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Beach Accommodation East Crete

Just walking distance to the water

Kato Zakros Beach PebblesKato Zakros Beach

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.


Beach Accommodation East Crete
Elounda

Elounda Harbour

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.


Beach Accommodation East Crete
Plaka, Lasithi

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.



Beach Accommodation East Crete
Karavos Beach, Lasithi

The Stone House Istron
The Stone House Istron and beach

The Stonehouse - this traditional stone house is 30 metres from its own little cove and minutes from the long sandy beach of Karavos in an isolated spot on Mirabello Bay in Lasithi. To the west of the house is another sweet private cove. This region of Kalo Horio – Istron has magic views of the wide bay and the mountains beyond.

This is a spot for those really looking for peace and quiet, away from the busy town of Agios Nikolaos but still only 10 km by car. Dive into the sea from your doorstep, or wander to the small village of Istron amongst the olive groves, only 1 km away.

There are only 3 studios in this renovated store house, a traditional building like this is so unusual to find so close to the water, and modern building restrictions prevent any such new construction so close to the beach, so this is a real find. The thick stone walls and traditional style are simple and strong, in real Cretan style.

If you ever need to write that novel, those words still running around in your head, this would be the location of choice, so idyllic, remote and peaceful. Of course, it would also make a perfect romantic honeymoon destination.

This is special beach accommodation east Crete.



Beach Accommodation East Crete
Palaikastro
Lasithi

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

Chiona Cottage Chiona Beach near Palaikastro

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.



Beach Accommodation East Crete
Mochlos

View from Mochlos Beach, East Crete

Chez Cecile Mochlos Crete

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.


Choose by Location

Beach side accommodation is shown on the map.




Getting Here

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.


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We trust you have enjoyed these tips from the We Love Crete team. Evíva!

The We Love Crete team - Anastasi, Katia & Apostoli

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