Location & Directions

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and the most southerly. It lies at the cross roads of three continents – Europe, Africa and Asia. The strategic position of Crete in the middle of the Mediterranean sea had led to an almost constant battle to control the island from ancient times until the 20^th Century. This legacy means that there are many and varied sites of historical interest across the island.

Makrygialos, with a population of just 4,000, is located on the south-east coast of Crete. The name can be spelt one of five ways – Makrygialos, Makry-Gialos, Makry Gialos, Makriyialos or Makrigialos.

Makrygialos nestles under a backdrop of mountains with many small valleys and gorges leading down to the coast. The main industries are farming and tourism. You will see many greenhouses which are used all year round to grow produce such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, aubergines and bananas.

The bay of Makrygialos boasts the longest shallow sandy beach of East Crete, and the coastline from Galini to Kalo Nero is etched with rocky inlets, small coves and long sweeping stretches of sand and pebble beaches.

 

Directions from Heraklion airport to Makrygialos

Transfer from the airport can be done either by public transport, taxi or by car hire (such as through Motorplan and Anna Cars). 

Estimated journey time: 1½ hours (assuming normal traffic and weather conditions)
Total distance: 120 km