Located in Likotinaréa, 31 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and 7.3 km from Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori, Mulberry Home provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. The property has garden and inner courtyard views, and is 21 km from Ancient City of Aptera.
The apartment with a terrace and mountain views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a bath. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
Municipal Garden is 30 km from the apartment, while Centre of Byzantine Art is 30 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 40 km from Mulberry Home.
Set in Sellía, Horizon Villa Likotinara offers a private pool. This villa provides free bikes, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, as well as barbecue facilities.
The air-conditioned villa consists of 3 bedrooms, a kitchen with dining area, and a bathroom. A flat-screen TV is available.
The villa offers a terrace. There is a shared lounge at this property and guests can go cycling nearby.
Chania and Rethymno are at 35 km from Horizon Villa Likotinara, while the nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 45 km from the accommodation. Heraklion Airport is 115 km away.
from
€134
/night
Located in Likotinaréa and only 31 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Galani Vacation House provides accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This holiday home offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The holiday home is equipped with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The holiday home offers a picnic area. A car rental service is available at Galani Vacation House.
Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 7.9 km from the accommodation, while Ancient City of Aptera is 21 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 40 km from Galani Vacation House, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€88
/night
Splendid Villas and Family Resort features pool views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Kalamitsi Amygdali, 27 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, mountain views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Splendid Villas and Family Resort offers a picnic area.
Guests can swim in the outdoor swimming pool, go hiking, or relax in the garden and use the barbecue facilities.
Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 8.2 km from the accommodation, while Ancient City of Aptera is 22 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 39 km from Splendid Villas and Family Resort.
Set in Likotinaréa, 33 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and 7 km from Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori, Villa Tatiana offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers a private pool, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and garden views features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 3 bathrooms with a shower.
Ancient City of Aptera is 22 km from the villa, while Municipal Garden is 32 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 41 km from Villa Tatiana.
from
€252
/night
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a patio, Villa di Lusso Agave con Piscina Privata Riscaldata e Jacuzzi is located in Litsárdha. This property offers access to a balcony, bowling in the bowling alley, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa with a terrace and mountain views features 4 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 4 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
The villa can conveniently provide information at the reception to help guests to get around the area.
Spa and wellness facilities including a hot tub, a solarium and an open-air bath are at guests’ disposal during their stay at Villa di Lusso Agave con Piscina Privata Riscaldata e Jacuzzi. There is a garden with a barbecue at this property and guests can go cycling nearby.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 32 km from the accommodation, while Historical – Folklore Museum of Gavalochori is 5.1 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 37 km from Villa di Lusso Agave con Piscina Privata Riscaldata e Jacuzzi.
from
€45
/night
From ± 9:00 Until 12:30
14:00 Until 17:30
Without captain(Only Guide)
No licenses needed
Boats available for safari exploration that can accommodate from 1 to 5 people
The Rent a Boat Safari category includes a sea tour, which is an adventure worth choosing. The duration is 3:30 hours and takes place in the wider area of Georgioupolis, Obrogialos near a cave. You will be drawn by the crystal blue waters, where you will have enough time to jump in for a refreshing swim. Each boat is 5 meters long, has 5 seats and its engine is 30hp YAMAHA.
Tour guide safety will be on the first boat to give directions on navigation and show you the route while the rest of the rental boats will follow. There is also pick up and drop off service and we can supply you with sandwiches and water.
Do not forget your swimsuit!
This will be an unforgettable tasting day for you and your friends exploring the mainland of Chania and discovering the non-touristic locations of Apokoronas province. In a few hours, you’ll have the chance to meet the local producers and taste the pure and authentic delicacies of Crete.
Commencing at a local olive mill, the tour affords you the opportunity to witness the intricacies of olive oil production and gain insights into the craftsmanship of the highest quality olive oil, namely extra virgin. The entire olive oil production process, from harvesting to the palate, promising exquisite tastes and flavors.
Subsequent to the olive mill exploration, the tour extends to the realm of “Tsikoudia” or “Raki” production, the renowned Cretan spirit, through a visit to a local distillery in a traditional village. Both the tour of the time-honored conventional distillery and the contemporary professional one will provide an understanding of the production of this esteemed beverage, culminating in a tasting session.
Through a fantastic route passing by villages of the province, you will arrive in the White mountains’ foothills. In the village of Embrosneros, you will first stop to a bakery to taste the local bread, cookies & biscuits and then to a traditional cheese factory. The secrets of “Graviera”, “Anthotiros” and “Mizithra” cheese will be revealed in front of your eyes. After explaining each cheese’s production, you will taste them combined with local honey and rusk (dry bread).
The last stop will be in a local coffee shop (“Kafeneio”), where the Cretans are also enjoying meals. Incredible flavours and traditional recipes are waiting for you in the charming square of the village of Fres. The customary lunch will immerse you in various facets of Cretan cuisine and gastronomy. It is often said that taste is our most refined sense. Following this tour, your palate will be enriched with new flavors, enhancing your tasting memory.
Explore the famous Samaria Gorge on a trip along the northern coastline of Crete and through the White Mountains up to the Omalos Plateau. Samaria Gorge became a National Park in 1962 and today, it is the last natural refuge for the Cretan goat species known as Kri-Kri.
Depart early in the morning and board a coach which will pick you up from your hotel. After a comfortable drive, arrive at the plateau of Omalos for a small break before heading to the entrance of the gorge. The start of the hiking trail through the gorge is at a height of 1200m. On the route, pass by rich vegetation and through the tall rock walls known as the “Iron Gates”. Fill up your water bottle at one of the springs in the gorge.
At the end of the 17km walk, reach the Libyan Sea. There, at the beach of Ayia Roumeli, enjoy a refreshing swim or sit at one of the taverns until a ferry takes the group to Chora Sfakion where the bus will be waiting for you to return you back to your hotel.
This tour is for those who would like to get to know Cretan culture and traditions while enjoying a four-hour off-road excursion. You will visit a modern olive mill, so that you can see how olive oil is produced, and you can also enjoy the opportunity to sample some of the oils.
After this, you will explore some myths and stories hidden
After that you will climb 600 metres above sea-level on an off-road route. You will travel through the Lefka Ori woods and you will be stunned by the panoramic views from the trail. Later, you will meet a shepherd who will show you how Cretan cheeses are made and you can try some of the cheeses he makes himself.
Finally, the evening will come to a close with a traditional evening meal. There will be lots of food and traditional dishes for everyone to enjoy, and the evening will leave you with fond memories of your day spent exploring Crete.
Embark on a guided hike through the Samaria Gorge from Chania or Rethymno and soak up the dramatic views across the canyon. Continue to a seaside village to explore and unwind in the sea, before being chauffeured back to your hotel.
After being picked up early in the morning from your hotel in Chania or Rethymno, meet your expert guide and journey to Xyloskalo on the Omalos Plateau. From there, together you will start the 18-kilometer hiking tour.
As you hike through the Samaria Gorge, admire the ever-changing, dramatic landscapes and scenery. Head downriver on the south side of the White Mountains for incredible photos.
At the end of the canyon, find yourself in the small village of Agia Roumeli, where the great canyon meets the Libyan Sea. Explore this seaside fishing village and enjoy a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters. Get recommendations from your guide on where to have lunch.
Take the boat to the Hora Sfakion, where your private driver will meet you and take you back. Travel in comfort after your hike as you relax in a premium, chauffeured vehicle.
Embark on a guided hike in the Samariá Gorge on a day trip from Rethymno. Get your daily dose of exercise, enjoy the panoramic views, and take a swim.
Following an early morning pickup from the nearest point to your accommodation in Rethymno, travel through the mountains, passing the plateau of Omalos.
Arrive at some wooden stairs at the start of Samariá Gorge. You can opt to start the walk straight away or get some breakfast at the taverna before you begin. Experience the magnificent landscapes on a 16-kilometer walk.
Discover the longest gorge in Europe, an area of stunning natural beauty. See its many flowers and herbs and the crystal-clear spring waters that flow from the mountains. Once you have finished the hike, there will be ample time for a swim and lunch at a tavern in Agia Roumeli.
Located 38km east of Chania and 21km west of Rethymnon, Kalivaki is the furthest beach to the west in the bay of Georgioupolis. Nestled near the exit of the Almyros and Boutakas rivers, which maintain a steady flow of water year-round, Kalivaki is a gorgeous sandy beach. The water here is particularly cool, owing to the influence of the rivers and freshwater springs. Kalivaki is a well-appointed beach, complete with umbrellas, water sports facilities, and nearby restaurants. Its protective positioning relative to the other Georgioupolis beaches makes it an excellent choice for children, especially on windy days.
Ombros Gialos (or Omprosgialos) is located 26km east of Chania, on the east coast of Drapanokefala, near Kefalas and Paleloni villages. It is a rocky beach with blue deep water. There is a small harbour with a dock, from which swimmers usually dive in the crystal waters. Next to the harbour, there is only one tavern, very famous for its fish dishes. The coast is not well organized and is quite far from well-organized accommodation choices. The sea around Ombrosgialos is ideal for snorkelers and scuba divers.
Ombrosgialos can be accessed by car through the asphalt road that starts from Paleloni. Though, another way is to come here by private boat from any nearby port, such as Georgioupolis or Kalives.
Georgioupolis, a small coastal town located 38km east of Chania and 21km west of Rethymnon, is a seaside resort nestled in a verdant valley crisscrossed by rivers and springs. Situated on the western edge of a sprawling 10km beach, the town’s beach spans 2km to the east, beginning at the Almiros river and terminating at Kavros beach, a natural continuation of the former. The beach in Georgioupolis is sandy, dotted with dunes, and has shallow waters.
The beach is well-maintained and child-friendly, with lifeguards on duty. Caution is advised during windy conditions due to sea currents. Amenities such as umbrellas, showers, and food and drink stalls are available for beachgoers. Approximately 700m east of the port, the Perastikos river bifurcates the beach, which then widens as it continues eastward. On the opposite end, west of Georgioupolis’s port and near the Almyros river’s exit, lies the picturesque Kalivaki beach.
Almyrida beach is a tranquil resort offering basic facilities along with a magnificent seafront. Almyrida is situated 23km east of Chania city and nestled on the southern edge of Souda Bay near Cape Drapanos. The surrounding pristine countryside and verdant olive groves provide perfect opportunities for hiking and exploration.
A short distance of just 1km to the east lies the scenic village of Plaka, the largest in the area, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and healthy climate. The coast stretching to Drapanos Cape is dotted with numerous sea caves, presenting a breathtaking natural spectacle. Plaka is also celebrated for its charming, narrow lanes and well-preserved, traditional houses.
Each July, the village hosts the Plakiana festival, a tribute to the renowned lyre musician Michael Papadakis, or Plakianos, showcasing the area’s rich cultural heritage. Among the unforgettable experiences here is the mesmerizing sunset, a truly memorable sight.
Declared a region of infinite beauty in 1977, Almyrida boasts two beautiful sandy beaches with shallow waters. On calm days, they’re safe for children to play in. These two beaches are separated by a small rocky peninsula featuring a quaint white chapel. Ideal for water sports and windsurfing, the area is also renowned for its seaside taverns serving fresh fish and delicious traditional Cretan cuisine. Regular bus and taxi services connect Almyrida and Plaka to Chania city.
Directly across from the beach is the small island of Karga, a haven for birdlife and a popular spot for excursions and fishing. The island still bears traces of ancient Phoenician walls and shelters constructed by the Germans during World War II.
Almyrida is thought to have been a Phoenician colony, hence the nearby location Finikia. Here, you can find ancient ruins and tombs. At the entrance to the village lie the remnants of a 6th-century triple-aisle Christian basilica with well-preserved mosaics. Almirida also played a role in Crete’s history as the site of the last battle against the Turks in 1896.
For those interested in sightseeing, just four kilometres east of Almirida is Kokkino Chorio or Red Village. A small village with intriguing fortifications built by the Germans during their occupation (1941-1945) to safeguard the military port of Souda. This was also a filming location for the famous movie “Zorba the Greek”. Today, it hosts a small factory producing handmade glass using traditional blowing techniques.
Situated 13km west of Rethymno, Petres Gorge opens up at the Petres beach. It houses the longest river in Rethymnon province, which is replenished by multiple tributaries that gather the waters of Kollita Gorges from the west to Mount Vrysinas in the east, spanning almost half of Rethymnon Prefecture. The river flows throughout the year and forms a significant wetland of Crete, particularly near its mouth at Episkopi.
The gorge narrows down to a small section about 1km long, beginning near the village of Karoti. Despite its short length, it is definitely worth exploring. It is easily accessible and perfect for swimming in the ponds that form along its course. However, fences are installed to confine goats, so carrying a cutter might be useful in case the fences are locked. Certain areas with large rocks may require a bit of climbing and extra caution.
The Diktamos Canyon, nestled within the White Mountains, commences 21km to the east of Chania, near the Katochori village at an elevation of 300m. It concludes 8km further east, at the Faragi village, situated at a height of 40m and in close proximity to the Stylos village in the Apokoronas province. Consequently, it is also referred to as the Katechori Gorge or Stylos Gorge. The canyon’s stream serves as the primary tributary of the Kiliaris River, gathering water from the northern slopes of the Mavri peak and discharging it onto the Kalives beach.
Navigating through the canyon can be challenging, with certain areas requiring extra caution and approximately 3 hours to traverse. The canyon is a stunning, verdant landscape filled with towering trees and steep inclines, home to dittany or diktamos, a herb endemic to Crete. In Stylos, you have the opportunity to explore the ancient church of Apostle John (Agios Ioannis Theologos), refresh yourself at the local springs, and replenish your energy at the village’s taverns.
The Twin Ravines, or Kollita Gorges, can be found near the charming village of Argyroupolis, approximately 22km southwest of the city of Rethymnon. The name refers to the two parallel canyons that conclude near the village of Kato Poros. The easternmost canyon, Moundros Gorge, is bordered by the Vigla peak (567m) to the east and the Nissiani hill to the west, where you can find the abandoned settlement of Nissi. Adjacent to Moundros Gorge to the west, is the Vilandredo Gorge, named after the village at its entrance and often referred to as Kollita Gorge.
The gorges offer an ideal hiking experience for novices due to their ease and stunning surroundings. It’s a perfect outing for groups of friends – park your car in Kato Poros or Argyroupolis, explore the Moundriano canyon, and return via the second Kollita Gorge for a round trip.
A suggested itinerary for the two gorges starts in the verdant Argiroupoli, built on the site of the ancient city of Lappa. From there, head east to the village of Moundros, known for its springs, fountains, and beautiful Venetian architecture. Don’t miss a stroll through the narrow streets of Moundros and a visit to the churches of Saint Constantine, Saints Anargyri (11th century), and Saint Nicholas. Near Moundros, you’ll find the deserted settlement of Nissi, notable for its impressive stone structures.
From the village, make your way to the northern entrance of the lush Moundros Gorge, which leads to the village of Velonado. A well-marked path descends to the riverbed, which is typically full of water. The canyon boasts towering plane trees and several freshwater ponds. After about a 1.5-hour walk, you’ll reach the southern entrance of Moundriano Gorge near Velonado.
Exiting the canyon, head west on the asphalt road to the entrance of the second canyon, Kollita Gorge, near Vilandredo. This canyon is even more impressive than Moundriano, filled with plane trees and a path that runs along the riverbed. The most breathtaking part of the canyon is where its towering walls nearly touch, creating a very narrow passage. Along the slopes of the gorge, you’ll spot numerous fig and holly trees. After a total of four hours, you’ll exit the canyon, which once supplied water to the Roman baths of Lappa, now Argyroupolis.
Following the old stone path amidst laurels, myrtles, and hollies, you’ll reach Kato Poros and the area of Pente Parthenes (Five Virgins). Here, you’ll find a spring under the perennial plane tree of Pente Parthenes, the chapel of the Five Virgins, and the Hellenistic and Roman tombs of Lappa. From here, the trail broadens and leads back to the lush green Argiroupoli. In Argiroupoli, be sure to visit the Venetian buildings, churches, and picturesque alleyways. The springs of Argyroupolis are a popular attraction, particularly the spring in the cavernous chapel of Agia Dynami. The area is lush with several small waterfalls and numerous restaurants.
The Twin Ravines, or Kollita Gorges, are situated near the scenic village of Argyroupolis, approximately 22km southwest of the city of Rethymnon. The name derives from two adjacent canyons that conclude near the village of Kato Poros. The eastern canyon, Moundros Gorge, is bordered by the Vigla peak (567m) to the east and Nissiani hill to the west, which houses the deserted Nissi settlement. West of Moundros gorge lies the Vilandredo gorge, named after the village at its entrance and more commonly referred to as Kollita Gorge.
These gorges are perfect for casual hikers due to their ease and stunning beauty. They are particularly suitable for groups of friends who can park in Kato Poros or Argyroupoli, explore the Moundriano canyon, and return via the second Kollita Gorge.
Suggested Two Gorges Route
Starting from the verdant Argiroupoli, built on the ancient city of Lappa, we journey east to the village of Moundros, known for its springs and fountains. The village is home to many beautiful Venetian structures (old courts, prisons, and noble houses) and the churches of Saint Constantine, Saints Anargyri (11th century), and Saint Nicholas are well worth a visit. Don’t forget to wander the narrow streets of Moundros. Close to Moundros, the deserted Nissi settlement, famous for its stunning stone structures, can be found.
From the village, the entrance to the verdant Moundros gorge is accessible, leading to the village of Velonado. A well-defined path descends to the riverbed, which is usually filled with water. The canyon is filled with towering plane trees and several fresh water ponds. After roughly 1.5 hours of walking, we reach the southern entrance of Moundriano Gorge, near Velonado.
Upon exiting the canyon, we follow the asphalt road west to the entrance of the second canyon, Kollita Gorge, near Vilandredo. This canyon, more magnificent than Moundriano, is lush with plane trees, and the path follows the riverbed. The most beautiful section of the canyon is where the high walls nearly touch, forming a narrow passage. Fig and holly trees can be seen on the gorge’s slopes, hanging overhead. After approximately four hours, we exit the canyon, which once provided water for the Roman baths of Lappa, now Argyroupolis.
Following the ancient stone path through laurels, myrtles, and hollies, we reach Kato Poros and the area of Pente Parthenes (Five Virgins). Here, one can find the spring beneath the perennial plane tree of Pente Parthenes, the chapel of the Five Virgins, and the Hellenistic and Roman tombs of Lappa. From here, the trail broadens and leads us back to the lush green Argiroupoli. In Argiroupoli, the Venetian buildings, churches, and picturesque alleys are worth a visit. A popular attraction is the springs of Argyroupolis, with the most notable spring located in the cavernous chapel of Agia Dynami. The area is lush with several small waterfalls and numerous restaurants.
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