Xamoudochori is a village in the Chania region of western Crete, about 14 km west of Chania city and 1.8 km from the nearest beach at Maleme. The village sits just behind the coastal strip that runs west from Chania, with Gerani 1.4 km away and the resort of Platanias 4.5 km further along the shore. Xamoudochori has no seafront of its own, and its restaurants, cafés and rooms cluster within 1.6 km of the centre.
Chania airport lies 26.3 km from the village, and Kissamos is 18.6 km away. Xamoudochori works as a quiet base for the beaches west of Chania: 5 of them sit within 6.1 km, and the gorges of the Kolymbari hinterland start about 12 km inland.
Six outings sit within about 13 km of the village, listed below from nearest to furthest.
Xamoudochori is a small inland settlement in the Chania region, set back from the beaches rather than built along them. The village belongs to the run of communities between Chania and Kolymbari, with Gerani and Maleme as its neighbours on either side.
The character of this coast changes quickly with distance from the sea. Neighbouring Gerani shows the pattern: its coastal half holds the hotels and rented apartments while the older half sits inland, and accommodation here ranges from large hotels to family-run rooms and studios.
Five beaches lie between 1.8 km and 6.1 km from the village, all on the same shoreline that runs from Kolimbari towards Chania.
Three walkable gorges start between 12 km and 14 km inland from the village, so each one takes a drive away from the coast.
Eating options sit within 1.6 km of the village, and they cover restaurants, a seaside bar, a traditional kafeneion and a pizza place.
Xamoudochori is reached from the two roads that cross this coastal plain west of Chania, the Old National Road along the shore and the newer national road behind it. Chania city lies about 14 km east, Kissamos 18.6 km away and Rethymno 58.8 km further on, so the village sits within reach of most of western Crete.
Chania airport is 26.3 km from the village, which keeps the transfer short at either end of a trip. Frequent buses run from Chania city to Platanias, 4.5 km away, though a car makes the gorges inland much easier to reach.
Xamoudochori lies about 14 km west of Chania city, in the Chania region of western Crete, just inland from the coast between Gerani and Maleme.
Xamoudochori has no beach of its own, but 5 lie within 6.1 km. Maleme is the closest at 1.8 km, and Gerani, 2.3 km away, is one of the widest and calmest beaches near Chania.
Chania airport sits 26.3 km from Xamoudochori, which keeps the transfer short at either end of a trip.
The nearest gorge walk starts 12.1 km inland, at the Roka gorge. The route runs 2 km between the villages of Deliana and Roka and takes about two hours, with plane trees shading most of it.
Xamoudochori is quieter than the resorts on the coast beside it. Platanias, 4.5 km away, keeps the late-opening bars and restaurants on this stretch of coast.
This is a Paint and Wine Event at Manousakis Winery. It costs €60, and includes:
•Tour of the beautiful winery
•Tasting of 5 different Manousakis Wines
•Rusks and Olive Oil
•Step by step Painting related to the Winery
• All Paint Materials are provided and you’ll take home your painting on canvas / canvas paper.
Transport to and from the winery is also provided and food from the Winery’s restaurant can be purchased.
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.
Included:
Not included:
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.
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.
Gerani beach is a long, quiet stretch of sand and fine pebbles on the north coast of western Crete, about 13 kilometres west of Chania between Maleme and Platanias. Gerani is one of the widest and calmest beaches near the city, and its sand is a protected nesting ground for Caretta caretta sea turtles from May to September. The beach has sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and beach bars along part of its length, while long unorganised stretches stay peaceful even in high summer.
Gerani beach lies on the north coast of western Crete, about 13 kilometres west of Chania city, between the resorts of Maleme and Platanias. The beach belongs to the village of Gerani in the Platanias municipality, set in a green valley of olive and citrus groves that were once the area’s main income before tourism. A small river, the Keritis, separates Gerani from busier Platanias just to the east, and you can walk across the sand between the two. Because the beach faces open sea on the north coast, it is more exposed to the wind than the sheltered coves closer to Chania.
Gerani beach is a mix of sand and fine pebbles, with softer sand in the upper part and small pebbles where the shore meets the water. The beach runs for roughly 2.5 kilometres and is very wide, so there is room to spread out even when the organised section is busy. The sea is clear, but it deepens fairly quickly a few steps in, and it turns wavy when the north wind picks up, so water shoes and care with young swimmers both help. Several tamarisk trees behind the sand give natural shade, and more trees mark the quieter western end towards Maleme.
Gerani beach is a nesting ground for the endangered Caretta caretta loggerhead sea turtle, which lays its eggs in the sand from May to September. The nests are not always marked, so keep clear of the soft dry sand and the low dunes at the back of the beach, especially at night. Do not dig in the sand or push umbrella poles deep near the dunes during the nesting months, because a single nest sits just below the surface. Stay near the water’s edge in the evening, and the turtles and their eggs stay undisturbed.
Gerani beach is partly organised, with paid sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and beach bars along the central stretch and open, unorganised sand on either side. A lifeguard watches the organised part in the summer season, and there are water sports along this coast, with more of them at neighbouring Platanias. The beach suits families who want space and quiet, though the water deepens quickly and can be choppy in the wind, so keep a close eye on small children. For a calmer swim on windy days, the sheltered beaches nearer Chania are a short drive east.
Gerani is a small, functional village rather than a resort strip, with a mini-market, a bakery, a pharmacy, a souvenir shop and a few tavernas near the beach. Platanias, about 1.7 kilometres east, adds many more restaurants, bars and water sports, and you can reach it on foot or by the local tourist train. Maleme, about 3.7 kilometres west, holds the German war cemetery and the wartime airfield from the 1941 Battle of Crete, while Agia Marina and its beach lie about 4.1 kilometres away. This makes Gerani a quiet base within easy reach of the livelier beach resorts on the Chania coast.
Gerani takes its name from an old method of drawing water from a well, using a wooden fork, a horizontal beam, a rope with a bucket at one end and a counterweight at the other. Some researchers link the site to ancient Kydonia and to a temple of the Cretan goddess Vritomartis, a local counterpart of Artemis. In 1867 the village saw a battle against Ottoman forces, in which Cretan rebels won before the Turks returned in reprisal. The Cretan novelist John Kondilakis began his teaching career here in 1885 and 1886, and the school where he taught still stands in Pano Gerani.
Reach Gerani beach from Chania in a few easy ways, whether or not you have a car:
Parking is easy along the access roads that lead down to the beach, so arriving by car is straightforward outside the busiest afternoon hours.
A day at Gerani beach is easy to combine with Platanias, Maleme and the other beaches west of Chania when you drive yourself, since the bus timetables thin out in the evening and the quiet coast rewards an early start. Having your own car lets you reach the wide, unorganised sand before the sunbeds fill, move on to a sheltered cove when the north wind rises, and carry beach gear and water shoes for the whole family. For the most flexible day along the Chania coast, book a car rental in Crete.
Gerani beach forms one link in a long bay that runs from Kolymbari in the west to the edge of Chania, so 7 more beaches lie within 9 kilometres of it. Pano Gerani, the older half of the village set inland, shares this same shoreline, and every beach below sits on the coast road that passes the village.
Gerani beach is on the north coast of western Crete, about 13 kilometres west of Chania city, between Maleme and Platanias. The beach belongs to the village of Gerani in the Platanias municipality and sits in a valley of olive and citrus groves.
Gerani beach is a mix of sand and fine pebbles, with softer sand in the upper part and small pebbles at the water’s edge. The beach is long and very wide, so there is plenty of open space to spread out.
No, the sea at Gerani beach deepens fairly quickly and often turns wavy when the north wind blows. The water is clear, but water shoes help on the pebbles, and swimmers should take care with children on windy days.
Yes, Gerani beach is a nesting ground for Caretta caretta loggerhead sea turtles from May to September. Keep clear of the soft dry sand and the dunes, and avoid digging near them, so the unmarked nests stay safe.
Gerani beach suits families who want a wide, quiet beach with room to spread out, and a lifeguard watches the organised stretch in summer. The water deepens quickly and can be choppy in the wind, so keep a close eye on young children.
7 beaches lie within 9 kilometres of Gerani beach. Platanias sits 1.7 kilometres east, Maleme 3.7 kilometres west, Agia Marina 4.1 kilometres east, Tavronitis 5.6 kilometres west, Stalos 5.8 kilometres east, Kalamaki 7.7 kilometres away and Rapaniana 8.1 kilometres west.
Agia Marina beach, 4.1 kilometres east of Gerani, stays sheltered on windy days because man-made stone piers break the swell. The water there is shallow and calm, and the beach carries a full row of sunbeds, umbrellas and water sports.
Reach Gerani beach from Chania by driving about 13 kilometres west along the coast road in 15 to 20 minutes, or by taking the Chania City Bus or KTEL coach that pass through the village. Chania International Airport is roughly a 35-minute drive away.
Yes, the central part of Gerani beach has paid sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and beach bars, while the stretches on either side stay open and unorganised. The beach itself is free to enter.
No, Gerani is a quiet family beach and is not a designated naturist beach. It has an organised section with sunbeds and beach bars, and long open stretches used by families and day visitors.
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.
Platanias beach is a long, organised, Blue-Flag sandy beach on the north coast of Crete, 11 km west of Chania. Platanias beach lines the front of the Platanias resort, so sunbeds, beach bars and water sports stay a few steps from the sand, while the old village on the hillside behind looks out over the sea and the islet of Thodorou.
Platanias beach sits 11 km west of Chania city, on the north coast of western Crete. Platanias grew from a small hillside village into a lively suburb of Chania, and frequent buses from the city make it one of the easiest beaches to reach near Chania. The beach runs for about 2 km, starting at the edge of Agia Marina and reaching west to the mouth of the Keritis river.
Platanias beach is a long stretch of sand with small pebbles in parts. The water is clear and deepens fairly quickly over a partly rocky seabed, so it suits confident swimmers as well as families who stay near the shallower sections by the shore. The beach faces north, so afternoon winds can raise short waves, and mornings are usually the calmest time to swim. The western end near the Keritis river is quieter and less built-up, which gives swimmers more space away from the busiest stretch.
Platanias beach is well organised along most of its length. Platanias beach offers sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars, snack bars, showers and lifeguards on duty in season. Much of the shore is free public beach where you can set your own spot, so the beach mixes organised sections with open stretches. On the east side of the local harbour, close to Agia Marina, several small man-made coves give sheltered spots for a swim.
Platanias beach offers a wide choice of water sports through the summer. Visitors can try jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, banana-boat rides and beach volleyball along the organised sections. After dark, the nightclubs of Platanias fill with Greek and foreign visitors who dance until dawn, which has made the resort one of the main nightlife spots west of Chania.
Platanias beach is a nesting point for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). The turtles nest on this coast from May to September, so keep clear of any marked nests and leave the dry sand undisturbed after dark. Tamarisk trees along parts of the beach give natural shade for hot afternoons.
The coast on either side of Platanias beach runs into several more sandy beaches, listed below by distance.
Platanias beach lies 11 km west of Chania on the north-coast road. Frequent buses run from Chania to Platanias through the season, the approach road is paved, and the beach has handicap-friendly access. A beach day here pairs well with the nearby beaches at Agia Marina, Stalos and Maleme and with the Botanical Park and Gardens of Crete inland, and the easiest way to reach them on your own schedule is with a rental car, which you can compare on our car rental in Crete page.
Platanias beach is on the north coast of western Crete, 11 km west of Chania, on the stretch of coast that runs from Agia Marina to the Keritis river.
Platanias beach is 11 km west of Chania city, reached by a short drive or by the frequent bus from Chania to Platanias.
Yes. Platanias beach is a long sandy beach with small pebbles in parts, running about 2 km between Agia Marina and the Keritis river.
Yes. Families can use the shallower sections near parts of the shore, and lifeguards are on duty in season, though the water deepens fairly quickly and afternoon winds can bring short waves.
Platanias beach has sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars, snack bars, showers and lifeguards, along with water sports and free public stretches where you can set your own spot.
Platanias beach offers jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, banana-boat rides and beach volleyball along its organised sections in summer.
Take a bus from Chania on the frequent Platanias service, or drive 11 km west along the paved north-coast road, and a rental car also makes the nearby beaches at Gerani, Stalos and Maleme easier to reach.
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 Minoan Kydonia was established at the present site of the old town of Chania. Kydonia was likely the third largest town of Minoan Crete. A flourishing craft industry developed here, and the town became wealthy through maritime trade, which was facilitated by its location. In fact, ancient writers referred to Kydonia as the mother of the Cretan towns.
There are two versions of the origin of the name. One version attributes it to Kydon, the mythical son of Minos and the nymph Akakkalida. The other version suggests it comes from an old name for Crete (Chthonia).
Most remnants have been identified on the Kastelli hill above the old Venetian port. Plates of Linear A and Linear B have also been discovered. The remaining traces, such as the palace of Kydonia, are situated beneath the modern city of Chania and have not been excavated.
The city has continued to develop up until today, incorporating elements from all periods of the island’s history. So far, excavations have uncovered Minoan tombs, Mycenaean buildings, small palaces with frescoes, numerous vases, Roman statues, Hellenistic mosaics, and more.
The Monastery of St. John the Baptist, located in the Korakies area of Akrotiri near Chania’s airport, is a historic yet relatively unknown convent in Chania.
Throughout its history, the monastery has been destroyed multiple times by various conquerors of Crete, resulting in the loss of valuable documents that could have helped determine the exact date of its foundation. However, it is believed to have been initially established before the Fall of Constantinople (1453) in the coastal region of Agia Kyriaki, within Chania’s Halepa suburb. Due to the continuous pirate raids by the Arabs, the nuns relocated to a safer location on St. Matthew’s hill, and eventually moved to their present location.
Enclosed by a tall wall, the monastery’s main entrance is relatively modest compared to other monasteries in Akrotiri. Within the lush grounds, visitors can find the two-aisled church of St. John the Baptist (celebrated on August 29) and St. George (April 23), accompanied by simple cells and other monastery buildings. The monastery’s icons have been painted by the nuns, and the small chapels of St. Andrew the Cretan and Panagia Portaitissa can also be found on the premises.
In the past, a notable Housekeeping School operated within the monastery, in the present-day museum location. The school quickly gained an outstanding reputation across the island, with the nuns even sewing the wedding dress of Greek Queen Olga in 1867.
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.
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 verdant Boriano canyon, more commonly referred to as Karanou Gorge, begins in the Boriana neighborhood of Karanou village and extends for 1800 meters until it merges with the Mavropiliotis River via an attractively laid out path. The trail features a dilapidated watermill, caves, and the entrances to the old iron ore quarries (locally referred to as the Averof quarries), along with a charcoal furnace and tunnels. The gorge runs parallel to the Kydoni Gorge, and it’s common for hikers to explore both gorges simultaneously.
In the mountainous region of Kydonia near Chania, nestled at the base of the White Mountains, you’ll find the picturesque Kydoni gorge. Named after the area, not the Greek word for “quince” which is also kydoni, this gorge is one of the most verdant in Crete, boasting lush vegetation with trees towering over twenty meters high. The journey begins in the village of Karanou, starting at the site of an ancient fountain. A downhill path takes you through a breathtaking centuries-old olive grove, past the church of Saint Demetrius (Agios Dimitrios) with its remnants of old frescoes, and finally to the stream bed. The greenery is abundant throughout the gorge, with sunlight only filtering through in a few places, making it a perfect spot for a cool walk on a hot, sunny day.
The trail that traverses the gorge is one of the most well-marked in Crete, with signs posted every 500 meters indicating the distance. The entire route is 2 km long, ending where the Kydoni stream meets the Platanias river tributary, Mavropiliotis, in the Mavra Pila area. The name Mavra Pila translates to “dark muddy soil” in the Cretan dialect, a fitting description for the blackish soil that turns into black mud when wet.
The trail continues from the end of the Kydoni gorge into the Boriano gorge, which runs parallel to Kydoni and originates from the Boriana neighborhood in Karanou. The Kydoni stream is typically dry throughout the year, only filling with water during the heavy rains of winter. Along the route, there are 2-3 small waterfalls, with the tallest one crossed by a charming wooden bridge that leads to a rock shelter adorned with small stalactites. The descent through Kydoni takes about an hour of hiking. Towards the bottom of the gorge, you’ll find two old trails leading to the nearby settlement of Skordalou.
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.
Boasting pool views, Villa Kamares Private pool features accommodation with a patio and a kettle, around 1.2 km from Maleme Beach. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.
The air-conditioned villa consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a hot tub and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
The villa offers a barbecue.
Gerani Beach is 2.7 km from Villa Kamares Private pool, while Platanias Square is 5.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 29 km from the accommodation.
Set in Kondomari, 2.1 km from Maleme Beach and 6 km from Platanias Square, Villa, Kondomari offers air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi. Guests benefit from a balcony and an outdoor pool.
The villa is fitted with 4 bedrooms, a TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a toaster.
The villa features a barbecue and a garden.
Agios Dimitrios Church is 6.6 km from Villa, Kondomari, while Municipal Garden is 14 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 30 km from the accommodation.
from
€523
/night
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, mountain view and a balcony, Villa Blue Dreams is located in Ayiá. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.
This villa is equipped with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 2 bathrooms equipped with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
A car rental service is available at the villa.
Maleme Beach is 400 metres from Villa Blue Dreams, while Gerani Beach is 2.4 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 29 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€115
/night
Situated in Maleme, 500 metres from Maleme Beach, Secret Garden Hotel features accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. Located around 2.4 km from Gerani Beach, the hotel with free WiFi is also 5 km away from Platanias Square. The hotel has a sun terrace and pool views, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar.
The rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk. The hotel offers some rooms that have a balcony and sea view, and rooms come with a private bathroom and a wardrobe. At Secret Garden Hotel each room comes with bed linen and towels.
Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast.
Agios Dimitrios Church is 5.6 km from Secret Garden Hotel, while Municipal Garden is 13 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 29 km from the hotel.
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