Typical Crete ...

Nearby Matala, about 70 km southwest of Iraklio, one of the oldest villages in the heart of South Crete is located: The ancient fishing village Pitsidia. Within a stone's throw of beautiful Komo-Beach, it is among the most favoured destinations for all, who are not looking for mass tourism such as often seen at the northern coast.

The village has kept its nativeness and the Pitsidians are well known for their hospitality. But however it's a cosmopolitan location, where international artists and scholars found a secondary home.

The calm and cosy village - known for its traditional taverns - is stamped by angular narrow alleys. Above a 14 km long bay, it's surrounded by olive groves. Mostly happening outdoors, life is stamped by the dry and warm climate as well as the unique light of the region.

Farming is still the main income source. Olive trees and the production of the worldwide known oil, winegrowing and fishing are dominating everyday life of the Pitsidians. You can buy these products in many little local shops.

But Pitsidia people love to party as well. Height of the year is Orthodox Easter. Also weddings are celebrated with the entire village. Lamb and regional wine will be served and off course the Cretan national drink Tsikoudia, better known as "Raki" ...

Try one at the lovely renovated and in 2005 re-opened
» Kafenion Kostas in the heart of Pitsidia.

From the village it is less than 10 minutes by car to Phaistos, the old Minoan Palace. Gortis, the former Roman metropolis of Crete which went down approx. 2,000 years ago, is in a distance of a quarter hour.

And these are only some of the numerous excursion possibilities ...

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