Set in Maleme and only 1.4 km from Maleme Beach, Villa Kafkales Maleme offers accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 3 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
At the villa guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub and wellness packages. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Villa Kafkales Maleme, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Platanias Square is 7.7 km from the accommodation, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 8.3 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 31 km from Villa Kafkales Maleme, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
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Find below list of things to do near Villa Kafkales Maleme:
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.
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.
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.
Head to Kolymvari port, Chania and be greeted by a crew member who will escort you to the vessel. Hop aboard and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with some light snacks. Then, after a short safety briefing, set sail towards the Agioi Theodoroi islands.
Sit back and relax as you make your way to the islands, where you can take advantage of a selection of fun activities. Go for a swim, try your hand at snorkeling, or use the SUP boards to go paddling.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, this cruise also offers the ideal opportunity for some relaxed sunbathing.
A special entertainment area with board games provides some extra fun for those traveling with kids and if your little one needs a nap, the boat has some comfortable cabins at the ready.
Take a break to refuel with lunch aboard the catamaran. The menu is prepared using local, organic products and includes salad, pasta, seafood, and chicken.
Enjoy local white wine, beer, and soft drinks with your food, and savor a selection of homemade sweets and fresh fruit to round out the meal. A kid’s menu of chicken nuggets or pasta ensures that your little ones will be satisfied too.
Finally, benefit from some more free time before making your way back to the marina in Kolymvari where your cruise comes to an end.
Set sail from Kolymvari and start your trip with a welcome on board. Get to know the team and get briefed by your captain about the safety rules.
Navigate toward one of the most picturesque bays in the area, among the Agioi Theodoroi islands. Stop to swim, snorkel, play with inflatables, or try stand-up paddleboarding.
Enjoy a Mediterranean dinner onboard with vegetarian options available. Savor delicious seafood, and local and imported drinks. Cruise back to Kolymvari while surrounded by sweeping scenery.
Explore the island of Kri-Kri (Thodorou island) onboard a cruise around Crete. Sail around stunning gulfs, secluded small islands, and enjoy the turquoise blue waters.
Begin your cruise in the morning. Sail around Thodorou Island, located near Chania, opposite Agia Marina beach, and see the surrounding secluded islands in the area.
Discover Cretan wild goats (kri-kri). Enjoy the calm and tranquil sea. The coastline of the island and the wreck of a German aircraft from WW2 are perfect places for snorkeling.
Find below list of beaches near Villa Kafkales Maleme:
Situated 18km west of Chania, Maleme forms part of the expansive beach that stretches from Kolimbari to the vicinity of Chania. This lengthy bay is adorned with stunning sandy and pebbly beaches, although they are exposed to frequent northerly winds. The beach at Maleme is sandy and the surrounding area is well developed, with all necessary amenities conveniently located near the beach. For those seeking a more secluded spot for a swim, the west end of the beach, adjacent to the old military airport, offers a quieter location.
The name Maleme is believed to derive from the word “Malama”, translating to gold, hinting at the possibility of a gold mine existing in ancient times, although this hasn’t been confirmed. In addition, a domed tomb from the late Minoan period has been discovered near Maleme. Despite having been looted, two cylindrical seals depicting running wild animals were found by archaeologists.
During World War II, Maleme held significant historical importance. It was home to the Allies’ military airport until it was seized by German forces. The Battle of Crete in 1941 saw German paratroopers descend upon Maleme to gain control of the airport. They were met with fierce resistance from local Cretans and Allied forces, leading to substantial casualties on the German side. With only rudimentary weapons at their disposal, the local Cretans dealt a significant blow to the German paratroopers, which drew praise for Cretan patriotism from Hitler himself. This marked the first time in the Second World War where German forces faced strong resistance from a local population. It was also the first large-scale airborne invasion in history, and the last of its kind. The German Cemetery, located on a hill near Maleme, is the final resting place for the 4500 German paratroopers who lost their lives. A monument dedicated to fallen RAF airmen can also be found near Maleme, close to the River Tavronitis bridge.
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.
Rapaniana Beach is a calm, mixed sand-and-pebble beach on the northwest coast of Chania, 20 km west of Chania town and 4 km east of Kolymvari. Rapaniana Beach forms part of one long, open shoreline that runs from the Rodopos Peninsula toward Chania, so it stays uncrowded and feels local even in summer. The bay suits travelers who want a wide, unhurried stretch of coast with everyday village services close at hand, rather than a busy organized resort beach.
Rapaniana Beach mixes sandy patches with pebbly ground, and the seabed is made up of fine pebbles and pebbles. The shore is part of a much longer coastal stretch that reaches from the Rodopos Peninsula all the way to Chania, taking in the beaches beside the villages of Skoutelonas, Minothiana, and Rapaniana. Because the coast here is open and continuous, you can usually find your own space along the sand and shingle. The beach is kept notably clean, which adds to its relaxed, low-key character.
This part of the coast also carries real ecological value. Rapaniana and its neighboring beaches serve as nesting grounds for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), a protected species that lays its eggs on quiet northern-Crete sands. Treat any marked nests with care and keep the beach free of litter so the turtles keep returning.
Reach Rapaniana Beach by driving the north-coast road west from Chania, roughly 20 km out of town, then continuing 4 km east past Kolymvari. The beach sits along the villages of Skoutelonas, Minothiana, and Rapaniana, so any of these makes a natural landmark as you approach. You can pin the exact spot and follow live directions using Google Maps or Waze.
A car gives you the most freedom here, since the beach spreads across several village access points and the wider northwest coast rewards day-tripping. Kolymvari, the Rodopos Peninsula, and Chania town all sit within an easy drive once you have your own wheels. Travelers who want that flexibility often sort out their car rental in Crete before arriving.
Rapaniana Beach offers the practical basics for a comfortable day by the water, including umbrellas, showers, and a lifeguard tower. The surrounding villages fill in everything else you might need during a stay on this coast.
The village provides a full set of everyday services:
Because these services sit right around the beach, Rapaniana works well as a base rather than only a passing stop.
Swim at Rapaniana Beach on calm days, when the water is at its clearest and most inviting. This is a north-facing shore, and the northern coastline sees frequent waves, so the sea can turn choppy when the wind picks up. The mixed sandy and pebbly bottom means water shoes are handy for a comfortable entry over the fine pebbles.
Check the forecast before you go and plan your swim around settled, wind-free weather. On a still day the long, clean shoreline gives you plenty of room to wade in and cool off.
Rapaniana Beach suits travelers who prefer a quiet, natural stretch of coast over a crowded resort beach. The open shoreline, everyday village services, and relaxed pace make it a good fit for several types of visitors.
Plan your visit around calm weather to get the best of the swimming and the views. A few practical pointers make the day smoother:
Rapaniana Beach lies on the northwest coast of Chania, 20 km west of Chania town and 4 km east of Kolymvari. It forms part of a long coastline running from the Rodopos Peninsula toward Chania.
Rapaniana Beach is a mix of sandy and pebbly areas, with a seabed of fine pebbles and pebbles. Water shoes make entry over the shingle more comfortable.
Rapaniana Beach has umbrellas, showers, and a lifeguard tower. The surrounding villages add mini markets, restaurants, accommodation, a health centre, pharmacy, dentist, post office, bank, telephone services, and car rental.
Rapaniana Beach is best for swimming on calm days, when the water is clear and settled. The northern coastline sees frequent waves, so choppy conditions are common when the wind rises.
Rapaniana Beach and its neighboring beaches serve as nesting grounds for the protected loggerhead sea turtle. Keep the sand clean and avoid disturbing any marked nests.
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.
Find below list of gorges near Villa Kafkales Maleme:
The Rocca, Roka, Rocka, or Rokka Gorge, situated 32km west of Chania in the Kolymbari region, stretches for 2km from the village of Deliana to the village of Roka. The settlement features Trouli hill, which is home to the remnants of a Byzantine fortress.
Despite the ease of hiking through the gorge (typically a 2-hour trek), it can be challenging to traverse without getting wet during periods of water flow in the narrower sections. The gorge is adorned with numerous plane trees that provide a cool respite from the sun. The gorge’s vertical sides are incredibly tall and impressive at certain points. The main path follows the dry riverbed during the summer.
Upon exiting Roka gorge, you’ll encounter the Mesonisi settlement. Following a dirt road will lead you to Roka village and Trouli hill. You can climb up to the castle ruins for a breathtaking view of the surrounding areas, or unwind in the local coffee shop.
The Deliana – Mesavlia Gorge, a point of contention between the villages of Mesavlia and Deliana, is situated 37km to the west of Chania. This disagreement is even evident in the area’s signage. The gorge begins in Mesavlia and stretches 5km to Deliana. A dirt road that runs alongside the riverbed makes the walk quite straightforward, taking approximately an hour. Originating from Mount Anavos, the river flows through the Mesavlia – Deliana Gorge, then the Roka Gorge, before finally reaching Nopigia beach.
The gorge is renowned for its lush vegetation, which is most vibrant in spring when water is plentiful. Not far from Mesavlia, you’ll find the cavernous chapel of Saint Paraskevi (Agia Paraskevi), which hosts an annual feast. Closer to Deliana, you’ll come across the chapel of Saint Photios (Agios Fotios).
The quickest way to reach the gorge from Chania is via Deliana, while the fastest route from Paleochora is through Mesavlia. From Deliana, you can hike (uphill) to Mesavlia and back, unless you’ve arranged for a pick-up from Mesavlia (2 hours round trip). Deliana and the nearby village of Panethimos offer several quaint, traditional taverns. Also worth a visit is the ruined monastery of Theotokos in the neighbouring village of Gra Kera.
The Gorge Chalase, also known as Porofarago, begins close to the Sassalos village and concludes just before reaching the Makronas village, after a four-hour journey through lush vegetation. The gorge is fed by two primary streams that converge south of Sassalos; the Mylonofarago ravine that originates from the Mylones village, and the Kalogirou stream.
Navigating through the gorge can be quite challenging due to a significant landslide (referred to as ‘chalase’ in the Cretan dialect) at a certain point, and the absence of a well-defined path. Near Malathyros, approximately halfway through the route, the trail transitions into a dirt road that follows the riverbed all the way to Makronas. Just before reaching Makronas, we come across a historical site where, on August 28, 1944, German forces executed 62 civilian men from Malathyros as retribution for the activities of local guerrilla groups. The German atrocities committed during this time have yet to be brought to justice.
Located about 35km southwest of Chania city, on the northern slopes of Mount Apopigadi, Palea Roumata is a verdant area. This region is made up of 13 neighborhoods, all part of the same village (Palea Roumata), spread across the slopes. Near the small settlement of Lidiana, the Vavouledo and Trachinos canyons converge, providing an ideal circular route with water until late spring.
The Trahinos Gorge, starting near the Trahinos hamlet, is fairly short but stands as one of Crete’s greenest gorges. Its walls are so narrow that they’re almost unnoticeable from above. The gorge is filled with dense vegetation, often casting shadows over the riverbed. Similar to Vavouledo, the Trahinos Gorge also features a hiking trail.
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