Ammoudara holidays

Take your pick from family-run tavernas, contemporary beachfront eats and international fast food joints – Amoudara has enough to satisfy the fussiest eaters. Mourelo Cretan Food offers nothing short of 5-star service, its modern decor is a huge contrast to the island’s traditional eateries but with a menu brimming with delicious treats such as seafood linguine, barbecued steaks and grilled octopus – what’s not to love? Kritiko is your go-to for local delicacies, specialising in Greek salad, roasted feta also known as saganaki and tomato fritters. The restaurant also offers complimentary shots of Raki to finish off your dining experience. When you’re sunbathing on this hotspot’s flawless stretch, check out Blue N Blum Beach Bar who’ll serve cocktails straight to your lounger. It’s also a great place to try a Greek frappe, an ice-cold coffee, or try a pint of Mythos. Saloon Cafe-Pub has an electric nightlife and will have party-goers enchanted with its karaoke nights and strawberry Daiquiris.

By far the resort’s biggest draw with its caramel coloured sands and one-mile length. It’s only 10 minutes from Heraklion, the capital of Crete and is well organised for families and couples alike seeking an unforgettable day in the sun. It’s divided by several small rivers making it paddle-friendly among tiny tots. Holidaymakers can even enjoy the sweet sounds of chill-out music echoing from the nearby bars. Ice cream stands are also on hand with selections of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry gelatos. More active types can choose from a variety of watersports including super-speed doughnut rings, wave-bouncing banana boats and thrilling jet-skis. Not to mention it’s the ideal base for snorkelers due to its underwater tropics and close proximity to the river. There’s also a windsurfing club to the west, but you’re required to have an advanced level of surfing experience before joining.

Amoudara is a fantastic holiday destination for any kind of traveller, for families there’s Bravo Waterpark, adventure seekers can head on jeep safaris through the mountains, revellers will hit the biggest clubs and couples can check out city sights.

Wander the city of Heraklion: With this sprawling Old Town just footsteps from your resort, it would be rude not to investigate its crumbling cobbles. It’s the fourth biggest city in Greece, so take advantage of its many marvels, including its imposing 16th century fortresses built by the Venetians and 2000 BC palaces. For more in-depth heritage, head to the Historical Museum of Crete with traces of 1,700 years of culture. Kids will adore the aquarium housing hunter sharks, jellyfish and turtles. As for shopping, there’s no end to the stylish boutiques and creative souvenir shops.

Admire the Ruins of Knossos: This is one of the island’s biggest attractions, where evidence of Neolithic settlements remain and the first Minoan Palace was built from 1900 BC. Knossos is said to have given birth to important men like Hersifon and his son Metagenis, whose creation was the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The great palace is made up of four wings arranged around a central courtyard and contains a restored throne room and antiques. The House of the High Priest was named due to the finding of a stone altar and the Caravan Serai was once a public bath for those who visited the king.