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By Katia Luz
Accommodation East Crete
Lasithi, in the east of Crete, is full of surprises. With less development than the other parts of the island, it remains refreshingly unspoiled and open. The locals make their living from agriculture; olives are everywhere.
The history buff can visit the ruins of Minoan
villages at Gournia, Makrigialos, Mirtos, Hamezi, naerby to Palekastro, and behind the lovely beach of Pachia Ammos. In Lasithi is the Minoan Palace of Zakros.
The exquisite archeological finds are housed in the archaeological museums in Agios Nikolaos, Sitia and Ierapetra.
For a taste of genuine Cretan life and history, one can visit the folklore museums in Agios Nikolaos, Sitia and Ierapetra.
Other interesting sites are the Toplou Monastery in Sitia, the Venetian Fortress "Kazarma" in Sitia and the Kales Fortress in Ierapetra.
Nature abounds relatively untouched in Lasithi, including the spellbinding Palm Forest at Vai,
the stunning Milatos Cave and the beautiful Zakros Gorge.
No trip to Lassithi is complete without a visit to the charming town of Agios Nikolaos to admire its lake, port and lively taverna nightlife, and of course, a visit to Elounda.
Or choose your beach-side accommodation on the map below.
Elounda is one of our favourite places in Kriti,
Elounda is simply beautifully located; the bay surrounded by steep hills and peninsulas, overlooking Spinalonga island, nestled amongst ruins and surrounded by luxurious spas and resorts on some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, indeed in Greece.
Just 11 km from the vibrant capital town of Agios Nikolaos and 70 km from Heraklion airport, Elounda is a beautiful gateway to Lasithi; the eastern province of Crete.
The stunning physical beauty is matched by facilities of world class standards; Elounda hosts some of the most luxurious accommodations in Greece. This leads to a blend of the natural and sophisticated in the village of Elounda. See more about Elounda Village here.
Elounda Beach is a play ground for mermaids, with underwater ruins, crystal clear waters and plenty to explore every day.
Plaka Beach Cottages - set directly on the sea with private beach. Enjoy your terrace overlooking Spinalonga Island. Just so simple and beautiful. These three cottages welcome 2 adults each. An easy walk from the hamlet of Plaka.
“The location is just perfect, located at the end of the beach, with direct private access. No resort near cottages. Peaceful and prime place with amazing views.”
The east of Crete is often forgotten by travellers and tourists alike. It remains essentially Cretan. The Greek way of life runs smoothly on each day, with minimal disturbance by hire cars and tour buses.
This is wonderful for those wanting to get away from it all, lovers of open space looking for calm on the beach, solitary trekking or shorter queues at the historical sites.
Palaikastro sits in the very east of Crete, 21 km from Sitia, 2 km from beaches and 6 km from the beautiful Vai Palm Forest and Beach
Hiona Cottage - this 3 bedroom stone house is right on the water at Chiona Beach, just 2.3 km from Palaikastro village. Welcoming 5 guests in comfort. Enjoy peace and quiet with your own corner of the beach, especially in the mornings on the terrace. The taverna next door is open from noon with excellent local cuisine. Heaven.
"The whole stay was wonderful and unforgettable, we hope to be able to return there - both to the place and the people we met. The location, atmosphere and character of the house, we felt there like at grandma's on vacation, and at the same time we could feel and taste the truth about beautiful Crete. It is impossible not to mention the unique neighborhood - the Hiona tavern, where we enjoyed all the dishes prepared there."
Chez Cécile - at Mochlos Beach you will find this small yet elegant home-away-from home just a stone's throw from the water and close to tavernas. Relaxed and friendly owners will help with everything, perfect for couples.
“It is such a beautiful, cozy place! The owners pay so much attention to the details. We loved our stay there! 100% recommended."
The village of Kato Zakros Κάτω Ζάκρος is located on the south-east coast of Crete in Greece, 42 km from the town of Sitia in Lasithi region.
The hamlet, whose name means 'lower Zakros', sits by the beach.
The ancient Minoan site of Zakros Palace, dating from 1900 BC, is nestled behind the village and contributes to its protected status, keeping new development minimal. Important artifacts from this site include the beautiful rock crystal vase and bull's head rhyton displayed at the archaeological museum in Heraklion.
A hideaway from the hustle and bustle, this village embodies the relaxed
Greek seaside village character. White-washed buildings with blue trims
line the shore front, a string of tavernas lines the bay; tranquility
reigns.
At Studios Stella, near the beach at Kato Zakros, you will find peace and quiet and good value accommodation with a leafy garden, 10 minutes by foot to the beach and close to the entrance to Zakros Gorge.
"Great
view and perfect garden. The place is just perfect! The apartment is
clean and with all the accessories. The Garden is really beautiful,
silent, with hammocks and a fantastic view on Zakros bay. The location
is very close to get the best beaches and Zakros gorge. The owner is so
nice and helpful. A perfect place to relax."
Beach side accommodation is shown on the map.
Take a 1 hour flight from Athens to Heraklion with Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air, with many flights available per day.
Or take a 9.5 hour overnight ferry from Pireaus port of Athens to Heraklion port.
More on flights and ferries below.
Car hire in Crete is a really good idea as it is a large island 60 km by 260 km. There is so much to explore.
When you book with our car rental partners - Rental Centre Crete - you are supporting a local company with excellent service and easy online booking. We are sure you will be well looked after by the team. Choose from hybrid, electric or regular vehicles.
We trust you have enjoyed these tips from the We Love Crete team. Evíva!
Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia
are the We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
About us Contact Us Kaló taxídi!
Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia
are the
We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
About us