Paleochora is a laid-back seaside town on the southwest coast of Chania, roughly 77 kilometres from Chania city. The town sits on a narrow peninsula between two bays, which gives it two very different beaches within a short walk of the centre. Locals call Paleochora the “bride of the Libyan Sea” for the way it stretches out into the water, and the town keeps the slow, unhurried pace that first drew travellers to southwest Crete.This guide covers what Paleochora is and where it sits, its two beaches, the Venetian castle, day trips by boat, where to eat and stay, and how to get there. Read it top to bottom to plan a trip, or jump to the section you need.
In Paleochora Town, Crete, you’ll find a wide array of accommodation choices to suit every taste and budget. From cosy guesthouses and luxurious hotels to convenient vacation rentals, this charming town caters to all types of travellers. See below for a comprehensive list of accommodations in and near Paleochora Town, each promising a memorable stay.
Featuring mountain views, Exclusive Cottages in a quiet oliverove near the sea provides accommodation with a balcony and a kettle, around 300 metres from Pachia Ammos. It features a garden, a terrace, sea views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home includes 2 bedrooms, a kitchenette with an oven and a toaster, as well as a coffee machine. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
A car rental service is available at the holiday home.
Halikia Beach is 500 metres from Exclusive Cottages in a quiet oliverove near the sea, while Keratídes Beach is less than 1 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 83 km from the accommodation.
from
€192
/night
The family-run Margarita Studios is located in Paleochora, just 60 metres from the beach and 100 metres from restaurants and cafes. It features a garden with stone-paved alleys and offers studios with free WiFi access.
Opening to a garden-view balcony, the studios of Margarita have a kitchenette with fridge and electric kettle. Each unit is equipped with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. The bathroom comes with a shower and hairdryer.
Chania Town lies within 71 km from the property and the seaside Sougia with its long sandy beach is 33 km away. Souda Port is 77 km away, while Chania International Airport is at a distance of 90 km. Free on-site parking is possible.
from
€51
/night
Located within 300 metres of Pachia Ammos and 400 metres of Halikia Beach in Palaiochóra, Gemma Apartments provides accommodation with seating area. Complimentary WiFi is providedthroughout the property.
Fitted with a patio, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Keratídes Beach is 700 metres from the apartment, while Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 46 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 83 km from Gemma Apartments.
Featuring free WiFi and air conditioning, Blue Horizon is situated in Palaiochóra of Chania. The long sandy beach of Sougia is 33 km from the property. Free private parking is available on site.
The accommodation has a TV. Some units feature a balcony and/or patio with sea views. A refrigerator and kettle are also available. There is also a kitchenette in some of the units, fitted with a stovetop. Towels and bed linen are provided.
Elafonisi is 40 km away, while Balos is at a distance of 58 km. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 90 km from Blue Horizon.
Located 200 metres from Pachia Ammos, AnDi’s Apartment’s Paleochora offers a garden, and air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi.
The units come with tiled floors and feature a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, a dining area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A microwave, a fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Halikia Beach is 400 metres from the apartment, while Keratídes Beach is 800 metres away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 83 km from AnDi’s Apartment’s Paleochora.
from
€75
/night
Featuring garden views, Studios George offers accommodation with a balcony and a kettle, around 300 metres from Halikia Beach. This property offers access to a terrace and free private parking.
With free WiFi, this apartment provides a satellite flat-screen TV and a kitchen with a toaster and fridge. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
The apartment can conveniently provide information at the reception to help guests to get around the area.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Pachia Ammos is 300 metres from Studios George, while Keratídes Beach is 600 metres away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 83 km from the accommodation.
from
€55
/night
In Paleochora Town, Crete, history and adventure intertwine. The town’s centrepiece, Castel Selino, stands as a 13th-century fortress, its ruins whispering tales of yesteryears. For the nature enthusiasts, nearby gorges beckon with scenic hikes, while a boat trip to Gavdos Island offers a journey to Europe’s southernmost point. Explore below for a comprehensive list of activities and attractions in and around Paleochora Town.
Craving to swim in one of the world’s most famous beaches? This private transfer tour to Elafonisi from Chania is for you! Our professional guide will transfer you to the beach of Elafonisi where you can swim in its crystal clear blue shallow waters: Contrary to our bus excursion to Elafonisi this Elafonisi beach private transfer gets you to the awarded beach fast and effortlessly.
We start the private transfer to the beach of Elafonisos with a refreshing coffee in one of the cafeterias of mainland Chania, where we admire the view of the various villages and valleys nearby. After a worthy drive, we pass through the daring Topolia Tunnel and the mighty Topolia Village as we head over to the Beach in Elafonisi.
On this private transfer, guests have 3:30 to 4 hours of free time, in order to enjoy the lovely beach and coves of Elafonisi, as well as to step on and visit the island of Elafonisos, the Church of Agia Irini, and the Lighthouse of Elafonisi.
After our rewarding swim, our private guide in Crete leads us to one of the picturesque villages of Chania mainland, where we have our lunch for the day, bonding with the locals and eating authentic food. Various sightseeing stops are possible on the way back from this private tour to Elafonisi as we are approaching our drop-off point, for this private full-day transfer.
On this day tour from Souda and Chania, discover the gem that is Elafonisi Beach. Soak up the sights of the remarkable pink sand and crystal-clear waters on Crete’s southwestern coastline. Enjoy pickup and a scenic drive to this protected nature reserve.
Begin your tour to Elafonisi when you meet your driver in Souda or Chania. Then, set out for a drive along the winding road through Crete’s stunning countryside. If you wish, your driver will pause for you to stock up on local snacks and drinks while you learn about the island.
Once you’ve reached Elafonisi, make your way to the beach. As you wander down to the water’s edge, notice how the sand turns pink beneath your toes. Delight in the green waves lapping at the shore as you explore, swim, and lounge in this unique place.
After relaxing on Elafonisi Beach and exploring all its delights, return to Souda and Chania with your driver to conclude your tour.
Intro:
One of the most famous parts of Crete, Elafonisi is located close to the southwestern corner in the regional unit of Chania, mostly known for its pink sand beaches.
Full Description:
Our coach and tour guide pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and our day trip to Elafonisi is about to begin. During our drive, you will get plenty of useful information about Crete and our stunning destination.
Upon our arrival, one immediately understands why Elafonisi is so popular between locals and visitors. Its main attraction is the beautiful sandy beaches with their pink-colored sand and the crystal clear waters. The pink sand that is found along the water’s edge is produced by the large amount of red and pink shells that make the beach a sight for sore eyes. The water is generally quite shallow and safe for children.
Feel free to walk around and discover the small chapel and the lighthouse or just relax under the Cretan sun.
Elafonisi is protected by the Natura 2000 networking program as a place of intense natural beauty and is home to 110 plant species with the most notable being the juniper trees.
Whether you want to dive, relax, or discover it’s secrets, Elafonisi is ideal for a Mediterranean get away.
Embark on an unforgettable journey departing from the captivating region of Chania, aboard a luxury Mercedes Vito or Peugeot Traveller. Prepare to be whisked away to the southwest corner of Crete, where the enchanting beach of Elafonisi beckons with its renowned pink sand beaches.
As you venture towards this hidden gem, immerse yourself in the lush, green landscapes of Crete, traversing through the awe-inspiring Topolia Gorge and passing by charming, time-honored villages that dot the countryside.
Upon arrival at Elafonisi, surrender to the allure of its pristine shores and crystal-clear waters. Spend your day basking in the warm Mediterranean sun or taking leisurely strolls along the soft, rose-tinted sands.
Discover the unique charm of Elafonisi as you explore the protected wildlife areas that encompass both the beach and its adjacent island. Accessible by a delightful walk through the shallow waters, Elafonisi promises a sanctuary of unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility, making it an essential stop on your Crete adventure.
Early in the morning we will pick you up from your hotel or the nearest suitable pick up point with one of our air conditioned and comfortable buses so that we lead you to the exotic paradise island of Elafonisi. The time needed to arrive will be approximetaly three hours during which you will have the chance to see a big part of Cretan country side.
At the beginning of our trip and for about one and a half hour we will drive along the north coast of Crete were you will be able to admire the Cretan sea and the famous White Mountains at Chania Region. Also you will be able to see Chania city from a distance, laying along the coast.
Leaving the highway and heading southwest to the little island we will stop for coffe, breakfast or shopping and we will continue passing through Topolia gorge and traditional villages until reaching our final destination.
We will relax on the pink sand beach for 5 full hours, enjoing the sun, the crystal clear water, swimming or doing water sports.
On the beach there are small bars from where you can be provided with several drinks or light food, as long as taverns with traditional cretan food in about 1 km distance.
The return route will take about two and a half hours so at approximately 18:30h you will be back in Rethymno city.
Enjoy exploring the beautifull nature and cultural heritage on a high quality e bicycle , with a local cycling tourism Expert.
Kissamos is an area with so many treasures
Nature
old villages
ancient sites
myths and legends
and 3 of the world s most known places…
Balos-Gramvousa, Falassarna, Elafonissi
Gastronomy, experiencing local agricultural activities like gardening of herbs,olive picking,cooking lessons,
participate in local festivals and much more
The guide Odyseas Savvopoulos or Odyseas Cyclonaut is a passionate cyclist, exploring routes since 1996.He is an ex national cycling champion and enviromental activist
Pahia Ammos (translating to Thick Sand) beach is situated on the western flank of Paleochora, a distance of 79km to the south of the city of Chania. It serves as the primary beach of Paleochora, offering an array of amenities for tourists and is meticulously maintained. Despite its impressive length of nearly 500m, it often appears unoccupied due to its expansive size. With its gentle sandy shore and shallow waters, it’s an ideal spot for children. However, caution is advised during periods of westerly or southerly winds, as they cause substantial waves.
A variety of services are available, including umbrellas, bars, snack bars, water sports gear, showers, and a lifeguard tower. The beach’s western area offers privacy and is frequently chosen by nudists.
Votsala or Halikia beaches are situated just beyond the western limit of Paleochora harbour, about 79km to the south of Chania city, adjacent to the Kakodiakianos River’s outlet and stretch approximately 1km eastward. Halikia and Pahia Ammos are the primary beaches in the town of Paleohora. Halikia, with its round pebbles, is well maintained and is primarily favored by Greeks over the sandy Pahia Ammos beach. This beach is a popular choice for those who wish to stay near the town and enjoy easy access to all facilities.
Following the Azogirianos River’s exit, the subsequent beach named Keratides beach is formed. This beach is conveniently located next to the Paleochora camping site.
Keratides beach, situated approximately 1km west of Paleochora harbour and 79km south of Chania city, is found just past the Azogirianos river and Halikia beach. Characterized by its coarse pebbles and stones, it’s a preferred spot for those seeking tranquility and solitude. Its name, Keratides, is derived from the term for locust or carob trees, ‘keratia’. Nearby, there’s a camping site which attracts most of the beach’s visitors.
While there are numerous remarkable beaches in the vicinity of Paleochora, Keratides doesn’t particularly stand out. Nonetheless, it’s a viable option for those without access to a car or motorbike.
The Paleochora Coves are a chain of miniature bays that commence 1.5 km west of Paleochora and stretch 2.5 km westward to Cape Grammenos. These beaches are a complex of adjacent coves with crystal clear waters and magnificent pebbles. The main road, which links Paleochora and Koundoura, is situated alongside the coves, making them less popular with nudists.
Kalamia is the first beach you encounter 700m west of Paleohora, named after the reeds that inhabit the area (Kalamia translates to reeds). The next bay on the east side, 1.5 km west of Paleochora, is Psilos Volakas (Tall Rock), named after a large rock that shields the beach from southern winds. With its lovely small pebbles and lack of natural shade, the rocky seabed behind the large rock is perfect for snorkelling.
Continuing 200m westward from the beach, you’ll discover the secluded cove of Trohalou, a more rugged version of Psilos Volakas with larger pebbles and stones (Trohalou translates to “stony beach”). Although it’s never crowded, it’s one of the best snorkelling spots in the broader Paleochora area.
300m west of Trochalou lies the charming beach of Karavopetra (Ship-Stone in Greek), noted for its large rock that resembles a boat in the center of the beach. Apart from the main beach, a separate little cove can be found on Karavopetra’s western edge. Open to the southern winds, Karavopetra’s coarse sand and pebbles make it an excellent choice for bathing.
Next to Karavopetra, you’ll find Plakaki, a small cove shielded by a short rocky peninsula. This unorganized beach with pebbles is a wonderful spot. With rooms and restaurants nearby, Plakaki is a great option for those not wishing to head back to Paleochora. The beautiful beaches of Grammenos start directly west of Plakaki.
Choosing among these splendid beaches can be challenging, as each one offers something unique. We suggest driving down the road that runs along the shore to see which cove catches your eye!
In the overlooked area of Selino, South Chania, you’ll discover the hidden gem that is the Pelekaniotis River. This river, boasting the highest water flow in Selino, holds such significance that it inspired the name of the Paleochora municipality – Pelekanos. It remains a steady water source throughout the year, culminating in a verdant green valley at the Macherota location. The towering cliffs of the canyon serve as a habitat for numerous birds of prey, providing company for hikers along their journey.
The gorge’s exit can be located by following a dirt road that begins at Grameno beach near Paleochora and traces the river’s west bank. Regrettably, this path crosses a small area littered with rubbish and debris. However, beyond this, the scenery transforms into a lush Cretan landscape. Two kilometres in, the Agios Mamas chapel, adorned with well-preserved frescoes, can be found on the western shore. Despite its significance, the existence of Saint Mammes (Agios Mamas) remains largely unknown, even to locals. Across from Agios Mamas, the old whitewashed chapel of Saint George stands, though it lacks frescoes.
A kilometre further, the dirt road ends at a tank filled with drinkable water. From this point, the gorge can be explored on foot, particularly during summer when the water levels are lower. Adventurous hikers might prefer to visit the Pelekanos Gorge in winter, to witness a 25m high waterfall cascading into the river.
Approximately halfway through the gorge, some of Crete’s most impressive plane trees can be found, with some over 1000 years old and featuring remarkable trunk formations. Much of the canyon is narrow, with sunlight rarely reaching the riverbed. This natural masterpiece is adorned with vertical walls dotted with numerous holm oak trees.
The relatively small yet stunning Anydri gorge is situated to the east of Paleochora, accumulating water from the Asfendiles and Ancient Hyrtakina regions via the Dichalomata stream. The gorge originates from the Anidri village and meanders for approximately 3km between towering cliffs, eventually ending at the picturesque Gialiskari beach.
Trekking through the canyon is straightforward and follows the stream, which typically dries up during the summer. The gorge is sparsely dotted with trees and the rocky walls are not too high, so it’s recommended to bring a hat and sunscreen for protection.
Located just half an hour above the Lissos archaeological site, in a concealed location known as Lichnou Laki, is a small yet stunning canyon. This gorge is situated in the Selino district, beneath the village of Prodromi, to the south of Chania. It can be accessed via a dirt road that leads south from the village. This petite canyon is lush with greenery and is divided into two distinct sections. The first section is predominantly populated with lentisks, junipers, and oaks, while the second section is blanketed with pine trees, despite a previous fire that ravaged the area.
The gentle riverbed of Lichnou Laki canyon doesn’t feature any waterfalls or other impediments. At the canyon’s most striking point, there is a picturesque rock shelter forming a triangle. Towards the lower exit, a plateau is scattered with ceramic fragments, a clear indication of a former ancient settlement.
The trail linking Sougia to ancient Lissos runs through the grandeur of the Lissos or Skevroto gorge. This lengthy canyon is characterized by its majestic towering walls. However, the path to Lissos only covers a fraction of this route, taking approximately one hour to traverse.
Upon exiting the path on the Lissos side, one encounters the historical remnants of ancient Lissos. Notable landmarks include the Asclepius temple with its floor mosaic, the scattered ruins of the ancient city, tombs, the Roman theatre, and the Panagia and St. Kirikos churches. These churches were erected on the foundation of a previous early Christian church.
Returning to Sougia is possible either by embarking on a boat ride from the picturesque Lissos beach or by retracing the path on foot.
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