Anopolis is a small picturesque village located just three kilometers south from Kato Gouves and almost 15 kilometres from downtown Heraklion. From the old village of Hersonisos to Anopolis the distance is about 16 kilometers.
As you drive from Gouves through Kokkini Hani up to Anopolis you will enjoy excellent views of the Cretan shore, Dia island and the Aegean sea.
Anopolis is a village away from the cosmopolitan beaches along the south Cretan shore. As you walk through the charming streets and alleys of the village, you can feel the spirit of old times gone by and imagine the life of the past and survival that shaped Anopolis unique atmosphere.
The village consists of tiny little narrow alleys and whitewashed homes, many of them surrounded by flowered yards that retain a relaxing atmosphere. As you walk to the small main square, you can meet friendly villagers, at the Gogos cafe and you can immerse yourself in the warm, high quality of life, at a slow and relaxing pace, hospitable culture of Anopolis. Remember! Time here does not matter!
At the kafeneio you can enjoy tsikoudia and home made food. Almost 100 meters away is the Golden Cage cafe and restaurant where you can enjoy some local plates, such as dolmadakia and galaktoboureko.
The community of Anopolis numbers just over 150 inhabitants. The surrounding area has many small farms and small ceramic workshops at the nearby industrial park, sheep farming and agricultural products like olives and olive oil.
A mere 300 meters from the main square the Agios Ioannis Theologos Monastery awaits your exploration. It was first constructed near the cost, but It was relocated outside the village in 1896.
Today the monastery is a popular venue for weddings and christenings, next to the old Monastery complex there is under construction an even bigger extension of this place. Inside, you’ll be captivated by the stunning iconographies mosaics and frescoes.
Anopolis attracts the more discerning person whose aim is to get to know the Cretan villagers, their traditions, and culture. is ideal for those wishing to spend quality time in a small, peaceful, quiet Cretan village with friendly people yet still be within easy access of great beaches and beach resort towns.
Anopolis is well positioned as a base for many excursions throughout Crete. You can find some affordable rooms for rent in the vilage. The surrounding areas of the village are ideal for walking, bird-watching, cycling and other country-based natural activities, it offer perfect opportunity to get away from the crowds usually found at the tourist spots of Crete.
In the outskirts of the village you can visit Water City one of the bigest water parks in the island.
Here you can see Anopolis pictures from our visits to the village
