Hotels in Heraklion

Tucked away between two craggy peninsulas on Corfu’s northwest coast, you’ll discover the laid-back seaside escape of Arillas. This quiet village has a golden beach that stretches over almost 2km, and it’s also one of the finest spots in the region to experience water sports. You can refuel at one of the vibrant beach bars that run along the sand, or head to a waterfront taverna for a taste of real Greek cuisine. Ideal for families, the resort is close to the popular local water park and is a perfect spot for sailing trips. 

Things to do

Holidays here are all about fun and relaxation. Start by soaking up Corfu’s Mediterranean climate with a day at the beach; it’s easy to find a spot along the 2km sweep. If you’re feeling energetic, why not give wakeboarding a go? Or book a diving excursion through the crystal-clear water. There’s plenty to do with little ones, too. Corfu Town (the island capital) is a popular place for sailing excursions out to sea, or you can jump on the bus to the Hydropolis Water Park to spend a day riding the slides. When the sun goes down, spend the balmy evenings dining at a family-run taverna on the waterfront, or sipping spicy ouzo in a local bar. 

Excellent beaches

Arillas is blessed with a two kilometre stretch of golden sand that shelves gently into shallow, clear and turquoise water. Magnificent cliffs, thick green hills and olive groves become the backdrop to the calming Blue Flag beach. From the shores you can see quaint little islands in the distance over the water, making the view that little bit more picturesque.

Meditation and community

Arillas is renowned for its lush landscapes and peaceful atmosphere and is humming with positive energy. There’s a very active community in Arillas that keep the streets clean and the nature thriving. Join in with local meditation sessions or yoga retreats to soak up the positive energy in Arillas’ restful setting.

Vibrant nightlife

Don’t let the remote location of Arillas fool you. At night the small resort comes alive as bars open, home brewed beer flows and the music begins. The nightlife can be found on the main streets where many bars offer entertainment like karaoke, quiz nights and even traditional Greek dancing.

Malibu Bar is a popular choice amongst visitors and is one of the more contemporary bars in the area. Enter to a warm welcome, drink cocktails under palm trees and muse over the delightful pond that is home to small turtles. Another great watering hole is the Coconut Bar that also shows sports, serves delicious cocktails and hosts a variety of live music in the evenings.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Athens | Corfu | Crete | Halkidiki | Kassiopi | Kavos | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Lefkas | Lesbos | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Parga | Rhodes | Roda | Santorini | Sidari | Skiathos | Skopelos | Zante 

If you want to enjoy the quieter side of Crete, Rethymnon might be the perfect place for your next getaway. For families, there are over 10km of sandy, sun-kissed beaches, which shelve gently into sapphire-blue waters. For couples and those who want to immerse themselves in the area’s history and culture, the old town offers colourful and narrow backstreets, a bustling Venetian harbour, and an imposing fortress. The harbour is where you’ll find the best restaurants, offering superb views of spectacular sunsets, and a few bars and clubs for those who want to kick their heels up. Explore spectacular subterranean caves, dip a toe into the past with a visit to the nearby Minoan tombs, or browse one of the busy markets. Whatever you want from your downtime, booking your holiday here allows you to make your break just what you want it to be.

Things to do

Whether you’re travelling with friends, family or as a couple, you’ll find plenty of things to do on your holidays to Rethymnon. The old town is a beautiful backdrop against which to admire the impressive Renaissance architecture or to explore the markets tucked away amongst the cobbled streets and squares. For leisurely dining or a laid-back drink while you watch the sunset, make your way to the Venetian harbour, which is also where you’ll find the best nightlife.

The inviting sands and crystal-clear waters of Rethymnon Beach are just a short walk from your hotel and the ideal place to catch some rays or get involved in some white-knuckle water sports.

Perfect for exploring

The intricate detail to the dominating Venetian architecture gives anyone with a passion for walking an opportunity to take in some real sights as you explore the city. Marvel at these attractive buildings as you wander along the city’s quaint, cobbled streets. En route, you’ll discover authentic Greek restaurants with tasty food and friendly locals, as well as unique shops selling gifts and souvenirs to remind you of your Rethymnon holiday.

History and culture

The island of Crete boasts an exciting history that to this day, has people wanting to delve deeper into it and find out more. The ancient charm of Rethymnon is no different and you’ll find it difficult not to admire. You won’t have far to go to discover something else to explore: just a simple stroll down the bustling narrow streets will lead you to old churches, Renaissance architecture and the city’s famous ancient fortress.

Stunning scenery

For anyone who enjoys inspiring views, Rethymnon will not disappoint as the area has been blessed with some exceptional scenery, both man-made and natural. From the fascinating Arkardi Monastery to the Kotsifou Gorge, each day of your holiday will contain countless breathtaking moments, perfect for getting some memorable holiday snaps.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Aghios Nikolaos | Athens | Corfu | Crete | Elounda | Halkidiki | Heraklion | Hersonissos | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Lefkas | Lesbos | Malia | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Parga | Rhodes | Santorini | Skiathos | Skopelos | Stalis | Thassos | Zante 

Located on the north-east coast of Crete, Stalis started out as a small, fishing village. However, once the world got wind of its white, powder-soft beach, the spectacularly sunny climate and the fantastic food, it blossomed into one of the island’s most popular holiday hotspots.

Today, Stalis is a fabulous fusion of old-school Cretan charm and modern, tourist-friendly bars and restaurants, making it very popular with British families and couples looking to enjoy a fun-filled holiday.

You’ll find a good range of attractions nearby: golfers will enjoy the superb setting and the challenging courses at the Crete Golf Club, while families can easily spend a day at the popular Acqua Plus water park. With plenty of shopping and things to do, booking your holidays to Stalis allows you to make your break just what you want it to be.

Things to do

With a bustling promenade, superb examples of Venetian architecture and a sumptuous, sun-kissed beach, this destination has been attracting families and couples to its gently-shelving shores for decades. While it’s not as lively as resorts such as Malia, you’ll find there are plenty of things to do on your Stalis holiday. If you’re travelling with children, be sure to make a day of it at the Acqua Plus waterpark, Crete’s largest water park and packed with dozens of slides and swimming pools. If you’ve any fans of the five-iron in your party, be sure to pay a visit to the Crete Golf Club, home to the island’s only 18-hole golf course.

Excellent beaches

Stalis is in a great location as it’s near to several sandy beaches. Its very own Stalis beach has lovely clean, white sand that slopes into shallow, warm, waters. Spending a whole day by the beach is easy as there are lots of things to do, including exhilarating water sports and several bars and restaurants close by.

History and culture

Much like the rest of Crete, tourism in Stalis grew dramatically in the 1980s. It was the beach that first gained attention from holidaymakers, because of the white sand and beautiful views of fishing boats on the horizon. In fact, today the coastal road holds the most activity in Stalis, with many shops, hotels, bars and tavernas lining the area. Stalis is quieter than its neighbouring resorts, which makes it particularly favourable for families. But travelling to Hersonissos and Malia is easy enough if you are in need of a wilder night out.

Vibrant nightlife

Whatever you’re after, Stalis has a unique range of after dark activities. Unwind in stylish cocktail bars or be entertained by live acts in the lively Irish pubs. Be puzzled in a pub quiz and watch a film at the little cinema, after eating at the large selection of tavernas situated along the waterfront.

Shopping

Stalis has lots of shops selling everything you could need for a beach holiday; so don’t worry if you forget your sun cream or even your swimsuit. Keep the kids entertained for hours with the inflatables, buckets and spades available too. You can pick up bargains from a range of boutiques, or buy one-of-a-kind, handmade jewellery from the resident goldsmiths working at the fantastic jewellers. Other shops and stalls sell all kinds of local products, from pottery and linen to olive oil, herbs and spices.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Aghios Nikolaos | Athens | Corfu | Crete | Elounda | Halkidiki | Heraklion | Hersonissos | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Lefkas | Lesbos | Malia | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Parga | Rethymnon | Rhodes | Santorini | Skiathos | Skopelos | Thassos | Zante