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Kolimbari, a quaint seaside town housing over 5000 residents, is situated 24km west of Chania, on the eastern edge of the Rodopos Peninsula. This picturesque town is quite developed, primarily due to its stunning, lengthy beach that extends from the village to Tavronitis in the east. The sandy beach at Kolimbari is occasionally dotted with small pebbles, and while the waters are shallow, they tend to be wavy, a typical characteristic of northern Crete’s open beaches. The area adjacent to the beach offers ample choices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment.
For those seeking a more serene beach experience, the tiny coves near the Gonia Monastery, just 1km northwest of Kolimbari, are worth visiting. Boats frequently depart from the Kolimbari port to the Rodopos Cape, renowned for its majestic cliffs and tranquil beaches, with Menzies being the most popular.
The historic Gonia Monastery, reminiscent of a fortress, is located 1km northwest of the town. It’s dedicated to the Virgin Mary Odigitria, also known as the Guide, and houses a notable collection of Byzantine icons. The Orthodox Academy of Crete, a venue for nationwide and global conferences on theological and general topics, is also located near Gonia.
There are various activities you can do at Kolimbari beach such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and fishing.
Yes, Kolimbari beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Kolimbari beach where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.
Yes, you can rent beach equipment such as umbrellas and sun loungers at Kolimbari beach.
Yes, there is a parking area near Kolimbari beach where you can park your car for free.
Yes, you can go for a walk or jog along Kolimbari beach as it has a long stretch of sand.
It depends on the time of day and the season. Generally, Kolimbari beach is less crowded than other popular beaches in the area.
The water colour of the Kolimbari beach is blue.
The Kolimbari beach has pebbles and fine pebbles.
The water depth of the Kolimbari beach is normal.
The surface of the sea at the Kolimbari beach is usually wavy.
The Kolimbari beach crowds are normal.
The Kolimbari beach has food and water nearby, umbrellas and beds, and a Blue Flag.
The Kolimbari beach access is via a paved road.
The Kolimbari beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing, and there is tree shade available.
Find below list of things to do near Kolimbari beach:
Exploring the Olive Treasures: Begin your day with a visit to an olive mill in Kolymbary, where you’ll witness the olive oil-making process and engage in a flavorful olive oil tasting. Journey to Ano Vouves to encounter a 3000-year-old ancient olive tree, delving into the rich history and significance of olives in Cretan culture.
Wine Tasting and Longevity Secrets: At Karavitakis winery, savor the finest wines while uncovering the secrets of longevity associated with Cretan living. Enjoy an informative wine tasting session amidst stunning vineyard landscapes, immersing yourself in the cultural significance of winemaking in Crete.
Off-Road Adventure and Scenic Beauty: Embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure towards Sebronas village, navigating through picturesque gorges, lush vegetation, and panoramic vistas. Capture the essence of Cretan countryside life with photo opportunities of chapels, livestock, vineyards, and olive groves.
Cretan Gastronomy and Hospitality: Satisfy your appetite at a quaint tavern in Nea Roumata, experiencing the true essence of Cretan hospitality through local platters and authentic cuisine. Immerse yourself in the flavors and warmth of Cretan culture while enjoying a memorable dining experience.
Embark on a unique wine and olive escape, immersing yourself in the famed Greek hospitality and embracing the sights, flavors, and warmth of Cretan culture. Enjoy a professionally guided journey through ancient landscapes and indulge in authentic culinary delights, making this safari tour an unforgettable experience.
On our Kayak Morning Tour, you will have the opportunity to paddle in a stunning sea gulf, visit a shipwreck and some other very interesting spots and reach out to a small private beach for rest and snorkel!
Our Kayak Morning Tour starts from a beach very close to Kissamos city.
After the reservation, a small form is sent to you with extra details that we will need in order to have the kayaks adjusted and ready for our small kayak adventure.
We start by meeting all together in our starting point, fitting the safety equipment and taking instructions on how to kayak and being safe in the sea!
When all the participants take place in their kayaks, we will start our tour by heading for our first point of interest, which is a shipwreck (Manassa Rose) in the middle of Kissamos Bay!
You will hear the story of this shipwreck and after that we will take our course heading to the next point of interest that is some metal mine ruins from 1905!
On the way, we will paddle through a beautiful coast line and hear some interesting facts about the area!
Distant small chapels are along our way and very nice rocky natural formations!
Reaching the mine ruins, we will hear the small story of them and straight after we will head for a small private beach accessible only by sea!
There we have a stop for rest, drink some beverages, swim and snorkel its amazing underwater formations.
Right after we leave the small beach, we will have the opportunity to explore the sea cave of Ravdoucha.
On our Kayak Sunset Tour, you will have the opportunity to paddle in a stunning sea gulf, visit the shipwreck that rests in middle of Kissamos bay, the old Ravdoucha metal mine ruins, a very interesting sea cave and reach out to a small private beach for rest and snorkel!
The Kayak Sunset Tour starts in the afternoon, on a beach very close to Kissamos city. After the reservation, a small form is sent to you with extra details that we will need in order for us to have the kayaks adjusted and ready for our small kayak adventure.
We start by meeting all together in our starting point, fitting the safety equipment and taking instructions on how to kayak and being safe in the sea!
When all the participants take place in their kayaks, we start our tour by heading for our first point of interest, which is a shipwreck (Manassa Rose) in the middle of Kissamos Bay!
You will hear the story of this shipwreck and after that we will take the course heading to the next point of interest that is some metal mine ruins from 1905!
On the way, we will paddle through a beautiful coast line and hear some interesting facts about the area!
Distant small chapels are along our way and very nice rocky natural formations!
Reaching the mine ruins, we will hear the small story of them and straight after we will head for a small private beach accessible only by sea!
There we have a stop for rest, swim and snorkel its amazing underwater formations.
Right after we leave the small beach, we will have the opportunity to explore the sea cave of Ravdoucha.
When we are ready and the sunset light is getting ready to lay down its colors, we start paddling back to the starting point in the lights of the Sunset.
A total paddling time is around 3 hours and the total tour is around 4,5 hours!
No kayaking experience is required since all our equipment is beginner friendly and instructions are provided before our tour!
Explore the World War II history of Crete and learn about its wider impact in southeast Europe and Greece. Explore the story of the Greek-Italian War of 1940 and the circumstances that lead to Hitler’s Operation Mercury.
Hear how the Battle of Crete and the resistance to the invasion helped revive the morale of the Allied troops around the world. Visit key location sites such as the pretty village of Maleme, where the German paratroopers first landed. Discover remnants of the war at Tavronitis and Galatas, and visit the war cemeteries of the German and Allied troops.
Be amazed as your guide brings history to life and tells you about secret shelters and other monuments from the war. Hear untold stories that take you behind the scenes and explore the role the partisans played as they helped the British, Australian and New Zealand armies change the course of history.
Explore the wild natural beauty and the crystal-clear waters of two majestic hidden beaches on this guided cruise from Kolymbari to Menies and Chironisia. Use the provided snorkeling gear to uncover the remains of a sunken gun and carriage from WWII.
Choose from a tour that meets on the boat in the harbor of Kolymbari or that includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations in north Chania. Set off a comfortable and spacious boat.
Feel the wind in your hair as you glide to Menies beach which is on the site of ancient Diktynna, where the most important temple of the goddess Vritomartis was located. See the remains of the ancient Roman temple as well as a 9th century abandoned monastery of St. George.
Put on your snorkel gear to explore some underwater items from WWII before heading to Chironisia Bay, a small hidden bay that is only accessible by the sea. Plunge into the deep blue waters where you can venture into small caves with the snorkel gear.
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the rich culture and traditions of Crete! Set in the charming village of Kefalas in Apokoronas, our Authentic Cretan Night offers a unique experience filled with delicious food, live music, and traditional dance.
Pick-up Service:
Begin your evening with the convenience of a pick-up service . Relax as you are transported to Taverna Ortaki , nestled in the heart of Kefalas .
Arrival and Welcome:
Upon arrival, step into the warm embrace of Cretan hospitality. The welcoming atmosphere sets the tone for an unforgettable night filled with cultural delights.
Dinner with Cretan Flavors:
Indulge in a sumptuous Cretan dinner crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu showcases the diverse and mouthwatering flavors of Cretan cuisine, offering a culinary exploration of the region.
Live Music Performance:
Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of live traditional Cretan music. Local musicians, often featuring instruments like the lyre and laouto, create an authentic ambiance that transports you to the heart of Crete.
Traditional Dance Show:
Be mesmerized by a spirited traditional dance performance, where skilled dancers adorned in vibrant costumes showcase the unique dances of Crete. The rhythmic beats and lively movements tell stories of the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Audience Engagement:
Feel the energy of the performance and join in the fun! The friendly atmosphere encourages audience participation, allowing you to experience the joy of traditional Cretan dances firsthand.
Dessert Delights:
Conclude your gastronomic journey with delectable Cretan desserts, adding a sweet note to your evening. Indulge in treats like baklava or loukoumades, savoring the perfect end to your culinary experience.
Closing and Departure:
Bid farewell to the gracious hosts and fellow guests, leaving with cherished memories of an authentic Cretan night. If you arranged for transportation, enjoy a comfortable drop-off back to your accommodation.
Embark on a cultural odyssey at Taverna ORTAKI , where every element of this Cretan night has been thoughtfully curated to offer an immersive and unforgettable experience. A perfect blend of music, dance, gastronomy, and warm hospitality awaits you.
Find below the list of hotels near Kolimbari beach:
Featuring sea views, Amoutsa Seaside Villa features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around a few steps from Rapaniana Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace and free WiFi.
Boasting a Blu-ray player, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 4 bedrooms, and 3 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bath. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels and DVD player, as well as a CD player are available.
The villa offers a picnic area. Amoutsa Seaside Villa has a barbecue and a garden, which can be enjoyed by guests if the weather permits.
Platanias Square is 13 km from the accommodation, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 14 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 37 km from Amoutsa Seaside Villa.
Set in Kolymvari, 300 metres from Rapaniana Beach and 13 km from Platanias Square, Angel-kolymvari4you offers air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home is fitted with 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Cycling and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Agios Dimitrios Church is 13 km from the holiday home, while Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 18 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 36 km from Angel-kolymvari4you.
Set in Chania Town, 1 km from Rapaniana Beach and 12 km from Platanias Square, Anastasia’s Home offers air conditioning. This property offers access to a terrace and free private parking.
With free WiFi, this 2-bedroom holiday home offers a flat-screen TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with fridge.
Agios Dimitrios Church is 13 km from the holiday home, while Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 18 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 36 km from Anastasia’s Home.
from
€86
/night
Located in Kolymvari in the Crete region with Rapaniana Beach nearby, Androniki Residense provides accommodation with free private parking.
Featuring free WiFi, the units have a washing machine and a flat-screen TV. An oven, a fridge and stovetop are also provided in the kitchen, as well as a coffee machine.
The holiday home offers a terrace.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Platanias Square is 12 km from Androniki Residense, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 13 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 36 km from the accommodation.
Located in Kolymvari, 13 km from Platanias Square and 13 km from Agios Dimitrios Church, Kyma sea front – Apollon Lux apartment offers air conditioning. The accommodation is 300 metres from the Rapaniana Beach and features free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment is equipped with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with mountain views.
Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 18 km from the apartment, while Municipal Garden is 21 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 37 km from Kyma sea front – Apollon Lux apartment.
from
€93
/night
Located in Kolymvari, 22 km from Chania Town, the seaside Xristinas Seaside Apartments feature a barbecue and sun terrace. Elafonisi is 37 km away. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and free private parking is available on site.
Some units have a terrace and/or balcony with sea or mountains views. Some units also have a kitchen, equipped with an oven.
Georgioupolis is 48 km from Xristinas Seaside Apartments. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 33 km from the property.
from
€83
/night
Find below list of beaches near Kolimbari beach:
The expansive beach in Rapaniana, situated 20km west of Chania and 4km east of Kolimbari, is a part of the larger stretch of beach that extends from Peninsula Rodopos to Chania, incorporating the beaches near the villages of Skoutelonas, Minothiana, and Rapaniana. The beach, featuring a mix of sandy and pebbly areas, is a perfect choice for visitors, especially during calm weather, as the northern coastline frequently experiences waves. It is impeccably clean and equipped with essential tourist amenities like umbrellas, showers, and a lifeguard tower.
Rapaniana and its neighboring beaches serve as nesting grounds for the protected loggerhead sea turtle. The village of Rapaniana offers a variety of services including mini markets, restaurants, accommodation facilities, a health centre, pharmacy, dentist, post office, bank, telephone, and car rental services.
Afrata is a quaint village nestled 3.5km north of Kolymbari and 28km west of Chania, situated at Cape Rodopos. Just 1km east of the village, within a serene bay, you’ll find the charming beach of Afrata.
The beach, with its pebbly terrain and appealing water hues, is a popular spot among locals, as it remains untouched by the area’s winds. The raw beauty of Rodopos Cape, coupled with the tranquil sea and the picturesque village, makes Afrata an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. The beach features a small canteen for food and water purchases, and shade is provided by umbrellas and tamarisk trees.
The road to Afrata from Kolimbari is paved with asphalt, but caution is advised due to its narrowness. After passing through the village, the road leads to the beach via a stunning gorge. Along the way, just below Odigitria Gonia monastery, you’ll encounter the quiet, rocky coves of Odigitria.
The route from Kolymvari to Afrata also takes you past the historic Panagia Odigitria Gonia Monastery and the Orthodox Academy. The Monastery is a significant part of the island’s history. The Turkish occupation of Crete began here in 1645, and in 1897, it was the landing point of the Greek army, triggering the Greek-Turkish war. Located near Kolymbari port, the Monastery comprises the main temple, an inner courtyard, monks’ cells, and walls that served to protect against pirates, Turks, and other invaders. On the northeast side, within the walls, you can still see the damage caused by the Turkish gunfire against the Monastery.
Additionally, north of Afrata is the Ellinospilios cave, an archaeological treasure trove. However, the path to the cave, due to the region’s rocky landscape, is rather challenging and recommended for experienced walkers only. Specialized knowledge and equipment are necessary for cave entry. The cave’s entrance is positioned just above sea level and the path continues northeast.
Tavronitis beach, found 20km west of Chania, is situated on the western side of the historic Maleme airport, one kilometer north of the village of Tavronitis and is named after the Tavronitis river that flows nearby. This long, pebbly beach is just a segment of the expansive coastline that stretches from Kolimbari to Stalos, making it an ideal swimming spot, especially during calm weather as the northern coast of Crete often experiences waves. There are ample amenities nearby, including hotels, tavernas, restaurants, and a variety of tourist facilities.
The beach holds historical significance as it is near Maleme airport, the site of a significant resistance against the German forces in 1941, known as the Battle of Crete. This marked the first time in World War II where the local population fiercely resisted the German army, causing them heavy losses. Despite this, the Germans managed to gain control of a small area east of the Tavronitis river and the airport. Today, visitors can pay their respects at the German cemetery and other monuments dedicated to this historic event.
Ravdoucha’s beachfront, situated approximately 21km west of Chania and close to the village of Ravdoucha on the peninsula Rodopos’ western coast, offers truly splendid scenery. The area is characterized by its towering mountains, rugged rocks, and olive groves, and is peppered with several small bays featuring beautiful rock formations and pebbly beaches. The sea, regularly influenced by the western winds, provides an excellent spot for snorkelling. Ravdoucha also boasts several renowned fish taverns and basic tourist facilities. Although there are no umbrellas on the beach, shade can be found under the trees.
One can reach Ravdoucha by car via a well-maintained paved road from the Chania – Kisamos highway. The village is constructed on a height, providing an overlook to the sea. En route to the beach, travellers will encounter the cave-like chapels of St Marina and St Onoufrios, which are worth photographing.
The northernmost beach in the area, named Neratzia after a small tavern of the same name, is a peaceful sandy beach. There’s a small pier on the side that serves as a modest harbour.
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