Chelidonofolia features mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Skhinokápsala, 42 km from Lake Voulismeni.
Each unit is fitted with a terrace offering sea views, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a well-fitted kitchen and a private bathroom with shower. An oven, a microwave and fridge are also featured, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 42 km from the apartment, while Agios Nikolaos Port is 43 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 50 km from Chelidonofolia.
Set in Skhinokápsala, 42 km from Lake Voulismeni and 42 km from Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa), Maison de village vue mer offers air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi. This holiday home features accommodation with a balcony.
The holiday home is fitted with 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a fridge.
Agios Nikolaos Port is 43 km from the holiday home. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 51 km from Maison de village vue mer.
from
€77
/night
Featuring a terrace, Villa Aphrodite is a holiday home, situated in Achlia. This holiday home provides a seasonal outdoor pool and free WiFi. Free private parking is available on site.
A dishwasher, an oven and a microwave can be found in the kitchen. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, Blu-ray player and DVD player are provided. There is a private bathroom with a bath. A BBQ and a wood oven are available.
Agios Nikolaos is 24 km from Villa Aphrodite, while Malia is 48 km from the property. Sitia Public Airport is 42 km away.
from
€232
/night
Featuring mountain views, Villa Achlia provides accommodation with a terrace and a coffee machine, around 100 metres from Achlia Beach. It features an infinity pool, a garden, sea views and free WiFithroughout the property.
This villa comes with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 3 bathrooms equipped with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
The villa offers a hot tub. If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings.
Agia Fotia Beach is 2.5 km from Villa Achlia, while Lake Voulismeni is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 46 km from the accommodation.
from
€221
/night
Located in Achlia, 100 metres from Achlia Beach and 2.3 km from Agia Fotia Beach, Blue Horizon offers barbecue facilities and air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free WiFi.
The apartment comes with 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 sea views.
Lake Voulismeni is 47 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 46 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 46 km from Blue Horizon.
from
€114
/night
Located a few steps from Achlia Beach, Summer Vibes offers a garden, barbecue facilities and air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi.
Each unit is equipped with a terrace offering sea views, a satellite flat-screen TV, a well-fitted kitchen and a private bathroom with walk-in shower, slippers and a hair dryer. An oven, a fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
The apartment offers a picnic area.
A bicycle rental service is available at Summer Vibes.
Agia Fotia Beach is 2.3 km from the accommodation, while Lake Voulismeni is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 46 km from Summer Vibes.
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
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!
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.
This Land Rover excursion is the perfect way to explore the central part of Crete, visiting 2 different plateaus and learning about mythology as well as local life.
We head out in the Land Rover to the plateau of Katharo, passing through the largest forest on Crete. The roads here are basically non-existent and the mountains reach heights of 1,500 meters. You’ll have a refreshment stop at a kafenion (coffee shop) somewhere in the wilderness.
The tour continues on along dirt tracks, through valleys, and across rivers, and the journey starts to get exciting! At the next stop you’ll have the opportunity to take photos from a spectacular viewpoint above the Lassithi Plateau. You’ll then head to the plateau to enjoy your BBQ lunch, along with unlimited wine.
After lunch you’ll travel back in time as you visit the Eco Village, where you can see local crafts being made by traditional methods. The next stop will be Zeus’s cave where, according to mythology, the father of the gods was born. If you’d like to enter the cave there is a EUR 4 entrance fee that’s payable at the site.
Your driver/guide will take you on to Seli, where you can take photos of the unique scenery. You’ll continue on to the village of Krassi, noted for its 2,000-year-old plane tree and natural spring water source. As you make your way back you’ll pass through Selinari, an area where you’ll be on the lookout for vultures, now an endangered species.
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.
Sailing trip is designed for half a day – just enough time to enjoy sea and swimming activities. The yacht cruise starts in the morning 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.
Ahlia, also known as Achlia, is situated 50km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 15km east of Ierapetra, within the jurisdiction of the village Schinokapsala. It’s a small community nestled in a cove, with the Thrypti Range’s steep slopes and pine trees surrounding it. The cove opens up into a stunning beach with coarse sand and vibrant blue water. The beach has minimal development, with only a few umbrellas, water sports, and some nearby accommodations, mini markets and taverns. Tamarisk trees provide shade for visitors, and the sea is usually calm. This location is perfect for a tranquil vacation, particularly for families.
The Achlia Gorge, which is small but reasonably wide, begins west of the Skinokapsala village at the Kipos location. The gorge, covered in pine trees, ends at Ahlia beach. During winter, water from the Thripti Range forms a river with several waterfalls (between 5 to 8 meters high) along its path. As the sandstone walls are not narrow, hiking is relatively easy without the need for canyoning equipment.
To get to Ahlia, take the main road east to Makrigialos, following the southern coastline of Crete, until you see the signpost for Ahlia. East of Ahlia, before reaching the Agios Panteleimonas community, you’ll find the small beach known as Bonda or Grias Pidima.
Situated 47km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 13km east of Ierapetra, near Achlia beach, lies the quaint village of Galini. Nestled amidst a lush landscape dotted with pine trees, Galini is a small yet slightly developed village. The coastline surrounding the village is marked by numerous hidden coves and pebbly beaches, only accessible via a few well-concealed paths.
Among these is Galini beach, a serene spot nestled between Ahlia and Agia Fotia. Characterized by fine pebbles and clear calm waters, the beach’s seabed is rocky in certain spots. The beach remains concealed from the main road due to towering conglomerate rocks and isn’t easily accessible, making it a quiet and ideal spot for those seeking solitude. While the beach is not organized, the proximity of village hotels and taverns makes it convenient for visitors. A short path from Galini’s main road leads directly to the beach.
The beach of Agia Fotia is situated 45km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 12km east from Ierapetra. It’s a small bay nestling at the outlet of a stream flowing down from the Thripti mountain. The name of the settlement is derived from the local Church of Agia Fotini, also known as Agia Fotia. The stream is cloaked by enormous plane trees, while the bay is encircled by conglomerate cliffs, adding to the enchanting landscape.
This beach is well-known and a favourite among the inhabitants of the city of Ierapetra. Its shores are covered in coarse greyish sand, while the water is crystal clear and tranquil. The beach is well-equipped with amenities including beach bars, taverns, and hotels. There are tamarisk trees on the beach where one can find shade. Additionally, beach volleyball tournaments are hosted annually at the local court, a recent tradition that has added to its popularity.
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.
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.
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 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.
Ha Gorge, a mesmerizing natural wonder carved into the western side of Mount Thrypti, channels water from the Thripti plateau to the Pachia Ammos beach. The gorge’s journey commences near the Saint Anne Byzantine church and the E4 footpath at approximately 800m altitude, and concludes near the Monastiraki village, about 100m above sea level.
Traversing the Ha Gorge demands canyoneering skills and specific gear due to its series of cascading waterfalls, including a 35m high plunge. The gorge tightens to a mere thirty centimetres at certain points, squeezed between cliffs that rise to 400 meters. The Mastoras waterfall, one of Greece’s tallest free falls reaching 215m, contributes substantial water midway through the route.
For those with less experience, a hike from the Monastiraki exit of the gorge provides a peek into its splendour, leading to a charming pond at the base of the final waterfall and past ancient grain mills. The name of the gorge, Ha, originates from the Greek verb “Hasko,” which means to create a gap. However, local folklore offers vibrant alternative explanations. From stories of misleading Saracens to myths of a golden chariot hidden deep within, the Ha Gorge is not only a stunning natural spectacle but also a symbol of intriguing local mythology.
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