If you’re looking for beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters for your vacation this year, we have found the perfect destination for you. Agia Pelagia is a picturesque seaside village just a stone’s throw from Heraklion, Crete. With its beaches being its hallmark, Agia Pelagia is sure to relax and rejuvenate you. Let’s see why you should choose it for your vacation!
#1: Pristine Beaches
Agia Pelagia offers beaches to suit all tastes. Right in front of the village, opposite the cafes and tavernas, is the main beach. Here you can enjoy your coffee while lounging on the sunbeds and, when it gets hot, take a dip in the turquoise waters to cool off. Take a walk to the “cave of discovery,” where years ago the icon of Agia Pelagia was found, giving the village its name. Today you will find a small shrine there, commemorating this discovery.
If you are looking for a quieter and more unorganized beach, head to Filakes: a narrow beach with fine sand in a tiny cove, accessed by descending a small cliff. In Agia Pelagia, you can also find pebble beaches, such as Psaromoura, where there is an organized canteen. On its northern part, a large rock with many holes serves as a natural barrier against the waves. If you are looking for a bit of adventure, choose Vlychada: the unique aspect of this beach is that you reach it by swimming!
#2: Savvathiana Monastery
Just outside Agia Pelagia, in a lush area at an altitude of 440 meters, stands the Savvathiana Monastery. During the Venetian period, it was the most powerful monastery in the area. Through a beautiful path, you reach the monastery, which is known for its architecture and its views. You can take a guided tour to learn more about its long history.
#3: Minoan Palace of Knossos
You definitely should not miss a visit to the Minoan Palace of Knossos, as it is only 25 kilometers from Agia Pelagia. It is the largest Minoan palace in Crete, and also the longest-lasting, operating from 1900 to 1300 BC. It stands out for its labyrinthine architecture and grandeur. Here ruled King Minos, and according to mythology, the fearsome Minotaur lived in the Labyrinth.
#4: Hiking Trails
Agia Pelagia, Heraklion, is a great choice for those who prefer hiking adventures. At the chapel of Agia Pelagia, you can find the E4 path, which will lead you to the chapel of Timios Stavros. You will surely stop for a moment to admire the view towards the Lassithi Plateau and then continue towards the Katharo Plateau. Reaching the village of Avdeliako, you will find a few small taverns open in the summer months, offering traditional dishes.
#5: Boat Tours
If you prefer the sea, in the bay of Agia Pelagia, you can take a boat to tour the surrounding area. Explore beaches that are not accessible by road, dive into the crystal-clear waters, and relax while enjoying the sunset.
#6: Time for Diving
For the more adventurous, scuba diving is the ideal choice! Take a day trip to explore the depths of Crete by diving from the boat. Whether you are a beginner or not, you will surely have much to discover!
#6+1: Cretan Flavors
Agia Pelagia, Heraklion, will surprise you with its small shops. Here you will find small taverns and restaurants to try the famous Cretan cuisine. Besides traditional dishes, there are, of course, options for fans of international cuisine.
Agia Pelagia, Heraklion: A Small Paradise
The picturesque village of Agia Pelagia will enchant you with its beaches and hidden secrets. That’s why Fast Ferries quickly and comfortably takes you to Heraklion, which is just a breath away from Agia Pelagia. What are you waiting for? Book your ticket now and discover Agia Pelagia up close!
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