Georgioupolis lies on the north coast of Crete between Georgioupolis and Rethymnon. It is a very popular resort with a pretty village lying on the River Almyros and surrounded by hills. It has the longest beach on the island, over nine kilometres of golden sand. Development only occurred in the nineties so the accommodation has all the modern conveniences that holidaymakers have come to expect. Originally a fishing village, the harbour still has a small number of boats that land their catch daily. Georgioupolis is ideally positioned to explore the rest of the island.
Having the longest beach on Crete, a Georgioupolis holiday offers the opportunity of seclusion even in this popular resort. Most of the hotels are along the seafront giving easy access to the beach. With shops for essentials, a bakery selling the best bread on the island, bars and tavernas, Georgioupolis provides for your every need.
A Georgioupolis holiday attracts a wide range of people with the exception perhaps of those looking for wild nightlife. Families and couples of all ages can enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of its shores, its sandy beach and its safe bathing.
The most popular time to visit Georgioupolis is in the summer. The season extends from Easter to October when the temperature range is from twenty to thirty degrees.
Georgioupolis surrounds the River Almyros on land that was once swampland. The village was only built there in the late nineteenth century when the swamps were cleared and eucalyptus trees were planted. The ruins of the ancient settlement, Amfimalla are found on a small hill above the town. The village lies in idyllic surroundings, framed by hills and at the mouth of a river that flows into the startlingly blue sea. The small harbour is home to local fishing boats with adequate space for pleasure crafts.
The beach is long and inviting with miles of golden sand shelving gently into clear blue waters. The many hotels and tavernas along the waterfront provide daylong refreshments.
A small road train tours the area and includes the springs and waterfalls in nearby Argiroupolis. There are also boat excursions to adjacent beaches and up the river to see the terrapin colonies.
Horse riding is available at local stables in the mornings and early evenings avoiding the heat of the midday sun.
Nightlife in Georgioupolis is fairly low key. It is centred round the village square and the harbour area where there are bars with music, restaurants and tavernas.
Georgioupolis has two large supermarkets providing holiday essentials while the village bakery makes the most wonderful bread. There are many gift and souvenir shops where you can purchase your holiday mementoes.
There is a regular bus service to Georgioupolis where the shopping facilities are good. The cruciform covered market provides everyday necessities and there are many shops and stalls selling local produce and handicrafts. Leather goods are high quality and souvenirs of crafted bronze, copper and wood are popular items.
Georgioupolis has a good range of restaurants and tavernas in the old town and down by the waterfront. The variety of menu is sufficient to satisfy most tastes.
Eating out in Greece is a pleasure that should be enjoyed in a leisurely fashion so, unless your penchant is for fast foods, try the traditional tavernas and experience fresh food, particularly fish, simply cooked accompanied by local drinks. You will not be disappointed. Children are warmly welcomed in restaurants and their tastes and portion size are usually accommodated.
