The original village of Fodele and its attractions

The village of Fodele itself is located about 5 km inland from the coast and, according to historians, lies on the site of the ancient city of Pantomantrion. Pantomantrion is named after the local river that runs through the village and provides the area with much needed water. The area around the river is home to a large variety of animals and plants, and it is no wonder that nature lovers and those who enjoy a peaceful environment come to Fodele. The natural beauty of the place is enhanced by the large orange grove, which, at over 300 hectares, is the largest orange grove on the island of Crete. The rich green leaves of these bushes are truly beautiful and the overall view of the village and its surroundings is very pleasant.

But the village of Fodele boasts one more interesting feature. In 1541, the famous painter Domenikos Theotokopoulos, known as El Greco, was born here. In his honour, a monument in the form of a bust of the artist was erected in Fodele Square, under the shade of a tree more than a thousand years old. You can also take a look at the famous painter's birthplace ("El Greco Museum"), which stands just outside the village in a section called Arhontiko. Here you will also find the small 14th century Byzantine Panagia Church, decorated with beautiful murals.

If you walk south along the Pantomantrion river (about 5 km), you will come to another nice monastery, Moni Pandeleimen (Agios Panteleimon), which played an important role in the history of Fodele. You can use this route as a tip for a pleasant hike in the shade of the bushes and trees growing on the banks of the river.

Tourist resort Fodele - characteristics and facilities

The original Fodele is a small and traditional Cretan settlement with about 500 permanent inhabitants. The resort of Fodele (or Paralia Fodele), which is also offered by Czech travel agencies and where tourists go more often, was created by an artificial new development right on the shore of the Cretan Sea. It is a small and quiet seaside resort located in the small bay of Fodele, where the Pantomantrion river flows. The flood of greenery, made up of bushes around the river and orange trees, continues from the interior of the island all the way to the coast.

Fodele is a small resort with good tourist facilities. There are several hotels and apartments, many excellent tavernas, bars and shops with various goods. Entertainment for children and adults alike is offered by the local water park (Fodel Water Park), which, in addition to the traditional slides, water slides and pools, also has "land" attractions such as mini golf or a tennis court. For nightlife, head to the capital Heraklion.

Fodele - beaches

The resort of Fodele has two main beaches, but the shores of the bay also offer several hidden beaches and coves that visitors can discover during their walks.

The main beach of the same name, Fodele, is located near the local road connecting Heraklion and Rethymno. The beach is covered with fine sand and is fully equipped. There are also several lovely hotels, tavernas and bars in the vicinity and water lovers can visit the local water park.

The second beach, located a few hundred metres to the east, is unorganised and only accessible from the village. It is also sandy with a gradual entrance to the sea.

For whom the centre is suitable

The resort of Fodele, together with the original village of the same name, is ideal for those who are looking for peace and quiet, but also want to be within easy reach of more lively tourist areas. Fodele offers visitors beautiful green surroundings suitable for romantic walks and hikes as well as swimming in the nice, clean sea. At the same time, the resort is close to the capital city of Heraklion, from where regular bus lines also arrive.

Compared to other similar resorts, however, the hotels and restaurants located right on the coast of the resort are a bit more expensive.

More touristic destinations of Crete

Most favourite resorts of Crete: Adelianos Kampos, Agia Marina, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion (Iraklion), Hersonissos, Chania, Ierapetra, Kalamaki (Matala), Malia, Platanias (Chania), Rethymno, Stalis

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Crete.