Cactus Beach Hotel

Stalida is a village that lies between Malia and Hersonissos on the north coast of Crete, Greece. The name derives from the Greek verb stalizo, which means 'stop for a rest' as this was a location where shepherds and farms rested in between villages. It is a lively resort, attracting tourists from many European countries. It has a long, sandy beach and a variety of shops, bars and tavernas. From Stalis, the Bulgarian trail leads to Mochos village, built by the captive Bulgarians during WWII. In the village's main square, one finds the Byzantine church of St. Ioannis dating back to 1600. Popular with families, it is 30 km from Nikos Kazantsakis airport in Heraklion.

As soon as you arrive in Stalida, you'll be greeted by stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. With its long, sandy stretches and shallow waters, Stalida beach is one of the most popular spots in town - and for good reason. But if you're looking for something a little more secluded, you can head to the quieter beaches of Stalos or Lychnostatis.

One of the best ways to explore Stalida is on foot. Take a stroll along the beach promenade, where you'll find a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants serving up delicious Greek cuisine. You can also venture into the old village of Stalida, where you'll get a glimpse of traditional Cretan life. Here, you'll find narrow streets lined with white-washed houses, charming squares, and even an old olive oil press that has been converted into a museum.