1. Sissi
This place is about as non-commercial because it will get on this island! This charming fishing village has managed to retain its genuine character and conventional Cretan ambiance attributable to its extra secluded setting and native life-style. Not like a few of its neighbours which have embraced mass tourism, I really like that Sissi has an intimate, laid-back vibe with fewer massive resorts and developments.
It’s positioned on the north coast of (round 41 km east of the island’s capital, Heraklion), it was every thing I needed from a reasonably Mediterranean fishing village with conventional fishing boats bobbing within the harbour, white-washed homes and an enthralling port space all surrounded by olive groves and rugged hills.
The principal seaside, Boufos Seaside, was principally sand and geared up with solar loungers and umbrellas and the clear, turquoise waters have been excellent for swimming and leisure and there was additionally a variety of lodging starting from low-rise resorts to guesthouses. I assumed it was a blissful spot!
I stayed right here for per week and there have been no loud events and energetic bars right here, so I spent a blissful time merely eating in conventional tavernas, stress-free on the seaside, snorkelling and attending to know the pleasant locals.
My favorite highlights…
- Staying on the dreamy Grecotel Meli Palace – I actually cherished the stylish, white poolside cabanas!
- Spending stress-free afternoons on the idyllic Kalimera Kriti Seaside and Boufos Seaside the place the calm waters have been splendid for swimming.
2. Elounda
Elounda is residence to upscale resorts and fashionable resorts! I’ve to say it doesn’t have the quaint, genuine appeal of among the different spots on this record nevertheless it does have an elegant, cosmopolitan vibe as a substitute!
It stays a extra tranquil spot attributable to its upscale resorts and secluded location, which magnetize a extra discerning crowd, guaranteeing that the pure magnificence is extra preserved. It’s additionally one thing of a celeb hotspot and Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Rihanna have all been noticed holidaying right here.
My private highlights…
- Staying on the stylish Domes of Elounda – I cherished the new tub on the balcony and the very stylish decor!
- Taking a ship journey over to the well-known Spinalonga Island which had gorgeous views throughout the bay to Plaka and Elounda.
- Eating on the terrace on the Lotus Eaters restaurant and gazing on the attractive sea views. The marinated roast peppers and fried potatoes have been divine!
3. Agios Nikolaos
That is is a really picturesque coastal city! It maintains its quiet and unspoilt character by way of strict native planning and a dedication to preserving its pure magnificence and cultural heritage. It does appeal to vacationers however I really like that it has extra of a cosmopolitan vibe than being an enormous get together hotspot.
It’s positioned on the jap coast of the island alongside the Gulf of Mirabello and it’s residence to charming waterfront buildings with conventional Cretan structure alongside the marina and lake, complemented by a number of sandy seashores and glowing waters, all set in opposition to a beautiful backdrop of rolling hills and plush vegetation.
I stayed for 5 days and explored the magical Lake Voulismeni which is linked to many native legends, relaxed on the sandy seashores (my favorites have been Vayu, Almiros and Voulisma seashores!), dined in conventional tavernas alongside the gorgeous marina, found historic artifacts on the Archaeological Museum, explored historic ruins of the Christian basilica and took a ship journey to the fascinating Spinalonga Island which had an fascinating historic fortress and I additionally discovered it was a former leper colony!
My private highlights…
- Staying Minos Palace Resort & Suites – I cherished the attractive Insta-worthy design!
- Exploring the close by Almiros Wetlands the place I noticed unimaginable flamingos!
- Exploring the Mediterranean Sea on a enjoyable semi-submarine tour.
- Eating on the Gioma Meze, a stylish lakeside restaurant which served up conventional Cretan meals with a contemporary twist. I cherished the scrumptious grilled pitta bread with oregano and domestically made olive oil!
- Visiting the close by Cretan Olive Oil Farm and discovering out how the native olive oil, wine, raki and pottery have been made.
4. Panormos
I used to be completely charmed by this small, conventional Cretan fishing village! It does appeal to vacationers, however this place stays way more undeveloped in comparison with different resorts in Crete, and I cherished its laid-back, genuine vibe. It’s nestled throughout two sheltered bays, that includes small, understated sandy seashores. It’s additionally a protected space, which is probably going why the vacationer plenty haven’t flocked right here but!
Positioned on the northern coast of Crete, Greece (roughly halfway between the cities of Rethymno and Heraklion), I discovered conventional whitewashed buildings, slender, winding streets, some low rise lodging choices and a reasonably harbour dotted with vibrant fishing boats and surrounded by quaint cafés and tavernas all set in opposition to a backdrop of lush hills and small sandy seashores alongside serene, sheltered bays.
I spent a blissful three days right here stress-free on Timeaki or Limanaki Seaside, eating on Cretan delicacies, exploring historic charms such because the post-Byzantine church and shopping native crafts on the quaint retailers, all whereas having fun with the bustling exercise of its picturesque fishing harbour – it made an awesome different to the extra busy and brash resorts on the island!
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at The Royal Senses Resort – the attentive personalised service, the a number of swimming swimming pools (which even included a water park), the hilltop views and the attractive spa which had conventional therapeutic practices have been simply very good!
- Occurring a biking journey by way of the scenic landscapes on an E-bike tour with JoyRide.
- Going wine tasting Klados Vineyard – the domestically produced crimson wine was elegant!
- Visiting the close by fairly and tranquil Geropotamos Seaside – there was a gorgeous stone arch to the west of the seaside and to the east, a freshwater river ran straight into the ocean.
5. Plakias
This small laid, again village! There are vacationers nevertheless it’s averted high-rise buildings and heavy commercialisation, sustaining a quaint, village-like ambiance attributable to its extra distant setting on Crete’s southern coast, away from the island’s bustling northern vacationer resorts.
I assumed it was a beautiful place set in opposition to steep mountains and rugged gorges, resulting in a sandy (with some pebbles) seaside alongside a curved bay. The village options low-rise, traditional-style buildings and clear, turquoise waters. Fairly olive groves and wildflowers on the encircling hills simply add to its dreamy rural appeal.
I spent a beautiful quick break right here stress-free on the seaside, exploring the gorgeous Kourtaliotiko Gorge on a mountain climbing path, visiting the close by distinctive Preveli Seaside (which is commonly often known as essentially the most gorgeous seaside on the entire island!), gorging on native delicacies on the quaint waterfront tavernas and exploring the sixteenth century Monastery of Preveli and the twelfth century Church of Zoodochos Pigi.
My favorite highlights…
- Capturing the long-lasting Plakias “Dragon” rock formations on digicam, a putting spot which seemed like a sleeping dragon when the solar went down!
- Staying on the divine NERĒA Boutique Resort – I cherished the boho type decor and intimate, romantic vibe!
- Eating on home-made ravioli made with recent herbs and tomatoes at Taverna Manousos.
- Visiting the close by conventional villages of Asomatos and Mariou – I loved shopping for fascinating native crafts, reminiscent of fairly steel pots!
6. Kato Zakros
I’m a giant fan of this secluded hidden gem! It is a small and rustic fishing village which stays untouched and genuine attributable to its distant location on Crete’s jap coast, away from the bustling vacationer resorts. This seclusion helps protect its tranquil ambiance, pristine pure landscapes, and vital archaeological websites – and I cherished simply absorbing the peaceable vibe it exuded!
Positioned on the jap coast, it has low-rise, white-washed homes, tranquil bay with a small pebble seaside surrounded by rugged mountains. The wonder is enhanced by the ruins of the Minoan Palace of Zakros and the history-rich Gorge of the Lifeless!
The village itself had a couple of boutique-style, low-rise resorts and guesthouses, laid again eating places and some unbiased retailers. I particularly cherished that the lodging right here supplied its personal distinctive model of eco-friendly hospitality right here and lots of the visitor homes had a boho vibe and aromatic herb gardens.
I spent a soothing three days right here exploring the archaeological website of the Minoan Palace of Zakros, swimming from the small seaside, mountain climbing the scenic Gorge of the Lifeless, which featured dramatic landscapes and historic cave tombs; and having fun with peaceable Cretan meals at quaint seaside tavernas!
My favorite highlights…
- Staying on the Terra Minoika Boutique resort – I assumed the rustic-chic constructing made it actually stand out!
- Strolling alongside the scenic E4 path to discover the Gorge of the Lifeless and discovering a number of stunning photograph alternatives alongside the way in which.
7. Kalamaki
It is a tranquil coastal village and seaside resort! I discovered that it was a quieter different to the extra bustling vacationer spots on the island attributable to its extra secluded and distant location on the island’s jap coast, distant from the massive crowds.
It’s a comparatively new city in Crete – homes began being constructed right here in the course of the 1960’s – so it does have extra of a purpose-built really feel, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a surprising gem with the primary attraction being the lengthy, huge seaside which has effective golden sands and calm waters and Caretta caretta sea turtles nest on its shores in the course of the breeding season! I discovered the seaside lined with a couple of conventional tavernas, retailers and low rise lodging choices.
I spent 4 days right here simply kicking again on the expansive sandy seaside, took picturesque coastal walks alongside the Cretan Sea, visited the close by vital archaeological website of the previous Phaistos Palace and explored the intriguing Matala Caves which have been a former hippy commune that after even housed Joni Mitchell!
My favorite highlights…
- Staying on the Golden Solar Resort – the personal swimming swimming pools made the expertise very good!
- Spending a day at Kommos Seaside, a protracted sandy seaside only a quick stroll from Kalamaki – it supplied a quieter and fewer crowded different to the primary Kalamaki Seaside.
- Having fun with a conventional Greek salad at Taverna Zorbas, adopted by a leisurely stroll to discover the night leisure alongside the primary road.
8. Sougia
It is a tiny and really secluded coastal village! I discovered it positioned in a distant location which I reached by a winding street and that is the explanation why it stays so unspoilt, uncrowded and really laid-back!
Positioned alongside the southern coast, and I assumed the surroundings right here was attractive with a serene, sheltered seaside – a mixture of sand, shingle and bigger pebbles – alongside the Libyan Sea, surrounded by rugged hills. The village was residence to low-rise guesthouses, flats, and boutique resorts and a modest choice of low-key ultra-relaxed eating places and retailers.
I spent a stunning 5 days right here and in addition to having fun with the seaside, I hiked to the close by well-known Samaria Gorge and the Agia Irini Gorge in the course of the day and dined within the charming tavernas in the course of the evenings. I additionally managed to squeeze in a go to to the picturesque church (Agios Panteleimon) and the close by necessary archaeological website of the Historic Metropolis of Elyros which was a 7.5 mile drive away.
My favorite highlights…
- Staying the characterful Monastery Property Retreat – the very good fashionable decor made it actually stand out!
- The Agios Panteleimon which was positioned on the west aspect of the village – I cherished the attractive mosaic flooring and the very fact I needed to go to the kiosk on Sougia Seaside and ask for the door key!
- Taking a ship tour and discovering hidden coves and secluded close by seashores. Additionally they took us snorkelling within the clear waters!
9. Falassarna Seaside
That is typically talked about as being probably the most gorgeous seashores on the island! It’s standard with vacationers however but it nonetheless manages to take care of a comparatively unspoiled character attributable to its massive measurement and the protected nature of its surrounding space. It’s additionally a large house I discovered I might unfold out comfortably with out feeling overcrowded!
Positioned close to the village of Platanos on the northwest coast, it’s stuffed effective white sand which has a pinkish hue in locations with turquoise waters lapping in opposition to its shores with stunning rugged mountains and inexperienced hills surrounding it. I additionally discovered nice customer facilities together with solar beds, parasols, public restrooms and a handful of laid-back seaside bars and eating places.
I stayed within the close by Platanos Village and relaxed on the attractive sands and tried each water sport going right here – together with windsurfing, kitesurfing, snorkelling, stand-up paddle-boarding, and kayaking!
My favorite highlights…
- Experiencing a paragliding trip overlooking the coast, the views of the island have been unimaginable!
- Taking a cruise and exploring the Balos Lagoon crammed with sensible turquoise water earlier than heading to the historic website of Gramvousa.
10. Triopetra Seaside
Positioned close to the favored coastal village Agia Galini (which is round 30 kilometers away), this can be a naturally stunning seaside and since it’s not hooked up to a significant vacationer resort, it has a quieter and extra relaxed vibe.
There are literally two elements, and “Little Triopetra” (in any other case often known as Koumado) is the smaller of the 2 seashores and it’s enclosed in a rocky bay.
Each have a mixture of coarse sand and small pebbles and there are a handful of conventional taverns and small beach-side cafes.
The encircling surroundings is gorgeous and is made up of the Siderotas Mountain, rocky hills and plush inexperienced olive groves. I extremely suggest visiting the close by chapel of The Chapel of the Prophet Elias which is positioned on hill and provides scenic panoramic views.
My favorite highlights…
- Admiring the breathtaking rock formations alongside the coast.
- Going snorkelling within the clear waters and seeing urchins, starfish and fairly blue damselfish.
- Having a picnic while watching the sundown, the sunsets listed below are actually gorgeous!
11. Elafonisi Lagoon
I really like this critically gorgeous pure magnificence spot! It was as soon as considered one of Crete’s best-kept secrets and techniques however now numerous social media lovers have additionally found it which suggests it may get busy throughout peak occasions with numerous individuals taking selfies!
We parked near the seaside and the lagoon island is that may be reached by paddling out to it. There are very restricted facilities right here because it’s a protected nature reserve and is handled accordingly.
The surroundings right here is exclusive and delightful with heat crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy seashores which have a pinkish tone due the microorganisms that reside right here (Foraminifera).
My favorite highlights…
- Enjoyable and taking pictures of the distinctive pink sand surrounded by crystal-clear lagoon waters.
- Mountaineering throughout the attractive dunes and seeing a high-up perspective of the lagoon.
12. Plaka
It is a charming and picturesque coastal village positioned within the Lassithi area of Crete. It does appeal to vacationers like all the opposite locations talked about on this record nevertheless it has a low-key, quiet vibe.
It’s residence to some tavernas providing conventional Cretan dishes, seafood eating places, and a handful of comfort shops, memento and craft retailers.
There’s a protracted stretch of seaside crammed with white pebbles and useful solar beds and parasols and different notable sights embrace the historic Spinalonga Island (which was a former leper colony) and the close by Elounda Seaside which is extra sandy than the primary Plaka seaside.
My favorite highlights…
- Going for a swim within the shallow crystal clear waters at Plaka Seaside.
- Making an attempt waterskiing with Plaka Watersports which was an exhilarating expertise!
- Searching the craft and reward retailers alongside the backstreets, my favorite was the gorgeous handcrafted rugs on the market at “The Loom” store.
13. Glyka Nera
Positioned between Chora Sfakion and Loutro, this a surprising seaside with a relaxed tranquil vibe. It’s sheltered by steep, towering rocks and it’s a peaceable spot as a result of it’s truly very difficult to get to.
You possibly can take two routes to the seaside, you’ll be able to both journey there by boat or take a extra hair-raising journey alongside a rocky coastal path from Chora Sfakion (45 minute) or Loutro (a 90 minute hike). The hike was a bit of strenuous however the paths was nicely maintained and the ocean views have been elegant!
As soon as there we noticed a beautiful seaside with clear turquoise waters and white pebbles. There was additionally a tavern promoting gentle bites, drinks, and solar mattress leases however the entire place has a really relaxed, intimate really feel.
My highlights…
- Spending a day stress-free on the seaside and going snorkelling the place I noticed urchins and groupers.
- Going wild tenting and pitching up a tent within the shade of the encircling tamarisk bushes.
14. Tripiti to Sougia Shoreline
The hike between Tripiti and Sougia is actually breathtaking and it truly varieties a part of the E4 European long-distance path. The route options rocky terrain, gorgeous coastal views, and hidden seashores. As a result of path’s steep sections, it’s greatest suited to skilled hikers.
The trail is well-marked, guaranteeing you keep on observe, whilst you turn out to be mesmerized by the views (like I did)! Whereas some sections may be tiring, in my view, the journey is certainly well worth the effort.
There’s numerous distinctive natural world to get pleasure from right here in addition to fairly olive groves and historic websites reminiscent of an historic Venetian fort, picturesque church buildings, and the spectacular stays of the ruined metropolis of Pikilassos.
The stroll can take as much as two hours relying in your capability, velocity, and what number of occasions you cease to gaze on the views!
My favorite highlights…
- Stopping and admiring the historic websites alongside the way in which.
- Absorbing the attractive coastal views.
15. Myrtos Village
It is a tranquil and fairly white-washed village stuffed with conventional appeal positioned close to the city of Ierapetra on the southern coast of Crete.
I discovered it to be a pleasant spot and it’s an awesome possibility for these searching for a extra genuine place to stick with only a handful of fairly tavernas and small low-key resorts combined in with charming structure and aromatic flowers.
The Myrtos Seaside is lengthy and huge with a mixture of coarse sand and pebbles and the city has some fascinating historic sights together with an historic Minoan settlement, a small museum (containing archaeological reveals) and the ruins of a Minoan Palace.
My highlights…
- Seeing the traditional pottery discovered within the space displayed on the native village museum.
- Taking a drive to the close by Selakano Forest (which is 30 kilometers north of the village) and exploring the mountain climbing trails which result in gorgeous waterfalls.
16. Ligaria Seaside
It is a stunning, quiet seaside positioned on northern coast of Crete not removed from the favored seaside resort of Agia Pelagia (it’s only some kilometers away).
In style with locals in addition to a couple of vacationers, it’s a sheltered spot with shallow, clear water and a mixture of effective, golden sand and small pebbles.
There’s solar beds on supply in addition to a handful of beachside tavernas providing good high quality delicacies. Water actions right here embrace paddle-boarding, jet snowboarding, swimming and snorkelling.
My favorite highlights…
- Experiencing conventional Cretan dishes at Atatoah Taverna Liguria, their tomato salad was divine!
- Making an attempt jet snowboarding, which was lots of enjoyable!
- Visiting the fascinating close by Monastery of Panagia Deligara which is constructed on the ruins of the unique monastery.
17. Milatos
It is a very small and quaint Crete village and dealing fishing port positioned on northeastern coast of the island.
The seaside right here isn’t notably stunning and is a mixture of golden sand and pebbles however growth has been stored to a minimal right here so it provides a extra genuine Cretan keep.
Right here I stumbled upon conventional tavernas and seafood eating places, conventional Cretan structure, hidden coves, craggy rocks and the fascinating Milatos Caves.
The caves aren’t very well being and security pleasant, nevertheless it’s an intriguing place as that is the place locals hid in the course of the Ottoman invasion in 1823. There’s additionally a small church constructed inside the caves!
My private highlights…
- Exploring the Milatos Cave after strolling up a scenic path to the doorway.
- Indulging in nice meals and wine at Meltemi Taverna while watching a wide ranging sundown over the Mediterranean Sea. The mezze possibility was critically scrumptious!
18. Paleochora
Paleochora is a beachside resort city positioned on the southwest coast of the island. Its seashores are a giant draw and there’s a big seaside (Pachia Ammos) crammed with effective golden sand and a smaller pebbly seaside.
There are many nice eating places, cafes, conventional tavernas, boutique retailers and though there are some bars they’re principally crammed with locals fairly than rowdy vacationers.
I additionally cherished the historic sights which included the fascinating ruins of a Thirteenth-century Venetian fortress and the ruins of the traditional metropolis of Lissos the place there additionally was a therapeutic pure spring.
My favorite highlights…
- Lazing round on Pachia Ammos Seaside which has the fame of being among the best seashores alongside the South Coast.
- Visiting the Paleochora Fort (the Venetian fortress) and capturing the gorgeous panoramic views on digicam.
19. Loutro Village
Once I visited this gorgeous, peaceable village positioned on the positioned on the southern coast, I felt like I stepped again in time!
It’s very charming with picturesque white-washed homes, gently bobbing fishing boats, conventional tavernas, a church and a handful of retailers, eating places and low rise resorts, this actually is a low-key and genuine spot!
Surrounded by steep mountainsides, it’s additionally residence to a large herd of goats (judging from the clinking of bells I at all times heard!) and a small pebbly seaside with very clear turquoise inexperienced waters.
No roads lead right here (it’s accessible solely by boat or by mountain climbing), and there aren’t any nightlife so you’ll be able to actually detox from fashionable life, deal with long-awaited books, take walks alongside the gorgeous shoreline, or simply 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. The standard Greek salads which got here with domestically grown recent black olives have been divine!