Welcome to Eleonas country village
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- NowΚΡΗΤΙΚΗ ΒΡΑΔΙΑ ΤΗΝ ΤΡΙΤΗ 11,08,2026
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Like a local
Your host's personal picks. Beaches, taverns and small tips, the way a friend would tell you.



Kommos Beach



Kommos Beach
Distance from Eleonas: ≈ 29 km (~35 min) The beach is quiet and sandy, home to nesting loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) from May to September. The beach is not organized — no sunbeds or parasols are available — so bring your own shade if needed. We recommend the left side of Kommos beach, near the Bunga Bunga tavern, where access to the water is easier and there are fewer rocks when entering.



Red Tower



Red Tower
A lovely family-friendly sandy beach located west of Tymbaki. This organized beach offers sunbeds, umbrellas, seaside taverns, and easy access with parking. The waters are shallow and calm, ideal for children and relaxed swimming. It’s generally less crowded than nearby Matala or Kommos, making it a peaceful alternative for families.



Red Sand Path



Red Sand Path
Reached by a scenic 25-minute walk, this beach features reddish sand, tranquility, and a relaxed, nudism-friendly atmosphere. Ideal for sunset views and snorkeling. RED BEACH • Sea water color: Blue, Green • Sand type: Sand • Depth: Normal • Sea surface: Usually wavy • Crowds: Normal • Facilities: Food / water nearby, Umbrellas / beds • Nudism friendly



Matala



Matala
Distance from Eleonas: ≈ 30 km (~40 min) Once a Roman port and later a 1960s hippie haven, Matala offers a lively beach scene, carved cliffside caves, and spectacular sunsets. The beach is well-organized with sunbeds, lifeguards, beach bars, taverns, and even a small local market. It is ideal for families, couples, and those who enjoy vibrant seaside life. Don’t miss a visit to the famous caves carved into the cliffs — a unique combination of nature and history.



Kalamaki Beach



Kalamaki Beach
Distance from Eleonas: ≈ 30 km (~40 min) Family friendly & organized: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, lifeguards, a small playground, and water sports services. Clear, shallow waters near shore, turning deeper further out; seabed has smooth bedrock that can be slippery. Watch your step: underwater rocks near the shore may be slippery. 🐢 Nature & Wildlife A recognized nesting site for loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) between May and September. Visitors are kindly asked to respect turtle nests and avoid nighttime disturbances.



Lentas



Lentas
Lentas: A laid-back seaside village with roots reaching back to antiquity. Relax on its quiet, organized beaches with parasols and sunbeds, enjoy freshly caught seafood at the local tavernas, and, if you are lucky, observe the nesting sea turtles. 📍 Distance from Eleonas Country Village: approx. 38 km – about 57 minutes by car.



Trachoulas Beach



Trachoulas Beach
Located about 4 km east of Lentas, this secluded beach lies at the exit of a small canyon on Cape Trafoulas (or Trahilas). To reach it, drive from Lentas harbour (Loutra) toward Krotos village. After about 500 meters, you’ll see a small gorge on your right — this marks the beginning of the hiking trail. Park your car and follow the trail for around 15–20 minutes to reach the beach. Expect complete seclusion, dramatic scenery, and refreshing crystal-clear waters.



Agiofarago Beach



Agiofarago Beach
Continue by car from Moni Odigitria. A secluded, spiritual gorge once used by early Christian hermits. Towering vertical cliffs, caves, and a narrow footpath lead to a stunning beach. Hike from point A (1h 10min) or from point B (30min walk after bumpy road). (see our road map) Don’t park under trees: goats may climb your car roof to eat! The beach features crystal-clear waters, fine pebbles, and a natural sea arch. Bring water and snacks—no taverns nearby. Sea water color: Deep blue Sand type: Fine Pebbles Depth: Deep Accessibility: Dirt track, Walking Sea surface: Usually calm Crowds: Normal Other Information: Ideal for snorkeling / spearfishing, Rock shade

Za.Rou's Creperie!

Za.Rou's Creperie!



Zaros Lake



Zaros Lake



Monastery of Saint Anthony of Vrontisi



Monastery of Saint Anthony of Vrontisi



Archaeological Museum of Messara



Archaeological Museum of Messara

Gortyna

Gortyna

Phaistos

Phaistos


Archaeological Site of Agia Triada


Archaeological Site of Agia Triada



Kamihis Farm House Experience



Kamihis Farm House Experience
Pharmacy Emm. Il. Makrygiannakis
Pharmacy Emm. Il. Makrygiannakis
Super Market Chalkiadakis max
Super Market Chalkiadakis max
The Garden greengrocery Zaros
The Garden greengrocery Zaros
CrediaBank ATM
CrediaBank ATM
Central Parking Heraklion
Central Parking Heraklion
Tympaki KTEL Station
Tympaki KTEL Station
Parking Area OLI P1
Parking Area OLI P1
Parking Port Temporary
Parking Port Temporary
Moires Health Center
Moires Health Center
University General Hospital of Heraklion
University General Hospital of Heraklion
Routes
Choose by the time you have
A stroll, up to one hour
Good for the late afternoon too
Olive Grove, Lake, Olive Grove2.2 km · 45 minutes · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: Roman spring, path with aromatic herbs, and the lake of Zarou. Blue marking.
Half a day
Set off in the morning, back for lunch
Walking to Vrontissi Monastery6.5 km · 2 hours · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: A easy hiking trail that starts from Eleonas Country Village and passes between ancient olive trees and carob trees, leading to Vrontissi Monastery. The monastery is dedicated to Saint Anthony.
Elaionas, Zaros, Lake, Elaionas4.2 km · 1 hour and 15 minutes · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: The village of Zaros and its lake.
Neos Elaionas, Palios Zaros, Zaros, Elaionas7.4 km · 2 hours and 20 minutes · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: The old settlement of Zaros and the village. Green and white signage.
Saint Euthymios Monastery8.6 km · 3 hours · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: Zaros Lake, the monastery inside the cave, and panoramic view. Yellow marking.
Παλιό χωριό Δροσοί, Αγία Άννα9.1 km · 3 ώρες · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: Η λίμνη του Ζαρού, περπάτημα ανάμεσα σε πανάρχαιες ελιές, το παλιό χωριό Δροσοί και ο Ζαρός. Σήμανση καφέ.
The ancient olives, from Panagia7.4 km · 2 hours and 30 minutes · Moderate
Your host's tip: The villages of Panagia, Paliama, and Fari, and the 3000-year-old olives. Red marking.
Faneromeni Dam, from Lalouma8 km · 2 hours and 40 minutes · Moderate
Your host's tip: The village of Lalouma and walking around the Faneromeni Dam, with birdwatching points. Grey signage.
Φαράγγι Απολύχνου8 km · 2 ώρες και 20 λεπτά · Moderate
Your host's tip: Στενή κοιλάδα δίπλα σε ποτάμι που καταλήγει στο παλιό χωριό Απόλυχνος. Ο δρόμος είναι ασφαλτοστρωμένος. Σήμανση κόκκινη και λευκή.
Paridokefala12.8 km · 3 hours · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: Walk through the village of Zaros and among the olive groves, with panoramic views from the top at Paridokefala. Blue marking.
A full day
Bring water, a hat and good shoes
The gorge of Agios Nikolaos or Gafaris10.5 km · 4-5 hours · Demanding
Your host's tip: This is a relatively demanding route. It is advisable to bring enough water and food, and very importantly, suitable hiking shoes.
Neo Mesochori, Palios Zaros, Zaros, Elaionas14.4 km · 3 hours and 40 minutes · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: The old settlement, the old Zaros, and the village. Green and white signage.
The ancient olive trees, from the Olive Grove19.5 km · 5 hours and 20 minutes · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: Zaros Lake, the villages of Nivritos, Panagia, Paliama, and the 3000-year-old olive trees. Brown and red signage.
Faneromeni Dam, from Zaros15 km · 4 hours and 30 minutes · ModerateStarts at our door
Your host's tip: Walking around the Faneromeni dam, with birdwatching points. Gray signage.
Samaria Refuge19.6 km · 6 hours · Demanding
Your host's tip: The Vrontisi Monastery, walking through a pine forest, and the Samaria refuge with stunning panoramic views. Marking is black and white.
Services
Small comforts I can arrange for you.
Local experiences
Olive Oil and Olive Tasting at the Olive Grovefrom €25 per personBook 24h aheadLocalOlive tasting with Cretan gastronomy. A complete tasting experience lasting one hour. Duration: 60 minutes Tasting: 3 selected extra virgin olive oils Price: €30 per person Minimum: 2 participants
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Wine Tasting at Eleonas Country Villagefrom €30 per personLocalJoin us every Thursday afternoon at 5:00 PM on our beautiful terrace for a curated Cretan Wine Tasting ✅ A guided tasting of 5 local wines, carefully selected from the best vineyards in Crete ✅ A tasting plate of traditional Cretan cheeses, perfectly paired with each wine ✅ A warm, welcoming atmosphere with stunning mountain views. Price: €30 per person. Reservations are required. A minimum of 4 participants is needed to open a tasting on other days, please let us know your preference and we will do our best to arrange it.
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Cretan Farm - Experience Life as a Farmer!from €45 per person- Visit the animals on the farm. • Knead and bake bread in the wood-fired oven. • Milk and make fresh cheese. • Cut fresh vegetables from the farm. • Enjoy your lunch at the farm with local products. COST PER PERSON Adults: €45 - Child: €35
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TRUFFLE HUNTING IN THE ROUVA FORESTfrom €170 per personLocalFor a truly unique experience, join a truffle hunt in the Cretan countryside. With trained dogs and local guides, discover how truffles are found while enjoying nature, walking, and local gastronomy. Available daily for groups of 2-8 people. Reservations: +30 698 043 0398 / +30 697 801 3673 trufflehunter.crete@gmail.com www.trufflehunter.gr
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Sailing from Heraklion to Dia Islandfrom €80 per personSailing from Heraklion to Dia Island and exploring crystal-clear waters with snorkeling gear, trying stand-up paddleboarding, and relaxing with All Inclusive drinks and a traditional Mediterranean meal. 6-hour cruise. - All Inclusive Meal & Drinks
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