Gerani is a charming village situated on the northwestern coast of Crete, located between Platanias and Maleme, and easily accessible from the Old National Road and the new national road. The village is spread out along the coast, with the new part of the village, Kato Gerani, located along the beach and the old Gerani, Palaio Gerani, further inland. The village is 14 km west of Chania and has a small river running through it.
Gerani is a great option for those looking for a peaceful vacation spot. Although it is not as developed for tourism as Platanias, Gerani offers a variety of accommodation options, including big hotels and small family-run businesses renting rooms, studios, and apartments. There are also several taverns, cafes, supermarkets, a bakery, a butcher shop, a hairdresser/barber, a pharmacy, and a petrol station in Kato Gerani. Additionally, there is a regular bus service to Chania and Kolimbari for those who want to explore beyond the village.
The beach in Gerani is a mix of coarse sand and pebbles, with the former covering most of the expanse and the latter restricted to the waterline and a few meters inwards. It is recommended to wear bathing shoes due to this. There are sections of the beach where visitors can rent sun beds, parasols, showers, and changing facilities. During busier seasons, a lifeguard is stationed at the busiest area of the shore. While there are a few restaurants along the beach, most visitors prefer to eat at their hotels.
For those who want to explore the surrounding areas, Gerani has a regular bus service to Platanias, which has sandy beaches and amenities such as doctors, banks, chemists, supermarkets, bakeries, and tavernas. It is also possible to walk two kilometers along the road or the beach. Chania town is a 20-minute drive away, and the international airport is about 40 minutes away.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Passatempo Casa is set in Gerani Chanion. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment is fitted with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
A continental, Italian or American breakfast is available every morning at the property.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Popular points of interest near Passatempo Casa include Gerani Beach, Maleme Beach and Platanias Beach. The nearest airport is Chania International, 27 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€162
/night
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Quiet Villa Aviana, garden, heated pool, BBQ,jacuzzi is situated in Gerani Chanion. It has a garden, pool views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The 4-bedroom villa features a living room with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and oven, and 2 bathrooms with hot tub. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
A car rental service is available at the villa.
Maleme Beach is less than 1 km from Quiet Villa Aviana, garden, heated pool, BBQ,jacuzzi, while Gerani Beach is a 14-minute walk from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 27 km from the accommodation.
from
€575
/night
Set directly on Platanias beach, in a garden full of orange and olive trees, this aparthotel suits guests in search of a memorable Cretan vacation.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or fun family holiday, Hotel Caretta Beach caters to your every need. Spend the day relaxing on your balcony and marvel at stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Traditional Cretan cuisine is available at the beach pavilion, where you can also enjoy breakfast at a time that suits you best. If you prefer, you can also make use of the kitchenette and facilities in your spacious guest unit.
The outdoor pool provides you with a great alternative to swimming in the sea and includes a special kids section. This way you can watch your children splash in the water while sipping a refreshing drink at Caretta’s bar.
Tours of the island, as well as hiking trips and rental bikes, can be arranged at reception.
Situated in Gerani Chanion, 200 metres from Maleme Beach, Myrion Beach Resort & Spa – Adults Only features accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness centre and a garden. This 5-star hotel offers a shared lounge, room service and free WiFi. The hotel provides an indoor pool, evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk.
All rooms in the hotel are equipped with a kettle. Complete with a private bathroom fitted with a shower and free toiletries, the rooms at Myrion Beach Resort & Spa – Adults Only have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and certain rooms have a terrace. At the accommodation rooms include bed linen and towels.
The daily breakfast offers American, vegetarian or vegan options. At Myrion Beach Resort & Spa – Adults Only you will find a restaurant serving Greek, Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and vegan options can also be requested.
Gerani Beach is less than 1 km from the hotel, while Platanias Beach is 2.1 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 28 km from Myrion Beach Resort & Spa – Adults Only.
Situated right on Gerani Beach, Silver Beach Hotel features a swimming pool set within well-kept gardens. Guests enjoy spacious rooms with seating areas, sports facilities and delicious Cretan cuisine.
Silver Beach air-conditioned rooms are bright and airy, and offer views of the hotel gardens, the pool or the sea. Each comes with free internet access, a safe and TV, as well as a fridge.
A traditional Cretan breakfast, featuring local delights, is served at the Silver Beach each morning. Refreshing drinks and cocktails are available by the poolside bar. The on-site restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.
Silver Beach Hotel includes a well-equipped gym, as well as volleyball. Younger guests will enjoy splashing in their own pool, as well as safe play at the hotel’s playground.
Silver Beach is a short distance from the tourist resort area of Platanias, 13 km from the Venetian port of Chania, and 26 km from Chania Airport. Free parking is available.
Set 20 metres from Gerani Beach, Villa Gerani offers free bikes, a bar and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
Featuring a kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, each unit also comes with a satellite flat-screen TV, ironing facilities, desk and a seating area with a sofa. There is a private bathroom with shower and a hairdryer in each unit, along with free toiletries.
A garden, barbecue and a terrace are offered at the apartment.
Maleme Beach is 700 metres from Villa Gerani, while Platanias Beach is 2 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 29 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€225
/night
Explore the World War II history of Crete and learn about its wider impact in southeast Europe and Greece. Explore the story of the Greek-Italian War of 1940 and the circumstances that lead to Hitler’s Operation Mercury.
Hear how the Battle of Crete and the resistance to the invasion helped revive the morale of the Allied troops around the world. Visit key location sites such as the pretty village of Maleme, where the German paratroopers first landed. Discover remnants of the war at Tavronitis and Galatas, and visit the war cemeteries of the German and Allied troops.
Be amazed as your guide brings history to life and tells you about secret shelters and other monuments from the war. Hear untold stories that take you behind the scenes and explore the role the partisans played as they helped the British, Australian and New Zealand armies change the course of history.
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the rich culture and traditions of Crete! Set in the charming village of Kefalas in Apokoronas, our Authentic Cretan Night offers a unique experience filled with delicious food, live music, and traditional dance.
Pick-up Service:
Begin your evening with the convenience of a pick-up service . Relax as you are transported to Taverna Ortaki , nestled in the heart of Kefalas .
Arrival and Welcome:
Upon arrival, step into the warm embrace of Cretan hospitality. The welcoming atmosphere sets the tone for an unforgettable night filled with cultural delights.
Dinner with Cretan Flavors:
Indulge in a sumptuous Cretan dinner crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu showcases the diverse and mouthwatering flavors of Cretan cuisine, offering a culinary exploration of the region.
Live Music Performance:
Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of live traditional Cretan music. Local musicians, often featuring instruments like the lyre and laouto, create an authentic ambiance that transports you to the heart of Crete.
Traditional Dance Show:
Be mesmerized by a spirited traditional dance performance, where skilled dancers adorned in vibrant costumes showcase the unique dances of Crete. The rhythmic beats and lively movements tell stories of the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Audience Engagement:
Feel the energy of the performance and join in the fun! The friendly atmosphere encourages audience participation, allowing you to experience the joy of traditional Cretan dances firsthand.
Dessert Delights:
Conclude your gastronomic journey with delectable Cretan desserts, adding a sweet note to your evening. Indulge in treats like baklava or loukoumades, savoring the perfect end to your culinary experience.
Closing and Departure:
Bid farewell to the gracious hosts and fellow guests, leaving with cherished memories of an authentic Cretan night. If you arranged for transportation, enjoy a comfortable drop-off back to your accommodation.
Embark on a cultural odyssey at Taverna ORTAKI , where every element of this Cretan night has been thoughtfully curated to offer an immersive and unforgettable experience. A perfect blend of music, dance, gastronomy, and warm hospitality awaits you.
Head to Kolymvari port, Chania and be greeted by a crew member who will escort you to the vessel. Hop aboard and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with some light snacks. Then, after a short safety briefing, set sail towards the Agioi Theodoroi islands.
Sit back and relax as you make your way to the islands, where you can take advantage of a selection of fun activities. Go for a swim, try your hand at snorkeling, or use the SUP boards to go paddling.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, this cruise also offers the ideal opportunity for some relaxed sunbathing.
A special entertainment area with board games provides some extra fun for those traveling with kids and if your little one needs a nap, the boat has some comfortable cabins at the ready.
Take a break to refuel with lunch aboard the catamaran. The menu is prepared using local, organic products and includes salad, pasta, seafood, and chicken.
Enjoy local white wine, beer, and soft drinks with your food, and savor a selection of homemade sweets and fresh fruit to round out the meal. A kid’s menu of chicken nuggets or pasta ensures that your little ones will be satisfied too.
Finally, benefit from some more free time before making your way back to the marina in Kolymvari where your cruise comes to an end.
Set sail from Kolymvari and start your trip with a welcome on board. Get to know the team and get briefed by your captain about the safety rules.
Navigate toward one of the most picturesque bays in the area, among the Agioi Theodoroi islands. Stop to swim, snorkel, play with inflatables, or try stand-up paddleboarding.
Enjoy a Mediterranean dinner onboard with vegetarian options available. Savor delicious seafood, and local and imported drinks. Cruise back to Kolymvari while surrounded by sweeping scenery.
Explore the island of Kri-Kri (Thodorou island) onboard a cruise around Crete. Sail around stunning gulfs, secluded small islands, and enjoy the turquoise blue waters.
Begin your cruise in the morning. Sail around Thodorou Island, located near Chania, opposite Agia Marina beach, and see the surrounding secluded islands in the area.
Discover Cretan wild goats (kri-kri). Enjoy the calm and tranquil sea. The coastline of the island and the wreck of a German aircraft from WW2 are perfect places for snorkeling.
Exploring the Olive Treasures: Begin your day with a visit to an olive mill in Kolymbary, where you’ll witness the olive oil-making process and engage in a flavorful olive oil tasting. Journey to Ano Vouves to encounter a 3000-year-old ancient olive tree, delving into the rich history and significance of olives in Cretan culture.
Wine Tasting and Longevity Secrets: At Karavitakis winery, savor the finest wines while uncovering the secrets of longevity associated with Cretan living. Enjoy an informative wine tasting session amidst stunning vineyard landscapes, immersing yourself in the cultural significance of winemaking in Crete.
Off-Road Adventure and Scenic Beauty: Embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure towards Sebronas village, navigating through picturesque gorges, lush vegetation, and panoramic vistas. Capture the essence of Cretan countryside life with photo opportunities of chapels, livestock, vineyards, and olive groves.
Cretan Gastronomy and Hospitality: Satisfy your appetite at a quaint tavern in Nea Roumata, experiencing the true essence of Cretan hospitality through local platters and authentic cuisine. Immerse yourself in the flavors and warmth of Cretan culture while enjoying a memorable dining experience.
Embark on a unique wine and olive escape, immersing yourself in the famed Greek hospitality and embracing the sights, flavors, and warmth of Cretan culture. Enjoy a professionally guided journey through ancient landscapes and indulge in authentic culinary delights, making this safari tour an unforgettable experience.
Situated 13 km west of Chania city, nestled between Maleme and Platanias, lies the quaint coastal village of Gerani. The village is nestled in a lush valley filled with olive and citrus groves, which were once the primary source of income for the villagers. Today, tourism drives the economy of Gerani.
Stretching across 2.5 km, Gerani’s beach is known for its beautiful sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is equipped with numerous amenities such as umbrellas, showers, beach bars, water sports facilities, and lifeguards, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. Several tamarisk trees provide shade, and for those preferring less crowded spots, there are unorganized parts of the coast. However, visitors must tread carefully, as the sandy beach serves as a nesting ground for the Caretta caretta turtles from May to September.
The village of Gerani got its name from a simple water-pumping method used in the village. The method involved the use of a wooden fork and a horizontal piece of wood, with a rope tied at one end to a bucket and a counterweight at the other end.
Historically, Gerani is thought to be the site of ancient Kydonia, according to some scientists. It is also believed that the village once housed a temple dedicated to Goddess Vritomartis, the Cretan counterpart of Goddess Artemis.
The village witnessed a battle against the Turks in 1867, where the Cretan rebels emerged victorious. However, fearing retaliation, the locals asked the rebels to leave, leading to the Turks returning and causing havoc. Gerani also holds significance as the place where famed Cretan novelist John Kondilakis started his teaching career in 1885-1886. The school where he taught, located in Pano Gerani, still stands today.
Platanias, a coastal hamlet situated 11km west of the city of Chania, has seen a significant surge in tourism in recent years, transforming it from a quaint village into a bustling suburb of Chania. Its close proximity to the city, coupled with its stunning beach and frequent bus services from Chania, have made it the most favoured beach near the city. The original village, nestled on a hillside, offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the islet of Thodorou.
The beach in Platanias is an attractive stretch of sandy shore dotted with hotels of varying class and standard tourist facilities. Beachgoers can avail of all the amenities typical of well-organized beaches, including beach bars, umbrellas, showers, snack bars, lifeguards, and water sports. On the eastern side of the local harbour, near Agia Marina, swimmers can enjoy several small, man-made coves. In the summer, the area’s nightclubs come alive, hosting thousands of both Greek and foreign party-goers who dance until daybreak.
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.
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.
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 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.
Positioned near the city of Chania, the Therisso Gorge (also known as Eleftherios Venizelos) is an awe-inspiring sight. This six-kilometre-long canyon is adorned with impressive vertical cliffs and lush greenery, rivalling any other gorge in the Chania region. Accessible by car, it’s worth combining a trip to the gorge with a visit to the historic village of Therisso, nestled at the foot of the White Mountains, just 15 kilometres from Chania. This village, steeped in history, offers an unforgettable experience to any visitor.
With a population of just over 100, the valiant village of Therisso has held a significant role in Crete’s modern history, mainly due to the resilience of its inhabitants against Turkish invasions. In 1866, the village was burnt by Mustapha Pasha Naili, forcing many, including the mother of future Greek Prime Minister, Eleftherios Venizelos, to relocate to Kythera and the Peloponnese. Therisso gained further historical prominence in 1905 when Eleftherios Venizelos and his allies initiated a revolution against the autocratic rule of Prince George, imposed by the Great Powers, charting a course for Crete’s union with Greece. Notably, the heroic Halides brothers, key figures in the 1821 revolution, also hailed from Therisso.
Gerani is a small village located on the northwestern coast of Crete, between Platanias and Maleme, right off of the Old National Road.
Gerani is located 14 km west of Chania.
Gerani is spread out along the coast, with the new part of the village located along the beach (called Kato Gerani, or lower Gerani) and the old Gerani (Palaio Gerani) further inland.
In Kato Gerani, you’ll find a few taverns and cafes, supermarkets, a bakery, a butcher shop, hairdresser/barber, a pharmacy, and a petrol station. There is also a regular bus service running to Chania and Kolimbari.
The beach in Gerani is composed of both coarse sand and pebbles, with the former type covering most of the expanse and the latter restricted to the waterline and a few meters inwards into clearer waters. It is recommended to wear bathing shoes. There are also sections where one can rent sun beds and parasols, as well as showers and changing facilities.
There are a few restaurants along the beach in Gerani, but most of the visitors live in Gerani and eat at their hotels.
Yes, there is a regular bus service from Gerani to Platanias, which has sandy beaches and amenities including doctors, banks, chemists, supermarkets, bakeries, tavernas, etc.
Chania town is a 20-minute drive from Gerani.
The international airport is about 40 minutes from Gerani.
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