We had the most wonderful week staying at Bellevue on our honeymoon, and honestly cannot recommend it more! The location itself is in the best spot for miles around, with wonderful views of both the local Lygaria Bay (lovely, not touristy, and great for swimming and snorkelling) and the bigger Agia Pelagia (more tavernas and cafes, busier). The walk down to Lygaria is about 15 mins down a steep but very accessible path and road. We easily spent the first few days of our visit relaxing in the area surrounding Bellevue without feeling the need to go further afield.
Lygaria is absolutely beautiful, whether you're enjoying the view from up at Bellevue or down at the very clear waters. The bay has some nice places to eat (definitely follow George's recommendations!) and a good local supermarket for whatever you could need.
We also used local buses to get around, and went into Heraklion and to the palace of Knossos for a day trip (if you do, get the combined ticket and go to the archeological museum as well).
George and Fofi are the best hosts I've stayed with. The
accommodation is great - everything you could need; the pool is a great size from swimming lengths and as well as cooling off; and the breakfast buffet is really good value. Lovely local cheeses, tapenade, eggs etc. as well other staples. We stayed in a couple of nights and enjoyed local wine and food from the taverna they run from 8pm, and had gorgeous evenings enjoying the views and great conversations.
We miss it!
Plenty of space for parking if you have a hire car too.