Explore the Soul of Crete
Stalis & Beyond
STALIS
YOUR SEASIDE SANCTUARY
Stalis is an idyllic seaside area set between Heraklion and Lasithi prefectures, just half an hour from Heraklion city, the airport, and Agios Nikolaos. It’s a wonderful spot for those who want to unwind by the beach but also have the freedom to explore Crete’s northern and eastern sides. Visitors can discover nearby traditional villages, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, visit hidden beaches, and experience the authentic spirit of Crete.
It is a perfect destination for couples, families, and anyone seeking relaxation and inner peace. The area is quiet and charming, with a beautiful coastline offering golden sands and crystal-clear waters. At the same time, Stalis provides everything a visitor might need during their vacation; restaurants serving local cuisine, cafés, small shops, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Cretan hospitality.
VIBRANT NIGHTS, TIMELESS DAYS
Between the energy of nightlife and the calm of history, Malia and Hersonissos offer two sides of Crete in one unforgettable stop.
Malia
Malia is a small coastal town near Stalis, known for its striking contrasts between lively nightlife and rich history. It offers visitors the chance to experience two sides of Crete in one destination. By night, the beach road buzzes with energy, lined with nightclubs, pubs, and seaside restaurants. Guests can dance until dawn or relax with a cocktail by the sea. By day, Malia reveals a calmer atmosphere with long beaches ideal for swimming and unwinding. The nearby archaeological site of Malia, beside Potamos Beach, showcases one of Crete’s largest and best-preserved Minoan settlements, proudly standing among UNESCO’s treasured monuments. The area also features scenic coastal trails toward Sissi, highlighting the island’s natural beauty. In the old town, narrow streets, stone houses, and traditional tavernas invite visitors to slow down and enjoy authentic Cretan life.
Insider tip: Malia is also known for its local produce especially bananas and potatoes. Keep an eye out for locals selling their fresh harvest right outside their homes, a simple yet heartwarming taste of everyday Cretan life.
Hersonissos
Traveling east from Heraklion before Stalis, Hersonissos blends modern rhythm with ancient echoes. Once a historic harbor, today it is a vibrant seaside destination. The bustling seafront offers everything from traditional tavernas to stylish beach bars. At night, the town transforms with lively music, clubs, and pubs. Yet, history remains; ruins of the old city lie scattered along the coast, tracing layers from Minoan to Roman times. Perfectly balancing comfort and authenticity, Hersonissos invites you to swim in clear waters, explore local shops, and dine beneath the stars.
Insider tip: Take a detour to the small beach of Limanakia a hidden gem tucked between rocky coves. Its crystal clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim, and if you bring your snorkeling mask, you’ll discover an underwater world teeming with color and life.
TRADITION ABOVE THE SEA
Koutouloufari & Piskopiano
Just above Hersonissos, nestled on the slopes, lie Koutouloufari and Piskopiano. These two villages blend seamlessly, offering a graceful mix of stone lanes and timeless charm. Here, the rhythm slows, perfect for those seeking an authentic escape from the crowds below. Traditional stone houses and flowering courtyards maintain their unique character. Wander the cobbled paths to discover charming restaurants and bars. Savor local delicacies or a cocktail while admiring the panoramic view stretching down to the sea—a stunning meeting of the island’s traditional heart and vibrant coast.
Insider tip: During the summer months, keep an ear out for the Cretan music nights organized by the regional community. These evenings, filled with live lyra music and dancing, offer a true glimpse into the island’s spirit.
Mochos Village
Just a 20 minute ride from Stalis, Mochos village is located at an altitude of 400 meters, offering a panoramic view of Stalis and Hersonissos. Mochos is an ideal place for those wanting to experience the tranquility and authenticity of a Cretan village. From its traditional architecture to the tavernas with home cooked food, Mochos takes you back to simpler times, when life was slower, but richer. For active travelers, Mochos offers multiple routes for cycling, while you can also hike from Stalis to Mochos through an uphill trail that offers panoramic sea and mountain views.
Do not miss! No matter how calm a village in Crete is, there is always space for some glénti (traditional feast). Every Wednesday evening during the summer, the central square of Mochos fills with Cretan music and traditional dancing – a perfect opportunity to drink some rakí with a local.
Lasithi Plateau
Continuing from Mochos, you’ll reach the Lasithi Plateau, a fertile plain encircled by timeless, picturesque villages. It is known for its white windmills and the mythical Diktaion Andro Cave, said to be the birthplace of Zeus. Sip a Greek coffee at a local kafeneio or explore the surroundings via a network of hiking and cycling routes.
Insider tip:
Keep an eye out for locals selling freshly picked fruit and vegetables along the roadside, a delicious way to taste the true flavors of Crete, straight from the land.
Sfendyli village
Next to the village of Avdou lies Sfendyli, a beautiful settlement now resting within the waters of the artificial lake formed by the Aposelemis Dam, built to meet the water and irrigation needs of northeastern Crete. As a result of the dam’s construction, Sfendyli’s residents were forced to abandon their homes, which gradually sank beneath the surface. Today, Sfendyli remains a powerful symbol of memory and resilience, quietly reminding us of our roots and what grounds us.
Insider tip:
Look for the church of Agios Theodoros and take a walk around its haunting remains. It’s a powerful reminder that, no matter how far we drift, we always find our way back to our roots.
Milatos
Just fifteen minutes east of Malia lies Milatos, a peaceful fishing village where life moves to the rhythm of the waves, with seaside tavernas serving fresh catch from the Cretan Sea. Sit by the water with a glass of local wine, and swim at the small pebble beaches shaded by tamarisk trees. Above the village, the historic Milatos Cave offers a place of quiet reflection and natural beauty. Once a refuge during the Ottoman occupation, the cave stands as a reminder of Crete’s enduring strength and spirit.
Insider tip:
Look for the whitewashed chapel of Agios Konstantinos, with the small Andreas Cave just behind it, once a shelter for fishermen. It’s a quiet place to pause, listen to the sea, and feel the timeless calm that makes Milatos special.