Experiences and Things to do in Kavros

Listed below are the top activities in Kavros:
  • 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.

  • Lake Kournas

Private Family Full Day Tour to Lake Kournas | Rethymno

9:00 pick up at your Hotel , coffee stop on the road!
9:30 arrival at Rethymno old town , so you can explore the Old Town of Rethymno is a maze of narrow streets, alleys, and picturesque squares. Take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets, admire the well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture, and discover hidden gems, such as the Venetian Loggia and Rimondi Fountain.

12:00 We start our way to Kournas Lake. Kournas Lake is renowned for its natural beauty. The lake’s crystal-clear turquoise waters reflect the surrounding hills and lush vegetation, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The picturesque landscapes, including olive groves and rolling hills, provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

The surrounding area of Kournas Lake offers several walking trails that allow you to explore the natural landscapes and enjoy scenic views. The trails take you through olive groves, meadows, and hills, providing a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Some paths lead to elevated viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas of the lake and its surroundings.

15:00 Begin to return at your respective Hotel.
Any changes to the schedule can be arranged upon contacting us !

  • Lake Kournas

Embark on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Western Crete, where you’ll experience the region’s rich history, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes. With our expert guide, uncover the authentic Crete and its unique selling points, ensuring a memorable adventure.

Begin by venturing into the captivating Melidoni Cave, filled with fascinating geological features and ancient legends. Then, wander through the picturesque Margarites village, renowned for its traditional pottery. Participate in a pottery-making show with a local artisan and explore the charming alleys.

Head to Kournas Lake, Crete’s only natural freshwater lake, and marvel at its serene beauty. Take the opportunity to spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds this unique location.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rethymno, the main western town, boasting stunning Venetian architecture and a rich historical past. Stroll through its enchanting streets, taking in the sights and sounds of local life.

After a day of exploration, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Crete’s hidden treasures.

Visit stunning Beaches near Kavros

Listed below are the nearest beaches in Kavros:
  • 310 m
Kavros beach is located 0.3 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
  • 3.5 km
Georgioupolis beaches is located 3.5 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
  • 3.8 km
Episkopi beach is located 3.8 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
  • 3.9 km
Kalivaki beach at Georgioupolis Crete is located 3.9 km away.

Kalivaki beach is the westernmost beach of Georgioupolis bay, on the north coast of Crete, 38 km east of Chania and 21 km west of Rethymno. Kalivaki sits at the mouth of the Almyros river, where the river meets the sea, so its sandy shore stays sheltered from the wind and its shallow water runs noticeably cool. This sheltered, family-friendly setting makes Kalivaki a good choice for children, especially on days when the wind stirs up the more open beaches nearby.

Where Kalivaki beach is?

Kalivaki beach lies at the western edge of Georgioupolis bay, west of the Georgioupolis port and the church of Agios Nikolaos, 38 km east of Chania and 21 km west of Rethymno. Kalivaki sits at the exit of the Almyros river, joined by the smaller Boutakas stream, and both keep a steady flow of fresh water into the sea all year. The beach faces the open north coast, so its surface is calm in the sheltered corner near the river and turns wavy further out when the wind picks up. This position, tucked at the protected western end of the bay, is what sets Kalivaki apart from the longer, more exposed Georgioupolis beach to the east.

Why the water at Kalivaki is so cool

The water at Kalivaki is noticeably cooler than the open sea because the Almyros river and freshwater springs push cold water into the shallows. This cool current is strongest at the parts of the beach closest to the river mouth, where the cold river water meets the warmer sea. Many families come to Kalivaki for exactly this refreshing dip, which feels sharper and cooler than a swim on the neighbouring sandy beaches. Swim towards the eastern side of the beach, away from the river outflow, if you prefer warmer water.

A calm, family-friendly beach

Kalivaki is a sandy beach with soft sand and small dunes behind the shore, and its shallow, sheltered water suits families with young children. Kalivaki usually stays less crowded than the other Georgioupolis beaches, though visitor numbers rise on summer weekends. The sheltered cove keeps the water calm on windy days, when the longer beaches to the east grow choppy, so Kalivaki works well as a fallback when the wind is up. Where the Almyros river meets the sea the outflow can create a noticeable current and colder water, so keep children in the calmer, sheltered part of the cove and take extra care on windy days.

Facilities at Kalivaki beach

Kalivaki gives visitors umbrellas and sunbeds to rent, with beach bars and taverns nearby for food and water a few steps from the sand. Parking sits close to the shore and the beach is free to enter, so a family beach day here needs little planning. Services such as showers, changing rooms and a lifeguard are not a guaranteed feature at Kalivaki, so check what is open on arrival if you rely on them. Most of the beach services run mainly through the summer season, and they thin out in the quieter spring and autumn months.

Sea turtles at Kalivaki beach

Kalivaki beach is a recorded nesting point for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), which lays its eggs in the sand in the warm months. Keep clear of the soft dry sand and any marked nests, and avoid digging or pushing umbrella poles deep into the sand near the back of the beach. Take your litter home with you, because a single nest can sit just below the surface. These small steps let the turtles and their eggs stay undisturbed while you enjoy the beach.

Getting to Kalivaki beach

Reach Kalivaki beach in a few simple ways from Georgioupolis and the main coast road:

  1. Drive along the paved road that runs to the western end of Georgioupolis bay, then park close to the beach.
  2. Take a local bus to Georgioupolis, which connects to the wider Chania and Rethymno bus network.
  3. Walk west from the Georgioupolis port and the church of Agios Nikolaos, a short stroll to the river mouth.

Kalivaki sits between Chania and Rethymno, so a beach morning here fits easily with Lake Kournas, the Georgioupolis waterfront, and the quieter coves along the Apokoronas coast. Reaching them all on your own schedule is simplest with your own vehicle, which you can compare on our car rental in Crete page.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Kalivaki beach?

Kalivaki beach is the westernmost beach of Georgioupolis bay, on the north coast of Crete, 38 km east of Chania and 21 km west of Rethymno.

Is Kalivaki beach good for families and children?

Yes, Kalivaki beach suits families, because the water is shallow, the cove is sheltered from the wind, and the beach stays calmer than the neighbouring Georgioupolis beaches. Keep children near the calmer part of the cove and away from the stronger current at the river mouth.

Why is the water at Kalivaki so cold?

The water at Kalivaki is cold because the Almyros river and freshwater springs feed cool water into the shallows, and the effect is strongest close to the river mouth.

Does Kalivaki beach have sunbeds and facilities?

Kalivaki beach has umbrellas and sunbeds to rent, with beach bars and taverns nearby for food and water, and free parking close to the shore. Showers, changing rooms and a lifeguard are not guaranteed, so check what is open on arrival.

How do you get to Kalivaki beach?

Drive or take a local bus to Georgioupolis, then follow the paved road or walk west from the port to the river mouth at the western end of the bay.

When is the best time to visit Kalivaki beach?

The main season runs from June to September, when the weather is warm and the beach services are open, while late spring and early autumn stay quieter for a calmer visit.

  • Kalivaki beach at Georgioupolis
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue

Discover Archaeological Sites near Kavros

Listed below are the nearest archaeological sites near Kavros:
  • 7.6 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.

  • 4.0 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 Kavros

Listed below are the nearest Monasteries near Kavros:
  • 15.4 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.

  • 10.1 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).

  • 14.1 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.

  • 17.4 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 Kavros

Listed below are the nearest restaurants in Kavros:
  • 0.1 km •
  • 972X+8QR
  • 4.5 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Έυρώπάϊκός Od. 75
  • 4.6 of 5

  • 0.1 km •
  • Paralia Kourna 730 07
  • 4.5 of 5

  • 0.3 km •
  • Paralia Kourna(Kavros)
  • 4.8 of 5

  • 0.3 km •
  • Kavros-- Kalliroi Alexaki
  • 4.7 of 5

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

Have a Drink at the Best Bars in Kavros

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

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

  • 2.1 km •
  • Asprouliani 730 07
  • 4.5 of 5

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

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

Discover Museums in Kavros

Listed below are the nearest museums in Kavros:

No results available

Go hiking to the nearby Gorges

Listed below are the nearest gorges to hike in Kavros:
  • 5.7 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
  • 9.9 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)
  • 10.6 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)
  • 14.6 km

The stunning Galliano canyon begins to the southeast of Gallos and concludes at the Rethymnon town, channeling water from the Armeni region to the Koumbes beach. It stretches over a distance of 5.5km, with the journey taking you through a lush ravine. Regrettably, there are multiple spots where shepherds have put up wires to confine their herds, making the trek along the stream challenging.

Close to the entrance, you’ll encounter the ancient Saounatsides watermill, which was operational until the 20th century. You can also see remnants of an old chapel nearby. A few meters south of the mill, another path leads to the cave-like temple of Saint Anthony.

  • Gallos Gorge

Accommodations in Kavros

Listed below are the nearest hotels in Kavros:
  • 8.7 / 10
  • Kavros, Georgioupolis

Located in Kavros, 1.2 km from Peristeras Beach, Nima Boutique Hotel provides accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. This 4-star hotel offers a bar. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property.

The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony and a private bathroom with a shower. At Nima Boutique Hotel each room has bed linen and towels.

Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast. At Nima Boutique Hotel you will find a restaurant serving European cuisine. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options can also be requested.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 18 km from the hotel, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 42 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from Nima Boutique Hotel.

from

€73

/night

    • 60 m
    • 9 / 10
    • Apokoronou Villa Eleftherios

    Featuring a garden, private pool and pool views, Villa Eleftherios near sea is located in Chania Town. This beachfront property offers access to free WiFi and free private parking.

    The villa comes with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with mountain views. The air-conditioned villa also provides a seating area, washing machine and 2 bathrooms with bathrobes.

    Peristeras Beach is 1.1 km from the villa, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 19 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from Villa Eleftherios near sea.

    from

    €361

    /night

      • 130 m
      • 9.7 / 10
      • Argiri Apts & Suites Kavros

      Located in Georgioupolis in the Crete region and Peristeras Beach reachable within less than 1 km, Argiri Apartments & Suites provides accommodation with free WiFi, a children’s playground, a garden and free private parking.

      The units come with tiled floors and feature a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, a dining area, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

      The aparthotel offers a sun terrace. Argiri Apartments & Suites provides a housekeeping service, as well as business facilities like fax and photocopying.

      Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 19 km from the accommodation, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 43 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from Argiri Apartments & Suites.

      from

      €57

      /night

        • 230 m
        • 9 / 10
        • καβρός

        Situated less than 1 km from Peristeras Beach, Vantaris Blue adults only offers 4-star accommodation in Kavros and has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a terrace. Among the facilities at this property are room service and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The property is non-smoking and is set 19 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno.

        A buffet breakfast is available each morning at the hotel.

        Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 43 km from Vantaris Blue adults only, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 17 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from the accommodation.

          • 270 m

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