Crete is among the many most well-known Greek islands (together with Santorini, Corfu and Mykonos). Nevertheless, Greece’s largest island has rapidly developed a repute as a celebration island, with crowds of revellers within the busier resorts in search of their subsequent shot of ouzo.Â
Nevertheless, there are nonetheless many quieter, much less commercialized resorts and villages to remain in. After spending many breaks on this lovely island, listed here are my selections if you need a extra genuine break…
1. Sissi
Suppose you consider a sleepy Greek fishing village. In that case, you most likely have photos of small boats bobbing in quartz waters, piles of multicoloured nets, and fishermen unloading their catch earlier than nipping off to the Taverna for a cheeky ouzo. You don’t must think about, as you’ve simply considered Sissi!Â
As about as non-commercial because it will get, in my expertise, Sissi is every thing you need from a reasonably Mediterranean fishing village.
You received’t discover events and bars right here, however a set of genuine native eateries, just a few small sandy seashores, and crystal-clear waters, too! For me, it was bliss!
My favorite highlights…
Spending the day on the idyllic Kalimera Kriti Seashore, the place the graceful waters are perfect for swimming.
Going for a scenic hike on the village’s trails for spectacular views of vineyards, olive groves and conventional villages.
Absorbing the allure of the winding roads and Insta-worthy vibrant homes whereas wandering by the village.
Location: Sissi is positioned on the north coast of Crete, a 40-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodge alternative – Grecotel Meli Palace
2. Elounda
Providing loads of five-star luxurious, Elounda has lovely resorts and fashionable accommodations. It’s not maybe as quaint and ‘domestically genuine’ as among the different locations on this record, however what it lacks in custom, it greater than makes up for in swankiness and nonetheless manages to retain an air of what makes this island so charming!
A number of celebrities (together with Brad and Angelina in happier days!) have been noticed strolling on its sandy shores, which, mixed with its being a hotspot for European dignitaries, provides to its unique attraction.
It’s a little bit of a trek from Chania airport, so I counsel flying to Heraklion should you’re going. There are quite a few seashores to go to, and if they’re a bit far otherwise you wish to go additional afield, yow will discover rent vehicles for the usual charge as an even bigger resort.
Luckily, Elounda’s costs don’t have a Hollywood price ticket, so I personally suppose it’s a superb center floor for many who don’t need utter isolation however nonetheless wish to maintain their break fairly relaxed!Â
My private highlights…
Discovering the traditional ruins of the underwater city Olous with a snorkelling tour.
Taking a ship journey over to the well-known Spinalonga Island for the attractive views throughout the bay to Plaka and Elounda.
Having fun with dinner at one of many city’s favorite eating places for fish and seafood specials, Kanali.
Location: Elounda is positioned in east Crete round an hour’s drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodge alternative – Domes of Elounda
3. Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos, Or simply ‘Agios’ should you choose, is a bustling city and a working port. It’s positioned simply east of Heraklion, which means it’s straightforward to get to should you don’t wish to spend an excessive amount of time with pesky transfers.
The city isn’t strictly a ‘seaside resort’, so there’s a lot to see and do in addition to basking.
There are church buildings tucked away in winding streets. The city is constructed round an attractive lake for many who wish to take pleasure in a waterside view with out the sand (Lake Voulismeni). I like to recommend taking within the views whereas additionally eating in model in considered one of a mess of lakeside eating places!Â
My private highlights…
Strolling across the boutiques the place I discovered distinctive handmade clothes, souvenirs and native produce.
Exploring the Mediterranean Sea in a different way with a semi-submarine tour.
Visiting the Cretan Olive Oil Farm to expertise how the native olive oil, wine, raki and pottery are made.
Location: Agios Nikolaos is on the island’s east aspect, a couple of 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodge alternative – Minos Palace Resort & Suites
4. Panormos
Did any individual say wine? Panormos – a small and charming conventional Cretan fishing village positioned on the northern coast – has just a few little further bits that make it engaging and a vineyard, it additionally has guided excursions and tasting as effectively making it a horny proposition certainly.
Three seashores are inside strolling distance from the cobbled stone avenue village. All of them are fairly shallow and nestled amongst some beautiful native topography, permitting for some reasonably good snorkelling experiences.
My favorite was Geropotamos Seashore. To the west, there’s a reasonably engaging stone arch; to the east, a freshwater river runs straight into the ocean.
My favorite highlights…
Enjoyable and rejuvenating with a remedy from Relaxika Therapeutic massage Specialists and Spa.
Spending a day on the Aqua Park in Marine Palace, which hosts among the wildest water slides.Â
Occurring a biking journey by an E-bike tour with JoyRide.
Location: Panormos is positioned on the island’s North Coast, round a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodge alternative – The Royal Senses Resort
5. Plakias
In case you are in search of house, Plakias provides probably the most intensive seashores in Crete. What amazed me after I was in Crete was how quiet it was.
Should you keep a number of nights, you don’t want to fret about thumping music or all-night events. It’s tremendous sedate. A ‘naturist’ seaside is off to the east if it tickles your fancy. Seashore balls apart, there’s extra to Plakias than sand and sunshine.
It’s dwelling to a considerable palm date forest, which is accessible by foot or by automobile. Strolling by the forest is classy, and the river that cuts by it’s clear sufficient to swim in (we must always hope in order it leads straight out onto Plakias Seashore).
My favorite highlights…
Exploring the breathtaking palm groves and the gorge was an impressive expertise.
Catching essentially the most photographed and vibrant sundown at The Plakias Dragon landmark, created from rock formations.
Slowing down and calm down alongside the seaside’s sandy shores.
Location: Plakias is on the south coast of the island, about an hour and 40 minutes’ drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodge alternative – NERĒA Boutique Resort
6. Kato Zakros
Positioned on the jap aspect of the island of Crete, Kato Zakros is a bit out of the way in which however effectively well worth the go to.
That is the land of Greek mythology, and I half anticipated Jason and his argonauts to pop over the horizon at any second whereas we sat on the seaside! Mythology apart, you possibly can go to the ruins of the Minoan Zakros palace, which is a real archaeological website.
If business isn’t your factor, quite a few guesthouses within the space provide their distinctive hospitality model. Many have floral and aromatic herb gardens. With that and the relative peace, it’s a super spot on this lovely island.
My favorite highlights…
Visiting the historic Minoan Palace of Zakros which was solely found within the early Sixties, and has been saved in good situation.
Strolling alongside the beautiful E4 path to discover Gorge of the Useless, the place I discovered a number of picture alternatives on the way in which.
Enjoyable on the seashores that are well-known for the clear waters, and seeing the small gardens surrounding them.
Positioned: Kato Zakros is on the island’s east coast, round a 3-hour journey from Heraklion airport.
My lodging alternative – Terra Minoika Boutique resort
7. Kalamaki
Kalamaki is a comparatively new city in Crete. It does have extra of a purpose-built really feel, however I’d nonetheless suggest it because it’s not a loud and brash type of place.
It’s a relaxed resort city (and in comparison with its busier neighbours!), and if you need a no-nonsense turn-up and to calm down on the seaside vacation, then I personally suppose this can be a good selection!
The seaside is giant and a variety of tavernas and retailers providing meals at a really affordable worth. It’s recognized for its calm waters, and for being a nesting website for endangered loggerhead sea turtles.
My favorite highlights…
Having enjoyable on the Mini Golf course.
Taking an after-dinner stroll and testing the leisure alongside the principle avenue within the night.
Renting a pedal boat and exploring the ocean.
Location: Kalamaki is positioned on the south coast of the island round an hour’s drive from Heraklion airport.
My self-catering lodging alternative – Golden Solar Resort
8. Sougia
Sougia is a small village positioned by the Libyan Sea. It may be a little bit of a drive, particularly from some extra developed areas, but it surely was half the enjoyable for me!
As you traverse the coast street with steep hills and luxurious greenery, the surroundings provides views that can take your breath away. When you’ve pushed (fastidiously) to the city, you’ll discover a laid-back vibe and easy-going ambiance synonymous with a lot of the lesser-known spots on the island.
If you’d like a bit of sunshine tradition, there’s a church (Agios Panteleimon) on the Western aspect of the village; it has a stunning mosaic flooring and isn’t business in any method (if you wish to see it, you’ll should go to the kiosk on Sougia seaside and ask for the important thing your self…critically)!
My favorite highlights…
Discovering peaceable surroundings strolling by the attractive Agia Irini Gorge.
Visiting the secluded seaside and having fun with a swim within the calm and quiet bay.
Location: Sougia is on the island’s South-West coast, a couple of 3-hour, 20-minute drive from Heraklion airport.
My lodging alternative – Monastery Property Retreat
9. Falassarna Seashore
Regardless of its small measurement, Falassarna is a well-liked spot and has a repute for being among the best seashores on the island. The seashores on this space are sandy, clear, and stretch so far as the attention can see!
Nevertheless, there’s additionally an ecological curiosity – Falassarna is a part of the Natura 2000 community as a result of space’s intensive wildlife.
It’s susceptible to excessive winds – however alternatively, this makes it supreme for surfers. Falassarna Seashore has received prizes for being essentially the most lovely seaside in Crete and is at all times one of many prime ten seashores in Europe, with its great, fantastic white sand and heat, crystal-clear water.
My favorite highlights…
Experiencing a paragliding journey overlooking the coast and admiring the island in a different way.
Occurring a cruise over to the attractive Balos Lagoon crammed with blue and inexperienced water earlier than heading to the historic website of Gramvousa.
Taking a surf lesson and have some enjoyable out on the ocean driving the waves while trying again over the gorgeous shoreline.
Location: Falassarna is on the island’s west coast, round a two-hour, forty-minute drive from Heraklion airport.
10. Triopetra Seashore
Siderotas mountain, olive groves, and, after all, the seafront encompass Triopetra. The realm is known as after the three majestic rocks that rise out of the ocean on the peninsula’s edge.
Small Triopetra (or Koumado) is the smaller of the 2 seashores. It’s extra of an enclosed, sandy, and rocky bay.Â
Are you bored of sunning your self? You’ll be able to at all times go to the improbable chapel of Prophet Elias. In the meantime, the world’s principal seaside, West Triopetra or Chatzi, is characterised by lovely coarse sand that casts uncommon colors throughout the seaside and water.
It’s well-known for its unending stretch of sand, fabulous sunsets, and peaceable ambiance.
My favorite highlights…
Admiring the breathtaking rock formations alongside the coast.
Going snorkelling alongside the shallow waters and discovering the great underwater world.
Having a picnic on the sandy seaside.
Location: It’s positioned south of the island, round a two-hour drive from Heraklion airport.
11. Elafonisi Lagoon
This pure magnificence spot is an absolute pearl, however you’ve obtained to time it proper. Up till pretty lately, Elafonisi was considered one of Crete’s best-kept secrets and techniques. Sadly, social media selfie-lovers have a agency grasp of it, so it may possibly get hectic within the excessive seasons.
Nevertheless, don’t let that put you off. Go within the shoulder months, and also you’ll be rewarded with a day journey to recollect.
The lagoon itself is an island that may be reached by paddling out to it. Whenever you get there, don’t anticipate something in the way in which of facilities (it’s truly a nature reserve and is handled accordingly).
Suppose you’ve braved the paddle (or walked over the sandbar resulting in the island). In that case, you’ll be rewarded with water that’s the temperature of bathwater, tender pink sand (specific to this space solely), and footage that you simply’ll treasure…Prizes have been awarded for recognizing a sea turtle…and deducted for duckface Instagram posts…take pleasure in!
My favorite highlights…
Enjoyable on the distinctive and idyllic pink sands surrounded by crystal-clear lagoon waters.
Having fun with the magnificent surroundings surrounding the seaside.
Taking a hike throughout the lagoon and thru the dunes and discovering the hidden gems.
Location: Elafonisi Lagoon is on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete, a couple of 3-hour, 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
12. Plaka
I wish to point out that you simply shouldn’t confuse your Plakas. There are two, one inhabited and constructed purely for ex-pats. The one we mentioned is good should you’ve determined to remain in or close to Agios, because it’s simply across the bay.
Plaka has a stunning seaside, particularly should you don’t like sand getting in every single place, because it’s constituted of pebbles. Contemplating you’re solely down the street from considered one of Crete’s busiest cities, it’s quiet and enjoyable.
You’ll discover the usual Greek beachside fare if you need a halftime break. Nestled in its backstreets are many boutique-style retailers promoting handmade and not-so-handmade trinkets.
My favorite highlights…
Going for a swim within the crystal clear waters at Plaka Seashore.
Waterskiing with Plaka Watersports.
Searching the stylish garments, boutiques, and reward retailers alongside the backstreets.
Location: Plaka is on the coast east of Crete, round an hour’s drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodging alternative for Plaka – Solar and Sea Plus Resort
13. Glyka Nera
Glyka Nera is among the most lovely seashores on the island, with deep blue water and fantastic white sand. There are two routes to the seaside – by boat or, for essentially the most excessive, a path from Chora Sfakion and one other from Loutro.
These hikes may be strenuous and, at instances, hair-raising, however they’re effectively maintained. A tavern sells native nibbles, drinks, and sunbeds on the seaside.
Because of the presence of chilly spring water streams, the seawater may be chilly, even in summer time, however the seaside is gorgeous. Should you arrive by boat, the route and views are spectacular!Â
My highlights…
Discovering the unimaginable aerial viewpoints of the seaside by following one of many mountain climbing trails across the bay.
Spending the evening tenting beneath the shade of the tamarisk bushes.
Location: Glyka Nera is positioned on the south coast of Crete, a 2 hour half-hour drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodging alternative close to Glyka Nera – Myrto Resort
14. Tripiti to Sougia Shoreline
The stroll between these two areas is genuinely gorgeous. Fortunately, the trail is marked with cairns to information your route, as it’s straightforward to get distracted by the views! Though parts of the stroll may be tiring, it’s most undoubtedly value it.
Though the panorama could make you set off pleased with the digital camera, don’t ignore the wonder proper beside you on the trail – a Venetian fort, historic church buildings, historic cisterns, and the breath-taking stays of the ruined historic city of Pikilassos, to not point out the attractive wildlife that you simply encounter alongside the way in which, together with a number of olive bushes – resist the urge to pillage!
The stroll can take as much as two hours relying on means, velocity, and inclination; ensure you take time to take in the attractive views and ambiance.
My favorite highlights…
Stopping and admiring the historic websites alongside the way in which.
Absorbing the beautiful views overlooking lovely turquoise waters.
Capturing Insta-worthy photographs of the surroundings alongside the path.
Positioned: Sougia is on the Southwest Coast of Crete, a 3-hour and 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
15. Myrtos Village
This tranquil, pristine, white-washed village filled with conventional allure is within the island’s southeastern nook. The city has a wealthy historical past, together with a museum that homes finds of Minoan archaeological significance.
It additionally has a handful of genuine taverns and a quiet sandy seaside.
The seaside of Myrtos is a hidden treasure that hardly ever will get crowded and supplies an actual alternative to take a load off and really calm down. For individuals who like to discover, ruins all around the space relationship from the Neolithic and Roman durations may be uncovered and found with a little bit of tenacity.Â
My highlights…
Spending the day at Myrtos Seashore, which has a Blue Flag award and is among the warmest seashores in Europe.
Studying concerning the architectural treasures across the space and the village’s historical past on the Myrtos Museum.
Taking a drive to Selakano Forest and exploring the charming trails crammed with waterfalls.
Location: Myrtos village is on the south coast of Crete, a one-hour and twenty-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
16. Ligaria
I beloved Ligaria – a small and charming seaside village positioned on the north aspect of Crete – particularly its beautiful seaside with the identical identify. It’s postcard-perfect with steep, sandy-coloured rocks dropping straight into the ocean on this horseshoe-shaped bay and crystal clear water.
The realm is fashionable with locals, which ought to let you know one thing. In consequence, the beachside delicacies within the native tavernas is to a reasonably excessive commonplace.
It’s barely commercialised, but it surely’s not too unhealthy should you just like the occasional deep-fried or sugary deal with delivered to your lounger while you catch the solar!
My favorite highlights…
Experiencing conventional Cretan dishes at Atatoah Taverna Liguria.
Going jet snowboarding!Â
Visiting the fascinating Monastery of Panagia Deligara which is constructed on the ruins of the unique monastery.Â
Location: Ligaria is positioned on the north coast of Crete, round a 30-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
17. Heraklion
Heraklion is Crete’s capital and the biggest metropolis on the island. It’s a port metropolis with an city vibe and a contact of nature.
Irrespective of the place you go, you’ll at all times discover inexperienced spots. If you wish to discover the native delicacies, there are lots of eating places and improbable espresso retailers. The town has an airport, making it the primary spot to discover the world.
I’d additionally counsel catching a ferry to go to Santorini, Mykonos and different islands.
My private highlights…
Visiting the excellent Bronze Age metropolis and Palace of Knossos.
Strolling across the vibrant Previous City and the scenic harbour crammed with fishing boats.
Location: Heraklion is positioned on the north coast of Crete and is dwelling to the island’s principal airport.
18. MilatosÂ
If discovering tucked-away coves and exploring craggy rocks appeals to you, then Milatos, a small quaint Crete village, possibly the place for you!
It lacks the sweeping white sand of a few of our different solutions however doesn’t have the footfall, making it supreme for a day journey.
In case you are a real adventurer, take your flashlight and head as much as Milatos caves. It’s not significantly well being and security pleasant, however if you’re courageous sufficient, you’ll be rewarded with a view of a hidden church constructed throughout the caves. Cool or what?
My private highlights…
Exploring the Milatos Cave after strolling up a scenic path to the doorway.Â
Indulging in nice meals and wine at Meltemi Taverna while watching a panoramic sundown over the Mediterranean Sea.
19. Paleochora
Paleochora, a small city on a small peninsula in southwest Crete, is good if you need a little bit of each. By that, I imply you wish to bask in chilling out and possibly have a very good time within the night.
There are some bars, however they’re extra more likely to be filled with civilised locals than your commonplace 18-30 gangs.
After a day on the (pebble) seaside, you possibly can step out in your Sunday greatest and tempo up and down the walkway paralleling the seafront whereas questioning in case you have time to have a look at the menu earlier than the occupants accost you (I’m joking; they’re beautiful and customarily pleasant reasonably than pushy!).
My favorite highlights…
Going for a swim at Pachia Ammos Seashore, recognized for being among the best seashores alongside the South Coast.
Visiting the Paleochora Fortress and seeing Instagrammable panoramic views over the city.
Eating al fresco alongside the Paleochaora Piazza.
20. Loutro Village
Whenever you land within the fairly, peaceable village of Loutro, you are feeling such as you’ve stepped again in time! It’s a small village with a number of accommodations and tavernas, retailers and eating places, and a church. Nonetheless, what Loutro lacks in modernity, it makes up for in nostalgia and panorama.
It’s flanked by steep mountainsides, dwelling to a large herd of goats (judging from the clinking of bells), and a tepid sea sheltered by a lush bay.
No roads lead right here, and there aren’t any nightclubs or nightlife. Guests can detox from life and deal with long-awaited books, take walks alongside the gorgeous surroundings, or eat, drink, and be merry.
My private highlights…
Renting a ship and exploring the breathtaking southern shoreline.
Visiting the historic Koules of Loutro fortress ruins.
Wandering across the city’s fairly streets and sampling the road meals.
