Explorations And Excursions

Crete’s crystal clear waters are ideal for exploring the enchanting depths of the Mediterranean and for water sports. Just 300 m from Anna Maria Village is a beach with on-beach services which offers water sports.

At Hersonissos, just 1 km from the hotel, experienced instructors at the Heraklion Diving Center allow you to get to know the world beneath the sea and arrange scheduled dives to nearby caves, wrecks and reefs, or nearby beaches, where you can try your hand at underwater photography.

Alternatively take a small boat to explore the Malia – Stalida – Hersonissos – Skagiado – Milatos area, and go on a day trip with stops for swimming and fishing, or simply enjoy the sun set in good company.

Sports and activities for young and old

Fans of tennis and squash can practise on the courts located next to the hotel, and if you are a fan of golf there is a course just 3 km from the hotel.

Another popular sport, horse riding, is available at two locations nearby. The Arion Stables, located 5.5 km from Anna Maria Village between Hersonissos and Analipsi, offers enjoyable riding lessons and rides along Analipsi beach. The Odysseia Stables riding club, located 20.8 km from the hotel, offers all-day packages that allow you to explore unique trails among the Cretan landscape on horseback.

If you love cycling, bikes can be hired from a hire firm located close to Anna Maria Village, and in Analipsi village, 3.6 km from the hotel, there is another hire firm which also arranges bike tours across all of Crete, suitable for all levels.

Trips to Spinalonga and Gaidouronisi

Spinalonga, the island made famous by British writer Victoria Hislop, is one of Crete’s most famous sites. Its long history has seen both glorious and darker moments. It was a major sea-facing defensive fort (1579-1715) and then the largest Muslim commercial centre in the Merabello region (1881). However, it is better known as the ‘island of tears’, because for many years it was used as a leper colony (1903 – 1957). In 1970 it was declared a protected archaeological site and is now ideal for day trips. It can be accessed by small boats from Elounda or Plaka.

Another island remarkable for its beauty and virgin environment is the exotic Gaidouronisi, also known as Chryssi. Located in southern Crete, this rare biotope is now in the Natura 2000 network. Enjoy the unique 200-year old cedar forest, the heavenly white sands and countless shells, and a swim in the clear blue waters of the Libyan sea. It can be accessed by small boats from Ierapetra.

Water parks and aquariums

There’s a lot of choice if you decide to cool down while having fun in local water parks.

Kids are bound to get excited at the Acqua Plus Water Park (7.4 km from Anna Maria Village) with its water slides and pools, and the playground with the Kids Tower, and for adults there are more extreme options like massage parlours, tattoo saloons, and drinks and refreshments. Star Beach located in the Hersonissos area, 4.9 km from the hotel, is one of the island’s most popular seaside fun parks. Free entry. Enjoy water sports, bungee jumping, water slides and foam parties every day!

Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre [3.1 km from Anna Maria Village] at Hersonissos is Crete’s very first aquarium. It’s open April to October and has an impressive range of marine creatures, reptiles and tortoises which were rescued and are cared for at the hospitable rescue centre. The outstanding Cretaquarium – Thalassokosmos in Heraklion, 11.1 km from Anna Maria Village, is perfect for getting to know the mysterious underwater world of the Mediterranean and the sea creatures that live there, including some impressive bull sharks.

Night-time fun at Malia and Hersonissos

The prefecture of Heraklion is famed for its two very popular seaside resorts, Hersonissos and Malia (2.5 km and 10 km from Anna Maria Village). Their names are synonymous with all-night partying, endless dancing and lots of alcohol. Enjoy rock, house, progressive and techno beats all night long at the tens of buzzing coastal bars and night clubs. Famous DJs, shows, parties, events, 70s and 80s evenings guarantee a fun night out.

Outdoor theatres and leisure activities

For young and old fans of the theatre, the small coastal theatre built amphitheatre-like in Anissaras puts on interesting shows. Some shows are free. The schedule varies but the experience is truly unique. The enchanting sea views and cool sea breeze are truly revitalising.

Explorations And Excursions

Sports and activities for young and old

Trips to Spinalonga and Gaidouronisi

Water parks and aquariums

Night-time fun at Malia and Hersonissos

Outdoor theatres and leisure activities

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