About Crete
Crete is the largest and one of the most populous islands in Greece, one of the country’s 13 administrative regions, the 88th largest island in the world, and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It consists of four prefectures: Chania, Rethimnon, Heraklion and Lasithi. The island, lying approximately 160 km (99 mi) south of the Greek mainland, with its elongated shape, is a combination of beautiful beaches, imposing mountain ranges, fertile valleys and steep gorges. It is surrounded by the Cretan Sea to the north and by the Libyan Sea to the south.
Crete is an important part of Greece’s economy and cultural heritage, while preserving its own local cultural features. It is also famous for its rich gastronomic culture.
About Heraklion
Heraklion is the largest urban area of Crete, with approximately 175,000 inhabitants, as well as the island’s administrative, economic, and commercial center. It is the fourth largest city in Greece.
The city combines many attractive features, such as natural beauty, warm weather, strategic position, and cultural heritage.
About Hersonissos
Just 25 km (16 mi) east of Heraklion, Hersonissos is the most cosmopolitan place of Crete. The seaside town port of Hersonissos is quite busy all year round. Half of the shops and hotels are open throughout the year, in contrast to the rest of Crete, where many hotels and restaurants are open only during the tourist season of April-October.
The city of Hersonissos consists of several small villages and the main tourist destinations of Port Hersonissos, Anissaras and Old Hersonissos. These villages are Koutouloufari, Piscopiano, Anissaras, Potamies, Avdou, Gonies and Kera.
The variety and extent of Hersonissos’ coastline make it possible for bathers to enjoy an infinite number of different places to swim, all of them lapped by warm, crystal clear water.
The harbor of Hersonissos is famous for its night life, as there are many bars, restaurants and taverns next to the beach. Daily cruises are also organized by various travel agents, to the neighboring island of Dia and many other small islets and beaches in the area.
