Transfer time: 20 minutes from Heraklion International airport. Naxos has the best beaches (but little nightlife). The Greek islands with the best beaches are Crete, Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, and Rhodes. The one thing I would highly recommend is getting sea shoes as there are sea urchins on the rocks!! La Maison Ottomane brings a touch of Ottoman decadence meets modern style. } These vary greatly depending on the region and location: Snow white sand alternates with shell sand and fine gravel. Transfer time: 1hr 10 minutes from Chania International airport, 1 hr 10 minutes from Heraklion International Airport book a transfer. But it has everything you need its ideal if youre looking to enjoy one place for your holiday and dont feel the need to visit the larger towns. 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. 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 . See More, A stylish modern hotel with spacious one-bedroom suites with a separate living room and great views over the ocean. 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. A good selection of bars and restaurants. There are some bars, but they are more likely to be full of civilised locals than your standard 18-30 gangs. Boasting unspoilt bay views, life plays out on a different tempo here. It does attract some tourists, mainly from the continent. 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. 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. There are so many luxury hotels in Elounda that its impossible to list them all. What was once a small Greek village has now become a cosmopolitan town, with bars, restaurants and hotels surrounding picturesque Lake Voulismeni. 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. A small collection of traditional stone cottages make the perfect base for families. A stunning contemporary five star resort that will leave you wanting for nothing! Its still a 30-minute drive from Sitia. #3 Best Value of 119 Crete Resorts "The mini water park within the hotel is excellent, with plenty of slides for younger and older kids. Apart from organized beaches in Chania Greece, there are also plenty of deserted coves and lovely bays to enjoy total privacy. The hotel is all-inclusive but the food was of excellent quality." Breakfast included 2022 4. Big Sur's craggy cliffs are breathtaking, but for an equally beautiful and less crowded California alternative, try this quiet spot tucked between Monterey and Carmel. 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. Although the hippies have long since been moved on, and the caves protected and closed to the public, the town retains a laidback feel despite the explosion of tourism here. This 5* property offers boutique accommodation decorated in a typically Mediterranean fashion and with either a private plunge pool or hot tub. Plaka is located on the coast on the east of Crete around an hours drive from Heraklion Airport. #14 of 51 hotels in Georgioupolis. Hostels: Chania has two gorgeous design hostel options Cocoon City Hostel and Kumba. Its super sedate. Blue Palace Elounda 9. On the beautiful beach of Kolymbari, 20 km from the city of Chania, lies Grand Bay Beach Resort. On a budget? Sissi is a small resort thats on the coast between Malia and Plaka, known for its pretty harbour and seafood tavernas. St Nicholas Bay Resort Hotels & Villas is a large 5* complex with direct beach access. For something different, highly rated Ammos Hotel in Agioi Apostoli brings a touch of Scandi cool to proceedings. Elounda is a good middle ground for those who dont want utter isolation, but still want to keep their break fairly relaxed. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED This ultra-luxurious haven combines the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools. Check Paleochora rooms and prices on Booking.com. 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. You wont find parties and bars here, oh no. Astoria Hotel is a small family-run hotel with sea views and coastal decor. Its known for its big waves, fishing heritage, and seafood tavernas set around a small crescent of beach. The resort boasts an outdoor hot tub. Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas 8. Koutouloufari is awash with luxury adults-only complexes. Check out Aspri Petra Apartments or Asterias Village. Candia Suites are close to the harbour with clean modern interiors and bicycle rental available. } Follow us on Facebook or Twitter. A few Venetian buildings remain but most of the city is a modern concrete jungle that always seems to be dusty and full of building works that were halted during the crisis. 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. The outskirts of Hersonissos are home to some of Cretes swankiest 5* resort hotels. Service 4.3. Located in the south-eastern corner of the island is this tranquil, pristine, white-washed village full of traditional charm. Cool or what? Palazzo Duca is one block behind the harbour and is clean and modern with comfortable Cocomat mattresses. I loved Ligaria a small and charming seaside village located on the north side of Crete especially its lovely beach which has the same name. Its a purpose-built resort and essentially a quieter outpost of Malia though, with lots of the same English breakfast cafes and Irish bars. Some swim-up rooms are available. But most options are traditional apartment complexes such as Petritos Rooms or small houses like Arodamos Sea House. If it tickles your fancy there is a naturist beach off to the east. Options are spread out along the vast beach so check the location before booking if you want to be closer to the castle for proximity to the few tavernas and cafes. Transfer time: 1hr 10 minutes from Chania International airport. Yes: Sougia is the best quiet beach in Crete, without a doubt. 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). See More, A holistic approach to wellbeing underlies this luxury Cretan resort in Malia. If you think of a sleepy Greek fishing village, you probably have images of small boats bobbing in quartz waters, piles of multicoloured nets, and fishermen unloading their catch before nipping off to the Taverna for a cheeky ouzo. Show Prices. Elafonisi Lagoon is located on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion Airport. If you are looking for a bit of space then Plakias offers one of the largest beaches in Crete. Suites and private villas have personal pools. Some suites have access to a private hot tub on the roof terrave. Development is focused around a small harbour and excellent beach sandy, with shallow child-friendly waters. Its located on the western end of the north coast, withpeaks of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) providing a dramatic backdrop. #9 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete. Visitors here can simply detox from life and tackle long-awaited books, take walks along the stunning scenery or simply eat, drink and be merry. 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. Walking through the forest is sublime, and the river that cuts through it is clean enough to swim in (we should hope so as it leads directly out onto Plakias beach). } Most accommodation is in Paleokastro village which is a short drive from several excellent beaches including Kouremenos, Hiona, and Mandati. It gets very popular and usually attracts people who go there for clubbing. Agia Pelagia is halfway between Bali and Heraklion and is the only real beach resort to the west of the capital, to which it is connected by a regular bus service which takes about 1 hr. If you have a mix of old and young children or value convenience then Stalis is a solid option. Swanky Aspalathos Falassarna Villas has an infinity pool, hot tub and sauna. One of the main things to do in Heraklion is to catch a ferry to visit Santorini, Mykonos and other places. Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Chania. On the Venetian harbour: is the 5 star Ambassadors Residence which has rooftop hot tubs. 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. 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. One of the most beautiful cities in all of Greece, Chania is unsurprisingly a popular tourist destination. Sifaka & Gavaladon 5, Old Town, Chania, Crete Island, 73101. 4.4/5 Wonderful! However, if you would like to sit outside one of its handful of tavernas with a carafe of the local red and a plate of vine leaves then this is the quiet place to visit in Crete for you! Karavostasi Beach 432 Beaches By selsfield2003 Worth the walk ( or the ride on the mini train) Great beach - lovely clear water and 2 amazing tavernas. Its a perfect romantic destination for couples. Description: Malia is the most popular beach resort of Heraklion and the most famous nightlife spot in Crete. 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, A vast contemporary beach resort with all the trimmings, lush grounds, four pools and private beach area. The vibe is family-friendly thanks to its sheltered bay which is lined with a number of traditional tavernas. So many people make a beeline for Rethymno that its surrounding villages are something of a hidden gem. Located 80km southwest of the town of Heraklion, it is much more secluded than your average beach, since it's just off the edge of (and sheltered by) a large gorge. Captains House is in a traditional building by the waterfront a friendly welcome, fantastic sea views, and comfy beds. The resort offers 75 airy and well appointed rooms and suites fully equipped with satellite TV and minibar. #26 Best Value of 502 Quiet Hotels in Crete. 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. Beach Life - The property has a private beach area (complete with an open-air cineam in the evenings) - ideal for a quiet beach getaway. Mythos Suites is another town highlight with a pool. To the west of Sitia is the small coastal village of Mochlos which sports two islets with Minoan excavations. See More, Set in an out-of-this-world location right on the Cretan seafront. Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Kefalonia: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Lefkada: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Zakynthos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Skiathos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Rhodes: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Mallorca: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Ibiza: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Menorca: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on the Turkish Coast: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide. Utterly relaxing. The best beach in the area is at Anissaras, this is a 4 kms taxi ride west from Koutouloufari and any taxi driver will know where it is. forms: { It has a slightly scruffy feel but there are two town beaches, an archaeological museum and some excellent restaurants to entertain you. Transfer time: 25 minutes to the main harbour from Chania International airport. Head west for quieter beaches at Amnisos or Tobrouk. Swimmers will prefer the deep water at Episkopi. 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. The five restaurants serve a range of food from sushi to Greek and there's a fabulous spa too. It is famous for its never-ending stretch of sand, fabulous sunsets and peaceful atmosphere. See More, Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary, stylish decor and sea views. It lacks the sweeping white sand of some of our other suggestions, but it also lacks the footfall, making it ideal for a day trip. Georgioupolis Resort Aquapark & Spa offers a unique holiday experience to those that want to enjoy the incomparable Greek Hospitality whilst seeking top quality services in a relaxing environment, excellent gastronomy as well as a . Its a popular day-trip destination and the crowds somewhat marr the incredible natural landscape with its towering rock formations. Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort 3. The long-distance hiking route passes through the area, and there are several smaller gorges and empty beaches such as Sweetwater to discover. The main tourist street is Odos Halidon, which divides the old and new city. Panormos is located on the North Coast of the island around a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Some of the most beautiful and unique beaches are in the area nearby Damnoni is sandy with shallow clear waters, perfect for kids. #30 Best Value of 32 Crete Luxury Beach Resorts Transfer time: 35 minutes from Heraklion airport. Greece has over 1000 islands of which only 227 are inhabited. 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. A luxurious hideaway near Rethymnon. The remote area of Sfakia on the southern coast is one of the most beautiful parts of Crete but you have to be prepared for an adventure to get there. 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. Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel Show prices Enter dates to see prices 202 reviews The KTEL bus station is in the new town, a 10-minute walk from the main harbour see PDF timetables. listeners: [], The older part of town (Ano Hersonissos or Palia Hersonissos) is set back from the coast and has lots of little family-run tavernas. Some of the beach resorts along Rethymnon beach include: The area around Platanes is popular and sandy. 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. Visitors to the area might be shocked to find that it retains its snowcaps until the middle of spring and offers innumerable hiking opportunities from the Samaria Gorge to the Askifou plateau to Mount Ida herself. Explore the surrounding islands or simply lie back and relax. Enjoyed this post? The coastline is developed on either side, but it was the introduction of budget flights to Chania airport that really put it on the map. all were excellent and we recommend this hotel with a true "vacation vibe" to all couples wanting a quiet and relaxing vacation on the wonderful beach of Crete". A spoiling stay. Here you will find the emptiest beaches on the island and you can swim well into the autumn/winter months. If you are staying one or more nights, you dont need to worry about thumping music or all-night parties. Its set back from the town but is 4* and modern, with 3 pools and spacious rooms. Crossing the south of the island is difficult. Agios Nikolaos has four sandy beaches though theyre all a little way out of the city Kitroplateira is the most central, Almiros is the nicest. There are actually three beaches within walking distance from the cobbled stone street village, all of which are pretty shallow and nestled amongst some really lovely local topography, allowing for some rather nice snorkelling experiences. Small ferry boats make the run over to Spinalonga from both Plaka and Elounda. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next beach break? })(); For all the legal bits go to myDisclaimer and Privacy Policy, Cretan cooking experience in the mountains, check rooms and availability on Booking.com, 10 Perfect Gifts for Foodies Who Love Greece (Ideal for a Hamper), 10 Best Places for a Sunny Winter City Break in Europe. " The hotel is very relaxing and although it is a bit quiet a night it really is the perfect mix of 5 star luxury during the day with the authenticity of amazing local Greek Tavernas like Zachos . Check out cheery Sunday Life. NORTH: Rugged and unpopulated, with quiet but windy beaches. See More, A stunning resort on Mirabello Bay with its own private beach and dreamy views. } With the exception of Paleochora, that is. On a budget? A wonderful place to visit and stay in Crete! Just dont expect to find authentic Crete here. 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. With all these unique and unforgettable experiences lying across the island of Crete, it is hard not to feel guilty for so easily dismissing it into the realm of partying, disco balls, and all-nighters. Elegant, with a private beach, fine dining restaurants and an award-winning spa. It attracts independent travellers and plenty of returners and is a popular base for hiking in the area. per night. 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. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches. Mykonos has the best beach clubs (and nightlife). Something of the original working fishing harbour feel remains, and traditional domatia and cheap cafes sit alongside bijou boutiques and expensive seafood restaurants. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { 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. However, dont let that put you off. 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. The small city of Sitia is a working port town with a pleasant seafront promenade, a sandy town beach, and a slow lifestyle. There are 3 main beaches and a long waterfront area thats full of seafood restaurants, bars and clubs, and is popular in the evening. The Troulis Apart-hotel is excellent value. Off the beaten track, this tranquil hotel is ideal for a simple seaside holiday for families. 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. The 680-room Creta Maris Beach Resort is a beachfront all-inclusive resort a 10-minute walk from Limenas Hersonissos village. 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. Transfer time: 1hr 40 minutes from Chania International airport. You cant miss it, its called Youth Hostel Plakias. Brilliant choice of restaurants, easy to book each morning Popi the waitress in the main Cosmos restaurant was so att." Theres plenty to keep older children entertained, including watersports and boat trips. Most of the visitors are locals in the high summer months. The walk can take upwards of two hours depending on ability and speed, but also inclination, make sure you take your time to soak up the beautiful views and atmosphere. Transfer time: 2 hours 30 minutes from Heraklion International airport. 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 enough family-run tavernas and seafood restaurants that you can eat out somewhere different every night for a fortnight. It doesnt matter where you go you will always find greenery spots. a rundown of Crete's quieter resorts and villages; the best places to stay for couples, families and nature CRETE OVERVIEW BEST LUXURY HOTELS: Domes of Elounda, Daios Cove, Abaton Island Resort and Spa, Domes Noruz. Other options include Hotel Loutro Bay,SifisandDaskalogiannis Hotel. 2,101 reviews. Mexico is one of those well-rounded countries that offer a little bit of everything: food, culture, gorgeous landscapes, and some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire world. 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. 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. Dont expect anything in the way of amenities when you get there (its actually a nature reserve and is treated accordingly). See More, This exclusive beachfront hotel in Rethymno recently underwent a full renovation. 1,438 reviews. Sfakia is the nearest town for amenities. Transfer time: 2hrs from Heraklion International airport, 10 minutes from Sitia Public Airport. Very good. Lovely beaches, ideal for a romantic break or family holiday. Anissaras beach http://www.flickr.com/photos/brownieboy27/4986950206/in/set-72157624948245648 Report inappropriate content roseyManchester manchester 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. 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. 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. Inland Heraklion region is home to farmland and vineyards, whereas the coastline spreading east from Heraklion is also the most developed on Crete, and home to its most famous (and infamous resorts). There are also plenty of boat trips are available from its harbour. It is a port city that offers an urban vibe with a touch of nature. Its not perhaps as quaint as some of the other places on this list but what it lacks in tradition it more than makes up for in swankiness and still manages to retain an air of what makes Crete so great. 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. Its friendly and authentic if you want to get away from mass tourism then this easternmost part of Crete is a good bet. Few make it out this far, despite its calling card the impressive (but empty) Venetian castle on its shore. And Plakias now has a youth hostel! You can always visit the amazing chapel of Prophet Elias. 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 beaches in this area are all sandy, clean and stretch as far as the eye can see! Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa. Makrigialis, on the other hand, is a small and friendly traditional beach resort. A collection of understated luxury rooms and bungalows are elegantly decorated with simple white walls and minimalist artworks. Start the day with farm-to-table breakfast before a bike ride. Minoa Palace Resort & Spa is another beachfront blockbuster with private pools and daybeds. Lasithi, the easternmost province of Crete, is home to some of its most luxurious hotels as well as its wildest and most traditional areas. Giannoulis - Grand Bay Beach Resort (Exclusive Adults Only) Kolymvari. #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. Honeymoons - This is . See More, A glamorous coastal property offering the upmost in luxury on Crete's picturesque coast. Plaka has a lovely beach, especially lovely if you dont like sand getting everywhere, as its made from pebbles. A spoiling beach treat! Boutique and luxury: Cressa Corona Boutique Hotel is the best address in town. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete. Take your pick from three gourmet restaurants and bars, including a poolside bar. Accommodation is spacious and secluded, the best options have heated seawater pools, but all are utterly indulgent. Classy Veneziano Boutique Hotel is in a beautifully renovated historic building. The scenery as you traverse the coast road with steep hills and lush greenery gives views that will take your breath away. A lively beach town, the resort of Bali is set around a handful of coves in a scenic bay. Its a bit of a trek from Chania airport, so if youre going, fly to Heraklion. I think it time for a bring visit back! 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. Agree a time with him and he'll come back for you later. Sougia is located on the South West Coast of Crete around 3 hour and 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Considering you are only down the road from one of Cretes busiest towns, its pretty quiet and relaxing. But there are plenty of returners from those days its warm seas, great views, and some of the best fishing in Greece make it particularly popular with expats. Milatos is a small and low-key beach resort just beyond Sissi. See More, Impressive luxury resort, totally insulated from the outside world in semi-tropical gardens. 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. 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. Parts of it are organised in the summer months though, and it does attract daytrippers.