Crete, a place full of treasures

Visit some of the wonderful beaches you will find a short distance from our accommodation, even on foot. Apovathra is a renowned beach in the city center, large in length with deep, dark blue waters. Agios Andreas, also very accessible from the accommodation, offers crystal-clear deep waters and is an ideal beach for water sports and summer experiences. Megali Paralia, as its name suggests, extends for several kilometers on the eastern side of Ierapetra and offers many coves with wonderful waters and a calm environment. For the most serene experience, it is worth visiting Kalamaki, an unorganized beach for absolute tranquility and contact with nature, while the equally beautiful Myrtos beach features umbrellas and sun loungers in an idyllic setting with pebbles and crystal-clear waters.

If you are traveling with family, you will find beaches that offer everything young and old want. Agia Fotia is a beautiful beach that combines blue and green in the most harmonious way, while a large rock creates shade for most hours of the day. There are sun loungers, umbrellas and a beach bar to serve you during your visit. Also, Makry Gialos is a beach with shallow, calm and azure waters that make it an ideal family choice for play and endless hours of swimming.

If you wish to experience a magical moment in the waters of Crete, it is worth visiting Voulisma Beach (Golden Sand) in Agios Nikolaos, which offers golden sand and turquoise waters, approximately 30 kilometers from the accommodation, and is often compared to the Caribbean due to the exotic atmosphere the whole setting exudes.

A day trip to Chrysi Island (Gaidouronisi) is essential during your stay in Ierapetra. This exotic little island, with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a paradise for those who want to relax and enjoy nature to the fullest. Access is easy, as there is a boat from Ierapetra that will take you to this small piece of paradise.

Crete is known for its natural beauty and Ierapetra, along with the surrounding areas, is no exception. The Ha Gorge is ideal for hiking and offers impressive views and natural beauty. Also, the Red Butterflies Gorge offers a unique walk through the boundless natural beauty, and while crossing the trail you may come face to face with a multitude of small red butterflies, from which it got its name. After the gorge adventure, it is worth taking a stroll through the picturesque village of Koutsounari and the unique Apigania grove. For even more summer nature experiences, we suggest organizing a trip to the Mylonas Waterfalls, which offer incredible beauty and a trail through the greenery that is hard to forget, while the river waters end in a small lake perfect for a swimming break. Another experience worth having is a visit to the Vai Palm Forest in neighboring Sitia, a unique ecosystem with natural palm trees and a wonderful exotic beach, only 40 kilometers from the accommodation.

Ierapetra hosts many attractions worth your attention. The Kales Fortress, built by the Venetians, offers historical knowledge and wonderful views. The Gournia Archaeological Site, one of the best preserved Minoan settlements, will give you a glimpse into the ancient history of the area. Furthermore, the Ottoman buildings emanate historicity and architectural significance, while at the Archaeological Museum of Ierapetra you can learn much about the city's past.

The old town of Ierapetra is full of picturesque alleys, traditional buildings and small shops. Walk through the narrow streets, visit the Church of Afendis Christos and Napoleon's House and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of the old town. Don't forget to stop at one of the coffee houses to try local delicacies.

In the wider area around Ierapetra, you will discover quite a few picturesque and beautiful villages. The village of Myrtos is known for its beautiful beach and welcoming atmosphere. Anatoli offers panoramic views of the area and traditional Cretan hospitality. Finally, the seaside village of Pachia Ammos with its picturesque pier and the chapel of Agios Nikolaos, offers relaxing walks and culinary experiences at the traditional taverns you will find along its coastline.

Spinalonga, a small island near Agios Nikolaos, is known for its history as a leper colony and its Venetian fortification. A visit to the island offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area and the opportunity to explore the ruins. You can reach Spinalonga by boat from Elounda or Agios Nikolaos.

Ierapetra offers many activities for adventure lovers. You can try diving in the clear waters of the area and discover the underwater world of Crete, spend unforgettable moments in the waves doing water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, as well as participate in one of the organized hikes or mountaineering excursions in the surrounding mountains and gorges.

During your stay in Ierapetra, don't miss tasting the authentic Cretan cuisine. Try local dishes such as dakos, boubouristi snails, gamopilafo and kaltsounia. You will also find excellent local products such as olive oil, wine and raki. The taverns and restaurants of the area offer quality and delicious options that will leave you fully satisfied.