On the north coast of Crete and to the east of Heraklion, this municipality spreads from the lovely beaches a few kilometres inland to the fertile fields and picturesque villages that cling to the different hills.

In recent years, the tourist development has been very marked in this area, due on the one hand to its wonderful beaches, on the other hand, to its vicinity to Heraklion to the west and Chersonissos a few kilometres to the east. It covers an area of 9496 ha. and has a population of 4918 people.

Nowadays, the summer resorts of Kato Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos and Karteros have a complete tourist infrastructure to meet all demands.

Tourist Facilities

Organised beaches, large modern hotels, family apartments, restaurants, small tavernas, recreation centres, sports centre, shops, car and motorbikes for rent, small ports (marinas) for small boats, in a word they provide everything our visitors require to spend an agreeable and carefree holiday, enjoying the sunshine by day and the thrilling night-life in the numerous bars in the area.

At a short distance inland you can escape the lively racket of tourist life and find peace and quiet in a traditional setting. Picturesque villages, important monuments, lovely monasteries like the one of "Kyra Eleousa" and "Theologos", mysterious caves like "Ilithia" and the one of Skotino at Aghia Paraskevi, the pretty chapels strewn all over the beautiful Cretan landscape will remain in your mind and in your heart long after your holidays are over… If you are on your way to Lassithi, a ride through this lovely region will increase your enjoyment.