The Location: Gournes, Heraklion, Crete

Gournes is 15 kilometres east of Heraklion. As you continue east along the old road from Heraklion to Kokkini Hani, the adjoining village is Gournes, which is quite small in comparison, and limited in its facilities.

The name Gournes comes from “gourna” meaning “basin”, and it is thought that there were many watering-places in the area at one time. The evidence still exists, as a “river” basin still runs through the centre of town. In the summer months, however, it is quite dry, but in the winter rainy season, and during the spring thaw, water rushes through here from the surrounding mountains to the sea below.

Population

While the base population eventually grew to about 3,500 servicemen and their families, the surrounding area kept pace. Many of the first hotels and apartments were built in Gournes to accommodate the families of the servicemen and visitors to the base and its civilian work force.

 

Driving Distances

“Golden Bay” Hotel is located near landmarks and points of interest.

Heraklion City:  15 Km – 20 min
Knossos Palace:  21 Km – 22 min
Kazantzakis Airport:  15 Km – 15 min
Hersonissos Village:  7 Km – 10 min
National Road:  2 km

How to get here

  • To get to Gournes from Heraklion Airport or the port, you can take the bus (very frequent service) or taxi, which will not cost you much as Gournes is only about 10 kilometres from the airport.
  • If you have your own or a rented car, take the National Road towards Agios Nikolaos and turn off at the Kokkini Hani exit. Gournes is just a short distance further along.
  • If you miss the first exit because the sign is small and hard to spot, continue to the Gouves exit. Two hundred metres further on you will see the sign to Gournes on your left; Gournes is about 1 kilometres away.
  • If you are coming to Gournes from the resorts to the east, i.e. Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras or Hersonissos, the quickest route is by the old National Road. Avoid the New National Road as you will just be driving further for no reason.