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Transfer time: 1hr 40 minutes from Chania International airport. A wonderful place to visit and stay in Crete! Minoa Palace Resort & Spa is another beachfront blockbuster with private pools and daybeds. 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. Honeymoons - This is . Despite its proximity to larger resorts, the bus service to Sissi is limited, so its better suited to couples looking for a quiet place to stay in Crete or those wanting to explore the wild Agios Ioannis peninsula by car. Enter dates to see prices. Triopetra is surrounded by Siderotas mountain, olives groves, and of course, the seafront, the area is named after the three majestic rocks that rise out of the ocean at the edge of the peninsula. "The location is perfect as is one of the best beaches on the island, being quiet yet with locals around, and close enough to the Venetian Harbour for day or evening trips.". 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. For a private beach, an award-winning spa and fine dining, try the Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. Self-catering and BBQ are available for all. Here you will find the emptiest beaches on the island and you can swim well into the autumn/winter months. The resorts here are some of the nicest places to stay on Crete. See More, An opulent resort comprising five hotels in one on a private peninsula. The city of Rethymnon (you might also see it spelt Rethymno or Rethimno) is like a smaller, more chilled version of Chania. But there is also an ecological interest Falassarna is part of the Natura 2000 network due to the extensive array of flora and fauna the area has to offer. Top hotel pick is Palazzo Greco, a small hotel with a boutique feel the terrace pool and balconies have impressive sea views. You can find private plunge pools at Miramare Resort & Spa. For all intents and purposes its a real treasure. The harbourfront is lined with restaurants and smart boutiques, and the narrow alleys filled with souvenir shops, and the colourful tables and twinkly lights of tavernas vying for your trade. Mid-range boutique: Casa Cook is a beach resort reimagined for the Instagram generation, with boho-chic minimalism up on the hills behind the beach in Kato Daratsa. Its raw beauty is undeniable, with glassy aquamarine waters and swirls of pastel-pink sands kissing the shore - a natural phenomenon caused by thousands of . This 5* property offers boutique accommodation decorated in a typically Mediterranean fashion and with either a private plunge pool or hot tub. Heraklion is located on the north coast of Crete and is home to the main airport of the island. 26. 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. And Plakias now has a youth hostel! 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. There are seven restaurants to choose from, a kids' club, and a wide range of activities - a real crowd pleaser. BEST HOTELS RIGHT ON THE BEACH: Domes Noruz, Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort, Domes of Elounda. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter. 5km south of Plaka is the small beach town of Elounda, one of Cretes most characterful resorts and home to some of its premier luxury hotels. And theres an ancient Minoan site that youre likely to have to yourself. } See More, An ultra-luxurious haven combining the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools. See More, Blue Palace, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, A holistic approach to wellbeing underlies the luxury, Equally swish and perhaps just that little bit smarter the. 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. 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. Brilliant choice of restaurants, easy to book each morning Popi the waitress in the main Cosmos restaurant was so att." Sifaka & Gavaladon 5, Old Town, Chania, Crete Island, 73101. Rooms with floaty linen curtains have excellent sea views from their large glass windows. But the rowdy bars are largely confined to one strip the Malia Mile, and the party doesnt start until later in the evening. Koutouloufari is awash with luxury adults-only complexes. Its super sedate. Top things to see and do in Heraklion include: Ammoudara is the easiest beach to reach from the city the line 12 bus runs throughout the day. These vary greatly depending on the region and location: Snow white sand alternates with shell sand and fine gravel. 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. There are more Minoan ruins worth discovering though head further afield to Malia and Phaistos. Heraklion Archaeological Museum is fantastic its worth visiting before you head out to the ancient sites if you can. And its one of the warmest places in the Mediterranean in winter. Its a perfect romantic destination for couples. Another sleepy Crete village, Tsoutsouros is undeveloped and charming (just how we like it). Crossing the south of the island is difficult. Try the spotless Marina Hotel, or the beautiful white and blue decor and sea views atElektra. Apart from organized beaches in Chania Greece, there are also plenty of deserted coves and lovely bays to enjoy total privacy. It is hardly surprising then that there are a world-class selection of beach hotels to choose from. Best Places in Crete to Stay for First-Timers and Sightseeing: Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos. Suites and private villas have personal pools. ". The vibe is family-friendly thanks to its sheltered bay which is lined with a number of traditional tavernas. You can always visit the amazing chapel of Prophet Elias. 17. You cant miss it, its called Youth Hostel Plakias. Transfer time: 50 minutes from Chania International airport. 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. So many people make a beeline for Rethymno that its surrounding villages are something of a hidden gem. Although elements of the walk can be tiring, its most definitely worth it. ; EAST: The beaches past Elia are beyond the reach of the bus and water taxi network so things calm down considerably. 3,851 reviews. 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. Show Prices. It is a port city that offers an urban vibe with a touch of nature. Plaka is located on the coast on the east of Crete around an hours drive from Heraklion Airport. Sissi is located on the north coast of Crete a 40-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Glika Nera Beach 190 Beaches By 849jeremyn The beach is in a protected park and no development is allowed with 1km. Margarites is located in the very centre of the island of Crete, its an unspoiled village surrounded by the vibrant green hills of the Rethymnon region and is as well known for its picturesque panorama as it is for its extensive pottery trade. 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. #9 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete. Lyttos Beach Resort is a 150-acre family-friendly hotel with dated interior spaces but beautiful grounds, including a sandy beach with free loungers and a lifeguard. See More, Luxury beach resort just minutes from Agios Nikolaos. The City Hotel & Suites is a clean and modern hotel offering excellent value at a lower price point, as are Menta City Boutique Hotel and Omiros Boutique Hotel. Crete is a large island the fifth largest in the Mediterranean and you can find whatever youre looking for in each region. If you want to explore the culinary, you will have a vast variety of restaurants and amazing coffee shops. On the beach: Check out LUX.ME White Palace and Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort for sheer whitewashed bliss right on the beach. 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. Perhaps, Domatas unspoiled beauty has been preserved this long because the region has no roads or infrastructures. Balos beach Chania Balos is a fantastic location on the northwestern side of Crete, in the region of Chania. The White Houses are traditional waterfront houses decorated in local antiques and cool whites and blues. 2,101 reviews. BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CRETE IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS ($$$) Minos Beach Art Hotel ($$) Miramare Resort & Spa ($) Ikaros Art Hotel FIND AGIOS NIKOLAOS HOTEL DEALS 5. Definitely one of the most unspoiled places to visit in Crete, the pretty peaceful village of Loutro evokes some strong emotion when you land here it is truly like stepping back in time! Those in search of the original 60s free-spirited vibe will be disappointed (though try nearby Red Beach), but Matala is a fun seaside town and is a good choice for younger couples looking for somewhere lively and photogenic. Elounda is a good middle ground for those who dont want utter isolation, but still want to keep their break fairly relaxed. The south is wild and remote with a spectacularly rocky coast and a few standout beach resorts. There are still many quieter, less commercialized resorts, villages, and secluded coves to explore and more hidden locations that are barely touched by tourism. Palazzo Duca is one block behind the harbour and is clean and modern with comfortable Cocomat mattresses. The resort boasts an outdoor hot tub. There are a number of hotels right on the beach such as the modern and comfortable Sofia Hotel. Cretes famous hippie beach is located on the south coast the name will be familiar to any fan of Joni Mitchell, who lived in the caves here for a short time as described in the song Carey. Agiofarago Beach / Best Beaches in Crete Agiofarago Beach is the perfect beach in Crete if you want to sidestep the crowds. Here, you can available of the offerings from the nearby tavernas and umbrellas are available. 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. There are a few large all-inclusive hotels in Panormo Iberostar Creta Marine and Iberostar Creta Panorama & Mare being two of the larger ones. It doesnt matter where you go you will always find greenery spots. Besides the beach, guests gather at the Olympic-sized pool and water park with a big slides for older kids and adults. Suites have private pools. Again due to its relative remoteness, youll be able to leave your disco shoes at home as well have none of that here, thanks very much. Candia Suites are close to the harbour with clean modern interiors and bicycle rental available. It attracts a younger crowd than Agia Galini, more families and independent travellers. Offering plenty of five-star luxury, Elounda is stuffed with beautiful resorts and classy hotels. Greece has over 1000 islands of which only 227 are inhabited. Lyttos Mare 5. Heraklion is Cretes capital and the largest city on the island. All rooms boast sea views and Egyptian cotton sheets; the best have a private terrace hot tub and marble bathroom. Whitewashed and chic Cyano Hotel is the best place to stay in Plakias rooms are spotless, the beds are comfy, and its a short walk to the shops and beach. per night. Check the rooms and prices on Booking.com. The 3* Villa Maxine Hotel is great value and has a chic poolside area. Falassarna is home to one of the best beaches on Crete vast, sandy, and relatively undeveloped. Transfer time: 1hr 30 minutes from Chania airport. Wonderful! If you want to be closer to the beaches, Nostos Beach Boutique Hotel is freshly renovated and has a pool, beach bar and day beds. The wonderful White Mountains are located in Western Crete, and their gleaming shine is the dominant feature of the region. 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. Abaton Island Resort & Spa 10. This is tucked away in a remote pocket of Crete's south-western corner, so you could be forgiven for thinking you might have it all to yourself. If you have a mix of old and young children or value convenience then Stalis is a solid option. There are few roads in the area, and some of the villages are accessible only by boat. I just want to mention dont confuse your Plakas, as there are two, one of which is inhabited and built purely for ex-pats. I think it time for a bring visit back! Sissi is a small resort thats on the coast between Malia and Plaka, known for its pretty harbour and seafood tavernas. 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! If you chose to arrive by boat, the route and views are particularly beautiful. 18. Elounda is a lively harbour town thats surrounded by beautiful scenery and a sandy Blue Flag town beach. Drive 10 minutes south from Agios Nikolaos for the stunning 5* resort Daios Cove, which has its own beach and private seawater plunge pools. But the lagoon beach is known to many island regulars, and gets busy on a summer weekend. There are lots of lovely places to stay in Rethymnon. It is truly non-commercialised, and we hope it stays that way. callback: cb You are properly in the land of Greek mythology, I expected Jason and his argonauts to pop over the horizon at any moment whilst we sat on the beach. Stay in Ierapetra: The Cretan Villa Hotel is a handsome restored 18th century building, or try apartments like the Big Blue Suites. 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! The 680-room Creta Maris Beach Resort is a beachfront all-inclusive resort a 10-minute walk from Limenas Hersonissos village. Giannoulis - Grand Bay Beach Resort (Exclusive Adults Only) Kolymvari. Falassarna is located on the west coast of the island around a 2 hour 40 minute drive from Heraklion airport. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 bars/lounges. 302 reviews. Theres an excellent selection of tavernas, and its a short drive to Agios Nikolaos for city delights. Coastal perfection. Show prices. Dont expect anything in the way of amenities when you get there (its actually a nature reserve and is treated accordingly). See More, A stylish modern hotel with spacious one-bedroom suites with a separate living room and great views over the ocean. A collection of understated luxury rooms and bungalows are elegantly decorated with simple white walls and minimalist artworks. Even the briefest of strolls through the village will showcase many of the wonderful pottery studios. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Yes: Sougia is the best quiet beach in Crete, without a doubt. As with the other northern cities, it has a Venetian Fortress (the Kazarma) and an Archaeological Museum. Shark Creek Beach, Great Harbour Cay, Berry Islands, The Bahamas. Check out Aspri Petra Apartments or Asterias Village. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches. 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. Kato Zakros is located on the east coast of the island around a 3 hour journey from Heraklion airport. Many Chania beaches are among the best on the island, such as Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi. 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. Transfer time: 1 hr 40 minutes from both Chania and Heraklion airports. A network of small ferries connects Paleochora and Sfakia at either end, with the villages of Sougia, Agia Roumeli, and Loutro, and the island of Gavdos to the south. A classy, modern hotel. Similar rooms are available at Elysium Boutique Hotel & Spa. Enjoyed this post? Kissamos is a working port town on the northwestern edge of Crete. The town isnt strictly a beach resort, so theres plenty to see and do besides basking. There is a Venetian architrave, Byzantine churches, frescos from the 14th century, and oodles of lush green countryside as a backdrop. Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection 6. Did somebody say wine? South of the Lasithi Peninsula, this part of Crete has its own climate its drier, hotter, and more barren than the rest of the island. If you want a bit of light culture there is a church (Agios Panteleimon) on the Western side of the village, it has a gorgeous mosaic floor and is not commercial in any way (if you want to see it youll have to go to the kiosk on Sougia beach and ask for the key yourselfseriously)! Something of the original working fishing harbour feel remains, and traditional domatia and cheap cafes sit alongside bijou boutiques and expensive seafood restaurants. Development is focused around a small harbour and excellent beach sandy, with shallow child-friendly waters. As Chania is a regional capital and in close proximity to so many beach resorts, it makes a great base to explore the west of the island. The infamous resort of Malia is known for its 24hr party scene its the best spot for nightlife on Crete, as legions of teenage boys well know. If it tickles your fancy there is a naturist beach off to the east. Top things to see and do in Rethymno include: And possible day trips in the area include: Rethymnon Beach is Cretes longest sandy beach at 12km long, and as it extends east from the city it swallows up villages that have long since morphed into suburban beach resorts. It is home to a substantial palm date forest, which is accessible by foot or by car. A spoiling beach treat! 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. Their wild and remote location and lack of road access have helped to preserve their beauty. There is an increasing number of upmarket resorts in Sissi. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. : Effi Apartments are a steal and right on the beach in Platanias. 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. Kalamaki is located on the south coast of the island around an hours drive from Heraklion airport. The resort offers 75 airy and well appointed rooms and suites fully equipped with satellite TV and minibar. 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). 5* Minos Beach Art Hotel has 1km of beach access, spacious grounds, and calming minimalist decor. Libyan Princess is the most comfortable and modern hotel on the block. The nation boasts nearly 5,800 miles of coastline, stretching along the warm Gulf of Mexico to the east and the . Courgette balls, broad beans, moussaka and mezedakia. If you like your beaches vast and often deserted then make a beeline for Frangokastello on the south coast. Its a relaxed south coast village, about 30km from Agia Galini, and has a wide, sandy Blue Flag beach and a spacious feel. Blue Palace Luxury Collection has views across to Spinalonga, an extensive spa, and direct access to a pebble beach. There are of resort hotels in Bali strung out along the coast many are looking a bit dated but there are a few standouts. But the main attraction that brings tourists to Heraklion is the nearby ancient Minoan site of Knossos the biggest and most well-known on the island. Its a year-round Greek town that attracts tourists and expats, rather than a purpose-built tourist town. T Hotel Premium Suites is the most comfortable place in town. Z Boutique Hotel has comfortable rooms and a small pool. 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. Monastery Estate is a beautiful new conversion with Turkish hammam. There are lots of good value hotels in Sitia, though in general decor is a tad dated check Booking.com for prices and availability. Bored of sunning yourself? Fortunately, the prices in Elounda dont have a Hollywood price tag. Sfakia is the nearest town for amenities. Oceanview Designer Beach House (4 guests): $300/night. 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. See More, A vast contemporary beach resort with all the trimmings, lush grounds, four pools and private beach area. That said, there are bus links to Rethymno and Heraklion so car hire is not necessary. Chania (pronounced Hania and sometimes spelt Xania), with its old Venetian streets, is the gem of Crete and its nicest city. Its deliciously quiet in shoulder season. This is a natural beauty spot which is an absolute pearl, but youve got to time it right. Mythos Suites is another town highlight with a pool. A small village consisting simply of a few hotels and tavernas, shops and restaurants, and a church, but what Loutro lacks in modernity it makes up for in nostalgia and panorama. Classy Veneziano Boutique Hotel is in a beautifully renovated historic building. Interiors are chic, contemporary and comfortable. Fantastic food served up and two bars for you to try out. My favourite was Geropotamos Beach, there is a rather attractive stone arch to the west and, on the east, a freshwater river running directly into the sea. 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 So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next beach break? of the rooms, the quality of the beach. The Akrotiri Peninsula is where youll find the airport, a swathe of villas, and a few spectacular beaches such as Stavros Bay and Seitan Limani. GBP $ USD EUR $ AUD $ CAD. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete. From spending many breaks on this beautiful island, here is my choice for the quietest and most authentic and unspoiled places to visit in Crete which are perfect for travel snobs. There are no luxury hotels in the area, but an excellent selection of traditional family-run hotels and pensions, many with sea views. 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. There is a small airport serving flights to and from Athens. 1. The only parking is on the street which is very limited. On a budget? Rapid growth resulted in some dense development around the small harbour, and the small beach is a 10-minute walk out of the village. 4.4/5 Wonderful! Astoria Hotel is a small family-run hotel with sea views and coastal decor. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED For those who dont fancy a steep, heady climb on their holidays, it is possible to hire a fishing boat in Agia Roumeli to take you to Domata.