Almyrida beach

Living on the island of Crete, I am just 23km east of Chania city, nestled on the southern coast of Souda Bay near Cape Drapanos. My home is Almyrida beach, a tranquil retreat with all the essential amenities and a breathtaking sea view. The untouched landscape surrounding Almyrida, dotted with lush olive groves, is perfect for hiking and exploring.

Just a kilometre east of here lies the charming village of Plaka, the largest in the region. Known for its healthy climate and friendly locals, Plaka is a delight to visit with its traditional narrow streets and well-preserved old houses. It’s also famed for its numerous sea caves stretching to Drapanos Cape, creating a spectacular natural display. Every July, the locals host Plakiana, a traditional Cretan feast in honour of renowned lyre player Michael Papadakis. But the most memorable sight here is undoubtedly the sunset.

Declared a region of infinite beauty in 1977, Almyrida boasts two beautiful sandy beaches with shallow waters. On calm days, they’re safe for children to play in. These two beaches are separated by a small rocky peninsula featuring a quaint white chapel. Ideal for water sports and windsurfing, the area is also renowned for its seaside taverns serving fresh fish and delicious traditional Cretan cuisine. Regular bus and taxi services connect Almyrida and Plaka to Chania city.

Directly across from the beach is the small island of Karga, a haven for birdlife and a popular spot for excursions and fishing. The island still bears traces of ancient Phoenician walls and shelters constructed by the Germans during World War II.

Almyrida is thought to have been a Phoenician colony, hence the nearby location Finikia. Here, you can find ancient ruins and tombs. At the entrance to the village lie the remnants of a 6th-century triple-aisle Christian basilica with well-preserved mosaics. Almirida also played a role in Crete’s history as the site of the last battle against the Turks in 1896.

For those interested in sightseeing, just four kilometres east of Almirida is Kokkino Chorio or Red Village. A small village with intriguing fortifications built by the Germans during their occupation (1941-1945) to safeguard the military port of Souda. This was also a filming location for the famous movie “Zorba the Greek”. Today, it hosts a small factory producing handmade glass using traditional blowing techniques.