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Kato Daratso, the coastal counterpart to the inland village of Daratso, sits less than 4 kilometers west of Chania’s heart. This seaside retreat is celebrated for its expansive, picturesque beaches that beckon sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Strolling along the beachfront, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the local cafes, where they can sip a drink against the backdrop of the stunning sea and engage with the amiable residents of the area.
In Kato Daratso, accommodations abound to suit every traveler’s needs, from the simplicity of cozy guest houses to the indulgence of relaxing resorts. These establishments ensure a comfortable and memorable stay, whether you’re seeking a home-like atmosphere or luxurious amenities. Catering to diverse tastes and budgets, the accommodations in Kato Daratso promise to enhance your Cretan holiday experience. For a detailed look at where to stay, see below the list of best hotels in Kato Daratso.
The quietly situated Mediterranea Apartments is surrounded by numerous flowers and diverse trees, only a 10-minute walk from 3 blue-flag beaches of Chania. It offers air-conditioned rooms with kitchenette facilities and free Wi-Fi access.
The apartments and studios feature LED 22-inch TV, a 40-car private parking area and balcony or terrace with view to the garden or the pool. Towels are changed twice per week, and linen is changed once per week. Cleaning service is provided 6 days each week.
Mediterranea Apartments also disposes a swimming pool with shower facilities, a separate pool for children and pool-bar.
The hotel is only a 10-minute drive from Chania.In walking distance there are taverns with traditional food, a pharmacy and 2 supermarkets. The bus stop is also a short walk. Kato Daratso is 4 km west of Chania city and 15 km from the airport.
from
€65
/night
S u e ñ o – studios and apartments, with shared pool has pool views, free WiFi and free private parking, situated in Kato Daratso, 600 metres from Iguana Beach.
Fitted with a terrace, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. An oven, a toaster and fridge are also available in the kitchen, as well as a coffee machine.
The apartment offers a year-round outdoor pool.
A car rental service is available at s u e ñ o – studios and apartments, with shared pool.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Glaros Beach, Yannis Beach and Municipal Garden. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 17 km from s u e ñ o – studios and apartments, with shared pool.
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony, Villa L2/ Boutique Villa is situated in Kato Daratso. It has an infinity pool, a garden, garden views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with pool views.
The holiday home offers a picnic area. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Villa L2/ Boutique Villa, while fishing and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Glaros Beach, Iguana Beach and Yannis Beach. The nearest airport is Chania International, 17 km from Villa L2/ Boutique Villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€364
/night
Situated 600 metres from Glaros Beach and 600 metres from Iguana Beach, Cretan Queen Residences in Aghii Apostoli features air-conditioned accommodation with views of the garden and free WiFi.
Each unit features a balcony offering pool views, a satellite flat-screen TV, a dining area, a well-fitted kitchen and a private bathroom with bath, a hair dryer and free toiletries. A dishwasher, an oven and microwave are also available, as well as a coffee machine.
The villa offers a year-round outdoor pool.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Cretan Queen Residences, while snorkelling can be enjoyed nearby.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Yannis Beach, Municipal Garden and Fransiscan Monastery of Agios Fragkiskos. The nearest airport is Chania International, 17 km from Cretan Queen Residences, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€42
/night
Just 600 metres from the beaches of Agioi Apostoloi, Zeus Village Resort – Adults Only is located in Kato Daratso in Crete. It features spacious accommodation and an outdoor seasonal swimming pool with a terrace, sun beds and umbrellas.
Its self-catered units are fitted with a terrace or balcony with pool, garden or sea views. They offer air conditioning, TV, kitchenette with kitchenware, refrigerator, and seating and dining area. Some apartments include a private swimming pool.
A certified Greek buffet breakfast that includes local products is served daily in the breakfast area that overlooks the hotel gardens and pool. The on-site à la carte restaurant offers lunch, and dinner in buffet style. The snack bar provides fresh juices, drinks, coffees and light meals.
Massages can be arranged with the hotel’s spa and wellness centre. The tour desk can inform you on local attractions and excursions such as, hiking and cycling.
Zeus Village Resort – Adults Only offers free WiFi in public areas. Free public parking is available on site.
from
€138
/night
Located within the Agioi Apostoloi district in Kato Daratso, Thea Artemis has air conditioning, a patio, and garden views. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home comes with 2 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.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the holiday home.
Popular points of interest near Thea Artemis include Glaros Beach, Iguana Beach and Yannis Beach. The nearest airport is Chania International, 17 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€85
/night
Kato Daratso caters to a wide array of interests, making it a perfect spot for all types of travelers. Nestled close to some of the most picturesque beaches in Crete, it offers endless opportunities for basking on golden sands or engaging in an assortment of water sports in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. For the more adventurous souls, the nearby gorges provide exhilarating hikes amidst Crete’s rugged beauty and verdant flora. Coupled with the region’s abundant cultural and natural wonders, Kato Daratso is the quintessential locale for those looking to immerse themselves in the fullness of the Cretan experience.
The boat departs from the Old Venetian Harbor and heads out onto the Gulf of Chania. Pass by the island’s famous lighthouse, which was built by the Venetians in the 16th century and later modified by the Egyptians in 1839.
The boat continues to sail west towards Lazaretta Island, a small island close to Chania which provides the best views of the sunset across the Kissamos Mountains. The island has a vast history that predates the Venetian occupation. Listen to your guide share lively commentary about the history of the island and its former inhabitants as you watch the sunset and the sky change color.
Relax on deck as you marvel at the sunset against the Kissamos Mountains or take a short swim, then enjoy a traditional Greek raki. As the boat begins the return journey back to Chania, admire the harbor’s glistening lights reflecting against the water as evening turns to night.
Explore the Old Port of Chania on Agioi Theodoroi and Lazaretta Island on a history-lover’s boat cruise. Learn about the history of Venetian occupation, and see a German plane wreck from WWII. Take time to relax on the beach and swim.
This activity takes you to two islands connected with ancient mythology and the history of the Venetian occupation. Heading west from the Old Port of Chania, your first stop will be Agioi Theodoroi, an island that was used historically to defend the coast of Crete.
Nowadays, it’s a protected area and haven for kri-kri, an elegant and endangered Cretan goat. Your group will drop anchor close to a German airplane wreck (completely destroyed) dated from WWII, and give you the opportunity to dive into the water to see it for yourself.
After approximately 20 minutes, you’ll head on to the second stop on the same island, inside a small gulf with a nice view and a high possibility of seeing the kri-kri goats. The duration of this stop will be approximately 30 minutes.
Head on to Lazaretto (or Lazaretta) island, a small island opposite Nea Xora. Clear waters rich in marine life combined with two beautiful sandy beaches make this the best place to end your trip.
Enjoy options to swim or relax on the beach until the boat leaves back for Chania. On the way back, you’ll get panoramic views of the Old Venetian Harbour with its famous lighthouse and walled fortresses—an excellent view of what the city looks like from the sea.
Enjoy a boat cruise from the old port of Chania Town to the islands of Thodorou and Lazaretta. Captain Nestor will take care of you, especially the children, fetching starfish and octopus, and helping you explore the world underwater.
At the natural reserve of Thodorou island, also known as “Goat Island”, Nestor takes you around to spot the wild Kri Kri goat, stopping for a while at the decaying wreck of a World War II German airplane. From there you continue to the island of Lazaretta where you can relax and enjoy a picnic on the beach, swim or just chill out on the boat gazing through the window to the depths below. The boat will return later to the port of Chania.
Grab a paddleboard and journey to the secluded island of Lazareta on this SUP trip from Chania. Experience a water activity that is easy and suitable for everyone. An instructor will teach you the basics of stand-up paddle boarding so you’ll feel confident during the trip.
After learning the basics, follow your instructor to the picturesque oasis, the island of Lazareta, located in front of New Chora beach in the center of Chania. Discover the small beaches of the island and hear about the history that dates back to the Venetian period in the 16th century.
You’ll have time to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and see a variety of fish. While you’re relaxing in the sun, you can enjoy the breathtaking view above the town, where the White Mountains open wide and big behind.
Travel through stunning natural landscapes up into the mountains of the Kissamos region on this 7-hour tour from Chania.
Stop at a traditional family winery, established in 1993, and learn about the varieties of wine they produce and their ideas for modern farming processes and wine production.
Taste award-winning local Vidiano, Muscat of Spina and some international varieties such as Grenache rouge, Syrah and Mourvèdre that each have a unique taste due the local terroir.
Next you’ll visit a traditional village and see the oldest olive tree in the world, with an estimated age of 3,000 years.
This is a day filled with tasting different wine expressions of noble grapes and a variety of delicious foods.
Head to another winery in the Kissamos region to taste a special local blend of white wines with Vilana, Vidiano and Assyrtiko varieties.
Walk through the idyllic landscape of the vineyards and visit the family’s olive oil factory. Learn about extra virgin olive oil production. The wine tasting here will be accompanied by a tasting of extra virgin olive oils and local pure products, creating combinations your palate will never forget.
You’ll also learn the Cretan way of saying goodbye drinking the award-winning Tsikoudia.
Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Crete through our exceptional cooking class, where authenticity meets healthy organic ingredients. Immerse yourself in the flavors of the region, featuring extra virgin olive oil, locally sourced meats, aromatic herbs, and freshly harvested vegetables.
Begin your culinary adventure with a leisurely stroll through our vegetable garden, connecting with the raw produce and gaining insights into the diverse array of herbs. Discover the secrets of Cretan cuisine as you embark on the preparation of a traditional meal, guided by local expertise. Take a scenic mountain walk to a shepherd’s enclave, where the captivating story of olive harvesting unfolds.
Return to our culinary haven to savor the exquisite flavors of Cretan cheese and wine, setting the stage for the creation of appetizers like ntakos and tzatziki. Elevate your culinary prowess with a delightful dinner, skillfully paired with regional wines. Conclude this gastronomic journey with the sweet notes of traditional jar desserts, leaving your palate satiated and your heart filled with the warmth of Cretan hospitality. Immerse yourself in a truly authentic and memorable experience, where every dish tells a story of the vibrant culinary tapestry of Crete.
The Glaros beach, a coastal front for the village of Kato Daratsos in the Kidonia province, is situated 5 kilometres to the west of Chania city, within the Makris Tihos area. It’s flanked by Kalamaki on its western side and the Agii Apostoli beaches to its east. A narrow land strip, terminating at the cape home to the Holy Apostles’ church, separates it from the Agii Apostoli’s western beach.
Boasting of fine sand and abundant tamarisk trees for those seeking shade instead of renting umbrellas, Glaros beach is a popular destination due to its proximity to Chania city. It’s exposed to the northern winds, which means if the waves get too high, you can relocate to the sheltered bays of Agii Apostoli nearby.
The Agii Apostoli, also known as the Holy Apostles, is home to two breathtaking beaches situated merely 3km west of Chania. The first beach, nestled next to the eastern edge of Glaros beach, boasts soft sand, full amenities, and ample parking, making it easily accessible. The beach is shielded from winds by a small peninsula to its west, which also houses a picturesque park ideal for leisurely walks and the iconic chapel of the Holy Apostles, the namesake for the surrounding area.
A stone’s throw to the east, a second equally enchanting semicircular cove emerges, featuring stunning green-hued waters and fine sandy beaches. The awe-inspiring rock formations that flank the beach only add to its allure. Adjacent to the eastern end of this beach, a small pine grove stretches out towards Chrissi Akti.
Both coves can be accessed either by bus from Chania or by foot. Additionally, Agii Apostoli is perfect for cyclists and pedestrians alike, thanks to the expansive paved road. With an array of high-grade hotels nearby, accommodation options are plentiful in the area.
Situated 2.5km west of Chania city and just east of Agii Apostoli, you’ll find the glistening Golden Beach, or Hrissi Akti as it’s known in Greek. It’s essentially two sandy beaches separated by a rocky outcrop. The western cove is the primary Golden Beach, while the eastern one is the quieter Aptera beach. The west bay is the more popular of the two, boasting excellent facilities such as umbrellas, lifeguards, showers, cafes, water sports and more. Its fine golden sand and shallow waters are particularly appealing to families with young children, and there’s even a playground nearby.
Aptera beach, on the other side of the rocky divide, offers a more tranquil experience. It’s less developed and has the remnants of the Aptera Beach hotel which was abandoned in the late 90s due to financial difficulties. This beach is perfect for those looking for solitude and is conveniently close to Chania.
The entire Agii Apostoli area is dotted with small parks filled with pine and eucalyptus trees. Access to Golden Beach is easy, either by bus from Chania or by foot.
The coastal resort of Kalamaki, situated 6km west of Chania city, serves as the beachfront extension of Galatas village. Nestled within a rich, fertile plain adorned with citrus and olive groves, Galatas once relied heavily on agriculture; however, tourism now drives the region’s economy.
Kalamaki marks the western end of an extensive beach that begins 1km eastwards at Agii Apostoli. Its attractive shoreline features fine sand and gentle waters, offering a well-equipped and organized beach experience. Facilities include beach umbrellas, showers, lifeguard services, accommodation, dining, beach bars, and water sports. Additionally, a tiny, secluded cove exists next to the beach’s western edge, set apart from the main beach by a slim sand strip. Regular city bus services from Chania center provide easy access to Kalamaki.
Galatas is the birthplace of Mikis Theodorakis, a distinguished modern Greek composer and activist, who suffered poisoning under the military dictatorship that seized Greece in April 1967. He was also a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize. During the Turkish Occupation, Galatas was a Christian-inhabited village, while the nearby Daratsos was occupied by Ottomans.
Glaros Beach
Glaros Beach, characterized by its spacious bay stretching from Holy Apostles to Kalamaki, boasts soft sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters. Tamarisk trees providing natural shade line the beach, contributing to its status as one of Chania’s most popular beaches. However, its northern exposure means it can get windy, making the sheltered coves of Holy Apostles a suitable alternative. Its excellent facilities, stunning beach, and convenient access to and from Chania make Glaros an ideal holiday destination.
The Cyclamen Gorge, also known as Agios Georgios Gorge or Gorge Vandes, is nestled on the northern slopes of the White Mountains. Its starting point is the Aletrouvari settlement, situated at an altitude of 300m, and it extends east of Agios Georgios village, ultimately ending at the village of Vandes, which is at an elevation of 50m. The stream that runs through this gorge gathers water from the Drakona area, resulting in the formation of quaint, small ponds at certain spots.
However, this route is not recommended for novice hikers as it requires approximately 2 hours to traverse from Aletrouvari or about 1 hour from Agios Georgios. As visitors journey through this route, they will encounter a diverse landscape that changes along the river, all under the cool shade of towering plane trees and cypresses.
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.
Situated close to the village of Meskla, 20 km away from Chania town and nestled at the foot of the White Mountains, you’ll find the impressive yet compact Sarakina Gorge (be careful not to mix it up with the other well-known Sarakina Gorge in East Crete, near Mythi in the Province of Ierapetra). The gorge takes its name from local lore that suggests Saracenes once used it as a hiding place. The gorge’s somewhat elusive location keeps it off the beaten track for many locals, maintaining its status as an untouched, natural spectacle.
Hidden within a deep ravine, Sarakina is bordered by towering cypress and plane trees. In an effort to make this natural gem more accessible, local authorities have developed walking trails throughout the gorge. Starting and ending in Meskla, next to the Church of the Panagia, where you find the parking space. The circular trail offers an hour’s worth of easy hiking. The journey commences with a ten-minute walk on a dirt road which then leads to a path alongside the river.
The trail is interspersed with wooden and stone staircases and metal walkways crossing the river. After the first segment, the landscape transforms drastically, transitioning from a gravel bed to solid limestone boulders. The resulting view is an awe-inspiring natural artwork as the rock appears split down the middle, carving out a breathtaking sculpture.
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.
Kato Daratso is situated in the western part of Chania, Crete, less than 4 kilometers from the city center.
The village is known for its beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Yes, you can visit the Fallschirmjäger Memorial to learn about its World War II history.
Besides beach activities, you can explore local shops, enjoy the Eco-Garden, or play Mini-Golf.
Absolutely, the village has family-friendly beaches and activities like quad biking for children.
Yes, there are local cafes and tavernas along the beachfront offering a variety of dishes.
There’s a range from guest houses to resorts. See the full list of accommodations above.
You can drive, take a taxi, or use public buses from Chania.
The best time is from June to September when the weather is warmest.
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