Bali has long earned the reputation of one of the best resort villages in the Rethymno region. Usually it is chosen by those who want to spend their holidays in an atmosphere of tranquility, but have an excellent beach and developed infrastructure at hand. Another advantage of Bali is its proximity to the natural and architectural sights of Crete.
Bali bay
The main reason to visit Bali is its bay. The sea here is calm even on days when there is a storm throughout Crete. The coast of the village is reliably protected by mountains, the water is always emerald, and the soft sand completes the ideal picture of relaxation. Bali Bay combines 4 beaches at once:
- Livadi is the largest on the coast. For cleanliness, it is regularly awarding the Blue Flag. Unlike other beaches, it is more exposed to winds, but is well equipped and popular with vacationers;
- Varkotopos is a beach with a gentle entrance to the sea and dark sand, less exposed to winds than Livadi. It is famous for its rich underwater life, so it is worth taking a mask and fins;
- Limani is a beach located close to shops and taverns. The sea here is absolutely calm, and the bottom is gentle and safe;
- Karavostasis is the most picturesque in Bali Bay, as well as the smallest and coziest.
How to get there: Bali can be reached by bus from Heraklion bus station. But from the bus stop you will have to walk 1.5 km or wait for a tourist steam locomotive. It is much more convenient to rent a car in the Cretan capital or airport in order not only to get to Bali without transfers, but also to explore the surroundings on your own.
An interesting fact: water from fresh springs flowing in the area of the village gets into the sea of Bali Bay. Therefore, it is a little cooler than in other areas of Crete.
Atali Monastery
The most famous attraction in Bali is the Atali Monastery. It is located 4 km from the center of the village on a hill, which offers a picturesque view of Bali and the sea. The monastery got its name from the ancient city of Atalis - in its place a modern resort village was built.
The monastery of St. John Atali was first mentioned in the sources of the 17th century. Its façade has retained the typical architectural elements of the Renaissance. In history, the monastery was noted as an active participant in the struggle for the independence of Crete. This led to destruction and oblivion, but in the 20th century the Cretan authorities carried out restoration, and life returned to Atali. In Atali, a miraculous icon of the Mother of God is kept, which believers come to worship. In addition to shrines, the monastery is known for its picturesque gardens.
How to get there: from Bali you can get to the monastery by taxi for 5 euros or by rented car
Additional information: Atali Monastery is open daily (except Friday), from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 18:00 to 20:00. Entrance is allowed in closed clothes
Vosaku Monastery
Vosaku is a 17th century monastery 13 km east of Bali. At that time, the monastery was of great importance, but during the struggle for independence from the Turks, it received significant damage. The main church of Wosaku was rebuilt in the 19th century, replacing the original. From the original monastery complex, a fountain, a refectory and cells have been preserved. In the 20th century, Wosaku was abandoned for 40 years - only in 1998 the restoration was completed. Today, the monastery is known not only for its architectural heritage, but also for the production of honey and raki, which tourists are happy to buy as a souvenir.
How to get there: it is better to get from Bali to Vosaku by car, moving to the east of the island and turning at the village of Sises
Additional information: the monastery is open from 8:30 to 15:00
Melidoni Cave
Melidoni cave is located 12 km from Bali - one of the most famous in Crete. It became famous thanks to bizarre stalagmites and an ancient, eventful history. Excavations have shown that in ancient times Melidoni was used as a place of worship. The figurines and fragments of ceramic objects found here prove that there was a sacred altar in the cave.
In the 19th century, terrible events took place in Melidoni. The cave became the place of death of the inhabitants of the village of the same name and Cretan soldiers at the hands of Turkish invaders. They were furious at the refusal of the islanders to obey. Because of this tragedy, many tourists prefer to bypass Melidoni. But to visit here is still worth it for the impressive natural "scenery" that makes Melidoni one of the most beautiful and famous caves in Greece.
How to get there: Melidoni is a popular excursion object. But you can also get on your own by car, following the signs to the village of Melidoni (turn on the highway, not far from Bali)
Additional information: the cave is open to visitors from 9:00 to 19:00. It is worth wearing comfortable and stable shoes - the descent into the cave is quite slippery.
Panormo
10 km west of Bali is Panormo, one of the most beautiful towns in Crete. Today, tourism is developed here, and in the 5th century a large settlement flourished, which is confirmed by archaeological excavations. Panormo attracts with its old streets, which are pleasant to walk along. Especially during the summer months when the center of the village is closed to traffic. Also worth a visit is the 5th-century St. Sophia Basilica with valuable frescoes and a fragment of a 13th-century fortress.
How to get there: take the Rethymno-Heraklion bus, take the bus stop in Bali and get off at the bus stop in Panormo. But it is better and faster to get from Bali to Panormo by taxi. The price of the trip is about 12 euros
Additional information: Panormo is famous for its excellent taverns and the beach protected from the waves. You can stay in the village for a couple of days to relax.
