Experiences and Things to do in Kavallos

Listed below are the top activities in Kavallos:
  • Lake Kournas

Join this unforgettable journey to the West Side of Crete, where you’ll uncover its rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and charming towns that truly make this region unique. First, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Chania Town for 2.5 hours.

Wander along its picturesque Venetian streets, lined with charming shops, bustling markets, and delightful local restaurants. Don’t miss exploring the famous old port, teeming with activity and offering mesmerizing views. Spend leisurely moments strolling along the coastline or relaxing with a drink at a seaside café. Then continue the bus journey from Chania to the lake, which will take approximately 1 hour.

Discover the serenity of Crete’s largest natural lake, Lake Kournas, during our 1.5-hour visit. Marvel at the tranquil waters reflecting the majestic White Mountains, evoking an Alpine atmosphere. Choose to enjoy a scenic pedal boat ride, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the charming tavernas (additional cost).

Explore the captivating charm of Rethymno, a town steeped in Venetian heritage, during your 1.5-hour visit. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the old port, soaking in the picturesque vistas. Wander along the scenic oriental beach road, immersing yourself in the vibrant blend of cultures that define this coastal gem. Expect a return bus journey lasting approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the location of your hotel in the Heraklion Region.

  • Lake Kournas

Embark on an exhilarating jeep adventure filled with history, culture, and the breathtaking landscapes of Crete. This tour promises a blend of entertainment, fun, and exploration, taking you through the island’s most captivating sights.

Limni Kournas: Crete’s Natural Lake
Our adventure begins at Limni Kournas, Crete’s only natural lake. Here, we’ll take a short break to enjoy the panoramic views extending to the Lefka Ori’s northern fringes. The serene beauty of the lake provides a perfect start to our journey.

Argyroupoli’s Water Sources
Next, we explore a valley leading to Argyroupoli’s water sources, where nature’s artistry is displayed through lush vegetation and stunning waterfalls. This picturesque setting offers a tranquil spot for a coffee break amidst nature’s splendor.

Holy Five Virgins Monument
We then visit the monument dedicated to the Holy Five Virgins, marked by tombs in a cave from which holy water flows. A small church here pays homage to these martyred virgins, adding a spiritual dimension to our tour.

Mountro Gorge and “To Nisi”: Off-road route
Our journey takes us off-road to the Mountro Gorge, through dense forest vegetation, and up the mountain to the historical ruins of “To Nisi”. This abandoned settlement whispers tales of a bygone era, inviting us to uncover its secrets.

Rural Life in Mountros Village
Passing through the quaint village of Mountros, we delve into Crete’s rural life at the Mitato of Astrinos in Kali Sykia. Here, we’ll experience traditional goat milking, cheese making, and savor the authentic feta of Crete, surrounded by nature.

In Agkouseliana village, we’ll halt to savor our Cretan lunch. Delight in shared appetizers for every four persons and a main course for each individual, accompanied by wine and water. Indulge in the authentic flavors of “whatever mum has cooked,” with vegetarian options readily available.

Preveli’s Palm Forest and Beach
Our expedition leads us to the enchanting palm forest of Preveli. A brief hike reveals a landscape dominated by palm trees, unique rock formations, and a river merging into the Libyan Sea, culminating at a stunning beach for a refreshing swim.

Kourtaliotis Gorge: Nature’s Majesty
On our return, we explore the Kourtaliotis Gorge, feeling its refreshing aura and admiring its wildlife, including the occasional rare vulture. This natural marvel marks a fitting end to our journey through the hidden treasures of Crete.

This day tour is not just a trip; it’s an immersion into the essence of Crete, filled with unforgettable memories, wildlife encounters, and a deep appreciation for the island’s unexplored beauty.

  • Lake Kournas

Start your day of adventure at your first stop of the trip, a local oil mill. Here you will have the opportunity to see how Crete’s famous olive oil is produced on this fascinating and informative outing.

Follow on your journey through Crete and make a quick stop at the watersprings of Argyroupolis. These watersprings are responsible for the rich vegetation that surrounds the village, a truly magical and refreshing experience. Your last stop of the tour, lasting roughly 2,5 hours, will give you enough time to enjoy a swim and eat Cretan delicacies at the many taverns that are located around the lake.

  • Lake Kournas

Argiroupolis – Kournas Lake – Gergioupolis

Embark on an extraordinary adventure to Kournas Lake, Argiroupoli, and Georgioupoli, immersing yourself in their mesmerizing beauty. Delight in the pristine, transparent waters of Kournas Lake, lose yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Argiroupoli’s traditional village, and unwind on the picturesque golden beaches of Georgioupoli. This captivating journey guarantees awesome inspiring landscapes and treasured memories,a must for families with young children and those seeking to minimize bus travel time.

Visit stunning Beaches near Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest beaches in Kavallos:
  • 3.1 km
Kavros beach is located 3.1 km away.

Located between Georgioupoli and Pyrgos, Kavros refers to the expansive beach situated just 4 km east of Georgioupoli, near the hotel bearing the same name. Though the area has experienced substantial tourist development, it’s somewhat less commercialized compared to the adjacent Georgioupolis. Kavros beach is a sandy stretch with transparent, shallow waters; however, its openness to the wind often results in notable wave activity. The beach provides several facilities for visitors, including an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a perfect spot for an all-day excursion. For those seeking tranquillity, parts of the beach remain unorganized, offering a more serene experience.

The place at its greatest part is developed and only a very small part of it has been left untouched. Between the remaining virgin parts of the beach, there is an extensive and very important ecosystem of dunes. The dunes of Kavros, like all dunes, host a significant and very fragile ecosystem that is home to its own plants. The most important role of the dunes in Crete is that they protect the inner lands from erosion. In the area, in winter we meet small ponds and the landscape is quite different from the summer.

  • Kavros beach at Kournas
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue
  • 4.1 km
Georgioupolis beaches is located 4.1 km away.

Georgioupolis, a small coastal town located 38km east of Chania and 21km west of Rethymnon, is a seaside resort nestled in a verdant valley crisscrossed by rivers and springs. Situated on the western edge of a sprawling 10km beach, the town’s beach spans 2km to the east, beginning at the Almiros river and terminating at Kavros beach, a natural continuation of the former. The beach in Georgioupolis is sandy, dotted with dunes, and has shallow waters.

The beach is well-maintained and child-friendly, with lifeguards on duty. Caution is advised during windy conditions due to sea currents. Amenities such as umbrellas, showers, and food and drink stalls are available for beachgoers. Approximately 700m east of the port, the Perastikos river bifurcates the beach, which then widens as it continues eastward. On the opposite end, west of Georgioupolis’s port and near the Almyros river’s exit, lies the picturesque Kalivaki beach.

  • Georgioupolis beaches
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue
  • 4.6 km
Kalivaki beach at Georgioupolis is located 4.6 km away.

Located 38km east of Chania and 21km west of Rethymnon, Kalivaki is the furthest beach to the west in the bay of Georgioupolis. Nestled near the exit of the Almyros and Boutakas rivers, which maintain a steady flow of water year-round, Kalivaki is a gorgeous sandy beach. The water here is particularly cool, owing to the influence of the rivers and freshwater springs. Kalivaki is a well-appointed beach, complete with umbrellas, water sports facilities, and nearby restaurants. Its protective positioning relative to the other Georgioupolis beaches makes it an excellent choice for children, especially on windy days.

  • Kalivaki beach at Georgioupolis
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue
  • 5.8 km
Episkopi beach is located 5.8 km away.

Episkopi beach is a 3.5 km sandy beach on the north coast of Crete, 14 km west of Rethymno and 45 km east of Chania. Episkopi beach sits in a fertile valley between the Mouselas river and the river that runs out of the Petres gorge. The water is shallow and usually a little wavy, like most beaches on Crete’s north coast, and it takes its name from the village of Episkopi, 2 km inland to the south.

At a glance:

  • Length: about 3.5 km of sand
  • Water: blue and clear, shallow, usually light waves
  • Family friendly: soft sand and a gentle, shallow entry
  • Organized western section: lifeguard, umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, snack bars, water sports
  • Quiet zone: the eastern end near the Petres bridge
  • Access: coastal road, KTEL bus, and parking at the beach

The beach and the water

The sand is soft, with a short pebbly strip at the waterline that turns sandy underfoot as you walk in. Mornings are usually calm and clear enough to see the bottom, while an afternoon breeze can raise small waves. The shallow, gently shelving water suits families with children and makes the beach a good spot for a slow swim or a snorkel.

Facilities and the organized section

The western part of the beach is well organized. There you find lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas and sunbeds, snack bars, and water sports. Tavernas and bars line the shore, several renting sunbeds under thatched umbrellas. Because the beach runs for about 3.5 km, you can still find a quieter, less developed stretch toward the eastern end near the Petres bridge.

Getting there and parking

The main coastal road between Rethymno and Chania runs parallel to the beach, so access by car is easy. Frequent KTEL public buses connect Chania and Rethymno and stop on the highway beside the beach, and parking is available at the shore. The simplest way to reach Episkopi and explore the rest of the north coast is to rent a car.

Sea turtles

Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) nest along this coast between May and September, and Episkopi is a recorded nesting point. If you visit in those months, keep clear of any marked nests and take your litter home with you.

What is nearby

Episkopi sits within a short drive of these stops:

  • About 2 km east lie Petres beach and the Petres gorge, with a diving school and a rocky seabed that snorkelers and anglers favor.
  • Argyroupolis, an inland village known for its springs and lush greenery.
  • Lake Kournas, the only natural freshwater lake on Crete, a short drive inland.
  • Further west, the sandy resort beaches of Georgioupolis and Kavros.

The name Episkopi means “Diocese”: the village was the seat of the local diocese in the Byzantine period, and the old Episcopal church of St Nicholas nearby now stands in ruins. Almost unknown to travelers, the area is also the ancestral home of the Vardinoyannis family.

FAQ

Where is Episkopi beach?

Episkopi beach is on the north coast of Crete in the Rethymno area, 14 km west of Rethymno and 45 km east of Chania. It lies below the village of Episkopi, between the Mouselas and Petres rivers.

Is Episkopi beach good for families?

Yes. The water is shallow and the sand is soft, and the organized western section has a lifeguard, so it suits children and less confident swimmers.

Is Episkopi beach organized, with sunbeds and facilities?

The western part is organized, with lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas and sunbeds, snack bars, and water sports. The eastern end near the Petres bridge is quieter and less developed.

Are there water sports at Episkopi beach?

Yes, water sports are offered in the organized western section, alongside the lifeguard, showers, umbrellas, and snack bars.

How do I get to Episkopi beach, and is there parking?

The coastal Rethymno to Chania road runs next to the beach, so you can drive or take a KTEL public bus that stops on the highway. Parking is available at the beach.

When is the best time to visit Episkopi beach?

The main season is June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. Late May, June, and September are usually quieter than midsummer.

Is Episkopi beach good for snorkeling?

Yes. The water is clear and shallow, and the rockier seabed near Petres beach to the east is a favorite for snorkeling and fishing.

  • Episkopi beach
  • Rocks in places, Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue

Discover Archaeological Sites near Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest archaeological sites near Kavallos:
  • 6.8 km •
  • Ancient Lappa

Ancient Lappa was built near the present-day town of Argyroupolis, situated 27km south of Rethymno. The area is now renowned for its springs with waterfalls, its old mills, and the lush green landscape that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Lappa, later known as Lappi or Lambi, is one of the towns believed to have been founded by Agamemnon in Crete. The citizens of Lyttos fled to Lapa after the massacre of Lyttos by Knossos. In 193 BC, Lappa became an ally with Teos, and in 183 BC with Pergamon.

The city thrived until 68 AD when the Roman general Quintus Caecilius Metellus destroyed it. It was later revived as a Roman town with special privileges at the end of the Roman Era. Its glory is reflected in the magnificent monuments that have been discovered and the coins minted. In the area, Roman baths and basilicas with mosaics have been identified, as well as inscriptions and statues of Zeus, Aphrodite, and Dionysus. The Cave of Agia Dynami also appears to have played a significant role, with its essential spring that gushes through the rock.

Additionally, near the village is the temple of the Five Virgins (Thekla, Marianna, Ethane, Martha, and Mary), who are believed to have died there. Beside it lies the Roman necropolis with carved tombs, in a green area with a water spring and a plane tree that has been designated as a natural monument.

After the arrival of the Arabs in Crete, the town and the Diocese founded by Apostle Titus were destroyed. During the Venetian period, the city passed from the hands of the Hortatsis family to Alexios Kallergis. It then thrived once more, which is strongly reflected in the splendid Venetian buildings of the village. The Turks called the town Gaidouropoli (i.e., Donkey Town) until 1822 when the rebels renamed it Argyroupolis. The General Assembly of Crete took place in Argyroupolis in 1867 and 1878, the year that Cretans declared the Union of Crete with Greece, though the attempt ultimately failed.

  • 3.4 km •
  • Fylaki Domed Tomb

Located near the quaint village of Fylaki in the Apokoronas region of Chania, you’ll discover the vaulted tomb of Fylaki. Constructed during the post-Minoan times (after 1200 BC), it shares many similarities with the domed grave of Stylos at the Azogyres site.

This well-preserved and clean tomb features a lengthy entrance aisle, and its pyramid-like roof is truly striking. One particularly fascinating element is the massive carved boulder situated at the upper part of the entrance.

Finding the tomb can be somewhat challenging. Just 30 meters past the turnoff to Kastelos village, you’ll spot a small group of cypress trees near the tomb.

Discover Monasteries near Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest Monasteries near Kavallos:
  • 16.0 km •
  • Holy Cross Foundation

Located at Tria Kamarakia, near the Rethymnon-Chania highway, the Holy Cross “St. Raphael” Foundation is a quaint, informal monastery with a primary focus on charity work. Its main temple is a three-aisled basilica dedicated to the Neomartyrs (Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene), the Holy Cross, and Saint Ephrem.

  • 9.8 km •
  • Profitis Ilias Monastery at Roustika

The Profitis Elias Monastery, situated on a hill with sweeping views 20km south of Rethymno and adjacent to Roustika village, is a relatively lesser-known monastery in Crete. Founded during the Venetian Era, it is among the island’s most historic convents.

Throughout its history, the monastery was repeatedly destroyed by the Ottomans, with the last instance occurring during the 1866 revolution. The monastery played an active role in the resistance against Turkish rule. Consequently, the monastery’s buildings, aside from the temple, were constructed in their present form after 1866. Additionally, Profitis Ilias made a significant contribution to preserving Cretan history by housing the Historical Archive of Crete during the German Occupation.

The monastery features a fortress-like architectural design. At the center of the courtyard, visitors will find a three-aisled basilica with a dome dedicated to Prophet Elijah (celebrated on July 20), the Holy Trinity, and Agia Zoni (August 31). The belfry of the monastery, along with that of Arkadi Monastery, are the only surviving Venetian bell towers in Crete. Surrounding the courtyard are the two-story monks’ cells, an incomplete guest house, and the refectory.

Within the temple, visitors can admire the ancient wooden iconostasis, the throne (dated 1843), and the pulpit. Additionally, numerous relics are housed in the sanctuary, including sacred vessels, vestments, gospels, crosses, relics of various saints, a brocade epitaph, old books (dating back to 1640), and manuscripts (from 1620).

  • 16.0 km •
  • Afendis Christos in Koumbes

Constructed atop Timios Stavros hill in the western suburb of Rethymnon called Koumbes, the Convent of Jesus Christ (Christ the Savior) likely dates back to the Venetian period, similar to numerous other temples and monasteries in the area.

Historians speculate that the monastery was originally home to the Convent of Our Lady of Erimitiani, as evidenced by a 17th-century Renaissance painting. However, the monastery was destroyed during the Turkish occupation of Rethymnon in 1645 and only reopened in 1935.

The monastery’s church features two aisles dedicated to the Transfiguration and St. John the Baptist. The nuns are responsible for the beautiful paintings and icons within the church. Additionally, the monastery houses a small museum and library containing books and memorabilia belonging to Bishop Titos Sylligardakis.

  • 18.9 km •
  • Agia Irini Monastery at Rethymnon

Located at the base of Mount Vrisinas and 5km south of Rethymnon, the Aghia Irini Monastery (also known as Santa Irene) stands at an elevation of 260m. As one of the oldest monasteries in Crete, dating back to before 1362, it currently functions as a nunnery.

Prior to the restoration efforts that began in 1990, Agia Irini was a collection of crumbling structures. However, thanks to meticulous restoration work that adhered to the original monastic architecture, the monastery is now considered one of the most picturesque on the island. In recognition of its architectural conservation, Agia Irini has received a European award for cultural heritage.

From a distance, the monastery resembles a fortress. Within its enclosure lies the relatively new church of Saint Irene, surrounded by the nuns’ quarters, an ancient olive mill, the chapel of Raphael, Nicholas and Irene, a small museum, the refectory, and workshops for painting, embroidery, and sewing. Outside the courtyard, the unrestored old three-aisled church of St. Irene, St. Catherine, and St. Euphemia can be seen.

Dine at the Best Restaurants in Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest restaurants in Kavallos:
  • 0.2 km •
  • Apokoronos 730 07
  • 4.3 of 5

  • 0.4 km •
  • Λιμνη Κουρνα
  • 4.4 of 5

  • 0.6 km •
  • Epar. Od. Georgioupolis-Kournas Lake Kourna
  • 4.8 of 5

  • 2.2 km •
  • Epar.Od. Georgioupolis-Kournas
  • 4.8 of 5

  • 2.5 km •
  • Palea EO Chanion Rethimnou 19
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 2.6 km •
  • Georgioupolis
  • 4.4 of 5

Have a Drink at the Best Bars in Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest bars in Kavallos:
  • 2.7 km •
  • Kavros-- Kalliroi Alexaki
  • 4.7 of 5

  • 2.8 km •
  • Georgioupoli 730 07
  • 4.8 of 5

Grab a Cup of Coffee at one of the Best Cafes in Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest cafes in Kavallos:
  • 2.7 km •
  • Kavros-- Kalliroi Alexaki
  • 4.7 of 5

Discover Museums in Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest museums in Kavallos:
  • 9.5 km •
  • Πολεμικό Μουσείο Ασκύφου
  • 4.7 of 5

Go hiking to the nearby Gorges

Listed below are the nearest gorges to hike in Kavallos:
  • 7.4 km

Situated 13km west of Rethymno, Petres Gorge opens up at the Petres beach. It houses the longest river in Rethymnon province, which is replenished by multiple tributaries that gather the waters of Kollita Gorges from the west to Mount Vrysinas in the east, spanning almost half of Rethymnon Prefecture. The river flows throughout the year and forms a significant wetland of Crete, particularly near its mouth at Episkopi.

The gorge narrows down to a small section about 1km long, beginning near the village of Karoti. Despite its short length, it is definitely worth exploring. It is easily accessible and perfect for swimming in the ponds that form along its course. However, fences are installed to confine goats, so carrying a cutter might be useful in case the fences are locked. Certain areas with large rocks may require a bit of climbing and extra caution.

  • Petres Gorge
  • 8.7 km

The Twin Ravines, or Kollita Gorges, can be found near the charming village of Argyroupolis, approximately 22km southwest of the city of Rethymnon. The name refers to the two parallel canyons that conclude near the village of Kato Poros. The easternmost canyon, Moundros Gorge, is bordered by the Vigla peak (567m) to the east and the Nissiani hill to the west, where you can find the abandoned settlement of Nissi. Adjacent to Moundros Gorge to the west, is the Vilandredo Gorge, named after the village at its entrance and often referred to as Kollita Gorge.

The gorges offer an ideal hiking experience for novices due to their ease and stunning surroundings. It’s a perfect outing for groups of friends – park your car in Kato Poros or Argyroupolis, explore the Moundriano canyon, and return via the second Kollita Gorge for a round trip.

A suggested itinerary for the two gorges starts in the verdant Argiroupoli, built on the site of the ancient city of Lappa. From there, head east to the village of Moundros, known for its springs, fountains, and beautiful Venetian architecture. Don’t miss a stroll through the narrow streets of Moundros and a visit to the churches of Saint Constantine, Saints Anargyri (11th century), and Saint Nicholas. Near Moundros, you’ll find the deserted settlement of Nissi, notable for its impressive stone structures.

From the village, make your way to the northern entrance of the lush Moundros Gorge, which leads to the village of Velonado. A well-marked path descends to the riverbed, which is typically full of water. The canyon boasts towering plane trees and several freshwater ponds. After about a 1.5-hour walk, you’ll reach the southern entrance of Moundriano Gorge near Velonado.

Exiting the canyon, head west on the asphalt road to the entrance of the second canyon, Kollita Gorge, near Vilandredo. This canyon is even more impressive than Moundriano, filled with plane trees and a path that runs along the riverbed. The most breathtaking part of the canyon is where its towering walls nearly touch, creating a very narrow passage. Along the slopes of the gorge, you’ll spot numerous fig and holly trees. After a total of four hours, you’ll exit the canyon, which once supplied water to the Roman baths of Lappa, now Argyroupolis.

Following the old stone path amidst laurels, myrtles, and hollies, you’ll reach Kato Poros and the area of Pente Parthenes (Five Virgins). Here, you’ll find a spring under the perennial plane tree of Pente Parthenes, the chapel of the Five Virgins, and the Hellenistic and Roman tombs of Lappa. From here, the trail broadens and leads back to the lush green Argiroupoli. In Argiroupoli, be sure to visit the Venetian buildings, churches, and picturesque alleyways. The springs of Argyroupolis are a popular attraction, particularly the spring in the cavernous chapel of Agia Dynami. The area is lush with several small waterfalls and numerous restaurants.

  • Kollita Gorges (Vilandredo)
  • 9.7 km

The Twin Ravines, or Kollita Gorges, are situated near the scenic village of Argyroupolis, approximately 22km southwest of the city of Rethymnon. The name derives from two adjacent canyons that conclude near the village of Kato Poros. The eastern canyon, Moundros Gorge, is bordered by the Vigla peak (567m) to the east and Nissiani hill to the west, which houses the deserted Nissi settlement. West of Moundros gorge lies the Vilandredo gorge, named after the village at its entrance and more commonly referred to as Kollita Gorge.

These gorges are perfect for casual hikers due to their ease and stunning beauty. They are particularly suitable for groups of friends who can park in Kato Poros or Argyroupoli, explore the Moundriano canyon, and return via the second Kollita Gorge.

Suggested Two Gorges Route
Starting from the verdant Argiroupoli, built on the ancient city of Lappa, we journey east to the village of Moundros, known for its springs and fountains. The village is home to many beautiful Venetian structures (old courts, prisons, and noble houses) and the churches of Saint Constantine, Saints Anargyri (11th century), and Saint Nicholas are well worth a visit. Don’t forget to wander the narrow streets of Moundros. Close to Moundros, the deserted Nissi settlement, famous for its stunning stone structures, can be found.

From the village, the entrance to the verdant Moundros gorge is accessible, leading to the village of Velonado. A well-defined path descends to the riverbed, which is usually filled with water. The canyon is filled with towering plane trees and several fresh water ponds. After roughly 1.5 hours of walking, we reach the southern entrance of Moundriano Gorge, near Velonado.

Upon exiting the canyon, we follow the asphalt road west to the entrance of the second canyon, Kollita Gorge, near Vilandredo. This canyon, more magnificent than Moundriano, is lush with plane trees, and the path follows the riverbed. The most beautiful section of the canyon is where the high walls nearly touch, forming a narrow passage. Fig and holly trees can be seen on the gorge’s slopes, hanging overhead. After approximately four hours, we exit the canyon, which once provided water for the Roman baths of Lappa, now Argyroupolis.

Following the ancient stone path through laurels, myrtles, and hollies, we reach Kato Poros and the area of Pente Parthenes (Five Virgins). Here, one can find the spring beneath the perennial plane tree of Pente Parthenes, the chapel of the Five Virgins, and the Hellenistic and Roman tombs of Lappa. From here, the trail broadens and leads us back to the lush green Argiroupoli. In Argiroupoli, the Venetian buildings, churches, and picturesque alleys are worth a visit. A popular attraction is the springs of Argyroupolis, with the most notable spring located in the cavernous chapel of Agia Dynami. The area is lush with several small waterfalls and numerous restaurants.

  • Moundros Gorge (Kollita)
  • 12.8 km

The Kapni Gorge, one of Eastern Sfakia’s most stunning canyons, remains largely undiscovered. The gorge begins as an open stream south of the Akones peak at Hionistra, located on the road between Askyfou and Asfendou villages. It concludes in the village of Nomikiana in the Sfakia province. In Hionistra, two streams in calcareous soils converge to form the Kapni Gorge after an hour’s walk. The canyon is extensive, requiring around four hours to traverse. It is among Crete’s challenging and perilous trekking gorges, with a rugged riverbed that forms dry waterfalls in certain areas, necessitating climbing.

It is not advisable for those inexperienced in mountaineering. The riverbed features several small caves that were previously used as sheepfolds. In one of these caves, there is drinking water, the only source in the harsh Kapni region. This water source is hard to find unless one is very familiar with the area. Kapni is home to beautiful vegetation, including maples and oak trees, and stunning walls of platy limestone in several places.

The name Kapni, meaning smoke, traces back to a story from the Venetian era. East Sfakia was once densely forested, providing refuge for Cretans fighting the Venetians. To counter this, the Venetians burned these forests, including the one in Kapni, which was so dense that the fire burned for weeks. The narrowness of the gorge created an oven-like effect, trapping the fire and significantly raising the temperature. The intense heat baked the mountain rock, similar to a lime kiln, and smoke lingered for days after the fire ceased. That autumn, a massive flood swept through the bare, fire-scorched hillsides, moving rocks with immense force to the gorge’s exit. This event resulted in a large deposit of sediment, creating the most impressive scree (locally known as sara) in Crete, visible from miles away. This scree starts at the gorge’s exit and extends to the village of Nomikiana.

  • Kapni Gorge

Accommodations in Kavallos

Listed below are the nearest hotels in Kavallos:
  • 9.3 / 10
  • Kourna Lake

Located just 3 km from Georgioupolis Town, Villa Kallisti – Artemis provides a getaway with a terrace, outdoor pool, free WiFi, and room service. This villa has a Jacuzzi, a garden and free private parking.

The villa features 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an equipped kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a hot tub.

Sandy Beach is 2.9 km from Villa Kallisti – Artemis. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from the accommodation.

      • 9.1 / 10
      • Kournas Lake 1

      Featuring mountain views, Blue Lake Villa Heated Pool provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 23 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. This villa has a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.

      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 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.

      The villa offers a picnic area. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Blue Lake Villa Heated Pool.

      Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km from the accommodation, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 18 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 52 km from Blue Lake Villa Heated Pool, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

      from

      €43

      /night

        • 160 m
        • 9.8 / 10
        • kavalos Lake Kournas

        Situated 23 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Lake View Suites offers water sports facilities, an outdoor swimming pool and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.

        The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

        Lake View Suites offers a picnic area.

        If you would like to discover the area, cycling is possible in the surroundings and the accommodation can arrange a car rental service.

        Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km from Lake View Suites, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 18 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 52 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

        from

        €395

        /night

          • 170 m
          • 9.1 / 10
          • Kournas Lake

          Featuring mountain views, Costa Maris Villa offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 22 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. This villa has a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.

          The villa with a terrace and sea views features 5 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 4 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.

          Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.

          Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 46 km from Costa Maris Villa, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 18 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 52 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

          from

          €385

          /night

            • 240 m

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