The Heraklion Area

Nestling in the foothills of the island's central mountain range, the little village of Pendamodi may only lie 15 km south of Heraklion, but its sleepy atmosphere could not be further from the hustle and bustle of Crete's busy capital. All around is a bucolic landscape with silvery green olive groves and lovingly tended fields, mainly devoted to the region's famous grapes, draped like a patchwork quilt over rolling hills as far as the eye can see. A pretty, buttercup-yellow church is the village's main focal point, whilst a pair of traditional kafenions are popular meeting places for locals and visitors alike.

A few kilometres from Pendamodi is the larger village of Agios Myronas, where traditional village houses, some beautifully restored, are hidden along the cobbled side streets. The village has a selection of tavernas and shops, including an enticing bakery, in addition to a the large and impressive Byzantine church, named after a local man who became the bishop of Knossos in the 4th century A.D.

The local area provides ample opportunity for walkers to explore the verdant landscape and timeless villages of the heartland of Crete or alternatively visitors can appreciate the surrounding countryside on horseback as there are some excellent stables in Pendamodi. Although Heraklion and the sandy beaches of the north coast are only a short drive away, for more relaxing days out the relatively unexplored central south coast with its unspoilt beaches is just a little further. However, many guests adapt so easily to the villages' unhurried pace that they devote their entire holiday to unashamed idleness in this most relaxed and serene of settings.

Many of the island's most popular resorts lie just to the east of Heraklion and are a little overcrowded for our tastes but a visit to one of their sandy beaches or a browse through their tourist shops can make a diverting family outing as can a day at the extensive Water Park or the nearby Creta Golf Club. Although our accommodation in the area is in a rural setting there is certainly something for all tastes within easy range.