Bellevue Village at Lygaria Beach is the perfect spot if you want to enjoy cretan lifestyle. George and Fofi are wonderful hosts. They run the cozy and beautiful hotel by themselves and are very eager to make everything perfect. The rooms are large and very comfortable, we enjoyed the seaview and the room right next to the pool. The food is home-cooked and tastes just like a little piece of what Gods would be served on the Olymp. We really recommend the Mousaka and the Greek Salad. You must also try the excellent wines.
From Bellevue Village we discovered the cities on the northern shore- Iraklio, Rethymno and Agio Nikolaos. If you want to see more, you should rent a car. If you prefer to travel by bus, you have to walk 10min to the bus stop at the main road. You might have to wait there a little, as there is no schedule available for the small stops between bigger cities.
If there is anything you need to know, ask George. He gives good advice and enjoys a nice chat with his guests. We enjoyed every evening we spent at the terrace.
We're planning to come back ;)