The tourist resort of Hersonissos in Crete is a versatile place for a holiday. Situated just half an hour from Heraklion and the island's main airport, the resort is a lively mix of the cosmopolitan and traditional. The small villages of Koutoulafari, Piskopiano and Ano Hersonissos with their cobbled streets and spectacular views perched on the mountain behind the more modern beachfront resort add to the appeal of the area.
Hersonissos Attractions
Hersonissos is the largest tourist resort in Crete and caters for families as well as couples, singles and groups. There are three water parks in and around the resort which are guaranteed to keep children and adolescents happy. The Star Beach Water Park is just outside the main resort and features bungee jumping, water sports, rides,and kiddies pools and games. Best of all, entrance to the park is free. AquaPlus and WaterCity are a short car ride away and offer more rides but there is an entrance fee.
At the other end of Hersonissos, the Aquaworld aquarium, which many people visit more than once during their stay, focuses on rescuing marine animals and reptiles. Its hands-on approach means visitors can have close contact with the animals so if you fancy a snake wrapped around your shoulders, here is your chance.
The Cretaquarium, one of the largest aquariums in Europe and a ten minute drive away, is dedicated to the inhabitants of the Mediterranean Sea. It's modern virtual approach makes for a fascinating visit. Another type of museum, Lychnostatis, is an open air museum dedicated to Cretan folk tradition and heritage which takes the visitor back in time to a more traditional lifestyle when tourism was non-existent.
Hersonissos Accommodation
Visitors are well-catered for in terms of accommodation. Most tourists arrive on the island on package holidays with their accommodation already picked out and paid for. These may be all-inclusive hotels, full or half board arrangements, self-catering apartments and studios or a room. For the independent traveller, a place to stay is easy to find in low season but in high season, they may have to look a little further out of town. That may be to their advantage, however, as this would also mean things are a bit quieter.
Prices vary according to the season, type of accommodation and facilities. As a very broad idea, in low season - May, September and October- an apartment costs about 30 euros whereas in high season - mid June, July, mid August- the price goes up to about 40-45 euros. You can,of course, pay a lot more depending on how luxurious you would like to go.
You can find a 3 star hotel room in the centre of Hersonissos for 2 people for 550 euros for two weeks in June and a 4 star hotel for 4 people for 3000 euros.There is no rule,however, as prices also depend on demand, location, amenities and star rating.
Hersonissos Nightlife
The resort is sleepy and laid back during the day but this all changes once night falls. Most of the nightlife is centered around the beach road and the multi-colored lights reflecting in the water add to the holiday ambiance. Neon signs compete with more subtle signposting and air-conditioned nightclubs,dancing bars, intimate corners and foreign pubs vie for attention. The fun lasts until early morning and once a favorite is found, that's usually the 'steki' or hangout for the duration.
The fun is not limited to the resort itself. Hersonissos is serviced by an efficient public transport system in the form of local buses which go east and west and there are many places to see. Car hire is also a good idea for the more adventurous and independent traveller. All in all, a holiday in Hersonissos is sure to be a success.
Marlene de Wilde - Marlene has a BA in journalism and psychology. She teaches English as a Second Language in Crete.
