Its also a good base if you want to rent a car as there are plenty of beaches to explore in the area and its only a 15-minute drive to Rethymnon. Its a bit of a trek from Chania airport, so if youre going, fly to Heraklion. Crete has some of Greece's best sandy beaches - many far from developed areas, so you can truly enjoy a remote holiday on the sand. That said, they are exposed to the northwesterly Meltemi wind which blasts Greece throughout the summer beware big waves and undercurrents when the wind is blowing, pay attention to local advice. After a day at the (pebble) beach, you can step out in your Sunday best and pace up and down the walkway paralleling the seafront whilst wondering if you have time to look at the menu before you are accosted by the occupants (Im joking, they are lovely and generally friendly more than pushy). These vary greatly depending on the region and location: Snow white sand alternates with shell sand and fine gravel. Ranked as a top Travel Authority in the UK by Agility PR Solutions, Nominated as the best female travel blogger in the Teletext Holiday Awards 2019, British Annual Canada Travel Awards Finalist 2018, Nominated for the Best UK Travel Blog 2018, Cheapflights Travel Blog Awards Nominee 2017, GLOBAL GRASSHOPPER. Stavros Bay aerial: Mike Drosos / Shutterstock, Matala rocks: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock, Map of Crete: The Mediterranean Traveller, Map of Chania region The Mediterranean Traveller, Elafonissi: Zakhar Marunov / Adobe Stock, Paleochora: Vladimir1984 / Shutterstock, Map of Rethymnon region The Mediterranean Traveller, Panormo: Jaroslav Moravcik / Shutterstock, Agia Galini: Georgios Kritsotakis / Shutterstock, Map of Heraklion region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agia Pelagia: Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock, Map of Lasithi region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agios Nikolaos: olgaarkhipenko / Adobe Stock, Elounda: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock. See More, A stylish modern hotel with spacious one-bedroom suites with a separate living room and great views over the ocean. Its perfect for mature couples who dont need excursions and are happy to rent a car to explore the south coast. Accommodation in Kissamos tends to look a bit dated but you can find good value in the surrounding beaches such as resort-style Balos Beach Hotel, Galini Beach Hotel, and the simpler Maria Beach Hotel. Or the clean and modern Central City Hotel and Aeolios Design Hotel. Kids go free to the Minoan Amusement Park. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Some beaches are considered 'insider tips' among locals and tourists and can only be reached on foot, while other beach areas regularly host large numbers of sun-hungry visitors. The beauty of Margarites does not need to be explained or even described, the minute it comes into view- it will take your breath away. Sougia is located on the South West coast of the island around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion airport. 2,101 reviews. There's a gorgeous lagoon-style pool, a small spa, and a restaurant. Agia Roumeli: Lots of budget rooms all around the same price point thanks to the proliferation of walkers tryAgia Roumeli Hotel or Gigilos which are both right on the beach. 9.8/5 (157 reviews) "The bed was so comfortable. #7 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete "The resort location gives quiet seclusion and comfort with its own small beach, sun terraces and infinity pool all with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay." "Secluded enough to be quiet and relaxing but also close enough to the picturesque town of Agios St Nikolas." Special offer 2022 8. But what you will find is a collection of properly local eateries, a few small and sandy beaches, and crystal clear water if you want to go for a dip. 9 Theofanus Street, Chania, Crete Island, 731 00. Although elements of the walk can be tiring, its most definitely worth it. Enjoyed this post? Try the spotless Marina Hotel, or the beautiful white and blue decor and sea views atElektra. There are churches tucked away in winding streets, and for those of you who want to enjoy a waterside view without the sand, the town is built around a beautiful lake (Lake Voulismeni), where you can take in the views, whilst also dining in style in one of a multitude of lakeside restaurants. Accommodation is spacious and secluded, the best options have heated seawater pools, but all are utterly indulgent. Balos Beach, Crete. Sitia, windsurf and nice beaches For a taste of the less touristy places on the island, Sitia is your town where to stay in Crete. But the rowdy bars are largely confined to one strip the Malia Mile, and the party doesnt start until later in the evening. FalassarnaBeachhas won prizes for being the most beautiful beach in Crete and is always one of the top ten beaches in Europe, with its wonderful, fine white sand and warm, crystal-clear water. Transfer time: 30 minutes from Heraklion airport. The most famous part of the gorge is the stretch known as the Gates where the sides of the gorge close into a width of only four meters and soar up to a height of almost 300 meters. : Effi Apartments are a steal and right on the beach in Platanias. Many boat trips, excursions, and day tours are available, and its possible to make some journeys (such as hiking the Samaria Gorge) yourself by bus. The resorts spread out in either direction along the coast. On a budget? Many Chania beaches are among the best on the island, such as Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi. Nearby is the Palace of Malia, one of the best Minoan ruins on the island. Check TUI for packages including hotels and flights. If you chose to arrive by boat, the route and views are particularly beautiful. Transfer time: 1 hr 40 minutes from both Chania and Heraklion airports. Agia Roumeli is the most visited village in the area as it forms the exit point for the popular Samaria Gorge hike every day in the summer hundreds pop out of the gorge and onto a ferry to X where they can reconnect with the road system. Packages to Stalis are available through TUI. Sfakia is the nearest town for amenities. It does attract some tourists, mainly from the continent. #14 of 51 hotels in Georgioupolis. East of Sitia the crowds really thin out most tourists dont make it beyond this point. Outside this, its a large resort town with an excellent (though busy) beach, an unashamedly commercial centre, and a charming old quarter (Old Malia), where youll find traditional houses and tavernas. However, dont let that put you off. For initial visits to Crete, especially if you have limited time to travel, plan on staying in one of the 5 main settlements. There are many dining options from Greek to Italian and the four bars serve up wonderful cocktails. The outskirts of Hersonissos are home to some of Cretes swankiest 5* resort hotels. There are lots of good value hotels in Sitia, though in general decor is a tad dated check Booking.com for prices and availability. A stunning contemporary five star resort that will leave you wanting for nothing! A collection of understated luxury rooms and bungalows are elegantly decorated with simple white walls and minimalist artworks. Plaka is located on the coast on the east of Crete around an hours drive from Heraklion Airport. Ierapetra is known as the capital of the south coast as its the biggest town along the coast, and one of the southernmost towns in Europe. Rapid growth resulted in some dense development around the small harbour, and the small beach is a 10-minute walk out of the village. Shark Creek Beach, Great Harbour Cay, Berry Islands, The Bahamas. Anissaras beach http://www.flickr.com/photos/brownieboy27/4986950206/in/set-72157624948245648 Report inappropriate content roseyManchester manchester Whether you are planning a getaway with the family, a couples' escape or a luxury break there is something to suit most tastes and budgets here. Chanias maze of old town streets have been prettied up for the tourists, but they still retain a charming atmosphere especially if you can catch them in spring before the masses arrive. It is home to a substantial palm date forest, which is accessible by foot or by car. Where to Stay on Rhodes: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide The only parking is on the street which is very limited. It is a port city that offers an urban vibe with a touch of nature. The prices in Hersonissos are very competitive, partially to lure customers out of the many all-inclusive hotels in the area. Well, you dont need to imagine, as youve just thought of Sissi in beautiful Crete! Transfer time: 2hrs from Heraklion International airport, 10 minutes from Sitia Public Airport. The lagoon itself is actually an island that can be reached by paddling out to it. Be aware that roads and bus routes in the south are sparse, its easier to plan an itinerary that takes in one region or travels along the north coast. Its vulnerable to high winds but on the other hand, this makes it ideal for surfers. The best beaches in Crete | CN Traveller Enjoy the many dining options, good spa and lots of activities - tennis, water sports and nearby nightlife. If you are a true adventurer take your flashlight and head up to Milatos caves. The 12 Best Crete Beach Hotels (Greece) | Oyster.com For all intents and purposes its a real treasure. There are seven restaurants to choose from, a kids' club, and a wide range of activities - a real crowd pleaser. Go in the shoulder months and youll be rewarded with a day trip to remember. Grecotel Meli Palace and Kalimera Kriti Resort both have direct beach access. Head east from Sitia and you eventually reach is Paleokastro, a windswept resort with an edge-of-the-world feel and some of the best windsurfing in Europe. The beaches in this area are all sandy, clean and stretch as far as the eye can see! Falassarna Beach has won prizes for being the most beautiful beach in Crete and is always one of the top ten beaches in Europe, with its wonderful, fine white sand and warm, crystal-clear water. Much of the south-west coast is rocky and inaccessible, with steep cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea and small beaches that form at the end of gorges. Our hotel experts have scoured the length and breadth of the island to bring you a collection of Crete's best beach hotels selected on their location, designs, service, and amenities. I just want to mention dont confuse your Plakas, as there are two, one of which is inhabited and built purely for ex-pats. Its not particularly health and safety friendly, but if you are brave enough youll be rewarded with a view of a hidden church built within the caves. Transfer time: 55 minutes from Heraklion International airport. It has a quiet and authentic atmosphere and a well-sheltered beach its one of the best places in Crete for families with small children. 17. As with the other northern cities, it has a Venetian Fortress (the Kazarma) and an Archaeological Museum. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches. Naxos has the best beaches (but little nightlife). Boutique and luxury: Cressa Corona Boutique Hotel is the best address in town. } See More, Set in an out-of-this-world location right on the Cretan seafront. With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Although be warned, the walk takes five to seven hours and can be strenuous, especially at the peak of summer. S&K Villas near Amyrida has a modern white cubist design and pool. on: function(evt, cb) { Its a popular day-trip destination and the crowds somewhat marr the incredible natural landscape with its towering rock formations. (function() { Clearly, the island has so much more to offer aside from the famous mythology and legends, there are also sites of architectural, historical, and natural importance, that will leave any visitor completely enthralled! The famous Preveli Palm Beach with its exotic date palm forest at the end of Kourtaliotiko Gorge is 5km away. The Royal Blue Resort. Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort has a Six Senses Spa, direct beach access, and a private 9-hole golf course. Small ferry boats make the run over to Spinalonga from both Plaka and Elounda. Development is focused around a small harbour and excellent beach sandy, with shallow child-friendly waters. It is slightly commercialised, but that said if you like the occasional deep-fried or sugary treat delivered to your lounger whilst you catch the sun, its not too bad at all! ". Ideal for totally relaxing. The resort offers 75 airy and well appointed rooms and suites fully equipped with satellite TV and minibar. Rooms with floaty linen curtains have excellent sea views from their large glass windows. See More, A glamorous coastal property offering the upmost in luxury on Crete's picturesque coast. Several celebrities (including Brad and Angelina in happier days) have been spotted walking on its sandy shores, this combined with it being a hotspot for European dignitaries just adds to the appeal. Three excellent restaurants, salt water pools and an extensive spa complete the picture on this luxe stay. The local fare in many of the harbour tavernas is about as close as you can come to freshness, maybe even caught meters from where you sit. It is truly non-commercialised, and we hope it stays that way. of the rooms, the quality of the beach. Aside from the peacefulness of the region, it is hard not to be astounded by the artwork the elements left behind- a series of terraces in the rock face which, will undoubtedly leave you awestruck. Check Paleochora rooms and prices on Booking.com. Crete is divided into four provinces, each headed up by a regional capital on the north coast Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Agios Nikolaos. If you can get beyond immediate appearances, it has a likeable vibe there are some excellent museums and a good bar and music scene propped up by the local student population. The beach here is better than any at Hersonissos, which is 5km away. Suites, bungalows, and villas are light and airy with large swathes of glass and a modern take on Cretian design. Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel Show prices Enter dates to see prices 202 reviews If youre used to staying in small villages then you may find Bali too busy and commercialised. Most visitors wont venture far outside the old town, the nexus of which is the pretty 14th-century Venetian harbourfront, but surrounding it is a decent-sized the modern university city with a year-round population of 60,000 people. A typical routine is to eat dinner in the old village and then head down towards the waterfront for evening drinks. Transfer time: 15-45 minutes from Chania International airport. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete. BEST LUXURY HOTELS: Lindos Blu, Casa Cook Rhodes, Boutique 5 Hotel and Spa BEST BUDGET HOTEL RIGHT ON THE BEACH: Delfini Beach Hotel BEST VILLAS: Kiotari Beach Villa, Axiotheaton Villas, SeaSide Suites BEST RESORT HOTELS FOR FAMILIES: Hotel Porto Angeli Beach Resort, Atlantica Aegean Family Resort, Rodos Princess Resort & Spa Agios Nikolaos, Or just Agios if you prefer, is a bustling town and working port. The modern rooms boast private balconies overlooking the bay, gardens or pool. Inside the old town: for historic charm check outBozzali Hotel with its whitewashed decor and cute courtyard, whereas Casa Delfino offers a modern take on the traditional Venetian mansion. Paleochora is located on a small peninsula with beaches on either side perfect for windsurfing as one of them will always be catching the wind. Value 4.1. forms: { Self-catering and BBQ are available for all. You may have to head to the south coast when the wind is blowing. But there are plenty of alternatives if your budget doesnt stretch quite that far, have a look at Blue Bay Resort Hotel, Peninsula Resort Hotel, Pela Mare, Seascape Luxury Residences, and Acro Wellness Suites. There are a few tavernas and perhaps the occasional cafe bordering the shallow rocky beach. Panormos a small and charming traditional Cretan fishing village located on the northern coast has a few little extra bits that make it attractive, and a winery, it also has guided tours and tasting as well making it an attractive proposition indeed. It is hardly surprising then that there are a world-class selection of beach hotels to choose from. Hostels: Chania has two gorgeous design hostel options Cocoon City Hostel and Kumba. Offering plenty of five-star luxury, Elounda is stuffed with beautiful resorts and classy hotels. Dont expect anything in the way of amenities when you get there (its actually a nature reserve and is treated accordingly). This is part of a Greek holiday resort guide series and will cover: Roughly speaking, the north coast is developed and is home to the main cities and also most of the beach resort towns. Plaka has a lovely beach, especially lovely if you dont like sand getting everywhere, as its made from pebbles. Monastery Estate is a beautiful new conversion with Turkish hammam. The best of the rest are: Creta Blue Boutique Hotel & Suites, Villa Ippocampi,Casa Bianca Boutique Hotel,Abaton Island Resort & Spa, Cooks Club. The beaches here are small but this helps to keep the crowds away. Located in the south-eastern corner of the island is this tranquil, pristine, white-washed village full of traditional charm. Including the five star beach resorts, family friendly hotels on Crete and great value finds. A small town located on a small peninsula in southwest Crete, Paleochora is ideal if you want a bit of both. Kissamos is a working port town on the northwestern edge of Crete. Beach Life - The property has a private beach area (complete with an open-air cineam in the evenings) - ideal for a quiet beach getaway. Blue Palace Elounda 9. Glyka Nera is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete and definitely one of the most unspoiled places to visit on the island, with deep blue water and fine white sands. Its friendly and authentic if you want to get away from mass tourism then this easternmost part of Crete is a good bet. Two Cretes minor islands Chryssi and Koufonisi are just off this part of the shore. THE 10 BEST Quiet Resorts in Crete 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor See More, Luxury beach resort just minutes from Agios Nikolaos. You cant miss it, its called Youth Hostel Plakias. Agios Nikolaos Best for families A favourite of package holiday companies, Agios Nikolaos is one of Crete's biggest but most charming resorts, making it a great choice for families. Mar 20 - Mar 21. There is a small airport serving flights to and from Athens. Most likely, it will only be you, the sound of the lapping water, the bristling sun and the rustle of the pine trees. Set in landscaped gardens, the freshly reinvented Radisson Blu Beach Resort has seven pools, direct beach acces, and is popular with families. The main town in the region is likeable Agios Nikolaos (or Ag Nik, as its affectionately known), which makes up the quartet of north coast main cities. If youve braved the paddle (or walked over the sandbar leading to the island) youll be rewarded with water that is the temperature of bathwater, soft pink sand (particular to this area only), and pictures that youll treasurePrizes awarded for spotting a sea turtleand deducted for duckface Instagram postsenjoy! Wonderful! It has a tranquil fishing village vibe, although the heart of the village does feel a bit commercialised, and there are some small beaches a short walk away (the main one is Boufos). 18. The landscape is dry and barren, and the beaches largely empty. Interiors are chic, contemporary and comfortable. Theres an excellent selection of tavernas, and its a short drive to Agios Nikolaos for city delights. It gets very popular and usually attracts people who go there for clubbing. Apart from organized beaches in Chania Greece, there are also plenty of deserted coves and lovely bays to enjoy total privacy. The nearest rooms are a few miles away try the sereneGlykeria Hoteland Elafonisi Resort. Beach bums are better off at Plakias (see below). There is a smart restaurant and bar and an outdoor pool area with a terrace. Concur with these, we love Crete. There are several beaches that you can reach by foot, and as the crowds thin out you can still find a few nudist beaches. Best 20 Beaches on Crete island, Greece | Greeka A luxury beach holiday. Transfer time: 15 minutes from Heraklion International airport. The other top choice in Rethymnon is Rimondi Estate whose courtyard swimming pool is becoming an Instagram star in its own right. Not overly touristy (though all the amenities are present), it has a working town feel albeit one with an Ottoman mosque, Venetian Fortress, and Blue Flag Beach. Giannoulis - Grand Bay Beach Resort (Exclusive Adults Only) Kolymvari. Enter dates to see prices. This ultra-luxurious haven combines the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools. ; SOUTH: Most of the main beach resorts are on the south coast, busier on the west side and getting quieter the further east you get. What was once a small Greek village has now become a cosmopolitan town, with bars, restaurants and hotels surrounding picturesque Lake Voulismeni. Its known for its big waves, fishing heritage, and seafood tavernas set around a small crescent of beach. Pick of the pack is the uber-chic Serenissima Boutique Hotel its located one block back from the main harbour in a 15th-century Venetian mansion. Fantastic food served up and two bars for you to try out. (178 reviews) "Very difficult to find in the Dark, as the entrance is down a dark alley, and the sins aren't lit up. The beach of Myrtos is a hidden treasure which, rarely gets crowded and provides a real opportunity to take a load off and truly relax. There are only a few places to stay in Plaka try Athina Villas, Plaka Beach Cottages, and Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa. The most well-known landmark is the blush pink Yiali Tzami mosque on the waterfront, with the main (outer) harbour on one side and the Venetian (inner) harbour and arsenal on the other. Except for the blockbuster beaches that attract day trips, its not ideal for beach tourism. The main village is set 1km back from the beach and is a popular area for villas and expats. However, Balos Beach caught our eye for its clean waters and beautiful offshore reefs. This amazing place is like the Caribbean side of Crete. The city of Rethymnon (you might also see it spelt Rethymno or Rethimno) is like a smaller, more chilled version of Chania. Classy Veneziano Boutique Hotel is in a beautifully renovated historic building. This 5* property offers boutique accommodation decorated in a typically Mediterranean fashion and with either a private plunge pool or hot tub. Loutro:Porto Loutro On the Hill has the best position with balcony rooms looking out over the bay. See More, An opulent resort comprising five hotels in one on a private peninsula. If youre planning on staying in the area for more than a few days in the summer then it makes sense to be out in one of Chanias coastal resorts, to take advantage of beach access and/or parking (which is very difficult in the centre). The lazy river was a particular highlight. But it would be a shame to miss out on the excellent tavernas in Panormo. See More, This five-star eco hotel overlooks the famous Mirabello Bay in Elounda, Crete. Considering you are only down the road from one of Cretes busiest towns, its pretty quiet and relaxing. Service 4.3. Mount Ida is the tallest peak of the range, named after the daughter of the King of Crete according to Greek mythology. The lush Villa Octo is up in the hills behind the city and sleeps 6 in luxury. Crossing the south of the island is difficult. If you're looking for a quiet, isolated experience . It has a pretty setting in the Gulf of Mirabello with waterfront bars encircling a small lake its made for people watching, and there is a cosmopolitan cafe-bar scene. The village itself is loaded with a rich history, including a museum which houses finds of Minoan archaeological importance found nearby and you can hear tales about the towns colourful past and folklore in the many local tavernas. Meanwhile, the main beach of the area, West Triopetra or Chatzi, is characterised by beautiful coarse sand which casts unusual colours across the beach and water. Libyan Princess is the most comfortable and modern hotel on the block. Agiofarago Beach / Best Beaches in Crete Agiofarago Beach is the perfect beach in Crete if you want to sidestep the crowds. The resort boasts an outdoor hot tub. They get progressively smaller, more village-like and quieter the further out you get. The beautiful unspoilt Samari Gorge is a major tourist attraction of the island and was created by a small river running through the White Mountains.

Raymond Chandler Army, For Rent By Owner Boise Idaho, Articles B