Learn about the age-old tradition of wine and olive oil production in Chania, then enjoy a lunch of traditional food and local wine. Discover how an authentic 17th-century mountain settlement has been transformed into an ethical tourist complex.
After pickup at your hotel in the Chania region, travel to the traditional village of Ano Vouves village to see the 3,000-5,000-year-old olive tree that still produces fruit.
Explore a small typical farm and enjoy a cup of coffee or fresh orange juice. At Anoskeli’s olive mill and winery, sample organic extra virgin olive oil on warm bread with oregano and continue with a tasting of 5 different types of local wine with some authentic snacks from Crete.
Drive along the dirt roads to the amazing Milia Mountain Retreat agro-tourism complex. Step back in time at a retreat where the lack of electricity and the stone homes invite visitors to get back to basics and switch off from the everyday stress of the modern world.
Driving back to Chania, marvel at the wild landscapes of the Topolia Gorge.
Join a unique semi-private tour to explore a part of southwest Crete and enjoy your time at Elafonisi beach and sunbathe on the reserved – just for you – sunbeds. It’s not just a transfer to have a long day at Elafonisi beach as most of the other tours offered. It’s a well designed tour and you have the chance to visit the Elafonisi beach and the famous Milia Mountain Retreat, a suggestion by the National Geographic magazine.
Driving to Elafonisi beach, get an insight into life in Cretan villages, olive oil production, local wine, honey-making, and the distillation of Cretan grappa. Learn about the regional culture, cuisine, history, and traditions from your driver/host.
Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds at Elafonisi beach. A part of the Natura 2000 nature reserve, this beach is famous for its pink sand that was created from seashells over thousands of years. Enjoy 3 hours of beach time and sunbathe on the reserved – just for you – sunbeds.
Then, tucked away in the lush mountains of western Crete, visit the eco-friendly paradise of Milia Mountain Retreat. Once a deserted 17th-century settlement, this restored property is your stop for a delicious local lunch paired with wine or beer.
It’s a tour for people who like to explore and have an adventurous day! Book this – small group – authentic tour, take the chance to visit Elafonisi beach and the famous Milia Mountain Retreat having a memorable day because of your host care and our company’s early reservations and services.
We will pick you up from your Hotel at 9:00 am and we will make a stop on the road for coffee at Topolia Village!
Enjoy a fascinating natural wonder at Agia Sofia Cave located near the village of Topolia in the region of Chania on the Greek island of Crete. This remarkable cave has gained significant attention for its unique geological formations and historical significance.
Then we will proceed to Elafonissi Beach so you can enjoy the stunning beach, which features soft pink sand and turquoise waters. It is often referred to as the “Pink Beach” due to the pinkish hues created by crushed seashells. The shallow and clear waters make it ideal for swimming, while sunbeds and umbrellas are available for relaxation. Discover the natural beauty of Elafonissi by following the walking and hiking trails in the surrounding area. These trails offer scenic views of the coastline, the surrounding mountains, and the peaceful countryside.
Then by 16:00 we will head back to your respective Hotels.
Escape to Crete’s amazing beaches Elafonisi and Falasarna, swim in turquoise crystal clear waters, explore traditional villages along the way and absorb the beauty as we are safely navigating through the Cretan Countryside.
There’s something undeniably artistic in the way the Cretan landscape unfolds, from the amazing sandy beaches in the north coast to the rugged canyons spilling out at the cove-carved and cliff-lined southern coastline. In between, orange and olive tree valleys, traditional villages, and spectacular views of the White Mountains.
Our escort will pick you up from your accommodation for a private tour with premium off-road vehicle from Chania to Elafonisi beach for swimming and 2 hours free time for area exploration. On the way to the South Coast we are crossing many historic Cretan villages like Topolia, Vlatos, Elos and Gorges whose views are breathtaking, with many photo stop opportunities. After our dive at the famous Elafonisi beach we are heading west travelling next to the gleaming sea and crossing Cretan villages of west coast like Chrisoskalitisa, Amygdalokefali, Sfinari. Then we reach Falasarna sandy beach for swimming and 2 hours free time to relax and enjoy the crystal clear waters. Here your lunch packages will be provided by us, ready to take with you down to the beach at any time of the day you wish.
The day closes with a smooth ride through the North coast line of West Crete back to your hotel or villa or accommodation. A unique premium backcountry day escape, an exciting adventure embraced by the renowned Greek hospitality while enjoying the sights and professional but relaxed service!!!
Sfinari beach, nestled 60km west of Chania city and 30km south of Kissamos, is a hidden gem in front of its namesake village. This peaceful village is at the mouth of a lush, deep valley and is wrapped in the embrace of verdant mountains. Known for its tranquillity, Sfinari offers a beautiful sandy beach speckled with pebbles. With a handful of lodging and dining options, it’s an excellent choice for serene family getaways. On days when the waves are gentle, the beach becomes a haven for snorkelling. Numerous tamarisk trees provide ample natural shade, making it a perfect spot to unwind.
Sfinari is favoured primarily by those on the hunt for solitude, so don’t anticipate a bustling nightlife or booming beach bars. Despite its remote location, it’s easily accessible via bus from Chania station, so not owning a car isn’t an issue. However, having a car could enhance your Crete exploration experience.
Venturing up the mountain at the beach’s southern end, crossing the carob tree-filled rocky cape of Korakas, you’ll glimpse the secluded beach of Platanakia on the other side. With careful navigation, you can descend to this remote beach for a truly peaceful dip.
Kokkina Grema, a secluded beach known for its Red Cliffs, is located 55km west of Chania, 28km southwest of Kissamos, and 3km west of Platanos village. The beach’s name is derived from the reddish soil of the northern peninsula.
Situated at the exit of a tiny gorge from Platanos village, Kokkina Grema shapes the bay of Lygia. The beach, characterized by its ruggedness and pebbles, is an ideal spot for camping and solitude, although it may not be suitable for families with children due to the lack of facilities and shade. Visitors are advised to bring their own umbrellas.
Reaching Kokkina Grema can be challenging due to the poor condition of the dirt track leading from Platanos. However, the journey ends beautifully with the scenic chapel of Panagia situated on the beach.
Platanakia beach, situated 61km southwest of Chania city, 31km south of Kissamos, 5km northwest of Kambos village, and in close proximity to Sfinari bay, is nestled at the mouth of the scenic Kambos gorge that originates from the namesake village.
Platanakia is a secluded cove, often deserted, and guarded by towering cliffs. The beach is a mix of sandy and stony patches, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude, even in the height of summer. Nearby trees provide natural shade to beachgoers.
To reach the beach from Kambos village on foot, one must traverse the lush, two-hour path through the gorge, which is adorned with plane trees and has a river flowing throughout the year.
Adventurous travelers equipped with a 4×4 vehicle can opt for an offroad journey to the beach via a dirt track starting from Kambos. This route involves crossing fences installed by goat and sheep herders; please ensure they remain closed to prevent livestock from straying. The journey concludes at the picturesque, unexplored surroundings of Platanakia. Park your vehicle at the final plateau, near the visually striking cave chapel of Agia Ekaterini and Agia Marina, and descend the path directly to the beach below. Chances are, you’ll have the place to yourself!
The attractive Sfinari beach is tucked behind the northern rocky side of Platanakia beach (Cape Korakas) and is a 20-minute walk to the north of the beach.
Gylisma, also known as Kambos or Afratolaki, is a stony beach nestled 69km southwest of Chania city and 29km south of Kissamos, in proximity to the village of Kambos. The beach, characterized by its coarse pebbles, is not particularly suited for swimming, especially for families on windy days due to the high waves. The locals of Kambos mainly frequent it on calm days.
Afratolakki is an excellent option for those seeking solitude. Although the beach has basic amenities for accommodation and food, it lacks facilities like umbrellas and sunbeds. The rocky seabed of Afratolakki makes it an ideal spot for snorkelling.
To access the beach, one must traverse a 4.5km poorly-maintained dirt track leading from Kambos village to the beach.
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.
The Panagia Chrisoskalitissa Monastery can be found 72km south of Chania, situated near the stunning Elafonissi lagoon. Resembling a majestic fortress, it sits atop a 35m high rock, offering expansive views of the sea.
In Greek, the monastery’s name translates to Our Lady Gold-stepped, which refers to one of the 98 stairs that was supposedly made of gold. Tradition states that only true believers in God can still see this golden stair. However, another story claims that the golden stair was sold by the Patriarchate to resolve the monastery’s financial issues during the Turkish Era.
The monastery’s temple features two aisles dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the Holy Trinity. The exact date of its establishment remains unknown. Nearby, the monastery of Saint Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos) operated during the Turkish Period. Additionally, a small Middle Minoan fishing village has been identified on the beach next to the monastery.
As per tradition, the rebels Georgios and Peter Kantanoleon were buried here in 1527, and their story was later documented in the Cretans Weddings by Zambelios.
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.
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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.
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 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.
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.
Situated in Vlátos in the Crete Region, this detached villa features a terrace and a garden. Guests benefit from balcony and a barbecue. Free WiFi is available .
There is a seating area and a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher. A TV with satellite channels is offered. Other facilities at Villa Vlatos include a sun terrace.
Car hire is available at the property and the area is popular for horse riding and cycling. Chania Town is 36 km from Villa Vlatos, while Elafonisi is 16 km away. Free private parking is available on site. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 47 km from Villa Vlatos.
from
€166
/night
Situated in Kissamos, 14 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port and 23 km from Ancient Falassarna, Batilas Garden House offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
The apartment offers a picnic area.
Agios Dimitrios Church is 32 km from Batilas Garden House, while Platanias Square is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 55 km from the accommodation.
Situated in Kaláthenai in the Crete region, Georgia’s Village House features a patio. The air-conditioned accommodation is 15 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
The holiday home with a terrace and mountain views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the holiday home.
Ancient Falassarna is 25 km from the holiday home, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 56 km from Georgia’s Village House.
from
€56
/night
Situated in Kissamos, 11 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port and 16 km from Ancient Falassarna, Villa Nama offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony and free private parking.
With free WiFi, this 2-bedroom villa features a flat-screen TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with an oven and fridge. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
Agios Dimitrios Church is 33 km from the villa, while Platanias Square is 34 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 56 km from Villa Nama.
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