Crete

The place where you can find all types of tourism and be your number one holiday destination

Resort Location​​

Aeolos Beach Resort is located at the bay of Malia, just 32 km from N. Kazantzakis International Airport in Heraklion and 35 km from the Port of Heraklion. Ideally positioned on a stunning beachfront, the resort is surrounded by an attractive palm tree garden near the charming town of Malia and Stalis in Crete, Greece. Our beach-and-city resort perfectly mixes a modern, active vibe with the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Even though it’s right in the heart of things, it still feels like a peaceful getaway, giving you a quiet and relaxing place to unwind.

Aeolos Beach Resort Hotel and Water Sports

How to Reach Malia

By Plane: Heraklion International Airport (HER) is a 30-minute drive from Malia, with frequent international and domestic flights.

By Bus: Frequent public buses ( KTEL )  run every 15 minutes during the high season from Heraklion to Malia. The journey takes around 50 minutes

By Car:  Rent a car and follow the E75 national road east toward Hersonissos and Agios Nikolaos. The drive takes about 30 minutes.

Distances from the Hotel

 
  • Beach: 0 m
  • Secondary bus stop: 50 m
  • Supermarkets and pharmacy: 100 m
  • Medical Center: 500 m
  • City center: 500 m
  • Main bus stop: 1 km
  • Taxi stand: 1 km
  • Old town of Malia: 1km
  • Stalis: 2 km
  • Malia Archaeological Site: 3 km
  • Hersonissos: 9 km
  • Agios Nikolaos: 30 km
  • Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport, Heraklion: 32 km
  • Heraklion: 33 km
  • Port of Heraklion: 35 km
  • Knossos: 39 km
  • Elounda: 42 km
  • Rethymno: 112 km
  • Chania: 174 km

Visit Crete

1. Agrotourism

Crete is all about nature. Big mountains crossing the island, ideal climate for products you can cultivate nowhere else in the world. Great wine and local farms that travel you back in time are some of the attractions for an authentic agrotourism fan. Agrotourism is the perfect plan for your vacation, an ideal combination of tourism and agriculture, where visitors have the opportunity to engage in numerous activities in the agricultural sector. Book a daily agrotourism trip before your arrival in order to see the virgin beauty of the island from the scope of a local farmer, learn everything about Cretan products, routines and daily habits, while showing respect for the environment and tradition.  Visit local farms, taste fruit, vegetables, wine and special local dairy products that you will find nowhere else in the world. You can also cultivate your own seeds! If you wish to take a step further, you can also participate in seminars for gathering herbs, snails, mushrooms or learn about traditional rural occupations, such as the cultivation of olives and wine. 

2. Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism is the one of the most popular reasons that every year, tourists from all over the world choose to visit the beautiful island of Crete. The unexplored nature, the diverse coastlines and the rich mountain ranges that cross the island, create the perfect site for nature exploration, athletic activities and extreme sports. Select among Hiking, Diving, Mountain Biking or renting a boat for crossing rivers and bays. 

Our suggestion: A hiking route through the Samaria Gorge of 16km total length situated in the prefecture of Chania, which is one of the longest gorges in Europe or the ultimate hike on Psiloritis, the highest mountain in Crete.

3. Eco Tourism

If you are looking for environmentally friendly vacations, in Crete you can find plenty of low impact options, eco tours, hotels and activities that you can really enjoy. The island offers you the possibility to acquaint, explore, live and enjoy the uniqueness of nature. We should mention that Psiloritis, which is the highest mountain in Crete, has been characterised as a NATURAL GEOPARK. It is a site protected by UNESCO. You can enjoy hiking and bird watching, taste organic food. You can also visit the CretAquarium, which is among the best aquariums in the world.

4. Religious Tourism

Still looking for intense spirituality and religiousness in your holidays? Again Crete is your place to be. A heaven of  beautiful monasteries, chapels and churches. You can visit The Monastery of Chrysoskalitissa, The Monastery of Preveli or The Cathedral of Chania. The cultural tradition and the long history of these monuments will enhance your visit with emotions and knowledge. On top of that Crete offers you great moments during Greek Orthodox Easter and Orthodox Greek Church Celebrations like the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, on August 15 which is a public holiday. It is one of the most important feast days in the Greek Orthodox as well as Roman Catholic calendars because it commemorates Mary’s reunion with Jesus in heaven. There are plenty of events in the island, divine liturgies, formal and informal and people celebrate as it is the peak of the Summer season.

5. Educational Tourism

Crete is the home of remarkable archaeological sites, breathtaking natural wonders, enduring myths, and a distinct culture that attracts millions of tourists each year. It is a top tourist destination worldwide and the perfect setting for Educational and Religious tourism, especially for visitors thirsty to learn about unique history and culture. Resorts such as Aeolos Beach Resort host education programs that enhance the experience of the destination by adding an educational component to the trip. We strongly believe in the benefits of educational tourism as a way to gain a new perspective and experiences through hands-on learning.

6. Gastronomical Tourism

Last but not least, if you want to add a dose of lifestyle in your holiday ritual, Crete’s nightlife will not disappoint you. Starting your day at a beach Bar like Aeolos Beach Resort, you can enjoy your cocktail while watching the sunset and then continue downtown to enjoy a Meditteranean meal tasting the Cretan cuisine and the gastronomy of the island which is really well known. Folk taverns, modern or traditional restaurants, a paradise of flavors,local dishes served with wine or raki, a culinary experience for the most demanding guests. Cretan gastronomy is one of the best in the world and if you are a culinary tourist then you should add Crete in your bucket list.

In addition, for those who want to explore the island by night, we reassure you that you will find a variety of nightlife spots to spend amusing nights for all tastes and ages. 

Crete has it all, history, culture, tradition, agriculture and activities. The largest island in Greece with a truly magical atmosphere.

Visit Malia

5+1 things to do in Malia
Malia is a modern holiday resort with a traditional charm. It is a guardian of its Minoan legacy, with palace ruins that are a true archaeological gem. Today, Malia is not only a place to relax by the pool or at the beach but also a clubber’s paradise. Malia was one of the very first tourist destinations in Crete: warm, sunny climate, 6 km of sandy beaches, and crystal-clear blue sea… a pure, untouched area with friendly locals who displayed hospitality that exceeded expectations, complemented by hundreds of windmills with their white sails scattered around a fertile plain.

1. Explore the Minoan Palace of Malia

  The Minoan Palace of Malia, soon to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a key attraction as the third-largest Minoan palace on Crete, after Knossos and Phaistos. This site offers breathtaking views and ancient ruins, including reconstituted pithoi (giant storage jars). The Minoan civilization, which dates back more than 4,000 years, is considered the oldest European civilization, providing a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. Malia is also renowned for the Gold Bee Pendant of Malia, an exquisite archaeological artifact from this era.

2. Swim to Afentis Christos Island

Swim or rent a pedalo or canoe to visit Afentis Christos Island, Malia’s iconic landmark, located just off the central beach. This small island is home to the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior (Afentis Christos), a striking structure with a simple yet elegant design in white and blue, harmonizing with the natural surroundings. The island, with an area of 4,400 square meters, also features remnants of a Venetian barracks and a Minoan cemetery carved into rocks.

The church is a focal point during its feast day on August 6th, drawing many visitors for the divine liturgy. A nearby spring is believed to have fertility benefits for those who drink from it or bathe in it. For an affordable way to visit, contact Aeolos Beach Watersports to rent a boat or canoe and explore this historically rich and picturesque island.

3. Relax on Potamos Beach

For a more tranquil beach experience, visit Potamos Beach. This serene spot features golden sand and warm, shallow waters, making it perfect for young families and couples seeking relaxation. The beach is crossed by a sweetwater river, adding a unique charm. Surrounding sand dunes and adjacent wetlands enhance the scenic beauty. The backdrop of Selena Mountain offers a stunning view. The region is also home to unique flora and fauna, such as sea daffodils. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle in the waters!
 
Tip 1:
Malia is more or less divided by the central road into “Old” and “New” Town, with their own unique atmosphere. Try experiencing both !

4. Visit the Old Town of Malia

Malia’s Old Town offers a charming escape from the modern tourist areas. Its narrow, cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and quaint tavernas create a picturesque setting. Enjoy a meal featuring fresh seafood, local cheeses, and raki, the traditional Cretan spirit! The evening ambiance is particularly romantic, with flower-filled courtyards and small Byzantine churches to explore. 

One notable religious site is Panagia Galatiani, a church constructed with milk instead of water in the 14th century and  famous for its historical frescoes. Another notable church is the central church of Malia, Agios Nektarios, with numerous colourful frescos and a breath-taking depiction of hell. 

5. Enjoy Malia's Nightlife

Malia is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, not just in Crete but across all of Greece. Especially along the main strip where you’ll find numerous bars, clubs, and pubs. Malia’s nightlife caters to all preferences, whether you are into live music, DJ sets, LGBT-friendly spots, or just enjoying a cocktail by the beach, a palm garden or a chic lounge bar. The area promises a fun-filled night with many exciting venues to discover !

6. Discover Malia Gastronomy

Malia’s gastronomy is a highlight of any visit. Known as the “vegetable garden of Crete”, Malia’s local cuisine features fresh vegetables like okra beans, cucumberstomatoes, and watermelons, all grown in the region. Malia is also renowned for its unique Malian baby bananas, first cultivated in banana houses established in 1975, covering 900 acres and producing around 4,000 tons annually. Enjoy traditional Cretan dishes such as tzatzikifeta cheeseolives, and fresh seafood. Local tavernas offer a taste of Cretan delights, complemented by regional herbs, honey, and local wines.

Try the beach and buffet restaurant of Aeolos Beach Resort for a complete dining experience that showcases these local flavors in a relaxed, seaside setting.

Tip 2:
Together with Stalida and Chersonissos, Malia forms the “Cretan Riviera” .