SISSI
Area: Crete
Country: Greece


Location:
On N coast, 3 miles E of Malia. 24 miles E of Heraklion and airport.

Telephone code from UK:
30 28410

Position:
Hidden two miles down hillside from main highway. Mainly hilly agricultural countryside and mountains behind.

Description:
Once a fishing village only really accessible by boat, Sissi is now fully developed as a tourist resort. While there is a general untidiness about the place, it has a quaint, slow air very different from the rather manic neighbouring resort of Malia. Main focal points are the centrally placed church and an attractive harbourside fronted by cafes and bars.

Suitability:
Mainly suits those who want to avoid the larger resorts without being too remote; caters for the budget conscious as well as those seeking some luxury. Recommended for families, couples and anyone not wanting to be in close proximity to rowdy teenagers.

Accommodation:
Predominantly middle-of-the-road self-catering establishments and some first-class hotels.

Shopping:
Most needs are catered for in terms of food and souvenirs, although there is nothing out of the ordinary.

Beach:
Small harbour and rocky shoreline with small sandy bay in vicinity. Nearest larger beaches at Malia.

Entertainments:
Daytime: swimming, snorkelling, water sports and walking. Nightlife: bars, tavernas and the occasional organised Greek evening.

Eating:
Local tavernas and hotel restaurants.

Public-transport:
Regular buses to main resorts in high season from bus station, º ml away. Proliferation of bike- and car-hire establishments.

Local-excursions:
Half day: ancient site of Palace of Malia. Full day: Minoan Palace of Knossos; Heraklion Archaeological Museum; Plateau of Lassithi; Aghios Nikolaos; Spinalonga island; Sitia and Vai, a palm beach; water park at Anopolis; boat trips (from Heraklion). One/two days: Samaria Gorge.