Villa Caramac is located in the peaceful area of Vlychada, in the charming village of Bali, Rethymno, on the northern coast of Crete. This beautiful region offers a perfect blend of serene landscapes and cultural richness, making it an ideal holiday destination for those looking to experience relaxation and adventure. The villa is perched on a hill, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea and Bali’s picturesque beaches. The location provides guests with a sense of seclusion while still being within easy reach of local amenities, shops, and tavernas, where you can sample traditional Cretan cuisine.
Bali is a popular coastal village known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and charming harbour, making it an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The surrounding area is also rich in natural beauty, with hiking trails, lush olive groves, and nearby historical sites. The villa’s central location on the island offers easy access to explore other parts of Crete, such as the bustling town of Rethymno, as well as ancient ruins and archaeological sites, making it a perfect base for discovering the island’s rich heritage.
The Region
On the northern coast, the thriving city of Heraklion is the perfect destination for visitors wishing to learn all about Crete’s incredible history whilst soaking up the hospitality and vibrancy of the island’s impressive capital.
Heraklion is also a wonderful gateway to the charming coastal village of Agia Pelagia, the popular resorts of Hersonissos and Kato Gouves, the nightlife of Malia as well as the stunning landscapes of the Psiloritis Natural Park.
The city’s heritage dates back thousands of years, as can be seen just south of Heraklion at the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site, the Palace of Knossos, once the centre of Minoan civilisation. Keen historians should also visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and Historical Museum of Crete.
Meanwhile, back in Heraklion’s old town, admire stunning views as you stroll along the Venetian fortifications dating back to the time when the island was under Venetian rule, then look out for beautiful architecture from the Ottoman Empire.
Shopping in Heraklion is a delight. Pick up Cretan delicacies at the bustling Central Market, then explore the heart of the old town with narrow lanes and grand squares, coming across little shops, boutiques and historic churches as well as cafes, restaurants and bars. In the height of the summer, embrace the city’s wonderful ambience with café terraces, outdoor theatre and bars and clubs near the waterfront.
Enjoy the hearty cuisine of Heraklion where traditional dishes are prepared using locally sourced ingredients such as dakos salad made with Cretan tomatoes, feta and olive oil or slow-cooked stamnagathi with wild greens from the island. Grilled octopus, Cretan fish soup and other seafood specialities are served with pride in tavernas and restaurants across the region.
Head to the family-friendly shores of Ammoudara beach with its blue-flag, sun-beds and beachside bars, also a popular spot for kite-boarding. A little further west is the picturesque fishing village of Agia Pelagia with another gorgeous beach, turquoise coloured water and tavernas overlooking the sea.
Venturing east instead, the popular tourist resorts of Hersonissos and Kato Gouves offer long sandy shores, summer sun-beds and a wealth of watersports as well as waterparks, boat trips, cafes, restaurants and bars. Nor forgetting the nightlife and beaches of Malia as well as the Minoan Palace of Malia, not far from the idyllic Potamos Beach.
