Eastern Crete guide, a serene land of dazzling undiscovered beauty
Food scene
Well-known among locals and tourists for its traditional Greek food; seafood is also available.
Five minutes walk to the west of the villa.
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Kaliotzína
Eparchiaki Odos Koutsouras-StavrochoriouWell-known among locals and tourists for its traditional Greek food; seafood is also available.
Five minutes walk to the west of the villa.
The owner's favorite for relaxing with coffee or drink after a swim. You can use their free umbrellas and lounges to relax with a drink or their restaurant tables to eat. Breakfast, crepes, hamburgers, superb drinks, very relaxing atmosphere, umbrellas & lounges - everything you may need and more.
Five minutes walk to the west of the villa.
Big Blue Beach Bar & Apartments
The owner's favorite for relaxing with coffee or drink after a swim. You can use their free umbrellas and lounges to relax with a drink or their restaurant tables to eat. Breakfast, crepes, hamburgers, superb drinks, very relaxing atmosphere, umbrellas & lounges - everything you may need and more.
Five minutes walk to the west of the villa.
Traditional Greek food, with a specialty in Sea Food. If you would like something very special, like large fish (cooked either in a traditional broth or grilled), advance ordering may be necessary. For small fish, grilled meat and cooked food, no pre-ordering necessary.
Three minutes walk to the west of the villa.
Botsalákia
Traditional Greek food, with a specialty in Sea Food. If you would like something very special, like large fish (cooked either in a traditional broth or grilled), advance ordering may be necessary. For small fish, grilled meat and cooked food, no pre-ordering necessary.
Three minutes walk to the west of the villa.
Specialty food, recommended for meat and vegetable (not sea food).
Five minutes walk to the west of the villa.
19 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Robinson Taverna
Specialty food, recommended for meat and vegetable (not sea food).
Five minutes walk to the west of the villa.
Meat and local traditional food. The original Stavrodoxari is in a mountain village (Stavrohori) 8 km north of the villa. But a new Stavrodoxari restaurant has also opened by the sea in Koutsouras - you will find it if you walk to the west along the seafront.
Approximately 7-8 minutes from the villa.
Stravodoxari
Meat and local traditional food. The original Stavrodoxari is in a mountain village (Stavrohori) 8 km north of the villa. But a new Stavrodoxari restaurant has also opened by the sea in Koutsouras - you will find it if you walk to the west along the seafront.
Approximately 7-8 minutes from the villa.
Koursaros Cocktail & Coffee Bar
Eparchiaki Odos Koutsouras-StavrochoriouNice bar atmosphere both indoors and outdoors.
Iguana
Local bar with games and drinks, only a few minutes walk from the villa along the main road.
Traditional sweets, birthday cakes, ice cream.
Only a few minutes walk from the villa across from Supermarket Areadne.
Patisserie Edelweiss
Traditional sweets, birthday cakes, ice cream.
Only a few minutes walk from the villa across from Supermarket Areadne.
Nice traditional restaurant in a mountain village, Pefki north of Makry Gialos
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Piperia
402 Epar.Od. Ierapetras - SitiasNice traditional restaurant in a mountain village, Pefki north of Makry Gialos
Seaside restaurant for special occasions but also everyday fun.
24 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pelagos Sea Side Restaurant
Seaside restaurant for special occasions but also everyday fun.
Alátsi
Nice traditional meals, including seafood.
City/town information
- SITIA (33 Km): a picturesque seaside town, situated on the northeastern side of Crete, a region still unspoiled by mass tourism with Archaeological and Folklore Museums, as well as a Venetian Fortress – Kazarma
The small coastal town of Sitia is pleasant and lively, with hospitable inhabitants who like to interact with one another and their foreign visitors. Just drop in at any of the raki-serving establishments on Eleftheriou Venizelou Street – such as the Oinodeion or Rakodikeion – and you’ll see for yourself. The city’s most beautiful monument is the Kazarma, a Venetian fortress so well-preserved you’d think it was built yesterday. The Archaeological Museum is also noteworthy, as it features the Palaikastro Kouros, a chryselephantine statue dating to the Late Bronze Age (both open Tue-Sun, 08:00-15:00).
71 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sitia
- SITIA (33 Km): a picturesque seaside town, situated on the northeastern side of Crete, a region still unspoiled by mass tourism with Archaeological and Folklore Museums, as well as a Venetian Fortress – Kazarma
The small coastal town of Sitia is pleasant and lively, with hospitable inhabitants who like to interact with one another and their foreign visitors. Just drop in at any of the raki-serving establishments on Eleftheriou Venizelou Street – such as the Oinodeion or Rakodikeion – and you’ll see for yourself. The city’s most beautiful monument is the Kazarma, a Venetian fortress so well-preserved you’d think it was built yesterday. The Archaeological Museum is also noteworthy, as it features the Palaikastro Kouros, a chryselephantine statue dating to the Late Bronze Age (both open Tue-Sun, 08:00-15:00).
- Palm forest of Vai (53 Km): One of the largest natural palm forests in Europe (and consequently has been designated a protected area); the trees are of the species Phoenix theophrasti, commonly known as the Cretan date palms. This is a rare species endemic to the Aegean, which flourishes in wet, sandy soil, reaches a height of 15m and can possess more than one trunk. A large sandy beach spreads out in front of the palm forest. Here, you’ll find the Vai Restaurant, which has been certified by the Agronutritional Cooperation of the Region of Crete and awarded their Cretan Cuisine quality label; the restaurant serves fish and other seafood, local raki and organic wines from Toplou Monastery. Just 7km to the south of Vai lies Kouremenos, a 1.5km-long beach with fine sand and tamarisk trees. On account of its prevailing winds, Kouremenos is a magnet for fans of windsurfing, kite-surfing and SUP (you can find out more about lessons and equipment rentals from Gone Surfing Crete).
55 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Vai
- Palm forest of Vai (53 Km): One of the largest natural palm forests in Europe (and consequently has been designated a protected area); the trees are of the species Phoenix theophrasti, commonly known as the Cretan date palms. This is a rare species endemic to the Aegean, which flourishes in wet, sandy soil, reaches a height of 15m and can possess more than one trunk. A large sandy beach spreads out in front of the palm forest. Here, you’ll find the Vai Restaurant, which has been certified by the Agronutritional Cooperation of the Region of Crete and awarded their Cretan Cuisine quality label; the restaurant serves fish and other seafood, local raki and organic wines from Toplou Monastery. Just 7km to the south of Vai lies Kouremenos, a 1.5km-long beach with fine sand and tamarisk trees. On account of its prevailing winds, Kouremenos is a magnet for fans of windsurfing, kite-surfing and SUP (you can find out more about lessons and equipment rentals from Gone Surfing Crete).
- Kato Zakros is well worth the journey that takes you through the inspiring, eternal landscape of easternmost Crete. At this archaeological site, you’ll get a better understanding of the scope of Minoan influence as you explore a small but intricate palace/town complex (ca. 1900-1450 BC) and pick up on key trans-Cretan characteristics that connect this settlement with the Minoans’ larger socioeconomic network. The site’s own treasures include its architecture and rich artworks – among the latter are a bull’s head with golden horns; a gold-covered libation vessel (rhyton) depicting a mountaintop sanctuary; and luxurious vases of rock crystal and colorful veined marble, some with bold, upward-sweeping handles, all now in the Irakleio Archaeological Museum. The harbor and the presence of imported artifacts indicate that Zakros was a gateway to the eastern Mediterranean. Inland lies the “Valley of the Dead” – Crete’s answer to the Grand Canyon (Open daily 08:00-20:00).
32 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Zakros
- Kato Zakros is well worth the journey that takes you through the inspiring, eternal landscape of easternmost Crete. At this archaeological site, you’ll get a better understanding of the scope of Minoan influence as you explore a small but intricate palace/town complex (ca. 1900-1450 BC) and pick up on key trans-Cretan characteristics that connect this settlement with the Minoans’ larger socioeconomic network. The site’s own treasures include its architecture and rich artworks – among the latter are a bull’s head with golden horns; a gold-covered libation vessel (rhyton) depicting a mountaintop sanctuary; and luxurious vases of rock crystal and colorful veined marble, some with bold, upward-sweeping handles, all now in the Irakleio Archaeological Museum. The harbor and the presence of imported artifacts indicate that Zakros was a gateway to the eastern Mediterranean. Inland lies the “Valley of the Dead” – Crete’s answer to the Grand Canyon (Open daily 08:00-20:00).
A traditional mountain village with a nice restaurant to enjoy local foods: Piperia. Among pine trees and built amphitheatrically on the mountain, Pefki is a village with great history. The caves of Apoloustron and Vreikou, the five thousand year old olive trees and the Minoan ruins indicate that ancient humans made this place their home. Tradition is important to Pefki. The residents keep it alive and also make sure the visitors get a chance to experience it themselves with a visit to the Folklore museum, which is housed in the Junior school building. Life goes by smoothly and unhurriedly in this village. Here, visitors can enjoy the traditional Cretan cuisine, relax in the picturesque coffeehouses, admire the traditional architecture and visit the church of Stavromenos, either on pilgrimage or just to admire the breathtaking view of the region.
6 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pefki
A traditional mountain village with a nice restaurant to enjoy local foods: Piperia. Among pine trees and built amphitheatrically on the mountain, Pefki is a village with great history. The caves of Apoloustron and Vreikou, the five thousand year old olive trees and the Minoan ruins indicate that ancient humans made this place their home. Tradition is important to Pefki. The residents keep it alive and also make sure the visitors get a chance to experience it themselves with a visit to the Folklore museum, which is housed in the Junior school building. Life goes by smoothly and unhurriedly in this village. Here, visitors can enjoy the traditional Cretan cuisine, relax in the picturesque coffeehouses, admire the traditional architecture and visit the church of Stavromenos, either on pilgrimage or just to admire the breathtaking view of the region.
For even more exotic swimming destinations, take the little boat that crosses over to Chrysi island opposite Ierapetra. Known as Chrysi (or Gaidouronisi), it is a must place to visit because of its sand dunes, cedars and fantastic waters. Formerly an informal camping destination, it now has beach umbrellas, sun loungers and food stands. The island’s best-known beach is Belegrina, to the north; there are, however, many other beaches to be explored, including Kataprosopo and Vagges to the east.
Gaidouronisi
For even more exotic swimming destinations, take the little boat that crosses over to Chrysi island opposite Ierapetra. Known as Chrysi (or Gaidouronisi), it is a must place to visit because of its sand dunes, cedars and fantastic waters. Formerly an informal camping destination, it now has beach umbrellas, sun loungers and food stands. The island’s best-known beach is Belegrina, to the north; there are, however, many other beaches to be explored, including Kataprosopo and Vagges to the east.
Toplou (43 km away) is a 15th-century monastery located in the northeastern part of Crete, 10km east of Sitia and on the way to the beach of Vai. It is one of the most significant and historic monasteries in Crete. The monastery owns a great deal of land which produces excellent organic products such as wine, thyme honey, raki and olive oil. There are guided tours in the winemaking area, where you can taste the wines in combination with traditional cheese, olives and rusks with tomato. All the wines for taste are also for sale at the monastery. It is open to the public daily, from 09:00 - 18:00 hour.
10 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Toplou
Toplou (43 km away) is a 15th-century monastery located in the northeastern part of Crete, 10km east of Sitia and on the way to the beach of Vai. It is one of the most significant and historic monasteries in Crete. The monastery owns a great deal of land which produces excellent organic products such as wine, thyme honey, raki and olive oil. There are guided tours in the winemaking area, where you can taste the wines in combination with traditional cheese, olives and rusks with tomato. All the wines for taste are also for sale at the monastery. It is open to the public daily, from 09:00 - 18:00 hour.
If you can spare the time, head as far as Xerokambos, on the south-eastern coast corner of Crete. The road is long and full of curves, but it’s worth it. The wild landscape is alive with the scent of thyme, and there are beaches for every taste – some with small pebbles, some with sand and even one with clay, like a natural spa.
29 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Xerokampos
If you can spare the time, head as far as Xerokambos, on the south-eastern coast corner of Crete. The road is long and full of curves, but it’s worth it. The wild landscape is alive with the scent of thyme, and there are beaches for every taste – some with small pebbles, some with sand and even one with clay, like a natural spa.
For even more exotic swimming destinations, Koufonisi (or Lefki) is a low-key destination with sandy beaches, white rocks and low vegetation; an ancient theater dating to the 2nd century AD and the remnants of a settlement have been discovered here. Daily cruises now from Makrigialos to paradise Island Koufonissi, located about 10 nautical miles southeast of Makrigialos. It’s uninhabited now, but full of ruins that indicate human activity from the Early Minoan times to post-Byzantine years. The island is surrounded by 36 amazing sandy beaches with fine golden sand and crystal turquoise waters, unknown to almost everybody. Some of them, like Asproulas, Hiliaderfia, Faros and Roman Theatre, would easily be ranked among the best on earth. Visit the southernmost ancient stone theatre in Europe, have a refreshing swim or just relax.
You could also charter a day trip to Koufonisi with a 9-meter private motor boat with captain; contact Mixalis Avgoustinakis 6976683166
13 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Koufonisi
For even more exotic swimming destinations, Koufonisi (or Lefki) is a low-key destination with sandy beaches, white rocks and low vegetation; an ancient theater dating to the 2nd century AD and the remnants of a settlement have been discovered here. Daily cruises now from Makrigialos to paradise Island Koufonissi, located about 10 nautical miles southeast of Makrigialos. It’s uninhabited now, but full of ruins that indicate human activity from the Early Minoan times to post-Byzantine years. The island is surrounded by 36 amazing sandy beaches with fine golden sand and crystal turquoise waters, unknown to almost everybody. Some of them, like Asproulas, Hiliaderfia, Faros and Roman Theatre, would easily be ranked among the best on earth. Visit the southernmost ancient stone theatre in Europe, have a refreshing swim or just relax.
You could also charter a day trip to Koufonisi with a 9-meter private motor boat with captain; contact Mixalis Avgoustinakis 6976683166
My two favorite beaches nearby: Macheridi and Diaskari
Secluded, and private, always calm when there are waves elsewhere, Macheridi beach is found ~1 km west of villa. Visit if you are looking for something natural and undeveloped.
Alternatively, 4.5 km to the east, after the busy Makry Gialos beach, you can visit Diaskari, an unspoiled long sand beach with spectacular colors and a taverna.
A long sand beach 2 km to the east of villa
9 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Makrygialos Lasithiou
A long sand beach 2 km to the east of villa
Developed beach with bars and restaurants, ~8 km west of villa
8 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Agia Fotia
Developed beach with bars and restaurants, ~8 km west of villa
Enjoy hiking a gorge found only 500 m to the west of the villa. Go for the whole hike, or simply do as I do: a round-trip small portion from the Dasaki entrance in Koutsouras to the church and back.
Orino or Butterfly gorge: Length (km): 5.5, Altitude difference (m): 400, Difficulty (0-10): 2, Hiking Hours: 4 (one-way)
Oreino
Enjoy hiking a gorge found only 500 m to the west of the villa. Go for the whole hike, or simply do as I do: a round-trip small portion from the Dasaki entrance in Koutsouras to the church and back.
Orino or Butterfly gorge: Length (km): 5.5, Altitude difference (m): 400, Difficulty (0-10): 2, Hiking Hours: 4 (one-way)
Sightseeing
Pefki Gorge
Great, easy hiking
Nice hiking, walking distance from villa. Doing the whole gorge takes 3-5 hours, but you can just do the lower part starting from Dasaki in Koutsouras.
6 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Butterfly Gorge
Nice hiking, walking distance from villa. Doing the whole gorge takes 3-5 hours, but you can just do the lower part starting from Dasaki in Koutsouras.
A beautiful gorge to cross ending in the Kato Zakro palace and beach to enjoy with a nice meal in one of the many traditional tavernas.
Farángi Zákrou
A beautiful gorge to cross ending in the Kato Zakro palace and beach to enjoy with a nice meal in one of the many traditional tavernas.
A tiny village with spectacular beaches. Superb scenery.
15 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Μεγάλη Παραλία Ξερόκαμπου
A tiny village with spectacular beaches. Superb scenery.
Consejos para la ciudad
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Friday morning farmers market in Makry Gialos.
Local produce; A larger market can be found in Ierapetra every Saturday.
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Water sports and Boat rental - all within 2 km from villa
- Xtreme water sports Douloumis: Tubes, Jet Ski, Flyboard, Waterski Wakeboard
+30 6936978097, 28430 51733, info@xtremegreece.gr, website: https://www.xtremegreece.gr/en/business/xtreme-water-sports-douloumis.html
- Giorgos Xardakis, +30 6937127773, 28430 51254, mar.char@hotmail.gr, website: safewatersports.com
- Mixalis Avgoustinakis 6976683166, 9 meter motor boat, 400 euro per day with captain
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Diving
- DIVING: Ierapetra Diving center: Explore the South Cretan sea, http://www.ierapetradivingcentre.com/
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Surfing
- WIND and Water SURFING: About an hour away drive in Kouremenos you can find the best windsurfing center in the area: Gone Surfing Crete, http://www.gonesurfing.gr/en/, gonesurfingcrete@gmail.com, . Big sandy beach with all day wind which is amplified by the 'funnel effect', with some of the best wind statistics in the world!!
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WINE TASTING in Toplou monastery
Toplou (43 km away) is a 15th-century monastery located in the northeastern part of Crete, 10km east of Sitia and on the way to the beach of Vai. It is one of the most significant and historic monasteries in Crete. The monastery owns a great deal of land which produces excellent organic products such as wine, thyme honey, raki and olive oil. There are guided tours in the winemaking area, where you can taste the wines in combination with traditional cheese, olives and rusks with tomato. All the wines for taste are also for sale at the monastery.
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Butterfly (Orino) gorge - only 500 m from villa
https://www.cretanbeaches.com/en/gorges-and-canyons-in-crete/lassithi-gorges-east-crete/orino-gorge-red-butterflies
Length (km): 5.5, Altitude difference (m): 400, Difficulty (0-10): 2, Hiking Hours: 4 (entire gorge one-way), can do only south-most portion in 2 hours round-trip from Koutsouras.
Start the hike from Orino village (thus bypassing the wild part of Orino gorge) and end at Koutsouras (close to our villa) after 3-4 hour of walking for a nice swim and lunch. The gorge is named after the red butterflies that fly through the bushes and flowers, forming a truly rare sight.
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BEE and HONEY exploration
STICKY TOUR !! Be a Cretan Beekeeper. Call +30 698 850 0190
If you’ve ever had a dream of being a beekeeper or had a keen interest in bees or simply just enjoy the sweetness of the gold liquid it produces, you can now get a “behind the honey” experience. A local family gives a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and work as beekeeper.
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DAY-TRIPPING-REMOTE ISLANDS AT THE END OF EUROPE
Reached by boat (public or private) from Ierapetra or Makry Gialos, Chrysi and Koufonisi are two enchanting islands in the Libyan Sea. Sand dunes, cedars and fantastic waters, white rocks. Koufonisi is full of ruins that indicate human activity from the Early Minoan times to post-Byzantine years. The island is surrounded by 36 amazing sandy beaches with fine golden sand and crystal turquoise waters. Visit the southernmost ancient stone theatre in Europe, have a refreshing swim or just relax. Both islands are included in the Natura 2000 network of protected areas.