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Anissaras

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About Anissaras

Just 30 minutes east of bustling Heraklion, Anissaras is a lovely destination for a beach break as a couple or with the whole family. Set on a hillside overlooking the sea, Anissaras has a kilometre-long sandy beach, and water sports opportunities galore. Although the historic ruins which attract many visitors to Crete are within easy reach, our pick of the best places to stay in Anissaras invite guests to completely unwind in luxurious surroundings.

Many locals see Anissaras as an extension of nearby Hersonissos, with a more tranquil, upmarket feel. The beach is fringed by bright blue waters, well-suited to swimming, kayaking, wind surfing, sailing and jet skiing. The water close to the shore deepens quickly, so it’s best to keep an eye on little ones when going for a dip. Head further our for great snorkelling and diving. There are some excellent seafood restaurants close to the beach, so you’ll find somewhere to kick back with a cold glass of wine after all of the activities.

Stroll to the tip of the peninsula to admire the small historic church, or wander inland to see the quaint villages of Ano Hersonissos and Piskopiano, with dusty cobbled streets lined with old houses. Delve into Crete’s ancient history with visits to the Minoan ruins at Malia and Knossos, reputedly the site of the legendary King Minos’ palace. If you’re happy to simply soak up the sunshine, you can’t go wrong at the best places to stay in Anissaras, both of which have superb spas, restaurants and refreshing swimming pools.

The Best Places to Stay in Anissaras

For a Romantic Escape

  • Paradise Island Villas is a collection of nine chic villas, each with its own private pool and living areas. Perfect for a romantic escape, the villas do also welcome families. The gourmet restaurant and serene spa, however, makes this feel more suited to grown-ups. Sleek and sophisticated.

For a Luxury Resort

  • Amirandes is a vast luxury resort, with colonnades connecting bungalows and villa suites to the hotel's bars, restaurants, pools and boutiques. Unwind under a white canvas gazebo on the beach, or savour a range of cuisines in the nine restaurants and bars after soothing spa treatments. An indulgent choice for couples or families, with a real sense of palatial opulence.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport, just a 30-minute bus ride from Anissaras. Alternatively, arrive by ferry from one of the other islands or from the mainland.
  • Crete is wonderful for a road trip, particularly if you intend to explore the island independently! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures averaging at around 26°C - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when the cities and coast are still immensely appealing.

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Best Hotels in Anissaras

  • Paradise Island Villas Anissaras 12 rooms from €248

    Families  -  Cots and extra beds are provided, there are a playground and tennis court for kids plus babysitting is available
    Local exploring  -  Located just 1km from the Traditional Cretan Villages of Koutouloufari, Old Hersonissos and Piskopiano
    5* Luxury  -  All villas are individually designed with a private pool and every comfort you could want
    Groups  -  Villas sleep from 2 to 6 guests making this a great option for group getaways
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A super chic collection of villas in sophisticated Cretan style. Each villa has its own pool and living areas. Romantic rooms have parquet floors, four poster beds, and attractive furnishings. Excellent restaurant, lots of spa treatments. Romantic, grown-up, close to the beach, and family friendly. See More

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  • Amirandes Anissaras 205 rooms from €332

    Spa breaks  -  Signature treatments using organic plants and extracts from Crete’s rare herbs and Ayurvedic therapies by Indian therapists
    Active Holiday  -  If you want to stay active there is plenty to choose from including tennis, fishing, watersports, mountain biking, and diving
    Families  -  With a kids' club, an all-day (free) kids buffet, and even little dressing gowns provided - children will feel welcome here
    Artworks  -  One of the hotel's restaurants boasts a collection of Picasso originals
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    A palace fit for the legendary King Minos himself. Villas boast private pools, white on white decor and huge picture windows. There's a choice of nine casual and fine dining restaurants and bars plus lots of activities for couples and families alike. A spoiling getaway. See More

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