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Stalis borrows its name from the Greek verb stalizo, signifying a place of rest. Historically, it served as a resting point for shepherds and their flocks.
Positioned 30 kilometres to the east of Heraklion, Stalis, also known as Stalida, is nestled between Hersonissos and Malia, approximately 3 kilometres from each.
Due to heavy tourism influx, Hersonissos, Stalis, and Malia have merged into a singular, sprawling coastal resort. The continuity of this 10-kilometre resort is particularly noticeable when journeying from Stalis to Malia via the coastal route.
In the 1980s, alongside a general upsurge in Cretan tourism, Stalis transformed into a popular holiday destination. Prior to this, it was primarily a beach where locals from the village of Mohos enjoyed their summer vacations.
Stalis, being a newer development, lacks a typical village structure. Instead of a central square, the area is characterized by a coastal road with shops, tavernas, and hotels lining both sides.
Due to the high vehicular traffic, pedestrians need to exercise caution when crossing the main road. There are several underpasses available for safe crossing. It’s essential to pay heed to the accurate underpass heights as some signs might indicate incorrect measurements.
Stalis is well-equipped with restaurants, tourist shops, travel agencies, car and motorbike rental services, and minimarkets. While banking services are available in Hersonissos and Malia, Stalis hosts several cash points.
Regular buses run from Stalis to various locations including Heraklion, Hersonissos, Gouves, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos, offering an easy exploration of the north coast of Crete.
Stalis Town in Crete welcomes travellers with a variety of accommodations, catering to diverse preferences. Known for its family-friendly stays, the town offers a range of options from cosy guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Whether you’re on a family vacation or a solo adventure, Stalis has the perfect spot for you. Explore our curated list of hotels in Stalis to find your ideal home away from home in the heart of Crete.
Mythical Escapes! is set on the seafront in Stalida, a few steps from Stalida Beach and 1.6 km from Alexander Beach. The property is located 1.7 km from Drapano Beach, 18 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos and 32 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum. The guest house features family rooms.
At the guest house, each room comes with a balcony. Featuring a private bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer, rooms at Mythical Escapes! also provide guests with free WiFi. At the accommodation every room has bed linen and towels.
Lake Voulismeni is 33 km from Mythical Escapes!, while Venetian Walls is 33 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from the guest house.
from
€125
/night
Situated a few steps from Stalida Beach, Mary Apartments offers accommodation with a patio, as well as a garden. Complimentary WiFi is availablethroughout the property.
Some units have a terrace and/or a balcony with sea or mountain views.
If you would like to discover the area, skiing, cycling and hiking are possible in the surroundings.
Alexander Beach is 1.5 km from the apartment, while Drapano Beach is 1.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Mary Apartments.
from
€81
/night
Situated a few steps from Stalida Beach, Niro Beachfront apartments offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
Each unit features a terrace offering sea views, a cable flat-screen TV, a well-fitted kitchenette and a private bathroom with shower, a hair dryer and free toiletries. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Alexander Beach is 1.4 km from Niro Beachfront apartments, while Drapano Beach is 1.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 26 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Situated in Stalida, 70 metres from Stalida Beach and 1.4 km from Alexander Beach, Nostos luxury beach home features air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. Guests staying at this apartment have access to a patio.
The apartment with a terrace and garden views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Drapano Beach is 1.9 km from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 18 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Nostos luxury beach home.
from
€144
/night
Located right on the beach of Stalida, Talgo Suites features air-conditioned accommodation with a microwave. It has a seaside restaurant and a sun terrace, and offers free Wi-Fi access in its public areas.
Talgo units are decorated in soft tones and offer sea or garden views from their balcony. They are fitted with a satellite TV and a safe. Bathrobes and slippers are also available.
Buffet breakfast can be enjoyed daily at the dining area. The restaurant of the hotel prepares Mediterranean dishes made with fresh local products. Talgo also has a snack bar serving drinks and cocktails.
The hotel is 30 km away from the airport and the city of Heraklion. The centre of Stalida village is just 50 metres away.
from
€95
/night
Featuring sea views, Dedalos n3 Sea View apartment-30 metres from the beach offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 100 metres from Stalida Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a patio.
With free WiFi, this apartment provides a TV, a washing machine and a kitchenette with an oven and fridge. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
The apartment offers a sun terrace.
Alexander Beach is 1.3 km from Dedalos n3 Sea View apartment-30 metres from the beach, while Drapano Beach is 2 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from the accommodation.
Numerous activities await tourists in Stalis. From beach walks and historical church visits to exploring neighbouring towns like Malia and Hersonissos, or partaking in traditional village festivities. You can also embark on a journey to explore the Minoan Palace or take day trips to archaeological sites or nearby islands. Other attractions include the Lassithi Plateau, the birthplace of Zeus according to legend, or taking the scenic “Bulgarian Path” to the village of Mohos. Below is a list other attractions in and around Stalis Town.
Experience the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum and dive into Cretan culture dating back thousands of years. See traditional houses, windmills, distilleries, everyday tools of the past. Enrich your visit with an audio guide and audiovisual film or private tour.
Learn what it means to be a Cretan at a museum dedicated to promoting the understanding and awareness of Cretan folk cultural heritage. Explore the museum’s collections that focus on themes of Cretan folk tradition and ethnology, Cretan nature and environment, and Cretan folk culture.
Visit traditional dwellings, the chapel, olive oil press, tsikoudia (raki) distillery, threshing floor, ceramic shop, weaving and plant-dying workshop, bees and wax workshop, shoe-making workshop, carpentry, herbarium, Cretan fruit garden, herb garden, mineral and stone exhibition, Cretan folk artists’ gallery, and more.
Stop at the auditorium featuring 100 seats for audio-visual shows, seminars, and more, or visit the open-air theater with 250 seats for cultural and artistic evens. Check out the temporary exhibitions hall, library, café, and souvenir shop during your visit.
The event starts at 11:00 a.m. every Wednesday (1st July- 1st November 2023).
First, you will start by pressing the grapes with your own feet -in the traditional way-, in the Museum’s wine vat.
After that, you will taste cheese-pies, potatoes baked in the oven, grapes, figs and watermelon from our garden, as well as by-products of grapes (like Cretan wine and “tsikoudia’’ – Raki ) and the healthy dessert “Μoustalevria” (derived from the grape-juice, with no sugar or preservatives added).
At the same time, you will enjoy Cretan traditional music with local dancers (voluntary participation).
The event, ends with a Museum guided tour/audio guide and a short Film in several languages.
At the end, you will be able to explore the Museum on your own, take pictures, relax in the Museum’s beach and enjoy the drinks and snacks from the Museum’s beach-bar.
Embark on an adrenaline-pumping tour aboard an innovative jet boat combining boat and plane technology. Glide across the water at top speeds and gaze at Crete’s vibrant shore from the water. Take a break from your adventure to go swimming and snorkeling.
Climb aboard the jet boat at Hersonissos Port to begin your exhilarating journey. Feel the thrill of making fantastic 360° maneuvers at high speeds, and experience how the boat dashes across the ocean and stops quickly. Stay safe at all times as you ride a stable vessel steered by a professional.
During your fun ride we explore places like Malia,Stalis and Analsipsi and after we enjoy a stop at Saint George’s Bay, a paradisiac location, to unwind from the speed. Seize the chance to go swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters before making your way back to the port.
Starting off we climb on an off-road terrain between olive groves through this green place full of colors, we will go quad safari on an impressive off-road route between the vineyards and to explore the unknown Paths ofe Crete .After we will arrive to PACHALIGO forest where we will a litle relax ! We continue through dirt roads with impressive mountains and wild nature with rich flora and fauna and unique views. A chance to pick some local herbs and become one with nature! In NEAPOLIS we ill have free time and free coffee !!
We have the opportunity to take amazing photos and then continue to explore beautiful parts of the offroad route, ending up for a swim in the crystal clear waters of Boufos beach in Sisi!
After our bath we will have lunch in a traditional tavern relaxing!!!
We continue this adventure having fun on an amazing dynamic dusty-sandy off-road coastal route and through the narrow streets of the traditional village of Sisi.
Having experienced an incredible Gocretesafari Quad Trip in Crete and having the opportunity to learn about the authentic Cretan life, we are sure that you will come back full of amazing memories that will last a lifetime!
Explore the historic sites and local culture of Crete on a drive to sights such as the dam of Aposelemis, the village of Avdou, and more. See a stunning sunset from the Minoan settlement, Karfi, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Your first stop is the village Potamies – a guided tour of a traditional animal ranch where you’ll experience the culture as the locals go about their daily tasks.
Enjoy the aroma of fresh fruits and vegetables as you wander through the gardens of the village to the dam of Aposelemis, the largest water supply project in Crete. Here you’ll see the curious village of Sfendili, whose old houses are slowly fading into the water of the dam.
Then it’s on to the village that perhaps most embodies Crete: Avdou. Characteristic of the settlement, all the buildings are well-preserved and have descriptions of the area’s history.
We continue the drive uphill on dirt roads to the gorge of Embassa, where you’ll see the impressive mountains and wildlife of Crete. You’ll even have the opportunity to collect some of the fresh local herbs.
It’s then time for the dazzling sunset at the historical Minoan settlement, Karfi, accompanied by cool Prosecco and fresh seasonal fruits. Finally, you’ll finish your day with a dinner of local delicacies.
Try diving for the first time with a beginner program. Learn the basics of diving with a theory session, a pool practice, and a shore dive to discover the underwater world.
Start with a theory session with the help of a 20-minute video and an oral presentation. Then, go to the equipment room to get your diving gear. Proceed to the pool to practice some basic diving skills, like clearing your mask underwater in case water runs in and give yourself time to get comfortable in the scuba equipment in a safe water space.
Finally, go for a shore dive to discover the underwater world. The shore dive is your first real dive in the sea! Enjoy the feeling of weightlessness and explore the Cretan underwater wildlife under the direct supervision of your instructors.
The program takes place everyday except Sundays at our Diving Center which is located inside Nana Golden Beach Hotel.
The program starts at 9:30 in the morning and ends around 12:00-13:00 in the afternoon.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“Stalis” originates from the Greek verb “stalizo,” which signifies a place of rest.
Stalis is situated 30 kilometres east of Heraklion, nestled between Hersonissos and Malia.
The neighboring towns of Stalis are Hersonissos and Malia.
Stalis became a prominent holiday destination during the 1980s.
Stalis features a coastal road lined with shops, tavernas, and hotels, and lacks a typical village central square.
Stalis offers a tranquil nightlife, making it more suitable for family vacations.
Pedestrians in Stalis can safely cross the busy main road using several underpasses.
Stalis is equipped with restaurants, tourist shops, travel agencies, car and motorbike rental services, minimarkets, and cash points.
Regular bus services run from Stalis to locations like Heraklion, Hersonissos, Gouves, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos.
Activities in Stalis include beach walks, historical church visits, exploring neighbouring towns, participating in traditional village festivities, and taking day trips to archaeological sites or nearby islands.
Stalis beach is known for its smooth sands and family-friendly environment. Hersonissos beach, west of Cape Sarandaris, is typically sheltered and calm. Malia is popular among younger crowds for its lively nightlife. Matala, famous for its hippie history, provides stunning scenery. Agia Galini, a pebbled beach, offers cool waters due to the nearby Platys River.
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