Crete, Greece's largest island, offers diverse beaches for all preferences. Livadi Beach enchants families with green waters and modern amenities. Sougia Beach provides tranquility with pebbly shores and hiking trails. Sarantaris Beach near Hersonissos offers snorkeling and serenity.
Kommos Beach, an ancient Minoan port, attracts history buffs with its ruins. Agiofarago Beach combines natural beauty and history, accessible through a gorge hike. Limanakia Beach provides family fun with calm waters and cultural attractions. Read article
Traveling to Crete involves adherence to specific entry requirements influenced by Greece’s national regulations and international standards. These requirements are determined by factors such as nationality, travel purpose, and current global conditions. As a major destination, Crete’s travel protocols aim to ensure smooth and secure entry for visitors while accommodating a wide range of travelers. Read article
Crete shopping offers a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern retail experiences. Visitors can explore local markets, boutique shops, and artisan workshops showcasing unique products such as handmade textiles, pottery, jewelry, and regional delicacies like olive oil and honey. The shopping culture in Crete emphasizes authenticity, with many items rooted in centuries-old techniques and traditions. From urban centers to village markets, shopping in Crete provides a chance to connect with the island’s history and creativity. Read article
Going on a trip to Crete and wanting to bring back memorable souvenirs to each of those moments into your heart and mind? Looking for the best souvenirs on any visit to Crete can be a tough nut to crack. From traditional jewelry and mouth-watering Cretan food to other Cretan products, you will have a variety of souvenirs to choose from while touring here. Crete has a rich history and is famous for its customs and traditions. You will definitely want to cherish your days in Crete with the 'right' type of souvenir, something that speaks to your heart. Read article
Crete's economy combines tradition and modernity, shaped by its natural resources, location, and cultural heritage. The island’s landscape supports agriculture, tourism, and trade, establishing Crete as a commercial hub. Its economy balances historical traditions with evolving industries, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Resources and cultural identity drive growth, showing how sustainable development arises from local strengths in a changing global context. Read article
Crete, the largest Greek island, combines history, culture, and beauty across its destinations. Coastal areas offer sandy beaches, nightlife, and landmarks, while inland villages provide setting and traditional Cretan cuisine. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, relax by the sea, or experience the heritage, making Crete an ideal destination for all travel styles. Read article
Car rental deposits, payments, and excess reimbursement policies are crucial elements of the car hire process that ensure smooth transactions for both renters and companies. A deposit, typically held as a credit card pre-authorization, acts as security for potential damages, theft, or unpaid fees. Depending on the vehicle type, rental duration, location, and insurance coverage, average cost of basic insurance in Crete is between €10 ($10.89, £8.70) and € 20 ($21.77, £17.40) per day, while comprehensive coverage ranges between €30 ($32.66, £26.10) and €40 ($43.54, £34.80) per day. Refunds are usually processed within 5 to 30 business days upon vehicle return. Payment flexibility is increasing, with options like debit cards, PayPal, and cash in specific cases. Excess reimbursement insurance provides financial protection by covering out-of-pocket expenses for damages, typically not included in standard car rental policies. Read article
Understanding your insurance options is crucial when renting a car in Greece, especially in Crete, to ensure a secure and stress-free experience. Insurance options in Greece include Third Party Liability Insurance (TPL), Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) or Full Damage Waiver (FDW), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), Theft Protection (TP), Fire Protection (FP) and Tire Insurance. Read article
Greek, one of the oldest recorded Indo-European languages, dates back to the 15th century BCE. Modern Greek, the official language of Greece, evolved from Ancient Greek and has been in use since Greece's independence in 1829.
Greek, a highly inflected language, has a rich grammatical structure and notable dialects, including Cretan, Pontic, and Tsakonian. Its alphabet, with 24 letters, defines its identity. Read article
The island of Crete is not just a beautiful holiday destination. It is one of the richest cultures and landmarks. There are many archaeological sites on the island of Crete. Crete is the largest and most populous island in Greece. The island of Crete is mostly mountainous, and its character is defined by a high mountain range crossing from west to east. It is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, separating the Aegean from the Libyan Sea. Read article
Crete is an island in Greece that has a long and illustrious history that dates back thousands of years. It is home to a large number of famous archaeological sites, and ancient Greek ruins, each of which provides a unique perspective on the history of the island. Some of the well-known archaeological sites of Crete include the Knossos archaeological site, Phaistos archaeological site, Spinalonga archaeological site, Gortyna, Aptera, Malia palace, Petras, Kommos, Falassarna, Gournia, and the Armeni archaeological site. The history of Crete dates back to the Neolithic period, around 7000 BCE, when the first settlements were established on the island. In the Bronze Age, Crete was home to the Minoan civilization, which flourished from around 2600 to 1100 BCE and was one of the most advanced civilizations of its time. The Minoans developed a sophisticated culture, which included impressive architecture, art, and a writing system that is still not fully deciphered. Read article
Crete is the largest and most populous island in Greece. It is ranked 88th largest island in the world. Crete hosts the largest number of gorges in Greece. For years, hiking has been a tourist attraction in Crete. More and more tourists, mostly from German-speaking countries, come for hiking. Most Crete Gorges hikes start in the mountains and end at sea. Some gorges will require mountaineering equipment to climb. Other gorges can be accessed by walking on easy trails for just a few hours. The Samaria Gorge National Park is one of the most prominent gorges in Crete. It has been Greece’s National Park since 1962. Most hikers will love the Samaria Gorge National Park because it offers many hiking trails with majestic views. The Samaria Gorge National Park can be considered a Crete budget-friendly gorge. The Topolia Gorge, in the inland area of Kissamos, offers an impressive landscape. Topolia Gorge is known to locals as the “Gorge of Caves”, due to the many caves found along its route. According to local traditions, Topolia Gorges hosted fairies and the magical Minoan Goddess Vritomartis. The Ha Gorge is located on the west side of the Thrypti mountains near Vasiliki and the small village of Monastiraki. The gorge is very narrow, and the walls rise hundreds of metres. The area inside Ha Gorge is an important wildlife habitat. Crete has the best gorges every tourist needs to visit. Read article
Agios Nikolaos is a picturesque coastal town located on the northeastern part of the island of Crete in Greece. The town was built around a beautiful, deep inlet of the sea known as the Gulf of Mirabello. This natural harbour is surrounded by high cliffs and linked to the sea by a narrow channel. At the center of Agios Nikolaos is the charming Lake Voulismeni, which adds to the scenic landscape of the town. Read article
Milatos is a village located on the northern coast of Crete, Greece, 47.2 kilometers (29.33 miles) east of Heraklion and 25 kilometers (15.53 miles) from Agios Nikolaos. The village consists of the main settlement, located 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) inland, and the coastal area known as Paralia Milatou or Milatos Beach. Milatos has ties to the ancient Minoan city of Milatos, which was destroyed by the city of Lyttos in the 3rd century BC. Homer mentions Milatos as one of the Cretan towns that sent troops to fight in the Trojan War, according to legend. The best way to get to Milatos is by rental car, bus and taxi. A medium-sized rental car is the best vehicle for visiting Milatos, offering a balance of comfort, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency. Renting a car in Crete is popular among tourists and prices starting from €30 ($33, £27) per day for a medium-sized vehicle. Factors to consider when renting include insurance coverage, driver's age and gender, car type, hotel delivery, one-way rental possibility, and required documents. Read article
Istro Beach on Crete's eastern coast, 12 km (7.5 miles) southeast of Agios Nikolaos, has turquoise waters, golden sand and calm sea, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Istro Beach holds Blue Flag status, ensuring excellent water quality, safety and amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms and beachside cafes. Visitors can enjoy jet skiing, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides. Istro Beach is accessible by rental car, with nearby parking, as well as buses and taxis from towns like Agios Nikolaos. Read article
Pachia Ammos Beach, a sandy stretch on Crete's southern coast, lies near Mirthios village, 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) east of Ierapetra, 95 kilometers (59 miles) from Heraklion, and 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) east of Agios Nikolaos. This secluded beach, bordered by steep cliffs and the Libyan Sea, features soft beige sand that blends into calm blue waters. The name "Pachia Ammos" aptly refers to the beach's dense sands. Read article
Vathi Beach is a man-made beach 10 kilometers south of Agios Nikolaos in the Kritsa area of eastern Crete. Created in 2010 alongside the Daios Cove hotel, Vathi Beach is in a narrow, circular bay, well-protected from wind, resulting in calm, waveless waters ideal for swimming and families. Vathi Beach is popular for a beach experience and serves as a base for exploring Mirabello Bay's cultural and natural attractions. Vathi Beach sits in a narrow, wind-protected bay, facing east on Mirabello Bay. Vathi Beach is an artificial beach, created during the construction of the Daios Cove hotel in 2010. Vathi beach is lesser-known due to its recent creation.
What is Vathi Beach?
Vathi Beach is a man-made beach 10 kilometers south of Agios Nikolaos in the Kritsa area of eastern Crete. Created in 2010 alongside the Daios Cove hotel, Vathi Beach is in a narrow, circular bay, well-protected from wind, resulting in calm, waveless waters ideal for swimming and families. Fine white sand enhances the blue-green sea colors. Daios Cove resort organizes and maintains the beach, offering sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. While easily accessible to hotel guests, others reach the beach via a concrete path and staircase to the left of the hotel entrance. Lesser-known due to its recent creation, Vathi Beach is popular for a beach experience and serves as a base for exploring Mirabello Bay's cultural and natural attractions.
Where is Vathi Beach located?
Vathi Beach lies 10 kilometers south of Agios Nikolaos in Kritsa, Crete. Vathi Beach sits in a narrow, wind-protected bay, facing east on Mirabello Bay. Vathi Beach is an artificial beach, created during the construction of the Daios Cove hotel in 2010. The bay was filled with fine, whitish sand, enhancing the color of the clear waters. Daios Cove hotel operates and organizes the beach. Calm, wave-free waters make Vathi Beach ideal for families. Visitors can explore the rocky gulf shores with snorkeling masks.
How does the Vathi Beach Map look?
Find below an image showing the map of Vathi beach.
What are the activities in Vathi Beach?
The activities of Vathi Beach with a focus on water sports, swimming, snorkeling and enjoying the sandy shore, while also serving as a base for exploring the cultural and natural wonders of the region.
Scuba diving is available for exploring the underwater world around Vathi Beach. Snorkeling is popular, particularly along the rocky bay edges. Clear waters make snorkeling ideal for observing marine life. Jet skiing, sailing, and waterskiing rentals are also available.
Calm, waveless waters make Vathi Beach ideal for families to swim and relax. Umbrellas and beach mats are available for rent. Tamarisk trees around the beach provide natural shade.
When is the best time to visit Vathi Beach?
Summer is best time to visit Vathi Beach on a beach-focused trip, while the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall provide pleasant weather for sightseeing with fewer crowds. Winter is the quietest time but can still be enjoyable, especially if you base yourself in larger towns like Agios Nikolaos near Vathi Beach.
Summer is the most popular time to visit Crete, with hot, dry weather averaging 27.5°C to 29.5°C (81.5℉ to 85.1℉). Summer offers 9 to 12 hours of sunshine daily with minimal rainfall. Summer guarantees good weather for beach holidays, swimming, and water sports.
Spring and autumn have warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23.7°C (62.6℉ to 74.7℉). Spring and autumn offer 5 to 10 hours of sunshine daily but with a higher chance of rain than in summer. Late April to early June and September to early October are ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring with fewer crowds.
Crete’s winter is mild, wet, and blustery, with temperatures averaging 15.3°C to 17°C (59.5℉ to 62.6℉). Winter has about 4 hours of sunshine daily and a high likelihood of rain from December to February. Tourist sites, accommodations, and restaurants may reduce hours or close in winter, especially in smaller villages.
How do you get to Vathi Beach?
Vathi Beach is accessible by car, with a drive from Agios Nikolaos. From Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport in Heraklion, rent a car and take the national road along Crete's northern coast. The drive takes about an hour. Turn left before the Daios Cove hotel entrance, follow the road to nearby houses, and take the narrow street leading to staircases down to the beach.
What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?
Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete:
- Rental Cost: The cost of renting a car in Crete varies depending on the rental company, car type, and rental duration. Travelers should compare prices from different providers and consider any additional fees, such as insurance or taxes, to determine the total cost of the rental so choosing the right car to rent in Crete is crucial.
- Insurance Coverage: Travelers should carefully review the insurance options provided by the rental company when renting a car in Crete. Some companies may include basic insurance in the rental price, while others may offer additional coverage for an extra fee. Travelers should ensure adequate coverage for their needs, including liability, collision damage waiver, and theft protection.
- Driving License and Age Requirements: To rent a car in Crete, travelers must possess a valid driving license from their country of residence. Some rental companies may also require an international driving permit, especially for non-EU citizens. Most rental companies have a minimum age requirement of 21, with some imposing a surcharge for drivers under 25 or over 65.
- Car Type and Size: Travelers should consider the type and size of car that best suits their needs. Factors to consider include the number of passengers, amount of luggage, and planned itinerary. Smaller cars may be more fuel-efficient and easier to navigate on narrow roads. Larger vehicles may be more comfortable for longer journeys or accommodating more passengers and luggage.
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Rental companies in Crete offer various pickup and drop-off locations, including airports, cities, and popular tourist destinations. Travelers should choose an area convenient for their itinerary and consider any additional fees for one-way rentals or out-of-hours pickups or drop-offs.
- Road Conditions and Driving Style: Crete has a mix of modern highways and narrow, winding mountain roads. Travelers should be prepared for challenging driving conditions, especially in rural areas or peak tourist seasons when traffic is heavy. It is essential to familiarize oneself with local driving laws and customs, such as speed limits and parking regulations, to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
How much does a car hire in Crete cost?
Crete car hire costs vary by trip duration, vehicle type, rental company, and season. A week-long car rental in Crete typically costs €185 ($233, £165) to €255 ($320, £228) for an economy or compact car. Day-trip rentals usually range from €32 ($40, £29) to €46 ($58, £41) per day. Night trips or weekend rentals average €65 ($82, £58) to €93 ($117, £84) for two to three days. Economy and mini cars, like the Fiat Panda or Peugeot 208, are the most budget-friendly, often costing 7% less than other car types. These smaller vehicles are ideal for couples or solo travelers, renting for as low as €17 ($21, £15) to €19 ($24, £17) per day. Larger vehicles like SUVs or luxury cars can cost double or triple the price of an economy car. Peak season (June to August) sees higher rates, with prices potentially doubling compared to off-season. Rental Center Crete is a local car hire company in Crete that provides Premium Insurance included to all rentals.
Is Vathi Beach worth visiting?
Yes, Vathi Beach Kritsa is definitely worth visiting. Vathi is a well-protected beach in a narrow bay, 10 kilometers south of Agios Nikolaos. The bay's circular shape shields Vathi from the open sea, creating calm waters ideal for swimming and families. The beach features fine white sand and blue-green waters. Daios Cove resort organizes and maintains the beach. Vathi is ideal for snorkeling, with rocky shores and underwater caves around the bay's edges. Vathi, a man-made beach created in 2010, is lesser-known and usually less crowded than other area beaches. Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and other facilities are available. Nearby restaurants and cafes offer additional options.
Is Vathi Beach safe?
Yes, Vathi Beach is considered very safe for visitors, including families with children. The water is clear, calm, and shallow with no strong currents. Lifeguards are on duty to ensure safety. Waveless waters and a sandy shore make the beach ideal for families.
Are children permitted at Vathi Beach?
Yes, children are certainly permitted at Vathi Beach. Vathi Beach is a best beach for toddlers and well-suited for families. The beach's sheltered bay protects it from strong winds and rough waves, providing a secure setting for young swimmers. Read article
Kavros Beach is a 10 kilometres (6.21 miles) long, sandy shoreline on Crete's northern coast, situated between Rethymno and Chania. The beach is known for its fine golden sand and calm seas, making it an ideal spot for swimming and watersports. The nearby village of Kavros offers a range of accommodation, dining, and shopping options, catering to various visitor needs. Read article
Filaki Beach is one of the nudist-friendly beaches managed by Vritomartis Naturist Resort. It is located 3 km (1.86 miles) east of Chora Sfakia and 75 km (46.6 miles) south of Chania. Filaki Beach derives its name from the Greek word "filaki", which means "prison", reflecting its remote location. Read article
Mades Beach, located on the northern coast of Crete, is a pebbly beach within a bay. Mades is from the Greek word "mado" which means easily cracked rocks. Its rocky seabed, clear waters and two small islets make it a perfect place for swimming, snorkelling, beach sports and hiking. Mades Beach is located 20 kilometres (12.42 miles) northwest of Heraklion and is easily accessible by car rental, public transport or taxi. The best time to visit is during the summer months, between June and August when the weather is ideal for swimming and outdoor activities. Mades Beach has been well-preserved through environmental regulations and sustainable tourism practices. Visitors can stay at nearby hotels and enjoy dining at restaurants. Mades Beach offers free entry and is perfect for families, making it an ideal choice for a summer getaway.
What is Mades Beach?
Mades Beach is a small, pebbly beach inside a bay on the northern coast of Crete. It is located within the Gulf of Heraklion, about 20 kilometres (12.42 miles) northwest of Heraklion. Mades Beach's characteristics are the rocky seabed and two small islets. The rocky seabed is ideal for snorkelling, spearfishing and fishing due to the abundance of marine life.
Mades Beach derives its name from the Greek verb "mado", meaning "to crack easily". It refers to the unstable and easily cracked stones and rocks that compose the landscape surrounding the beach. Mades Beach's history is relatively unknown, as it remained a small fishing hamlet and summer retreat. Few permanent residents only occupy homes during the summer months, making it a protected paradise.
Where is Mades Beach located?
Mades Beach is located on the northern coast of Crete, inside the Gulf of Heraklion, 20 kilometres (12.42 miles) northwest of Heraklion and 4 kilometres (2.42 miles) from the main beach of Agia Pelagia. Mades Beach is part of Crete's Malevizi region and lies adjacent to the small coastal village of Made. Mades Beach's specific geographic coordinates are a latitude of 35.3991° North and a longitude of 25.0331° East.
How does the Mades Beach Map look?
Below is an image of the map of Mades Beach Beach.
What are the activities in Mades Beach?
Mades Beach offers 4 popular activities. These are swimming, snorkelling, beach sports and hiking. Firstly, swimming is an everyday activity in the calm, clear blue waters of Mades Beach. The beach slopes gently into the sea, making it ideal for families and children. There are strong currents of waves and lifeguards are on duty during the peak summer months for safety. Secondly, snorkelling the rocky seabed is a great activity to observe marine life. There are colourful fish and sea creatures to explore and equipment can be rented on the beach. Thirdly, beach volleyball, frisbee, soccer and other fun beach sports and games are often played in the area. The fine pebbles provide a good surface for recreational activities. Lastly, hiking the scenic coastal paths and trails near Mades Beach. The hike offers beautiful views of the sea and surrounding landscape. One popular short hike is to the two small islets located opposite the west end of the beach.
When is the best time to visit Mades Beach?
The best time to visit Mades Beach is during the summer months, between June and August. It offers moderately warm temperatures to enjoy swimming and sunshine. Mades Beach’s average temperatures range from the mid 20°C to low 30°C (70°F to low 90°F). There is minimal natural shade available, making it advisable to bring an umbrella for sun protection. Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are essential for a comfortable and safe beach experience.
How do you get to Mades Beach?
There are three ways to get to Mades Beach. These are by rental car, by public transportation and by taxi. Firstly, by rental car, renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Mades Beach. It takes around 20-25 minutes to drive there from Heraklion. Rental cars can take the main highway west towards Chania/Rethymno, exit at Ligaria/Mades and follow signs to the beach.
Secondly, by public transportation, there is no direct bus to Mades Beach. Visitors can take public transportation from Heraklion to Agia Pelagia. Visitors can ask the driver to stop at the turn-off for Mades. Lastly, by taxi, taxis from Heraklion to Mades Beach take around 30 minutes. Taxi fare is around €35 to €40 ($37 to $42, £30 to £34) each way and rice may rise in peak season.
What are nearby attractions in Mades Beach?
Listed below are the nearby attractions in Mades Beach.
- Quad Safari Peninsula. Quad Safari Peninsula is a guided ATV/quad bike tour along the rocky terrain and beaches of the Agia Pelagia peninsula near Mades Beach. Visitors can enjoy off-road riding and great views on these 2-3 hour tours. The quad tour operators are around a 5-10-minute drive inland from Mades Beach.
- Ligaria Beach. Ligaria Beach is a Blue Flag Beach near Mades Beach known for its views and calm waters. The beach is surrounded by rocky terrain, which adds to its beauty. The blue ocean makes it a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the coastline.
- Agia Pelagia Beach. Agia Pelagia Beach is a beautiful beach located 5.9 kilometres (3.6 miles) from Mades Beach. Agia Pelagia Beach is a popular spot for locals to spend a day relaxing and spending quality time with family and friends. The child-friendly beach offers water sports such as jet skiing and banana boating.
- Fodele Village. Fodele Village is a 12.9 kilometres (8.01 miles) drive from Mades Beach. Fordele is home to one of Crete’s most popular beaches, known for its clear waters, sunny weather and unique charm. The beach is a great spot for swimming, kids’ play time or just soaking up the sun.
- Knossos Palace. Knossos Palace is a significant archaeological site located near Mades Beach. Its historical significance is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The palace is a significant archaeological site near Heraklion. Knossos Palace is recognized as an outstanding example of a Minoan palace complex from the Bronze Era and holds a prominent place in Greek history.
What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?
Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.
- Insurance. Ensure the car has a Collision Damage Waiver. This insurance protects the driver from paying for the car if an accident occurs. A driver's credit or debit card, along with a valid licence, is required for rental approval.
- Driver's Age. Driver’s Age to rent a car is 21. The driver must also have held a valid driver's licence for at least 12 months. These requirements ensure that the driver has sufficient driving experience, which is important for safety.
- Car Type. Car type depends on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage when choosing a car type. Ensure the car has enough room for all passengers and luggage. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
- Documents. Secure all the necessary documents. These typically include a valid driver's licence, a credit or debit card and proof of insurance. It is advisable to check with the car rental company to confirm the required documents.
How much does a car rental in Crete cost?
Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Tourists can visit Crete's top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination and duration. Crete's average car rental price is around €30 to €40 ($32 to $42, £26 to £34) per day. A car rented for a week will cost an average of €250 ($266, £204). Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78 ($86, £67). Rental Center Crete rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers' liking. Most car rental shops in Crete provide an online booking system when customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process, book a vehicle on their website, check and secure all the requirements.
How much does it cost to get to Mades Beach?
Mades Beach does not charge an entrance or admission fee. Visitors can walk right onto the beach area without having to pay. Mades Beach's costs to consider are the transportation, food and sunbed rentals. Driving and parking your car is one of the most convenient options for the Mades Beach getaway. Parking is available right by the beach. Mades Beach's food and drinks can be purchased from the small beach bar nearby. Another option to control costs is by bringing your snack supplies and drinks.
Where to stay near Mades Beach?
Listed below are the best hotels near Mades Beach.
- Athina Palace Resort & Spa. Athina Palace Resort & Spa is a 5-star beachfront hotel above Mades Beach. It provides panoramic views overlooking Mades Beach and the Aegean Sea. The hotel is located 0.3 kilometres (0.186 miles) from the Mades Beach. This allows guests easy access to swim, sunbathe and enjoy watersports. The average price in the summer season starts around €200 ($213, £173) per night.
- Steliana's House. Steliana's House is a seaside villa that provides direct access to Mades Beach. It is a walking distance, about 1.5 kilometres (0.932 miles) from the famous Ligaria Beach. Nightly rates for Steliana's House start around €155 ($165, £134) in the high season.
- Out of the Blue Capsis Resort. Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort Hotel is a 5-star resort complex on its private peninsula in Agia Pelagia, 5.5 kilometres (3.4 miles) from Mades Beach. Surrounded by a Botanical Garden, the property is 20 minutes from the City and the International Airport of Heraklion. Room rates for Blue Capsis Elite Resort are at €212 ($227, £184) per night.
- Seaside Resort Agia Pelagia. Seaside Resort near Mades Beach is a notable accommodation option. It features air-conditioned rooms that are spacious and traditionally decorated. The resort offers several accommodations, including ocean-view rooms, non-smoking rooms, suites and family rooms. The room rate at the resort ranges from €105 to €24 ($123 to $282, £94 to £215).
- Spiros Soula Hotel. Spiros Soula Hotel is a family-run 3-star hotel located in the seaside village of Mades Beach. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers, a poolside snack bar and a buffet restaurant serving Cretan and international cuisine. Rates for a Standard Double Room in the summer season start at around €90 ($96, £78) per night, including taxes and breakfast.
Where to eat near Mades Beach?
Listed below are the best restaurants in and near Mades Beach.
- Taverna Anatoli. Taverna Anatoli is located 0.5 kilometres (0.3 miles) from Mades Beach. They serve traditional Greek signature dishes like grilled octopus, moussaka and lamb kleftiko, with average meal costs between €15 to €25 ($16 to $26, £13 to £21) per person.
- Bar BQ a la Carte Restautant. Bar BQ a la Carte Restaurant is a steakhouse and grill located 0.8 kilometres (0.49 miles) from Mades Beach. The menu offers a selection of ribeye steaks, pork chops and Greek salads for €15 to €30 ($16 to $21, £13 to £26) per person.
- Sirocco Tavern. Sirocco Tavern is located 1 kilometre (0.62 miles) in the seaside village of Ligaria and a nine-minute walk to Mades beach. Visitors can enjoy its fresh seafood, sunset views and signature dishes like sea bream and Cretan meze, with average meal prices around €20 to €35 ($21 to $37, £17 to £30) per person. Miss the MS
Is Mades Beach worth visiting?
Yes, Mades Beach is worth visiting. It is ideal for individuals searching for a peaceful beach experience. The calm, clean waters are ideal for swimming and paddling. Snorkelers can also explore the interesting rocky areas and diverse marine life. Mades Beach is easily accessible from Heraklion.
Is Mades Beach safe?
Yes, Mades Beach is a safe destination for visitors. The beach has a good safety record and the local authorities take measures to ensure the well-being of tourists. Mades Beach always follows standard safety guidelines, such as paying attention to water conditions and heeding any posted warnings or flags regarding swimming conditions.
Do you need to book in advance to visit Mades Beach?
No, visitors do not need to book in advance to visit Mades Beach. It is a public beach, like most of the best beaches in Crete. Visitors can typically access the beach freely without the need for reservations. Mades Beach is relatively secluded and less crowded on the northern coast of Crete.
Are children permitted at the Mades Beach?
Yes, children are permitted at Mades Beach, as it is one of the most well-known beaches for kids and toddlers in Crete. Visitors must supervise their children closely, especially in or near the water. Mades Beach is best for families to relax and enjoy nature. Responsible parenting and safety precautions are always essential when visiting with children.
How was the preservation of Mades Beach?
Mades Beach has been well preserved over the years due to laws protecting its natural environment. Mades Beach's preservation method limits tourist crowds and man-made structures to prevent overuse and habitat disruption. Standard practices like waste management, wildlife protections and activity regulations allow enjoying the area sustainably. Maintaining a moderate number of visitors is the most effective method to uphold the peaceful atmosphere of Mades Beach. General Greek and EU environmental regulations restrict pollution, development and wildlife disturbances and enforce standard sustainable tourism practices to help keep Mades Beach's beauty. Read article
