Exploring Chersonissos Coastal Town in Crete during November [Part 1]

Are you ready to explore Chersonissos seaside village in Crete, Greece?
If you have ever come to Crete or were ever thinking of it, you definitely have heard of this place.

Chersonissos (or Hersonissos, Χερσόνησος in Greek), is a popular and vibrant coastal town located on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete.

Chersonissos is mostly famous for its bustling nightlife. Apart from stunning beaches, cafeterias, and restaurants, after dark you will find numerous bars, and clubs, offering a vibrant atmosphere for partygoers. The main seaside street is the epicenter of the nightlife scene, you can find many bars, clubs with different music and so much more.

Chersonissos is a well-known tourist destination renowned for its beautiful beaches and a wide of activities are offered. Visitors of all ages are coming, but especially young ones who come to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Hersonissos' coastline is more than 5 kilometers, and I walked less than 1 kilometer. (red line in the below image)

Let's take a walk together.
The streets were mostly empty, there were a few people walking and some workers still there. Most of the shops and restaurants were closed, but you can still find a few cafeterias, a couple of restaurants etc open for local people.

Tell me, do you see something in one of the photos? I spotted a few cats sleeping at the most amazing places. However, I admit that I felt sorry now knowing if there is anyone feeding them.. Are they feeling lonely now that the crowd is gone?

Moving on along the seaside road..

Do what you love, and love what you do - so that everything will be ok.

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As I was walking along the empty streets, it was so much easier to notice the old roman fountain - and to go near it. Now shops are closed, tourists are gone. Nothing can prevent someone from paying attention to any place, for as long as they wish.

Sarakino (Σαρακηνό) fountain

On the coastal road of the village Chersonissos Port, there is the "Sarakino" fountain with impressive mosaic decoration depicting fishing scenes.

The monument is generally dated by most antiquarians in the Roman period. Today, only one of the four decorated sides of Sarakino is well preserved and includes a mosaic with a sea scene depicting fish, aquatic birds and a fishing boat with a paddler and a man fishing, which pulls a large octopus at the stern. At the bottom of the display a man with a blue cap, catches an eel.

In 1954, the monument was fully restored and maintained, and in 1956 a small scale excavation was carried out in the surrounding area, revealing an extensive Roman building with many rooms, at the courtyard of which was probably the fountain. (Alexiou 1956, p. 420).

The fountain, according to archaeologists, dates back to the 2nd century AD. It was part of a complex of public buildings that included a basilica, a theater, and a bathhouse. The fountain was decorated with mosaics and statues, and supplied water to the city through an aqueduct.

The fountain is located in the center of Hersonissos, near the port and the main square. It is a small and unassuming structure, but it has a rich history and a unique charm. It is a reminder of the ancient Roman civilization that once flourished in Crete, and the cultural and artistic legacy that they left behind.

More information here: https://www.landofexperiences.gr/travels/sarakino-fountain/

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As I continue walking, I focus in the ocean more than I look at the empty streets and closed shops

I also thought I saw a celebrity over there for a second. (I hope Bruce is doing well, I was sad to see him a few days ago)

Reaching the small port of Hersonissos!

On the left we see the chapel of Saint Paraskeyi and to the right, the renowned Pirate Ship! (If you have come to Hersonissos, you ll know what exactly it is :) ) Oh, and a duck :)

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My walk ended at this spot, and then I went back to my starting point because it was time to go home.

I hope that you enjoyed this walk, and I hope that you will get the chance to visit this place sometime in the future :)