Tavronitis is a village on the northwest coast of Crete, about 18 km west of Chania, in the Chania region. The village stands one kilometre inland from its own beach, and the Tavronitis river that gives the beach its name flows nearby. Tavronitis sits on the long open shoreline that runs from Kolimbari in the west towards Stalos and Chania in the east.
Chania airport lies about 30 km east and Kissamos 15 km west, which puts the village between the two ends of the Chania coast. Tavronitis keeps everyday village services alongside its beach, and the historic Maleme airport next to the shore gives the area a second reason to stop.
Six outings lie within 10 km of the village, listed below from nearest to furthest.
Tavronitis is a village set one kilometre back from the sea on the coastal plain west of Chania. Tavronitis shares its name with the river beside it and with the beach north of it, and the village keeps cafés, restaurants and rooms within about 2 km of the centre. The coastline it belongs to is one continuous open shoreline rather than a series of separate bays.
The area carries a piece of wartime history as well. Maleme airport, immediately east of Tavronitis beach, was the site of a significant resistance against the German forces in 1941. Inland, a river that starts on Mount Anavos runs through the Mesavlia, Deliana and Roka gorges before it reaches the sea at Nopigia.
Five beaches lie within 6 km of Tavronitis, all on the same unbroken stretch of coast.
Eating in Tavronitis means cafés and village restaurants, with the nearest a couple of hundred metres from the centre.
Reach Tavronitis from either the old national road or the new national road that run along this coast, 18 km west of Chania. Chania airport lies about 30 km east, Kissamos 15 km west and Rethymno 63 km east.
Two coastal neighbours lie east along the same road. The village of Gerani, 5.1 km away, splits into Kato Gerani by the beach and Palaio Gerani inland, and it stays quieter than the resorts around it. The resort of Platanias, 8.1 km away, sits on a hill above about 7 km of sandy beach and is one of the busiest places on this coast, with late-opening bars and restaurants.
Tavronitis lies on the north coast of western Crete, about 18 km west of Chania and 15 km east of Kissamos, in the Chania region. The village stands one kilometre inland from its beach, between Kolimbari to the west and Maleme to the east.
Yes, Tavronitis beach lies 1.1 km north of the village and carries its name. The beach is long and pebbly, forms one segment of the coastline running from Kolimbari to Stalos, and swims most easily in calm weather.
Chania airport is about 30 km east of Tavronitis. Chania city lies 18 km east and Rethymno 63 km east.
Maleme airport is a historic airfield immediately east of Tavronitis beach, and it was the site of a significant resistance against the German forces in 1941. The western end of Maleme beach runs alongside the old military airfield and stays quieter than the rest of the sand.
Chrispy Waterpark Chania sits 2 km from the village, the closest outing that does not depend on the sea. Gerani beach, 5.9 km east, is one of the widest and calmest beaches near Chania and has sunbeds, umbrellas and showers along part of its length.
This cruise sails from Kolymbari around the Rodopou peninsula to two beaches you cannot drive to: Menies, on the site of the ancient sanctuary of Diktynna, and Chironisia bay, reachable only from the sea. Smile Cruises runs it for 4 hours with snorkelling gear and a guide included, from €40, departing at 10:15 and 14:30. The tour holds a 4.51 rating across 663 reviews.
The boat rounds the Rodopou peninsula, the northernmost finger of Crete, and stops twice. Both stops are for swimming, and both reward a snorkel.
First is Menies beach, which sits on the site of ancient Diktynna, where the most important temple to the goddess Britomartis once stood. Remains of the Roman temple are visible on land, along with an abandoned 9th-century monastery of St George. In the water sits the sunken base of a gun carriage from the Second World War, shallow enough to snorkel down to. Second is Chironisia bay, a small hidden inlet with deep blue water and small caves you can swim into with the gear provided.
The boat anchors about 6 metres offshore at Menies, so reaching the sand means a short swim in shallow water.
The route covers the Rodopou peninsula west of Chania, and two of its points have their own page here.
The fare covers the boat, the guiding and the snorkelling kit, and food and drink are sold on board rather than included.
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We recommend this cruise because it reaches two places a hire car cannot. Menies is at the end of a rough track that eats rental tyres, and Chironisia has no land access at all, so the boat is not a convenience here, it is the only sensible way in. That is a genuinely different proposition from the beaches you can park at.
What reviewers consistently praise is the time in the water. Guests describe plenty of swimming and snorkelling at both stops, and several say the trip length is exactly right, long enough to feel like an outing, short enough to leave the rest of the day free. One family travelling with children aged 8 and 10 reported the snorkelling as the highlight of their trip. Another group went ashore at Menies and found goats on the beach.
The archaeology is a real bonus rather than a marketing line. A Roman temple site and a 9th-century monastery sitting behind an empty beach is unusual, and no other boat trip out of Chania puts you there.
Three caveats worth knowing.
The boat gets crowded. GetYourGuide’s own summary of the verified reviews says travellers find the boat busy and would prefer fewer people on board, and that is the single most repeated criticism. It scores 4.4 out of 5 on guiding, its weakest dimension.
The commentary is hard to hear. Multiple reviewers mention a poor speaker system on deck, and one French guest noted nobody spoke French. If the history is your reason for coming, read about Diktynna before you board.
The snorkelling is variable. One reviewer rated the underwater life as less spectacular than expected, with few fish at the first spot. The clear water is reliable; the fish are not.
Take the morning boat, bring water shoes, and read up on Diktynna before the guide starts talking.
Look for the Smile Cruises boat at the port of Kolymbari. Departures leave at 10:15 and 14:30, and hotel pick-up runs from between 1 hour and 10 minutes before departure depending on where you are staying, the exact time comes by email.
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and beachwear. The tour does not run in poor weather, and the boat anchors 6 metres off the shore at Menies, so you need to be comfortable swimming in shallow water.
The cruise runs 4 hours, split between the sail around Rodopou and two swim stops.
The boat leaves from the port of Kolymbari, west of Chania, where the Smile Cruises vessel is moored.
Menies is reachable overland only by a rough track, and Chironisia bay has no land access at all, which is why both are visited by boat.
Snorkelling equipment is included, and the sunken WWII gun carriage at Menies is the main thing to look for with it.
No food or drink is included, though both are available to buy on board.
Children snorkel happily on this trip, with reviewers reporting 8 and 10-year-olds enjoying it, though everyone needs to swim the short distance from the anchorage to the beach.
Check dates and prices for the Menies beach and Chironisia bay cruise.
This trip runs from Chania to Manousakis winery at Vatolakkos for a guided tour of the facilities and a tasting of five wines, served with Cretan rusks and the winery’s own olive oil. Manousakis is a family producer in the hills south of the city, and the whole thing takes 3 hours including the drive out and back. Uncharted Escapes runs it in small vehicles from €59, with a 4.31 rating across 41 reviews.
The trip is a drive, a tour and a tasting, with a private table set aside for your group. Three parts make it up.
First is the pick-up and the drive through the countryside to Vatolakkos, with the escort-driver giving commentary on the villages you pass. Second is the guided walk around the winery’s facilities, covering how the wine is actually made rather than just where it is stored. Third is the tasting: five wines at your own table, served with traditional Cretan rusks and the estate’s olive oil.
Departure times are flexible and set to suit the group, and the vehicle carries 5, 7 or 9 depending on the booking.
The route runs inland from the coast into the Chania hinterland.
The €59 covers the vehicle, the driver, the winery tour and five wines.
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A minimum of 2 people is needed for the vehicle to run.
We recommend this as the sensible way to visit a Cretan winery, for the obvious reason: you cannot taste five wines and then drive back down a mountain road. At €59 including transfers from your door, that problem is solved, and reviewers rate the transport a flat 5.0 out of 5, the highest dimension score on the tour.
The drivers are the reason. Reviewers name them individually, Stellios, George, Jon, and describe warm, knowledgeable commentary on the short drive, with one American group’s guide stopping at a couple of churches along the way. A Danish reviewer said their driver told them a lot about Crete on the journey. An Australian guest praised both the driver and the host at the winery itself.
Several reviewers like the format: short, to the point, good wine, relaxed atmosphere.
Now the honest part, and this tour has two reviews at three stars or below in a sample of eight, which is a high proportion.
Value for money scores 3.9 out of 5, the weakest dimension, and a German reviewer rating it two stars said plainly it was not worth it. Their transport and support scored 10 out of 10, the complaint was entirely about the winery end of the experience.
There are no vineyards on the visit. A British reviewer rating it three stars found the tour interesting but very quick, with no actual vineyards to see. That is worth knowing: this is a winery facility tour and a tasting, not a walk through the vines.
Nothing to eat comes with the wine. Meals and snacks are explicitly excluded beyond the rusks and olive oil served with the tasting, so five wines land on a fairly empty stomach unless you eat beforehand.
If you want the vineyards, the same estate is also reached by a private 4×4 tour through the vines with a full meal, at considerably more per head.
Eat before you go, book for two or more, and ask the driver for the village commentary.
Free pick-up covers a 5-kilometre radius of Chania city centre and the coastline out to Kolymbari. Provide your hotel name at booking; if the vehicle cannot reach your address you are emailed the nearest pick-up point.
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera and cash. No food, drink or smoking is permitted in the vehicle, and children under 18 cannot consume wine. Timings vary with group size and weather.
The trip runs 3 hours in total, including the drive from Chania and back.
The tasting covers five wines, served with traditional Cretan rusks and the estate’s own olive oil.
No, the visit covers the winery facilities rather than the vines. One reviewer specifically noted there were no actual vineyards to see.
Meals and snacks are not included beyond the rusks and olive oil served with the tasting, so eat beforehand.
Pick-up is free within 5 km of Chania city centre and along the coast to Kolymbari.
A minimum of 2 people is required for the vehicle to run.
Check dates and prices for the Manousakis winery tour with wine tasting.
This private tour drives a 4×4 off-road up the Vatolakkos hills to 660 metres, then finishes at Manousakis winery with a five-wine tasting and a full meal. Manousakis is one of the established producers of the Chania hinterland, and the route up to it takes the dirt tracks through the vineyards rather than the asphalt road. Uncharted Escapes runs it over 5 hours from €480 per vehicle, with a 4.9 rating across 5 reviews.
The day climbs, tastes and descends, with your own vehicle and driver throughout. Three stages fill the 5 hours.
First is the off-road ascent through the Vatolakkos hills, gaining 660 metres on rough track, with the northern Crete landscape and the vineyards opening up as you climb. Second is the winery: a tour of the premises explaining how the wines are made, then a five-wine tasting served with a full Cretan meal and two glasses of the wine of your choice. Third is the return, taken on the easy asphalt route back to your accommodation.
Vehicles are 5 or 7-seaters driven by multilingual escort-drivers, and the price covers the vehicle rather than the head.
The route runs inland and uphill from the Chania coast.
The fare covers the vehicle, the driver, the winery and the meal.
Included:
Not included:
Prices are per vehicle, for 4 or 6 passengers depending on the car.
We recommend this for groups who want the winery without the coach, and the off-road climb is what makes it more than a transfer. Most winery visits in the Chania hinterland arrive on asphalt at the front gate. This one goes up through the vineyards themselves to 660 metres, which turns the drive into the first half of the experience rather than the dead time before it.
The reviews that exist describe the driver as the reason it works. A Canadian couple called their guide phenomenal and passionate about Cretan culture and mentality, and said they were constantly impressed. A Finnish reviewer described the driver enthusiastically explaining everything of interest along the way. That matches what we would expect from a private vehicle with one escort-driver rather than a group guide.
Three things to be straight about, and the first is the most important.
The review base is tiny. Five ratings is not enough to judge an operator, and a 4.9 across 5 tells you almost nothing statistically. We would treat this as promising rather than proven, and anyone booking should know that.
One reviewer flagged a wait at the winery. The Finnish guest who rated it four stars praised the driver but said the winery staff served one group so long that the others waited. That is a single account, but it is the only substantive criticism in the record and it points at the winery rather than the tour operator.
The price is per vehicle and it is high. €480 for a 5 or 7-seater works out at €80 to €120 per person if you fill it, and considerably more if you do not. This only makes sense as a group booking.
Fill the vehicle, wear real shoes, and bring cash for extra wine.
Provide your hotel name when booking; if the vehicle cannot reach your address you are emailed the nearest pick-up point. Timings vary with group size and weather.
Bring comfortable closed shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, a jacket and cash. High heels, sandals and flip-flops are not permitted, and no food, drink or smoking is allowed in the vehicle. Children under 18 cannot consume wine.
The tour runs 5 hours, covering the off-road ascent, the winery visit, the tasting and the meal.
The price is per vehicle, covering 4 or 6 passengers depending on whether you book the 5 or 7-seater.
The tasting covers five wines, followed by a full meal served with two further glasses of your choice.
The route climbs to 660 metres through the Vatolakkos hills, with views over the vineyards and the north Crete coast.
Wear closed comfortable shoes. High heels, sandals and flip-flops are not permitted for the off-road section.
A full Cretan meal is included, served at the winery alongside the five-wine tasting.
Check dates and prices for the private Manousakis winery and vineyard tour.
Tour a boutique winery in Vatolakkos and admire views of rolling vineyards in the countryside. Let the winemakers reveal the winemaking process to you. Savor a hand-picked selection of regional wines paired with some local snacks.
Meet the staff and go down to see where the wine is stored in the cellar. Listen as you hear about how grape varieties are selected and cultivated following strict guidelines set by a an international team from France, the United States, and Greece.
See the verdant vineyards where varieties of Rodanos of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, and Roussanne grapes are ripened to perfection. Head to the garden to satisfy your palate with 5 different wines that are accompanied by a simple traditional Cretan flatbread, sea salt, and olive oil.
Tavronitis beach, found 20km west of Chania, is situated on the western side of the historic Maleme airport, one kilometer north of the village of Tavronitis and is named after the Tavronitis river that flows nearby. This long, pebbly beach is just a segment of the expansive coastline that stretches from Kolimbari to Stalos, making it an ideal swimming spot, especially during calm weather as the northern coast of Crete often experiences waves. There are ample amenities nearby, including hotels, tavernas, restaurants, and a variety of tourist facilities.
The beach holds historical significance as it is near Maleme airport, the site of a significant resistance against the German forces in 1941, known as the Battle of Crete. This marked the first time in World War II where the local population fiercely resisted the German army, causing them heavy losses. Despite this, the Germans managed to gain control of a small area east of the Tavronitis river and the airport. Today, visitors can pay their respects at the German cemetery and other monuments dedicated to this historic event.
Situated 18km west of Chania, Maleme forms part of the expansive beach that stretches from Kolimbari to the vicinity of Chania. This lengthy bay is adorned with stunning sandy and pebbly beaches, although they are exposed to frequent northerly winds. The beach at Maleme is sandy and the surrounding area is well developed, with all necessary amenities conveniently located near the beach. For those seeking a more secluded spot for a swim, the west end of the beach, adjacent to the old military airport, offers a quieter location.
The name Maleme is believed to derive from the word “Malama”, translating to gold, hinting at the possibility of a gold mine existing in ancient times, although this hasn’t been confirmed. In addition, a domed tomb from the late Minoan period has been discovered near Maleme. Despite having been looted, two cylindrical seals depicting running wild animals were found by archaeologists.
During World War II, Maleme held significant historical importance. It was home to the Allies’ military airport until it was seized by German forces. The Battle of Crete in 1941 saw German paratroopers descend upon Maleme to gain control of the airport. They were met with fierce resistance from local Cretans and Allied forces, leading to substantial casualties on the German side. With only rudimentary weapons at their disposal, the local Cretans dealt a significant blow to the German paratroopers, which drew praise for Cretan patriotism from Hitler himself. This marked the first time in the Second World War where German forces faced strong resistance from a local population. It was also the first large-scale airborne invasion in history, and the last of its kind. The German Cemetery, located on a hill near Maleme, is the final resting place for the 4500 German paratroopers who lost their lives. A monument dedicated to fallen RAF airmen can also be found near Maleme, close to the River Tavronitis bridge.
Rapaniana Beach is a calm, mixed sand-and-pebble beach on the northwest coast of Chania, 20 km west of Chania town and 4 km east of Kolymvari. Rapaniana Beach forms part of one long, open shoreline that runs from the Rodopos Peninsula toward Chania, so it stays uncrowded and feels local even in summer. The bay suits travelers who want a wide, unhurried stretch of coast with everyday village services close at hand, rather than a busy organized resort beach.
Rapaniana Beach mixes sandy patches with pebbly ground, and the seabed is made up of fine pebbles and pebbles. The shore is part of a much longer coastal stretch that reaches from the Rodopos Peninsula all the way to Chania, taking in the beaches beside the villages of Skoutelonas, Minothiana, and Rapaniana. Because the coast here is open and continuous, you can usually find your own space along the sand and shingle. The beach is kept notably clean, which adds to its relaxed, low-key character.
This part of the coast also carries real ecological value. Rapaniana and its neighboring beaches serve as nesting grounds for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), a protected species that lays its eggs on quiet northern-Crete sands. Treat any marked nests with care and keep the beach free of litter so the turtles keep returning.
Reach Rapaniana Beach by driving the north-coast road west from Chania, roughly 20 km out of town, then continuing 4 km east past Kolymvari. The beach sits along the villages of Skoutelonas, Minothiana, and Rapaniana, so any of these makes a natural landmark as you approach. You can pin the exact spot and follow live directions using Google Maps or Waze.
A car gives you the most freedom here, since the beach spreads across several village access points and the wider northwest coast rewards day-tripping. Kolymvari, the Rodopos Peninsula, and Chania town all sit within an easy drive once you have your own wheels. Travelers who want that flexibility often sort out their car rental in Crete before arriving.
Rapaniana Beach offers the practical basics for a comfortable day by the water, including umbrellas, showers, and a lifeguard tower. The surrounding villages fill in everything else you might need during a stay on this coast.
The village provides a full set of everyday services:
Because these services sit right around the beach, Rapaniana works well as a base rather than only a passing stop.
Swim at Rapaniana Beach on calm days, when the water is at its clearest and most inviting. This is a north-facing shore, and the northern coastline sees frequent waves, so the sea can turn choppy when the wind picks up. The mixed sandy and pebbly bottom means water shoes are handy for a comfortable entry over the fine pebbles.
Check the forecast before you go and plan your swim around settled, wind-free weather. On a still day the long, clean shoreline gives you plenty of room to wade in and cool off.
Rapaniana Beach suits travelers who prefer a quiet, natural stretch of coast over a crowded resort beach. The open shoreline, everyday village services, and relaxed pace make it a good fit for several types of visitors.
Plan your visit around calm weather to get the best of the swimming and the views. A few practical pointers make the day smoother:
Rapaniana Beach lies on the northwest coast of Chania, 20 km west of Chania town and 4 km east of Kolymvari. It forms part of a long coastline running from the Rodopos Peninsula toward Chania.
Rapaniana Beach is a mix of sandy and pebbly areas, with a seabed of fine pebbles and pebbles. Water shoes make entry over the shingle more comfortable.
Rapaniana Beach has umbrellas, showers, and a lifeguard tower. The surrounding villages add mini markets, restaurants, accommodation, a health centre, pharmacy, dentist, post office, bank, telephone services, and car rental.
Rapaniana Beach is best for swimming on calm days, when the water is clear and settled. The northern coastline sees frequent waves, so choppy conditions are common when the wind rises.
Rapaniana Beach and its neighboring beaches serve as nesting grounds for the protected loggerhead sea turtle. Keep the sand clean and avoid disturbing any marked nests.
Kolimbari, a quaint seaside town housing over 5000 residents, is situated 24km west of Chania, on the eastern edge of the Rodopos Peninsula. This picturesque town is quite developed, primarily due to its stunning, lengthy beach that extends from the village to Tavronitis in the east. The sandy beach at Kolimbari is occasionally dotted with small pebbles, and while the waters are shallow, they tend to be wavy, a typical characteristic of northern Crete’s open beaches. The area adjacent to the beach offers ample choices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment.
For those seeking a more serene beach experience, the tiny coves near the Gonia Monastery, just 1km northwest of Kolimbari, are worth visiting. Boats frequently depart from the Kolimbari port to the Rodopos Cape, renowned for its majestic cliffs and tranquil beaches, with Menzies being the most popular.
The historic Gonia Monastery, reminiscent of a fortress, is located 1km northwest of the town. It’s dedicated to the Virgin Mary Odigitria, also known as the Guide, and houses a notable collection of Byzantine icons. The Orthodox Academy of Crete, a venue for nationwide and global conferences on theological and general topics, is also located near Gonia.
The impressive Late Minoan vaulted tomb of Maleme can be found in close proximity to the German military cemetery and the historic airport of Maleme, situated on Kafkala hill amidst olive groves and overlooking the North Cretan Sea. The tomb had been looted since the early 20th century and suffered significant damage from a bomb during the Battle of Crete, causing its roof to collapse. In 1966, archaeologist Kostas Tzavaras conducted excavations at the site.
Visitors today will be struck by the tomb’s large size and the extensive 13-meter-long entrance corridor leading to the entrance gate. The entrance gate itself is the most remarkable aspect of the construction, standing 3 meters tall and 1.60 meters wide. What truly inspires awe, however, is the enormous carved limestone rock used as a lintel, which is noticeably larger than any other building material found in the tomb. A road takes visitors to the area, where a sign at one point directs them to the tomb via a brief path weaving through the surrounding olive groves.
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.
In the Varypetro region, nestled on a rocky hill beneath the ruins of the Byzantine fort Kastellos, lies the recently constructed monastic buildings of Chrisopigi Monastery in Chania town. In 2002, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew graced the location with his presence, walking the surrounding trails and laying the foundation stone for the new monastery temple, dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ. On September 2, 2012, Patriarch Bartholomew officially inaugurated the temple.
Visitors can appreciate the stunning beauty of the area by strolling along the trail that connects the picturesque monastery to the Agia Kyriaki dependency.
The historical monument of Sarakinas Monastery Complex at Mournies, which is a dependency of the Megisti Lavra Monastery at Athos, features neoclassical buildings encircling a one-aisled temple that was rebuilt in the 19th century. The complex also includes cells and storage rooms for crops.
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Athanasius the Athonite, an inscription reveals that the monastery was constructed during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Nikiforos Fokas in the 10th century.
Agia Kyriaki Monastery, situated 12km south of Chania near Varypetro, was once a collection of ruins in 1992 but has since been restored into a picturesque monastery on the island of Crete.
The monastery is a dependency of the female monastery of Chrysopigi near Chania and is nestled in a stunning area featuring a protected grove, a small canyon with a river, and several cavernous churches that can be reached via stone-paved trails.
The monastery’s church is dedicated to the Transfiguration (celebrated on 6 August) and also commemorates Agia Kyriaki fest (7 July). The temple is situated in the heart of the monastic enclosure, surrounded by nuns’ cells and other structures. Cavernous chapels of St. Anthony (17 January), the Holy Seven Children (4 August), Saint Silouan the Athonite (24 September), and the Martyrs of Crete (23 June) can be found around the monastery.
The Center of Orthodoxy and Ecology, managed by Chrysopigi Monastery, is housed within the monastery and offers educational environmental programs. Additionally, the restored 16th-century olive mill, now serving as the nuns’ dining room, is worth a visit.
During the Turkish occupation, the monastery served as a refuge for rebels. In 1866, the first Pancretian Meeting took place here, during which representatives from all provinces drafted a memorandum for the Sultan and the Great Powers (Russia, Britain, France). A subsequent meeting was held at the monastery, where the Union of Crete with Greece was requested.
The Rocca, Roka, Rocka, or Rokka Gorge, situated 32km west of Chania in the Kolymbari region, stretches for 2km from the village of Deliana to the village of Roka. The settlement features Trouli hill, which is home to the remnants of a Byzantine fortress.
Despite the ease of hiking through the gorge (typically a 2-hour trek), it can be challenging to traverse without getting wet during periods of water flow in the narrower sections. The gorge is adorned with numerous plane trees that provide a cool respite from the sun. The gorge’s vertical sides are incredibly tall and impressive at certain points. The main path follows the dry riverbed during the summer.
Upon exiting Roka gorge, you’ll encounter the Mesonisi settlement. Following a dirt road will lead you to Roka village and Trouli hill. You can climb up to the castle ruins for a breathtaking view of the surrounding areas, or unwind in the local coffee shop.
The Deliana – Mesavlia Gorge, a point of contention between the villages of Mesavlia and Deliana, is situated 37km to the west of Chania. This disagreement is even evident in the area’s signage. The gorge begins in Mesavlia and stretches 5km to Deliana. A dirt road that runs alongside the riverbed makes the walk quite straightforward, taking approximately an hour. Originating from Mount Anavos, the river flows through the Mesavlia – Deliana Gorge, then the Roka Gorge, before finally reaching Nopigia beach.
The gorge is renowned for its lush vegetation, which is most vibrant in spring when water is plentiful. Not far from Mesavlia, you’ll find the cavernous chapel of Saint Paraskevi (Agia Paraskevi), which hosts an annual feast. Closer to Deliana, you’ll come across the chapel of Saint Photios (Agios Fotios).
The quickest way to reach the gorge from Chania is via Deliana, while the fastest route from Paleochora is through Mesavlia. From Deliana, you can hike (uphill) to Mesavlia and back, unless you’ve arranged for a pick-up from Mesavlia (2 hours round trip). Deliana and the nearby village of Panethimos offer several quaint, traditional taverns. Also worth a visit is the ruined monastery of Theotokos in the neighbouring village of Gra Kera.
The Gorge Chalase, also known as Porofarago, begins close to the Sassalos village and concludes just before reaching the Makronas village, after a four-hour journey through lush vegetation. The gorge is fed by two primary streams that converge south of Sassalos; the Mylonofarago ravine that originates from the Mylones village, and the Kalogirou stream.
Navigating through the gorge can be quite challenging due to a significant landslide (referred to as ‘chalase’ in the Cretan dialect) at a certain point, and the absence of a well-defined path. Near Malathyros, approximately halfway through the route, the trail transitions into a dirt road that follows the riverbed all the way to Makronas. Just before reaching Makronas, we come across a historical site where, on August 28, 1944, German forces executed 62 civilian men from Malathyros as retribution for the activities of local guerrilla groups. The German atrocities committed during this time have yet to be brought to justice.
Located about 35km southwest of Chania city, on the northern slopes of Mount Apopigadi, Palea Roumata is a verdant area. This region is made up of 13 neighborhoods, all part of the same village (Palea Roumata), spread across the slopes. Near the small settlement of Lidiana, the Vavouledo and Trachinos canyons converge, providing an ideal circular route with water until late spring.
The Trahinos Gorge, starting near the Trahinos hamlet, is fairly short but stands as one of Crete’s greenest gorges. Its walls are so narrow that they’re almost unnoticeable from above. The gorge is filled with dense vegetation, often casting shadows over the riverbed. Similar to Vavouledo, the Trahinos Gorge also features a hiking trail.
Located in Tavronitis and only 1.2 km from Tavronitis Beach, Salavantinas House provides accommodation with garden views, free WiFi and free private parking. The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.2 km from Rapaniana Beach.
The apartment is equipped with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with mountain views.
The apartment offers a picnic area. Guests can also relax in the garden.
Maleme Beach is 2.5 km from Salavantinas House, while Platanias Square is 8.7 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 32 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Set in Chania Town and only 1.2 km from Tavronitis Beach, Salavantes House offers accommodation with garden views, free WiFi and free private parking. The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.2 km from Rapaniana Beach.
The apartment has 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with mountain views.
The apartment offers a picnic area. Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Maleme Beach is 2.5 km from Salavantes House, while Platanias Square is 8.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 32 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Lefko Apartments features garden views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Tavronitis, 1.4 km from Tavronitis Beach.
Fitted with a patio, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bath or shower and a hair dryer. There is also a kitchen in some of the units equipped with a dishwasher.
The apartment offers a picnic area.
Lefko Apartments has a garden and sun terrace.
Rapaniana Beach is 1.4 km from the accommodation, while Maleme Beach is 2.6 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 33 km from Lefko Apartments.
Dempla Heights Villas has mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, situated in Tavronitis, 1.7 km from Tavronitis Beach.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Dempla Heights Villas offers a barbecue.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the accommodation.
Rapaniana Beach is 1.8 km from Dempla Heights Villas, while Platanias Square is 9.2 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 33 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
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