A LOT MORE TO DISCOVER
Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands, and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean, with a population of about 624,000 people. The island is renowned for its beautiful sandy shores, magnificent mountains, quiet fishing villages, and friendly people, and the small town of Makrigialos, offers an outstanding example of the welcome visitors receive; one that is unmatched anywhere else in Europe.
Makrigialos (Long Beach in Greek) is one of the quieter, less developed destinations on Crete, with some of the best beaches in east Crete. The local economy is based as much on agriculture as it is on tourism, and when the summer season ends, local business owners look to the olive harvest, which generates some of the finest olive oil in the world.
The town boasts an excellent selection of bars, restaurants, and tavernas, many fronting onto the beach. There is also a small fishing harbour - a pleasant place to stroll around, with its own patch of sandy beach and a cluster of waterfront bars, tavernas and restaurants.
The Makrigialos area is ideally located in the south-east of Crete to enjoy the benefits of both a relaxing beach holiday, and as a base for exploring eastern Crete. It has the best beaches in south-east Crete, including two blue flag beaches, and enjoys the superior North African influenced climate.Road access is good, allowing day trips that range from Toplou Monastery in the far north-east, the palatial ruins of Minoan Kato Zakros on the east coast, the Venetian fort and subsequent leper colony of Spinalonga to the north-west, and the Lasithi plateau to the west. Even a day trip to Knossos is achievable.