy stretches to the east of Malia’s port, conveniently located near the Palace of Malia. The most easterly of these beaches is named Potamos (meaning River), due to a small stream that flows along its eastern edge, adjacent to Malia’s wetlands.
Potamos is a lengthy, sandy expanse that is well maintained, yet typically less populated than Malia’s main beach. The eastern portion of the region remains relatively untouched due to its archaeological significance. However, to the west of the beach, a number of hotels can be found, each boasting its own sandy cove.
The Malia Swamp is a wetland of unparalleled ecological importance, home to an expansive reed bed that provides habitat for numerous bird species. This area also preserves several types of coastal vegetation that have been lost elsewhere on Crete. The entire area is irrigated by water that flows from Mount Selena, forming a stunning river in the winter months, mere meters from the shore, resulting in crystal clear waters that feed into Potamos beach. The sea here is so fresh, locals can even drink from it! It’s not an uncommon sight to see goats descending from the mountain, swimming in the sea and drinking the water due to its fresh scent. Surrounding Potamos are smaller sand dunes, which come autumn, are adorned with stunning white sand lilies.
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.
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.
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.
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