From the house in Kritsa as mentioned it’s a short walk to tavernas, shops, cafes, small supermarkets, pharmacy, hairdresser, bus stop, taxi rank. Stop and have a cool drink, a coffee or a glass of wine and watch the world go by.

Whether you want a stroll or a strenuous hike the location has it all. From the house you can walk Kritsa gorge, walk through the
olive groves to see the famous frescoes at Aghios Panagia Kera. There are numerous trails without using the car including the Minoan path to Katharo plateau high above Kritsa. If you are into walking as we are; I have countless fantastic walks in the the area waiting for you, taking you off the beaten track, with unbeatable views.

There are 13 churches in Kritsa alone, although it’s just a village. Kritsa is rich in history and has 2 museums, 1 dedicated to Rodanthi the high Priest’s daughter who was kidnapped by the Turks and fought as a man, both museums are close to our house.

We are 10 minutes drive to around 8 beaches, Alymros, Ammoudi, Ammoudara, Karavoustasi, Volisima being our favourites. Beautiful Aghios Nikolaus around 10 minutes drive away has 4 beaches of its own. The blue sea at Volisima is sublime and we know a little cove that only the locals know about, we call it Fisherman’s Cove. The beaches cover everyone’s preferences and we can give you recommendations accordingly. At our closest beach Alymros there is Blue River which is a free pool bar if you prefer a swimming pool. For the children Star City resort has a free water park with pools and slides around 35 minutes away, our Grandchildren absolutely loved it, there is an aquarium and another water park near Hearklion. Teenagers can play pool/snooker, darts and video games at the Alexandros cafe in Kritsa.

Archeological sites abound. In walking distance is the Dorik ruins of Lato (don’t miss a visit), Knossos near Heraklion has restored Minoan ruins, Gournia 15 miles away is an unrestored Minoan city and you can visit Spinalonga Island which was a former leper colony, made famous by the book named The Island by Victoria Hislop. These are but a few of the sites local to us.

There are often cultural events and celebrations from the Greek Orthodox Church calendar held in both Kritsa and Aghios Nikolaus. Community events are held in Kritsa behind the school, if they happen during your stay you will be assured a welcome and be encouraged to join in the festivities and dancing.

Aghios Nikolaus the town nearby is very picturesque, it’s great for shopping, eating, and chilling out with a drink overlooking the lake. Here you will find art exhibitions, cultural events, theatre and visiting musicians, keep an eye out for posters or I can give the Facebook page for information.