Gouves holidays

Promenade pottering

Take a saunter along the town’s paved walkway, which runs for about 3km along the coast and is dotted with pretty street lamps. You can admire the boats bobbing in the marina and stop off at a beach taverna for a Greek coffee or a glass of Cretan wine. 

Old village

Set in the side of Mount Ederi is Pano Gouves, a top pick for voyages of discovery. This traditional village has twisty streets, whitewashed houses, tavernas and a trio of pretty churches to explore. It’s a burnt-orange haven of natural sights – all basically untouched by tourists – so go and have a wander.

Family fun

Get up close to seahorses, jellyfish, sharks and other cool creatures of the Mediterranean at Cretaquarium in neighbouring Gournes, just a five-minute drive away. Curved glass tanks expose some of the most fascinating fish and underwater life, so bring the kids and prepare to make some unexpected friends.