Aghia Pelaghia holidays

Aghia Pelagia holidays land you close to hidden coves, and put you within easy reach of Crete’s capital, Heraklion.

Beach and city combo

This sleepy seaside fishing village sets you up nicely for beach days, and livelier trips into the city are a breeze, too. Aghia Pelagia is plotted right in the middle of Crete – just 35 minutes’ drive from Heraklion – and you’re within walking distance of the main beach and lots of smaller coves and creeks. The centre of the village takes things slowly. You can mosey around boutiques, pop into cafés, and tuck in to colourful Cretan mezze platters at traditional tavernas.

Secluded coves

You’ve got plenty of choice when it comes to beaches – especially if you like a more secluded number. There are about nine you can walk to, not including all the hidden coves that are only reachable by boat. The best known is Aghia Pelagia bay – this is the main beach, it’s long and narrow, with biscuit-coloured sand and calm tides. It’s also a great snorkelling spot – keep your eyes peeled for stingrays, octopus and scorpion fish. Another smaller one worth a mention is Flyakes Beach – it’s backed by cacti and gardens that cancel out any nearby noise.

Close to the capital

This place is a 35-minute drive from Heraklion, so it’s worth pencilling time in for a trip to Crete’s capital. Wandering around the Old Town will give you a feel of the local culture, and you’ll get to see the 16th-century Koules Fortress that sits near the entrance of Heraklion’s port. It looks like a sandcastle floating on the sea. Plus, you can climb to the top for views looking back to the city and across the Aegean Sea. History buffs will want to head to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, too. It’s one of the oldest in Greece and it houses a unique Minoan collection of artefacts.