Analipsis beaches
The village of Analipsi (i.e. Ascension) is located 20km east of Heraklion and takes its name after the church of the Ascension of Christ. It is located in a fertile valley, cultivated mainly with olive groves. The settlement was called Svourou Metohi in the early 20th century, after some Turks who had their lands here. Analipsi, after the liberation of Crete from the Ottomas, was handed to the shepherds of Agios Georgios village, in Lasithi Plateau, for moving their cattle in winter months. Today, the lucky descendants of the shepherds have large properties in the area, with hotels, shops, restaurants and all sorts of tourist facilities.
Analipsi is less developed touristically than the other resorts of the surrounding area and is a favorite destination for families, since the place is peaceful and quiet. In front of the village, there is a small pier with a picturesque church next to it dedicated to Agia Marina. West of the chapel the coast is rocky, except for a small harbor with a nice beach. On the other side of the chapel, on the east, you will find the main sandy beach of Analipsis, which is very well organized. The water is not deep, but waves are frequent in summer months.
In the afternoon you can stroll in the alleys of the old traditional village with the beautiful gardens and the stone-paved square. You can also visit the church of the Ascension, which is four aisled and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Ascension of Christ, the Holy Cross and Saint Efrosinos. The main street of the village runs vertical to the coast and hosts many cafes and shops.
