Tag: Beach

  • Your trip #4: Destinations by Boat – Islands and Lagoons

    Your trip #4: Destinations by Boat – Islands and Lagoons

    Set sail for two of Crete’s most breathtaking destinations, accessible by boat:

    • Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island (30-minute drive to Kastelli): Rent a private boat or join a group tour from Kastelli to visit the world-famous Balos Lagoon, a turquoise paradise framed by white sands and dramatic cliffs. Continue to Gramvousa Island to explore its historic Venetian fort, offering sweeping views of the coastline.
    • Gavdos Island (45-minute drive to Paleochora): Catch a ferry from Paleochora to Gavdos, the southernmost point of Europe. This pristine, untouched island offers deserted beaches, rugged landscapes, and a sense of stepping back in time. Pack a picnic and plenty of water, as facilities are minimal.
  • Your trip #3: To the Beach at Falasarna – Coastal Beauty and Fresh Seafood

    Your trip #3: To the Beach at Falasarna – Coastal Beauty and Fresh Seafood

    Journey to the western shores of Crete for a day of sun, sea, and shopping:

    • Falasarna Beach (1-hour drive): Take the scenic coastal road through charming villages like Kefali, Keramoti, Kampos, Sfinari, and Platanos to reach the golden sands of Falasarna. This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
    • Kapitan Nikolas Taverna (near Falasarna, 45-minute drive from HERMITAGE): Enjoy a seafood feast at this beloved taverna by the old harbor, where the catch of the day is served fresh and flavorful.
    • Shopping in Kissamos (30-minute drive): On your return, stop in Kissamos Town to browse supermarkets, boutique shops, and local markets for souvenirs, snacks, or supplies.
  • Your trip #2: To the Beach at Elafonisi – Pink Sands and Serenity

    Your trip #2: To the Beach at Elafonisi – Pink Sands and Serenity

    Experience one of Crete’s most iconic beaches with a day trip to Elafonisi:

    • Monastery of Chrissoskalitissa (20-minute drive): Start your morning with a visit to this cliffside monastery overlooking the Libyan Sea. The whitewashed walls and panoramic views create a serene atmosphere, steeped in legend.
    • Elafonisi Beach (25-minute drive): Spend your day on the famous pink sands of Elafonisi, where shallow turquoise waters and a shaded cedar forest at nearby Kedrodassos offer the perfect beach escape. Pack a picnic or rent a sunbed to relax in style.
    • Elos Village Tavernas (10-minute drive): On your way back to HERMITAGE, stop in Elos for a late lunch or early dinner at one of the village’s cozy tavernas, where you can try local specialties like dakos (Cretan rusks) and lamb stifado.