Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands located in the southeast of the Mediterranean Sea. This island is famous for its warm waters, mountain scenery, small village resorts, architectural history and most of all for the friendliness of the local people towards visitors. There is plenty to do: swimming, parasailing, water-skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, yachting and windsurfing are available at most of the major beaches. The crystal-clear waters, particularly in the south, make snorkelling and diving here a real pleasure. Greece as a whole has many museums and is extremely proud of its history. There are plenty of international restaurants to cater for all tastes however, be sure not to miss the typical Greek cuisine.
Flight Duration: 4hrs 15mins
Transfer Times from Heraklion airport:
Hersonissos: 25mins
Piskopiano/Koutouloufari: 30mins
Stalis: 35mins
Hersonissos is a bustling resort at night with plenty of bars, tavernas and nightclubs has become a mecca for the young & lively during the peak season. There is an attractive harbour and waterfront with numerous bar-eateries. The resort encompasses the traditional villages of Koutouloufari and Piskopiano. These are much quieter and picturesque and are situated in the hills behind Hersonnissos. These villages may not be suitable for persons with walking difficulties and are over 1km from the nearest beach in Hersonnissos. Hersonnissos has small beaches - the beach connoisseur should head to Stalis.
Transfer Time: 25 Minutes
Stalis is a balanced resort offering nice beaches, plenty of shops bars and restaurants and a modest nightlife. The area is popular due to its marvelous sandy beach.
Transfer Time: 35 Minutes
The pretty resort of Koutouloufari offers its visitors the best of both worlds. An old picturesque village, it is situated on the lower slopes of Crete's mountain and overlooks the fishing port of Hersonissos. In the narrow streets you will find delightful restaurants and taverns and a large variety of little boutiques.
Transfer Times: 30 Minutes
Piskopiano is along the road from Koutouloufari another traditional greek village. Even prettier than Hersonissos, this resort boasts excellent eateries, is vibrant and lively and is an extremely popular resort, while still retaining its native charm. Plenty of restaurants, shops, bars and tavernas to keep everyone amused.
Transfer Time: 30 Minutes
Gouves is a sun bathed mediterranean resort, the perfect choice if you prefer the quiet side of life. The area has a sprinkling of bars and local taverns and a large sandy beach.
Elounda is a busy and lively holiday resort. Situated close to the pretty resort of Aghios Nikolaos, Elounda has a mix of fine hotels, lovely local style tavernas, international restaurants and lively bars. The harbour square, infront of Eloundas attractive church is surrounded by tavernas, where you can sit and enjoy a drink. Elounda has always been well known for its excellent watersports facilities.
