Limin Hersonissos, or Hersonissos, is located 25 km east of the city of Heraklion and is the largest tourist resort in Crete. From a simple coastal settlement in the 60s, it has evolved, within a few decades, into one of the most well-known, cosmopolitan, tourist centers of Crete, Greece and the entire Mediterranean.
The main driving force behind the development of the area was the beautiful, calm beaches of the area and the foresight of businessmen of the time who saw the potential of developing the small fishing village into a tourist destination. Big hotels started to be built and tourists started to hoard. Over the years, Hersonissos has become famous for its vibrant nightlife, state-of-the-art resorts and bustling beaches.
On the west side of the town, there is Cape Sarandari. From there, the Limanakia, the several windless bays with the fine sand begin. Around, there are big hotels, cafes and restaurants. After Limanakia, the main town begins, at the port. The coastal road is very beautiful with many restaurants, bars, and cafes, overlooking the beautiful harbor with the lighthouse and the Church of Agia Paraskevi. Many narrow alleys, which start from this road, lead to the bustling main road with the countless clothes shops, goldsmiths, car rental companies, travel agencies for excursions within Crete, supermarkets, banks, etc. To the east of the city and in front of large hotel units there are small, beautiful, organized beaches with many options for water sports.
Three beautiful villages, 2 to 3 kilometers south of the town, on top of the hills, are the natural balconies of Hersonissos. In Piskopiano, Koutouloufari and Ano Chersonisos there are incredible places to eat with great views, beautiful terraces with flowers and excellent food. Many visitors choose to visit these three villages, walk there and experience their hospitality on warm summer evenings.
There are, also, endless options for activities for young children. CretAquarium Thalassokosmos, 10km west, is one of Europe's largest and most modern aquariums. Very close to the aquarium, there is the Dinosauria theme park with impressive exhibits that take children on a journey into the past and the imposing world of dinosaurs. Star Beach Water Park is located in the town of Hersonissos, next to the beach, and in addition to a long list of water sports for children, such as the banana boat rides and the crazy sofa, it offers water slides, themed parties, pools for all ages, etc. a. Water City Water Park and Aqua Plus, two large theme parks, in the wider area of Hersonisos, offer excellent services to both younger and older children with their giant water slides, lots of themed pools, extreme and lazy rivers and playgrounds.
The natural beauty, the cosmopolitan life and the wide variety of choice for activities satisfy the visitor and complete the image of Hersonissos.
(more articles about Crete on www.gomega.gr)
