Discover the Balos lagoon from above and go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters of, Falassarna beach the local’s favorite beach – on this uinique small group day trip from Chania. Travel aboard a comfortable all-terrain vehicle and stop a mouth-watering Greek lunch with wine or beer.
Hop in an air-conditioned vehicle at your hotel in Chania and relax on the drive. Follow your guide up to Balos lagoon viewpoint. Admire panoramic views of the island’s landscapes and the azure sea.
Continue to Falassarna beach, a favorite destination of the locals. Have sunbeds and umbrellas already reserved for when you arrive at the beach for a smooth and easy trip. Relax on the beach or swim in the idyllic waters. Sip a cup of coffee or a soft drink.
Finally, savor a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. Taste traditional food and wine at your reserved table and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Keep your energy up during your trip with fruit and local energy bars. Return to your hotel at the end of your tour.
Book this – small group – authentic tour and take the chance to visit Balos Lagoon and the local’s favorite Falassarna beach, having a memorable day without stress, because of your host care and our company’s early reservations and services.
Indicative Time-Table
08:00-09:20 Pick-Up
10:15 Arrival at Falassarna Beach
Optional visit on foot to Ancient Falassarna
17:00 Departure from Falassarna Beach
17:30-18:45 Arrival at your hotel
Falassarna Beach is located in the western part of Cape Gramvousa.
It is one of the most famous beaches in Greece, which has been awarded as
the best beach of Crete and one of the 10 best beaches in Europe in the past.
Falassarna spans a huge area and consists of five consecutive beaches, with
the two most central being the most favorite. With its crystal-clear water
and white sandy beaches, Falassarna is the perfect place to unwind and
relax.
Falasarna is also famous for its majestic sunset, which is considered the best
in all Crete because of its unhindered horizon view. Visitors who choose to
explore them in the afternoon literally watch the sun dive in the sea.
Soak up some sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Falasarna Beach on this guided day trip that includes hotel pickup from the city of Rethymno. Admire views of Chania as you travel on a spacious bus.
Hop aboard a luxury bus at your accommodation and settle in for a scenic ride as you pass by charming towns like Kissamos on your way to Fallasarna Bay. Reach Falasarna Beach and get out of the bus for 4 hours of free time.
Go for a swim in turquoise waters, pickup up some colors on the long sandy beach, purchase a drink at a beachside bar, or go to a restaurant to try some mouthwatering local cuisine. Feel free to purchase access to a lounger with an umbrella.
After your free time, get back on the bus for the transfer back to your accommodation while reflecting on your unforgettable day.
Falassarna Beach is located in the western part of Cape Gramvousa. At the northern end of the beach there are the ruins of the ancient Grecoroman city of Falassarna. Falassarna bay is one of the most famous beaches in Greece, which has been awarded as the best beach of Crete and one of the 10 best beaches in Europe in the past. Falassarna spans a huge area and consists of five consecutive beaches, with the two most central being the most favorite. The main beach of Falassarna is called Pacheia Ammos . It is an exotic beach with a length of 1 breathtaking km and a width of 150m. This idyllic stretch of coastline offers visitors endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and exploration. With its crystal-clear water and white sandy beaches, faces West, Falasarna is famous for its majestic sunset, which is considered the best in all Crete because of its unhindered horizon view, as visitors literally watch the sun dive in the sea.
Kalyviani Beach, situated a mere 1km north of the eponymous traditional village at the foot of the Gramvousa Peninsula and 7km northwest of the town of Kissamos, is a lengthy stretch of coast that serves as a viable option for swimming for those visiting the scenic village of Kaliviani. However, its overall rocky terrain with sparse sandy patches doesn’t make it a favourite among swimmers. It is advised to avoid the beach during gusty days, as the large waves coupled with the rocky seabed can make swimming hazardous.
Despite its proximity to Kissamos and Kaliviani village, where accommodation and dining options are available, the beach lacks tourist facilities. It also tends to be less than pristine, as it often becomes a depository for trash brought in by the currents and waves.
Tou Meri to Pigadi is located 8km northwest of Kissamos and 44km west of Chania, on the eastern side of Peninsula Gramvousa. The name means “Meri’s well”, probably named after the name of someone, who owned a well in the area. Meri Pigadi has three consecutive small protected bays, with fine pebbles and crystal clear deep waters. There are no facilities on the beaches; it is an ideal place to relax, away from the noise of cities.
There are a few small trees, under which you can find shade. The first bay, just behind the ticket kiosk of Balos lagoon, is called Mouri Lakkos. To get to Meri’s Well, you have to walk or drive 1.5km into the dirt road that starts from Kaliviani and leads to the lagoon of Balos. If you visit the beaches, do not forget to have water with you.
1.5km north of Meri Pigadi, at position Kakia Skala, there is a small beach with fine pebbles and gorgeous deep blue water, adjacent to the eastern cliffs of the cape. Access to the beach is not easy, as the rocky cliffs make the descent impossible.
The stunning Falassarna beach is situated 59km to the west of Chania city and about 17km to the west of Kissamos, at the western end of the Gramvousa peninsula. The northern end of this beach features the remains of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Phalassarna. Widely acclaimed, Falassarna is home to some of the most celebrated beaches in Greece, having been awarded the best beach in Crete and recognized as one of the top 10 European beaches multiple times. The area spans a large expanse and is made up of five consecutive beaches, with the two central beaches being the most popular.
The whitish sand on Falassarna gives the water a tropical hue. Visitors may find themselves entranced by the beach and its turquoise waters, provided the west wind is not blowing (which is rare in west Crete). The main beach, Pachia Ammos, is a 1km long and 150m wide exotic beach. Despite being the most popular, due to its size, it never seems too crowded. There are a few snack bars, cafes, umbrellas, and services for water sports and beach volleyball courts.
To the north of the main beach is another 800m long beach that is divided into smaller beaches by a sand dune and some rocks. This beach is quieter than Pachia Ammos and offers no facilities. A small cove facing south near the archaeological site is also an option for those who prefer isolation, although it has a rocky seabed. A long sandy beach at Livadi, located to the south of Pachia Ammos, is great for snorkelling and is surrounded by a wetland area that attracts many birds during winter. South of this beach, near the small harbour of Limeniskos settlement, there is a small pebbly beach, which is ideal for those who prefer not to stay remote.
Falassarna is situated in a protected nature reserve, and the sunset considered the best in Crete, is a romantic sight to behold. However, one drawback is that the beach is typically wavy due to its westward orientation, although this is desirable for windsurfers. The area’s greenhouses are also rumoured to pollute the sea with fertilizers and waste, which is unfortunate if true. Visitors who lack transportation can take the bus from Chania or Kissamos.
Located 3km northwest of Kissamos town and 38km west of Chania, you’ll find the beach of Vigglia on Crete island. This beach begins near the “Madonna of the Harbor” church (Panagia) by the port of Kissamos, stretching along a 2km coastline featuring many coves, all the way to Kaliviani to the west. Notably, Vigglia’s primary beach boasts a nearly semicircular shape, with its coarse sand and transparent water. There are areas where the sandy beach is replaced with pebbles and rocks.
Although Vigglia doesn’t provide extensive tourist services, there are a few hotels in its vicinity and some basic facilities. Despite not being highly organized, Vigglia attracts many admirers who appreciate the area’s tranquillity and pristine sea. If you’re seeking a family-friendly destination in western Crete, Vigglia would be an excellent recommendation.
The ancient town of Falasarna (or Phalassarna) is situated at the western base of the Gramvousa peninsula and was one of the major towns of Crete during the Hellenistic and Roman Era. The city was renowned for its port, the only natural harbor in western Crete, constructed in a small lagoon. Nowadays, the area is well-known for its stunning beaches.
In antiquity, it was called Korikos, while the name Falasarna was possibly derived from the local nymph Falasarni. The rival town in the region was Polirinia, which managed to turn Falasarna into its port after 100 years of conflicts (186BC).
In Falasarna, archaeologists have identified parts of buildings and the acropolis overlooking the harbor with traces of strong walls and a temple dedicated to Demetra and a chthonic goddess. Additionally, east of the port, a cemetery with 43 archaic graves has been discovered. The territory of Falasarna extended up to the tip of the Gramvousa peninsula, where there was a temple. A carved throne has also been found within walking distance from the town, which was likely dedicated to the god of the sea, Poseidon, or was simply a throne for speakers.
The most fascinating part of the town is undoubtedly its port, which has now risen up to 9m from the sea surface due to the lifting of Western Crete by the earthquake of 365BC. It is truly impressive to see port facilities on land. The harbor was protected by four towers (2 of them have been identified), and the port was accessed through a narrow artificial canal.
It is believed that Falassarna was a haven for pirates. This forced the Romans to destroy the city in 69 BC and seal the port forever. The town could not recover and regain its former glory since then, leading to its abandonment during the 4th century AD.
The ancient city ruins of Polirinia can be found on a steep hill overlooking the North Cretan Sea. It is believed that the city was founded by the Achaeans around 1100 BC and thrived during the Roman period, becoming the most important town in West Crete. Polirinia’s ports were Phalassarna and Kissamos, and the city had close trade relations with Sparta, Milos, Rhodes, Thiva, the coasts of Ionia (Asia Minor), and Egypt. Besides trade, the town was also known for its livestock, as its name is derived from the words “polla rinia,” meaning many lambs.
Polirinia reacted positively to the Roman invasion, and as a result, it was not destroyed like other cities in Crete. Instead, it formed an alliance and managed to defeat the most powerful city in western Crete, Kydonia, and gained control of the sanctuary of Diktynna at the Spatha peninsula.
The city’s coins depict a bull’s head (voukranio) and Jupiter. On top of the hill, there once stood another temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis or Diktinna, which was demolished in 1894 to build the temple of the Holy Fathers (using materials from the original sanctuary). Today, visitors can see parts of the strong city walls from the Byzantine period, a Hellenistic tower, an aqueduct, and a temple.
The phrase “Cretan Sacrifices” is still used by Greeks today when referring to unfulfilled desires or purposes. This phrase originated from the story of Agamemnon and Polirinia: When Agamemnon, the victor of the Trojan War, returned home, he anchored on Nopigia beach to offer a sacrifice to the gods of Polirinia. However, the prisoners on board started fires, and he had to leave in a hurry without completing the sacrifice.
The coastal Monastery of Panagia Odigitria can be found at the base of the Spatha peninsula, approximately 26km west of Chania and 2.5km north of Kolimbari. It is also referred to as the Lady of the Angels Monastery of Gonia (Gonia = Corner) due to its position on the western edge-corner of Chania Bay.
Established in the 17th century, the monastery soon thrived as a rich monastic tradition developed in Spatha, and the monks congregated in Gonia. The Gonia Monastery has played a significant role in local history, often serving as a refuge for Cretan rebels and consequently being destroyed numerous times by various conquerors. Evidence of this can be seen in a cannonball embedded in the east wall.
The original 14th-century church is situated in the current cemetery, close to the existing monastery complex. The complex is encircled by a high wall, reminiscent of a Venetian castle. The temple is dedicated to the Virgin Hodhegetria (celebrated on August 15th). Surrounding the temple are numerous other monastery buildings, including monk cells, an abbey, dining room, stores, cellars, and more. The Orthodox Academy of Crete, gym, pool, schools, county court, and other facilities are also housed within the monastery. In the monastery’s museum, visitors can view ancient icons, such as those by Constantine Palaiokapas.
Several notable individuals have served as abbots of the monastery, including Misael Apostolidis, who taught the Greek language to the Greek King Otto and was the first rector of the University of Athens. Others include Joachim Tzagarolos, Parthenios Kelaidis, and Parthenios Pieridis.
Parthenos Monastery, a contemporary convent devoted to the Life Giving Spring (Zoodochos Pigi), can be found atop a small hill in the town of Kissamos. Established in 1905, it underwent renovations in 1962. The monastery was once home to the Urban School of Girls and Crete’s first Deaf School.
The Archaeological Museum of Kissamos, established in 2005, is located in the historic Diikitirio (“Headquarters”) of Kissamos, a Venetian-Turkish monument.
The museum’s exhibits offer a comprehensive overview of the region’s history, spanning from prehistory to early Christian times. The exhibition is divided into sections, covering the ground and first floor.
The ground floor showcases Minoan findings from Nopigia, highlighting the historical development of Polyrrhenia and Falassarna in the Hellenistic period. It also presents pottery, inscriptions, and sculptures from the Kissamos area, mainly from the Roman period.
The first floor focuses on Kissamos, featuring mosaic floors, amphorae, coins, workshop artifacts, and objects from local tombs, including those from Falassarna and Polirinia.
The Sirikari gorge, situated 55km west of Chania and 17km south of Kissamos, is nestled in a verdant area filled with canyons and streams. The paved road leading to Sirikari weaves through lush vegetation, offering a glimpse of the area’s beauty from the get-go. The gorge splits into two parallel paths here – Tsichliano to the west and Kioliano or Sirikariano to the east, both culminating at the Polirinia settlement, the site of the ancient town of Polirinia. The town’s ancient walls, still in a decent state of preservation, stand tall in its citadel, atop a hill with a panoramic view of the Kissamos bay.
Close to Sirikari, an enchanting forest unfolds, home to towering chestnut trees, quaint waterfalls, and babbling brooks. Although it isn’t the only chestnut forest in the Chania prefecture, with several others dotting the slopes of the White Mountains, its beauty and vastness set it apart.
Adjacent to Sirikari, in Sineniana, stand two well-preserved old watermills. A visit to the Church of the Assumption is also recommended, particularly on August 15th, when a traditional feast is held. The church, nestled in the chestnut grove, is surrounded by other trees like holm oaks, cypresses, and plane trees. A little further along, you can explore an abandoned village set amidst a stunning oak wood. Additionally, the Sirikari village houses the 15th-century Byzantine church of the Holy Apostles (Agii Apostoli), which is definitely worth a visit.
Traveling along the western coast of Crete towards Elafonissi beach, you’ll encounter the picturesque village of Kambos, nestled within the Kissamos province. A brief detour off the main road to the west will bring you to the verdant Kambos canyon, the most westerly gorge on the island, which is fed by the small Koutroulis massif.
A scenic hiking trail winds its way through the canyon, beneath the shade of towering plane trees and alongside a river that flows year-round. The journey is punctuated by striking rock formations and culminates at a natural spring. From there, the path reconnects with the road descending from the village, leading to the subterranean churches of Agia Ekaterini and Agia Marina.
Continuing your trek along the riverbed can occasionally prove challenging due to thick vegetation and water, but the journey is worth it. From Agia Kyriaki, the path follows the riverbed to the secluded yet stunning Platanakia beach, where plane trees stretch their branches out to the sea.
The gorge of Topolia (Topoliano) is located in west Crete and it runs along the road leading to Elafonissi via Elos. The canyon actually starts near the village Strovles at an altitude of 450m, and exits near the village Topolia, at an altitude of 150m. However, the narrowest and most impressive hiking part of the gorge is located between Katsomatados and Topolia, where the side rocks are very high and steep. The canyon is crossed by the River Tyflos, which originates from Mount Dikeos. At the beginning of the narrow part, it is worth visiting the Cave of Agia Sofia, located just above the main road.
The canyon and the wider area host rare and endemic plants of Crete, while the Cave of St. Sophia houses a species of cave spider that lives only there (Pholcus creticus). According to local traditions, Topolia Gorge hosted fairies and the Minoan goddess Vritomartis. Here, the legendary Talos used to stop and enjoy the divine music of the fairies. When Talos arrived at the place, rested inside a big cave, drank water and fell asleep. Then, the fairies and elves of the river arrived, singing and dancing.
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.
Situated in Kissamos, 2.6 km from Beach Kaliviani and 4.5 km from Ancient Falassarna, La casa de Ioanna features air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. The property has inner courtyard and quiet street views, and is 5.4 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port.
The apartment features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with garden views.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Agios Dimitrios Church is 35 km from the apartment, while Platanias Square is 35 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 58 km from La casa de Ioanna.
from
€57
/night
This traditional guest house, located at the tip of cape Gramvoussa, in the traditional village Kaliviani Traditional Hotel, offers accommodation with a satellite TV and unobstructed views of Kissamos Gulf. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
This 2 storey building features a spacious lounge on the ground floor and bedroom on the first floor with balcony enjoying views of both the sea and the plain.
Traditional homemade breakfast is served daily.
Kaliviani Traditional Hotel is located in the northwest of Crete, just a 5 kilometres distance from Kissamos and 35 kilometres from Chania.
Hotel Kaliviani Traditional Hotel can serve as the ideal starting point to visit the lagoon of Balos, Falassarna beach and Elafonisi.
from
€91
/night
Set in Kalivianí and only 1.2 km from Beach Kaliviani, Sokaki House offers accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This holiday home provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The holiday home with a terrace and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 2 bathrooms with a shower.
A bicycle rental service is available at the holiday home.
Trachilos Beach is 1.6 km from Sokaki House, while Meri Pigadi Beach is 1.6 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 57 km from the accommodation.
from
€98
/night
Set in Kalivianí, 1.2 km from Beach Kaliviani and 1.6 km from Trachilos Beach, Trigonaki Studio – Kaliviani village offers air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. The property has city views and is 1.6 km from Meri Pigadi Beach and 4.1 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port.
The holiday home has 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a terrace with mountain views.
Ancient Falassarna is 13 km from the holiday home, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 33 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 57 km from Trigonaki Studio – Kaliviani village.
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