19 Quiet Resorts To Stay In Crete For Travel Snobs

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 as a consequence of its extra secluded setting and native life-style. Unlike a few of its neighbours which have embraced mass tourism, I really like that Sissi has an intimate, laid-back vibe with fewer giant resorts and developments. 

It’s positioned on the north coast of (round 41 km east of the island’s capital, Heraklion), it was all the pieces I needed from a reasonably Mediterranean fishing village with conventional fishing boats bobbing within the harbour, white-washed homes and a captivating port space all surrounded by olive groves and rugged hills.

The fundamental seashore, Boufos Beach, was principally sand and outfitted with solar loungers and umbrellas and the clear, turquoise waters have been excellent for swimming and rest and there was additionally a variety of lodging starting from low-rise resorts to guesthouses. I believed it was a blissful spot!

I stayed right here for every week and there have been no loud events and vigorous bars right here, so I spent a blissful time merely eating in conventional tavernas, stress-free on the seashore, snorkelling and attending to know the pleasant locals.

My favorite highlights…

• Staying on the dreamy Grecotel Meli Palace – I actually beloved the stylish, white poolside cabanas!
• Spending stress-free afternoons on the idyllic Kalimera Kriti Beach and Boufos Beach the place the calm waters have been very best for swimming.

2. Elounda

Elounda is dwelling to upscale resorts and fashionable resorts! I’ve to say it doesn’t have the quaint, genuine allure of a number of the different spots on this checklist but it surely does have a classy, cosmopolitan vibe as an alternative!

It stays a extra tranquil spot as a consequence of its upscale resorts and secluded location, which are a magnet for a extra discerning crowd, guaranteeing that the pure magnificence is extra preserved. It’s additionally one thing of a star 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 beloved 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.
• Dining on the terrace on the Lotus Eaters restaurant and gazing on the beautiful sea views. The marinated roast peppers and fried potatoes have been divine! 

3. Agios Nikolaos

This is is a really picturesque coastal city! It maintains its quiet and unspoilt character by means 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 celebration hotspot.

It’s positioned on the jap coast of the island alongside the Gulf of Mirabello and it’s dwelling 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 luxurious 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 historical artifacts on the Archaeological Museum, explored historical ruins of the Christian basilica and took a ship journey to the fascinating Spinalonga Island which had an fascinating historical fortress and I additionally discovered it was a former leper colony!

My private highlights…

• Staying Minos Palace Hotel & Suites – I beloved the beautiful Insta-worthy design! 
• Exploring the close by Almiros Wetlands the place I noticed unbelievable flamingos!
• Exploring the Mediterranean Sea on a enjoyable semi-submarine tour.
• Dining on the Gioma Meze, a stylish lakeside restaurant which served up conventional Cretan meals with a contemporary twist. I beloved the scrumptious grilled pitta bread with oregano and regionally 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 far more undeveloped in comparison with different resorts in Crete, and I beloved 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 lots haven’t flocked right here but! 

Located 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 Beach, eating on Cretan delicacies, exploring historic charms such because the post-Byzantine church and looking native crafts on the quaint retailers, all whereas having fun with the bustling exercise of its picturesque fishing harbour – it made an important various 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 beautiful spa which had conventional therapeutic practices have been simply excellent! 
• Going on a biking journey by means of the scenic landscapes on an E-bike tour with JoyRide.
• Going wine tasting Klados Winery – the regionally produced crimson wine was chic! 
• Visiting the close by fairly and tranquil Geropotamos Beach – there was a horny stone arch to the west of the seashore and to the east, a freshwater river ran straight into the ocean.

5. Plakias

This small laid, again village! There are vacationers but it surely’s averted high-rise buildings and heavy commercialisation, sustaining a quaint, village-like ambiance as a consequence of its extra distant setting on Crete’s southern coast, away from the island’s bustling northern vacationer resorts.

I believed it was a beautiful place set in opposition to steep mountains and rugged gorges, resulting in a sandy, pebbled seashore alongside a curved bay. The village options low-rise, traditional-style buildings and clear, turquoise waters. Olive groves and wildflowers on the encircling hills add to its scenic, rural allure.

As properly as conventional tavernas and a few memento retailers, there have been some cultural spots too such because the sixteenth century Monastery of Preveli and the gorgeous Church of Zoodochos Pigi which dates from the twelfth century.

I additionally beloved the standard close by villages of Asomatos and Mariou the place we purchased fascinating native crafts (comparable to fairly metallic pots) and the close by mountain climbing trails, particularly to Kotsifos Gorge.

My favorite highlights…

• Capturing the long-lasting Plakias “Dragon” rock formations on digicam, a placing spot which appears to be like like a sleeping dragon when the solar goes down!
• Staying on the divine NERĒA Boutique Hotel – I beloved the boho type decor and intimate, romantic vibe!
• Dining on home-made ravioli made with contemporary herbs and tomatoes at Taverna Manousos. 

6. Kato Zakros

Located on the jap aspect of the island of Crete, this can be a small and rustic fishing village. Its distant location in comparison with many different seashore resorts on the island has allowed it to stay untouched and genuine.

The medium sized Kato Zakros Beach is a mixture of shingle and sand and the village is surrounded by mountains and fairly olive groves.

The village itself has just a few laid again eating places, some impartial retailers and only a handful of boutique-style, low rise resorts and pleasant visitor homes.

They supply their very own distinctive model of boho and eco-friendly hospitality right here and lots of the visitor homes have aromatic herb gardens.

I additionally beloved the Minoan Palace of Zakros, which is a real archaeological web site and the encircling mountain climbing trails, certainly one of which took me to the close by scenic Zakros Gorge.

My favorite highlights…

• Staying on the Terra Minoika Boutique resort – I believed the rustic-chic constructing made it actually stand out!
• Walking alongside the scenic E4 path to discover the Gorge of the Dead and discovering a number of lovely photograph alternatives alongside the way in which.
• Relaxing on the seashores that are regionally well-known for his or her clear waters, and seeing the small fairly gardens which surrounded them.

7. Kalamaki

Kalamaki is a comparatively new city in Crete (homes began being constructed right here within the 1960’s) so it does have extra of a purpose-built really feel, however in the event you’re searching for a quieter seashore resort away from the nightclubs then I personally assume this can be a good choice. 

The greatest attraction right here is the lengthy, broad seashore which has positive golden sands however there are additionally conventional tavernas and retailers providing meals and distinctive souvenirs at very cheap costs.

The seashore is thought for its calm waters, and for being a nesting web site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. I additionally beloved the close by Phaistos Palace (an essential Minoan archaeological web site) and the intriguing Matala Caves which have been a former hippy commune that when even housed Joni Mitchell! 

My favorite highlights…

• Staying on the Golden Sun Resort – the personal swimming swimming pools made the expertise excellent! 
• Spending a day at Kommos Beach, an extended sandy seashore only a quick stroll from Kalamaki – it supplied a quieter and fewer crowded various to the primary Kalamaki Beach.
• Enjoying a conventional Greek salad at Taverna Zorbas, adopted by a leisurely stroll to discover the night leisure alongside the primary avenue.
• Hiring pedal boat and recognizing one of many cute loggerhead sea turtles!

8. Sougia

Sougia is a tiny coastal village positioned alongside the Libyan Sea. Its distant location has helped protect its authenticity and peaceable vibe, making it a wonderful alternative for these in search of a much less developed vacation spot.

It was a virtually a two hour drive from Chania airport however the views of the luxurious surrounding greenery made it a really nice journey. I beloved the laid-back vibe and the lengthy, sheltered seashore which was made up of coarse sand, shingle and bigger pebbles. 

The city itself has some chilled tavernas, just a few village retailers and lodging ranging kind studio flats to a shocking boutique retreat (pictured under). 

I additionally suggest visiting the picturesque church (Agios Panteleimon), the close by essential archaeological web site of the Ancient City of Elyros and the scenic Agia Irini Gorge. 

My favorite highlights…

• Staying the characterful Monastery Estate Retreat – the trendy decor made it actually stand out! 
• Visiting the Agios Panteleimon which was positioned on the west aspect of the village; it has a beautiful mosaic ground and I beloved that we needed to go to the kiosk on Sougia Beach and ask for the door key!
• Taking a ship journey Sougia and discovering hidden coves and secluded close by seashores. They additionally took us snorkelling! 

9. Falassarna Beach

Located close to the village of Platanos on the northwest coast of Crete, this can be a really beautiful spot and one of the vital gorgeous seashores on the island. It’s recognized for its positive white sand which has a pinkish hue in locations and its clear turquoise waters. 

It’s not connected to a busy resort so it stays a tranquil spot but it surely nonetheless has nice facilities for guests comparable to solar beds, parasols, public restrooms and a handful of laid-back seashore bars and eating places.

If you need to keep close by, then head for Platanos Village and Kissamos Town which provide a spread of lodging choices principally within the type of residence leases and small low-rise resorts.

My favorite highlights…

• Experiencing a paragliding journey overlooking the coast, the views of the island have been unbelievable!
• Taking a cruise and exploring the Balos Lagoon full of sensible turquoise water earlier than heading to the historic web site of Gramvousa.
• Taking a surf lesson and (attempting!) to journey just a few waves while wanting again over the gorgeous shoreline.

10. Triopetra Beach

Located close to the favored coastal village Agia Galini (which is round 30 kilometers away), this can be a naturally lovely seashore and since it’s not connected to a significant vacationer resort, it has a quieter and extra relaxed vibe. 

There are literally two components, and “Little Triopetra” (in any other case often called Koumado) is the smaller of the 2 seashores and it’s enclosed in a rocky bay.

Both have a mixture of coarse sand and small pebbles and there are a handful of conventional taverns and small beach-side cafes.

The surrounding surroundings is gorgeous and is made up of the Siderotas Mountain, rocky hills and luxurious inexperienced olive groves. I extremely suggest visiting the close by chapel of The Chapel of the Prophet Elias which is positioned on hill and affords 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 here are actually gorgeous!

11. Elafonisi Lagoon

I really like this critically gorgeous pure magnificence spot! It was as soon as certainly one of Crete’s best-kept secrets and techniques however now plenty of social media lovers have additionally found it which implies it will probably get busy throughout peak occasions with plenty of individuals taking selfies!

We parked near the seashore 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…

• Relaxing and taking pictures of the distinctive pink sand surrounded by crystal-clear lagoon waters.
• Hiking throughout the beautiful dunes and seeing a high-up perspective of the lagoon.

12. Plaka

This is a captivating 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 checklist but it surely has a low-key, quiet vibe.

It’s dwelling to a couple tavernas providing conventional Cretan dishes, seafood eating places, and a handful of comfort shops, memento and craft retailers.

There’s an extended stretch of seashore full of white pebbles and helpful solar beds and parasols and different notable points of interest embrace the historic Spinalonga Island (which was a former leper colony) and the close by Elounda Beach which is extra sandy than the primary Plaka seashore.

My favorite highlights…

• Going for a swim within the shallow crystal clear waters at Plaka Beach.
• Trying waterskiing with Plaka Watersports which was an exhilarating expertise!
• Browsing 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

Located between Chora Sfakion and Loutro, this a shocking seashore 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 tough to get to. 

You can take two routes to the seashore, you possibly can 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 just a little strenuous however the paths was properly maintained and the ocean views have been chic! 

Once there we noticed a beautiful seashore 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 seashore 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 timber.

14. Tripiti to Sougia Coastline

The hike between Tripiti and Sougia is actually breathtaking and it truly types a part of the E4 European long-distance path. The route options rocky terrain, gorgeous coastal views, and hidden seashores. Due to the path’s steep sections, it’s greatest fitted to skilled hikers.

The path is well-marked, guaranteeing you keep on observe, whilst you grow to be mesmerized by the views (like I did)! While some sections may be tiring, in my view, the journey is certainly well worth the effort.

There’s plenty of distinctive natural world to take pleasure in right here in addition to fairly olive groves and historic websites comparable to an historical 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 skill, pace, 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.
• Soaking up the beautiful coastal views.

15. Myrtos Village

This is a tranquil and fairly white-washed village filled with conventional allure 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 important choice for these in search of a extra genuine place to stick with only a handful of fairly tavernas and small low-key resorts blended in with charming structure and aromatic flowers. 

The Myrtos Beach is lengthy and broad with a mixture of coarse sand and pebbles and the city has some fascinating historic points of interest together with an historical 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 Beach

This is a gorgeous, quiet seashore positioned on northern coast of Crete not removed from the favored seaside resort of Agia Pelagia (it’s just a few kilometers away). 

Popular with locals in addition to just a few vacationers, it’s a sheltered spot with shallow, clear water and a mixture of positive, 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!
• Trying jet snowboarding, which was a whole lot of enjoyable!
• Visiting the fascinating close by Monastery of Panagia Deligara which is constructed on the ruins of the unique monastery. 

17. Milatos 

This is a really small and quaint Crete village and dealing fishing port positioned on northeastern coast of the island.

The seashore right here isn’t notably lovely and is a mixture of golden sand and pebbles however growth has been saved to a minimal right here so it affords a extra genuine Cretan keep. 

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, but it surely’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 panoramic sundown over the Mediterranean Sea. The mezze choice was critically scrumptious!

18. Paleochora

Paleochora is a beachside resort city positioned on the southwest coast of the island. Its seashores are an enormous draw and there’s a big seashore (Pachia Ammos) full of positive golden sand and a smaller pebbly seashore. 

There are loads of nice eating places, cafes, conventional tavernas, boutique retailers and though there are some bars they’re principally full of locals moderately than rowdy vacationers.

I additionally beloved the historic points of interest 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 Beach which has the popularity of being the most effective seashores alongside the South Coast.
• Visiting the Paleochora Castle (the Venetian fortress) and capturing the gorgeous panoramic views on digicam.

19. Loutro Village

When I visited this beautiful, 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 outlets, eating places and low rise resorts, this actually is a low-key and genuine spot! 

Surrounded by steep mountainsides, it’s additionally dwelling to a large herd of goats (judging from the clinking of bells I at all times heard!) and a small pebbly seashore with very clear turquoise inexperienced waters. 

No roads lead right here (it’s accessible solely by boat or by mountain climbing), and there are not any nightlife so you possibly can 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 typical Greek salads which got here with regionally grown contemporary black olives have been divine!

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