Kokkini Hani holidays

Finding traditional fare is easy when you come to Kokkini Hani. Still known for its fishing day charms, the quality of ingredients is first-class. Often a family affair, find a local taverna and tuck into simple yet mouth-watering flavours, followed by a shot of Raki. When you’re not sampling the village cheese or the ripest tomatoes, you’ll most likely be licking your lips at the smell of honey drizzled pastries, while its rustic bottles of wine accompany the island’s slow-cooked meats perfectly. As the number one restaurant in Kokkini Hani according to Tripadvisor, you can expect great things from Katafigio. Although off the main tourist trail, this authentic eatery showcases Greek hospitality at its best with friendly staff providing an efficient service. The spicy pork meatballs are to die for as are the grilled shrimp and baked feta. Alternatively, the village’s Chinese, Pan Asia has received rave reviews thanks to its delectable oriental dishes from Thai chicken noodles to crispy duck and spring rolls. Along the beach road sits Zorbas, a great place to end your night with its Greek evenings giving you a taste of tradition.

With a mix of shingle and sand beaches, Kokkini Hani is a great spot for soaking up the Cretan sunshine. The main section stretches for 500 metres and is made up of fine grains. It’s well-equipped with loungers and a string of beach bars when you need to replenish too. A little further along, you’ll find a smaller alternative if you don’t fancy sharing the strip with a swarm of holidaymakers. This spot is a lot quieter than its larger neighbour, making it the ideal choice if you want to enjoy tranquil swims thanks to its sheltered position.

Known for its slow tempo, Kokkini Hani is a relaxing escape away from the main tourist drag with traditional tavernas, a peaceful beach scene and a sloping backdrop, all inviting you to fully immerse yourself in the Cretan way of life. Holidaying with kids? There’s plenty going on in your surroundings too with the capital Heraklion just 20 minutes down the road as well as an ostrich farm and waterpark for on-the-go days.

Head to the hilltop village of Anopolis: Nothing says rural Crete quite like a village in the mountains, and trips to Anopolis are just as beautiful as they sound. Three kilometres south of Kokini Hani, its sloping, wild landscape is breathtaking, not to mention its unique position, considering it sits 600 metres above sea level. Greece’s ancient history is still very much alive here with abandoned buildings still intact, old-school cafes frequented by locals and century-old cobblestone streets. From a number of spots, you can even see the majestic White Mountains, the largest mountain range in Crete.

Get wet at Watercity Waterpark: Just 10 minutes down the road, Watercity Waterpark is the place to head for a day full of splashes. Ideal for families, there’s everything from tame to white-knuckle thrills here. See who hits the water first and take on the Multi Race, plunge into darkness on the Black Hole or get ready for fast-paced turns on Turbo Guns. There’s also a Lazy River inviting you to sunbathe from a rubber ring. Children have their fair share of miniature slides as well, while the water-based games are bound to bring out your competitive side. In between all the fun, a giant pool is on hand when you need to take some time out.