Ταξιδιωτικός οδηγός του/της Pavlos
Αξιοθέατα
The town’s structure and organization serve both inhabitants and visitors on all levels as it features a Health Centre, banks, police force, supermarkets, a Citizen Service Centre, schools with all grades, retail stores and hotels. Moreover, the town hosts the seat of ‘Kissamou and Selinou’ Archbishop.
Passenger ship services operate from the port of Kissamos to Piraeus and Kythira weekly, while there are daily boat trips to Balos lagoon and the islet of Gramvousa.
The historic Skalidis street is of utmost significance to the town. Once a trade centre, today it is brimmed with retail stores, cafés, restaurants and full of life, especially in the summertime when it’s open only for pedestrians. The arches of its listed historic buildings along the street are a trademark of the town, as well as the coffee shops ready to take the visitor on a trip down memory lane.
The nearby spring of Maris, flowing continuously for hundreds of years, was built in the 19th century combining older with neoclassical traits and underwent excavation and repair in 1983. Visitors relish the tranquillity of the place, despite its central location; the sound of the flowing waters brings out a sense of relaxation and wellness. At its east lies ‘Maris mansion’, which along with ‘Xagoraris mansion’ are the town’s two most renowned structures that, over time, hosted such eminent guests as Prince George or Eleftherios Venizelos. This traditional side of Kissamos is rounded up by the so-called Limni, a scenic fishing port town with many tavernas, at 1.5 km from the town centre.
Lastly, Telonio beach lies where the old customs office used to be. Stretching from the municipality stadium up to 1 km to the east, it brims with life all day long. Daytime is all about enjoying a dip, a cup of coffee or a bite to eat, set against the bay’s idyllic view, while night-time is perfect for drinks and partying; Telonio is a youth favourite with its bars and clubs, granting that good-life summertime vibe.
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Kissamos
The town’s structure and organization serve both inhabitants and visitors on all levels as it features a Health Centre, banks, police force, supermarkets, a Citizen Service Centre, schools with all grades, retail stores and hotels. Moreover, the town hosts the seat of ‘Kissamou and Selinou’ Archbishop.
Passenger ship services operate from the port of Kissamos to Piraeus and Kythira weekly, while there are daily boat trips to Balos lagoon and the islet of Gramvousa.
The historic Skalidis street is of utmost significance to the town. Once a trade centre, today it is brimmed with retail stores, cafés, restaurants and full of life, especially in the summertime when it’s open only for pedestrians. The arches of its listed historic buildings along the street are a trademark of the town, as well as the coffee shops ready to take the visitor on a trip down memory lane.
The nearby spring of Maris, flowing continuously for hundreds of years, was built in the 19th century combining older with neoclassical traits and underwent excavation and repair in 1983. Visitors relish the tranquillity of the place, despite its central location; the sound of the flowing waters brings out a sense of relaxation and wellness. At its east lies ‘Maris mansion’, which along with ‘Xagoraris mansion’ are the town’s two most renowned structures that, over time, hosted such eminent guests as Prince George or Eleftherios Venizelos. This traditional side of Kissamos is rounded up by the so-called Limni, a scenic fishing port town with many tavernas, at 1.5 km from the town centre.
Lastly, Telonio beach lies where the old customs office used to be. Stretching from the municipality stadium up to 1 km to the east, it brims with life all day long. Daytime is all about enjoying a dip, a cup of coffee or a bite to eat, set against the bay’s idyllic view, while night-time is perfect for drinks and partying; Telonio is a youth favourite with its bars and clubs, granting that good-life summertime vibe.
The renowned Government House at Tzanakakis Square, inside the castle of Kastelli, is one of the prominent and most characteristic Venetian Era constructions in the town of Kissamos. Located in the old town part, once the Venetian centre, later taken over by Turkish occupants, who expanded the castle walls to include the Government House. Over the years and up until 2006, there have been numerous changes to the inside and outside; it houses the Kissamos Archaeological Museum ever since.
Caretaking Authority
Chania Ephorate of Antiquities
Stratigou Tzanakaki Square, P.C. 73400, Kissamos (Prefecture of Chania)
Tel: +30 28220 83308
Fax: 2822083308
Email: efacha@culture.gr
Open:
8:00-15:00 Monday closed
Authors
Vana Niniou – Kindeli, archaeologist
Aggeliki Tsingou, archaeologist
More information on http://odysseus.culture.gr
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Archaeological Museum of Kissamos
The renowned Government House at Tzanakakis Square, inside the castle of Kastelli, is one of the prominent and most characteristic Venetian Era constructions in the town of Kissamos. Located in the old town part, once the Venetian centre, later taken over by Turkish occupants, who expanded the castle walls to include the Government House. Over the years and up until 2006, there have been numerous changes to the inside and outside; it houses the Kissamos Archaeological Museum ever since.
Caretaking Authority
Chania Ephorate of Antiquities
Stratigou Tzanakaki Square, P.C. 73400, Kissamos (Prefecture of Chania)
Tel: +30 28220 83308
Fax: 2822083308
Email: efacha@culture.gr
Open:
8:00-15:00 Monday closed
Authors
Vana Niniou – Kindeli, archaeologist
Aggeliki Tsingou, archaeologist
More information on http://odysseus.culture.gr
Balos lagoon is a heaven on earth of turquoise waters, pink-tinged white sands and wild, exotic beauty. Located at 17 km northwest of Kissamos, between the Gramvousa Cape and small rocky peninsula of Tigani, which connects with the rest of Crete via a thin strip of land, thus forming the famous Balos lagoon. Its southwest side is open to sea and forms a natural harbour, protected by winds due to the islet of Imeri Gramvousa across from it. On its open side the shore is deeper and rockier at places; a favourite for spearfishermen and scuba divers. The other side of the lagoon is closed to the sea and forms a generally quite shallow lagoon, except for some deeper places on its south side.
Ways to get to the Balos Lagoon:
By car or motorbike from Kissamos and Kaliviani village on a 10Km road that ends in the parking area. From there you will need to walk about 1Km on the path that leads to the beach.
By boat or private craft.
Advice:
Prefer to visit Balos in April, May, June, September and October.
Make an early start from your hotel to avoid traffic and also to enjoy Balos with as few visitors around as possible.
In Balos there are 2 snack-bars that provide the visitor with packaged food and bottled water. Visitors should come with due sensitivity and respect and observe the regulations that apply to the area.
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Baybayin ng Balos
Balos lagoon is a heaven on earth of turquoise waters, pink-tinged white sands and wild, exotic beauty. Located at 17 km northwest of Kissamos, between the Gramvousa Cape and small rocky peninsula of Tigani, which connects with the rest of Crete via a thin strip of land, thus forming the famous Balos lagoon. Its southwest side is open to sea and forms a natural harbour, protected by winds due to the islet of Imeri Gramvousa across from it. On its open side the shore is deeper and rockier at places; a favourite for spearfishermen and scuba divers. The other side of the lagoon is closed to the sea and forms a generally quite shallow lagoon, except for some deeper places on its south side.
Ways to get to the Balos Lagoon:
By car or motorbike from Kissamos and Kaliviani village on a 10Km road that ends in the parking area. From there you will need to walk about 1Km on the path that leads to the beach.
By boat or private craft.
Advice:
Prefer to visit Balos in April, May, June, September and October.
Make an early start from your hotel to avoid traffic and also to enjoy Balos with as few visitors around as possible.
In Balos there are 2 snack-bars that provide the visitor with packaged food and bottled water. Visitors should come with due sensitivity and respect and observe the regulations that apply to the area.
Elafonisi or Lafonisi is linked to a host of legends and tales over the centuries, even since antiquity. Specifically, it is thought that here lay the Mousagores Islands, where a temple dedicated to Mousagetis (meaning the leader of the nine Muses) Apollo stood and people offered sacrifices and prayers to the Muses to appease the seas with their music and singing. Later on, it has been said to have been a lair and base for pirates, with its name denoting exactly this, for Lafonisi means ‘an island of spoils’ (from ‘Lafo-‘ < ‘lafyro’ = spoil and ‘nisi’ = island), namely the spoils stashed here by the pirates. The place saw a true but dreadful story play out in 1824, when 850 women and children plus 40 Greek freedom fighters hid on Elafonisi hoping the Turks would not find out about the sea crossing. A horse, though, that accidentally waded over led them to discover the hide-out and kill them, as retaliation for the Greek Revolution. A monument to this massacre stands at the memorial park, a part of the greater parking area. Another sad event took place on Elafonisi peninsula in February 1907, when Austrian steamship ‘Imperatrix’, sailing from Trieste to Bombay, carrying cargo and passengers, yawed during a severe storm and crashed on an underwater ledge, at 100 m. from the shore, ripping its hull open. Those acting out of panic boarded lifeboats and, sadly, drowned. Following this, a skilled staff of twelve managed to reach the shore and ask for help. Monks from the nearby Holy Monastery of Chryssosklaitissa were the first to respond and a couple of days later a team effort from Cretan locals rescued the remaining passengers. The 38 deceased were buried on the island and commemorated with a large wooden cross. A lighthouse was built to avert similar tragic events, 23 m. high with a range of 30 m, to warn seamen to steer clear of the underwater rocks.
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Elafonissi Beach
Elafonisi or Lafonisi is linked to a host of legends and tales over the centuries, even since antiquity. Specifically, it is thought that here lay the Mousagores Islands, where a temple dedicated to Mousagetis (meaning the leader of the nine Muses) Apollo stood and people offered sacrifices and prayers to the Muses to appease the seas with their music and singing. Later on, it has been said to have been a lair and base for pirates, with its name denoting exactly this, for Lafonisi means ‘an island of spoils’ (from ‘Lafo-‘ < ‘lafyro’ = spoil and ‘nisi’ = island), namely the spoils stashed here by the pirates. The place saw a true but dreadful story play out in 1824, when 850 women and children plus 40 Greek freedom fighters hid on Elafonisi hoping the Turks would not find out about the sea crossing. A horse, though, that accidentally waded over led them to discover the hide-out and kill them, as retaliation for the Greek Revolution. A monument to this massacre stands at the memorial park, a part of the greater parking area. Another sad event took place on Elafonisi peninsula in February 1907, when Austrian steamship ‘Imperatrix’, sailing from Trieste to Bombay, carrying cargo and passengers, yawed during a severe storm and crashed on an underwater ledge, at 100 m. from the shore, ripping its hull open. Those acting out of panic boarded lifeboats and, sadly, drowned. Following this, a skilled staff of twelve managed to reach the shore and ask for help. Monks from the nearby Holy Monastery of Chryssosklaitissa were the first to respond and a couple of days later a team effort from Cretan locals rescued the remaining passengers. The 38 deceased were buried on the island and commemorated with a large wooden cross. A lighthouse was built to avert similar tragic events, 23 m. high with a range of 30 m, to warn seamen to steer clear of the underwater rocks.
Falasarna beach is located on the Gramvousa Peninsula, 15 km west of Kissamos. This is one of Greece’s most renowned beaches, listed in the top ten of dreamy European shores and has been awarded in the past as Crete’s finest beach. With a vast, ca. 3 km, coastline that essentially consists of five consecutive beaches divided by rocks or sand dunes, with two of them attracting the largest crowds. The most popular is Pachia Ammos, spanning 1 km in length and of ample width; that is why it never looks crowded no matter how many its visitors. Its waters reflect a transparent turquoise tint, thanks to its thin, light-coloured sand and is fully organised hosting restaurants, cafés and bars, water sports services, umbrellas, a beach volley court and ample room for those bringing their own umbrellas. North of Pachia Ammos lies the second largest beach, 800 m long, which splits into smaller strands by rocks and a sand dune. Although without further infrastructure it is very tranquil and its visitors can get drinking water from a spring at a nearby chapel, dedicated to Agia Paraskevi. At its northernmost edge, close to the archaeological site of Falasarna, a small inlet is ‘hidden away’, protected by the strong west winds that sweep the area, facing south, with a pebbly beach and rocky seabed, making it an ideal alternative to those seeking privacy. South of Pachia Ammos, at Livadi, a sandy beach of stoney seabed stretches out; an excellent choice to explore the underwater world snorkelling. Even further south, next to a small harbour, lies a petite pebbly beach of absolute serenity. More than often, northwest winds blow in the area, raising big waves, something that makes the place a windsurfer favourite. Falasarna beach is equally famous for its majestic sunset, which is considered the best in all Crete because of its unhindered horizon view, as visitors literally watch the sun dive in the sea. It is listed in the ‘Natura 2000’ European protection network as a natural setting of unique beauty and rare flora and fauna. Lately and in particular since 1995, every first Saturday in August sees a beach party being thrown with crowds pouring in to camp on the beach and party all night under the sounds of various DJ’s.
You can find all the information you need about Platanos and the Falassarna region in the tourist guide prepared with such enthusiasm by the association of the locals:
www.visitfalassarna.com
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Dalampasigan ng Falassarna
Falasarna beach is located on the Gramvousa Peninsula, 15 km west of Kissamos. This is one of Greece’s most renowned beaches, listed in the top ten of dreamy European shores and has been awarded in the past as Crete’s finest beach. With a vast, ca. 3 km, coastline that essentially consists of five consecutive beaches divided by rocks or sand dunes, with two of them attracting the largest crowds. The most popular is Pachia Ammos, spanning 1 km in length and of ample width; that is why it never looks crowded no matter how many its visitors. Its waters reflect a transparent turquoise tint, thanks to its thin, light-coloured sand and is fully organised hosting restaurants, cafés and bars, water sports services, umbrellas, a beach volley court and ample room for those bringing their own umbrellas. North of Pachia Ammos lies the second largest beach, 800 m long, which splits into smaller strands by rocks and a sand dune. Although without further infrastructure it is very tranquil and its visitors can get drinking water from a spring at a nearby chapel, dedicated to Agia Paraskevi. At its northernmost edge, close to the archaeological site of Falasarna, a small inlet is ‘hidden away’, protected by the strong west winds that sweep the area, facing south, with a pebbly beach and rocky seabed, making it an ideal alternative to those seeking privacy. South of Pachia Ammos, at Livadi, a sandy beach of stoney seabed stretches out; an excellent choice to explore the underwater world snorkelling. Even further south, next to a small harbour, lies a petite pebbly beach of absolute serenity. More than often, northwest winds blow in the area, raising big waves, something that makes the place a windsurfer favourite. Falasarna beach is equally famous for its majestic sunset, which is considered the best in all Crete because of its unhindered horizon view, as visitors literally watch the sun dive in the sea. It is listed in the ‘Natura 2000’ European protection network as a natural setting of unique beauty and rare flora and fauna. Lately and in particular since 1995, every first Saturday in August sees a beach party being thrown with crowds pouring in to camp on the beach and party all night under the sounds of various DJ’s.
You can find all the information you need about Platanos and the Falassarna region in the tourist guide prepared with such enthusiasm by the association of the locals:
www.visitfalassarna.com
‘Gramvousa’ is the name of not just the peninsula but, also, a couple of islands on the Northwest edge of the Kissamos Municipality, namely Imeri and Agria Gramvousa, which are inextricably linked to the Venetian and Ottoman occupancy eras. Specifically, Imeri Gramvousa played a major role from 1579 to 1584, when Venetian cardinal Latino Orsini built the fort, which survives to this day, as part of the island’s defence fortification works and in sight of an imminent Turkish threat. This was an asymmetrical three-sided oval fort of 272 m. long walls and bastions, with an unbuilt fourth side, at its north, making use of the steep vertical rocks as natural fortification. Materials used were local limestone and greywacke. Further quarters, reservoirs and headquarters built, were fully integrated in the terrain, with alternating inclined paved areas at an altitude of 137 m. Its only access point was on the East side, up a spiralling path. A masterpiece of the era turned into an impregnable fortress with unobstructed views of the strait between Western Crete and the Peloponnese. Eventually, the fort was surrendered hands down to the Turks in 1692, when the latter bribed Venetian castellan Luca Della Rocca, who went on to live the rest of his days in Istanbul, dubbed ‘Captain Gramvousa’. Turks further fortified it with 66 long range cannons rendering it impenetrable. Every act of revolt from Cretans kept failing up to 1825 when, one day, a group of revolutionaries dressed up as Turkish soldiers, entered the fort and took over control, making Imeri Gramvousa the first of Cretan lands to be liberated from the Turks. This way, gradually, many Greek revolutionaries arrived here and established a temporary form of government called the ‘Cretan Counsel’, the seal of which — as well as that of ‘the Island of Gramvousa’ — are kept at the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece. For several years it served as a base for guerrilla acts and night-time ambushes against the Turks and was the only place in Greece not under Turkish rule. It became a refuge for more than 3000 families and the base of the Revolutionary Committee of Crete. Its harsh living conditions and lack of supplies though sent its people often on the path of piracy, looting every ship sailing between Gramvousa and Antikythera. This stirred a negative public reaction in Europe. It was eventually reclaimed by the Turks following the Treaty of London in 1830 and deserted.
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Beach ng Islet ng Gramvousa
‘Gramvousa’ is the name of not just the peninsula but, also, a couple of islands on the Northwest edge of the Kissamos Municipality, namely Imeri and Agria Gramvousa, which are inextricably linked to the Venetian and Ottoman occupancy eras. Specifically, Imeri Gramvousa played a major role from 1579 to 1584, when Venetian cardinal Latino Orsini built the fort, which survives to this day, as part of the island’s defence fortification works and in sight of an imminent Turkish threat. This was an asymmetrical three-sided oval fort of 272 m. long walls and bastions, with an unbuilt fourth side, at its north, making use of the steep vertical rocks as natural fortification. Materials used were local limestone and greywacke. Further quarters, reservoirs and headquarters built, were fully integrated in the terrain, with alternating inclined paved areas at an altitude of 137 m. Its only access point was on the East side, up a spiralling path. A masterpiece of the era turned into an impregnable fortress with unobstructed views of the strait between Western Crete and the Peloponnese. Eventually, the fort was surrendered hands down to the Turks in 1692, when the latter bribed Venetian castellan Luca Della Rocca, who went on to live the rest of his days in Istanbul, dubbed ‘Captain Gramvousa’. Turks further fortified it with 66 long range cannons rendering it impenetrable. Every act of revolt from Cretans kept failing up to 1825 when, one day, a group of revolutionaries dressed up as Turkish soldiers, entered the fort and took over control, making Imeri Gramvousa the first of Cretan lands to be liberated from the Turks. This way, gradually, many Greek revolutionaries arrived here and established a temporary form of government called the ‘Cretan Counsel’, the seal of which — as well as that of ‘the Island of Gramvousa’ — are kept at the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece. For several years it served as a base for guerrilla acts and night-time ambushes against the Turks and was the only place in Greece not under Turkish rule. It became a refuge for more than 3000 families and the base of the Revolutionary Committee of Crete. Its harsh living conditions and lack of supplies though sent its people often on the path of piracy, looting every ship sailing between Gramvousa and Antikythera. This stirred a negative public reaction in Europe. It was eventually reclaimed by the Turks following the Treaty of London in 1830 and deserted.
Those visiting the village of Drapanias, 5 km east of Kissamos, will surely enjoy its beach, located between those of Korfalona and Nopigia. More specifically, it lies at the centre of the 2 km long shoreline that starts at Kissamos and stretches all the way to Rodopos Cape. This is a sandy beach of thin pebbles and shallow waters, often with a bit of surge due to the North winds. Tavernas, cafés and rental rooms are to be found all along it, serving its visitors. Its western edge is called Kokkino Metochi.
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Drapanias beach
Those visiting the village of Drapanias, 5 km east of Kissamos, will surely enjoy its beach, located between those of Korfalona and Nopigia. More specifically, it lies at the centre of the 2 km long shoreline that starts at Kissamos and stretches all the way to Rodopos Cape. This is a sandy beach of thin pebbles and shallow waters, often with a bit of surge due to the North winds. Tavernas, cafés and rental rooms are to be found all along it, serving its visitors. Its western edge is called Kokkino Metochi.
Kissamos’ main beach, of shallow waters, golden sands and tamarisks. An ideal destination for families with small children, but not only. An ample beach, a popular destination attracting crowds during tourist season that is protected from winds by a waterfront of boulders built on its western part. Along the beach there are cafés, tavernas and accommodation to serve visitor’s needs. A fully organised beach with umbrellas, sun beds and a lifeguard tower. In ancient times this very place was the port of Kissamos, something that intrigues those in the know to play out scenes of that era in their heads. To its west, right past the quay, visit the small rocky pebbled bay, and experience an invigourating natural clay face or body mask.
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Mavros Molos
Kissamos’ main beach, of shallow waters, golden sands and tamarisks. An ideal destination for families with small children, but not only. An ample beach, a popular destination attracting crowds during tourist season that is protected from winds by a waterfront of boulders built on its western part. Along the beach there are cafés, tavernas and accommodation to serve visitor’s needs. A fully organised beach with umbrellas, sun beds and a lifeguard tower. In ancient times this very place was the port of Kissamos, something that intrigues those in the know to play out scenes of that era in their heads. To its west, right past the quay, visit the small rocky pebbled bay, and experience an invigourating natural clay face or body mask.
At just 6 km east of Kissamos, next to Drepania beach and where the Rodopos cape begins, lies the seaside village of Nopigia with its namesake beach. This is basically a sandy, shallow shore, with all necessary infrastructure, such as umbrellas, showers, restaurants, hotels and is suitable for a cosy holiday in a serene setting. Walk a bit to the east and notice that sand becomes rockier or pebblier. At about 2 km easter the area becomes more of a recluse, scattered across the secluded bays of Choni.
Nopigia Beach
At just 6 km east of Kissamos, next to Drepania beach and where the Rodopos cape begins, lies the seaside village of Nopigia with its namesake beach. This is basically a sandy, shallow shore, with all necessary infrastructure, such as umbrellas, showers, restaurants, hotels and is suitable for a cosy holiday in a serene setting. Walk a bit to the east and notice that sand becomes rockier or pebblier. At about 2 km easter the area becomes more of a recluse, scattered across the secluded bays of Choni.
The Sand Dunes (or Komolithi) is one of the most bizarre and interesting landscapes in Crete. Near the valley of Tyflos River, about 35Km west of Chania, the Sand Dunes are within the administration boundaries of Kissamos.
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Komolithi
The Sand Dunes (or Komolithi) is one of the most bizarre and interesting landscapes in Crete. Near the valley of Tyflos River, about 35Km west of Chania, the Sand Dunes are within the administration boundaries of Kissamos.
Spending your holiday at an agritourism accommodation, in a settlement without power, cars and modern conveniences may sound a utopian scenario for most people. Still, in the centre of Kissamos district, at a distance of 18 km south of the namesake town and an altitude of 550 m lies a unique eco-friendly village, attracting – not only – nature lovers; it’s called Milia, and it’s a settlement, abandoned for over forty years, which Iakovos Tsourounakis and Yorgos Makrakis had wished to rebuild, fully respecting the environment while keeping true to the Cretan history and tradition. Initially, they reforested the area by planting an assortment of trees, farmed the fertile stretches of land, built a herding unit, reconstructed the Medieval settlement…
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Milia Mountain Retreat
Spending your holiday at an agritourism accommodation, in a settlement without power, cars and modern conveniences may sound a utopian scenario for most people. Still, in the centre of Kissamos district, at a distance of 18 km south of the namesake town and an altitude of 550 m lies a unique eco-friendly village, attracting – not only – nature lovers; it’s called Milia, and it’s a settlement, abandoned for over forty years, which Iakovos Tsourounakis and Yorgos Makrakis had wished to rebuild, fully respecting the environment while keeping true to the Cretan history and tradition. Initially, they reforested the area by planting an assortment of trees, farmed the fertile stretches of land, built a herding unit, reconstructed the Medieval settlement…
Topolia Gorge
Therissos Gorge is the most accessible gorge near the city of Chania. It is located 6km south of Chania, between the villages of Perivolia and Therissos. It is a small gorge, around 9km in length and 15-250m wide, however it owns most of the diverse and rich characteristics of larger gorges. At its entry where it is wide, it is surrounded by orange groves and vines, whereas at its most narrow points, it is enclosed by steep cliffs, plane trees and oleanders. It has a rich endemic flora and fauna hosting the habitat of some endangered species. There is a road along the length of the gorge that leads up to the historical and heroic village of Therissos and connects the city with the White Mountains.
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Therisos gorge
Vasiliou PoulakaTherissos Gorge is the most accessible gorge near the city of Chania. It is located 6km south of Chania, between the villages of Perivolia and Therissos. It is a small gorge, around 9km in length and 15-250m wide, however it owns most of the diverse and rich characteristics of larger gorges. At its entry where it is wide, it is surrounded by orange groves and vines, whereas at its most narrow points, it is enclosed by steep cliffs, plane trees and oleanders. It has a rich endemic flora and fauna hosting the habitat of some endangered species. There is a road along the length of the gorge that leads up to the historical and heroic village of Therissos and connects the city with the White Mountains.
Samaria gorge and its surrounding area have been declared a National Park protected by the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves because of the rarity of many, unique in the world, endemic species that live there. Endangered flora and fauna species create a unique ecosystem that is strictly protected and visitors are strongly recommended to respect and do not disrupt in any way this unique environment. The human factor has left its footprint along the descent, revealing the passage of mankind through time in this particular location. Byzantine chapels, ruins of ancient cities, old Christian graves and Venetian fortresses are a living testimony that the Samaria Gorge fascinates timelessly.
Samaria Gorge is the largest gorge in Greece, the longest in Europe measuring 18km in length and the most visited gorge in Crete. Hiking down the trail will take up to 4-7 hours depending upon your stamina and experience. Its widest point measures 150m wide, whereas the narrowest near the exit called ‘Doors’ measures just 3m with rock formations that reach 600m in height! Starting from the Omalos plateau on the White Mountains at an altitude of 1200m, the gorge leads all the way down to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.
How to get there: You have to get a bus from Chania Bus station, where you will buy a ticket for Samaria Gorge (2 ways, go and back, it's better to do this otherwise on your way back you will be delayed and may miss the bus). Buses depart in the early morning from the central Chania Bus station, you can find the timetables here https://www.e-ktel.com/en/services/dromologia.
If you are driving, parking is not permitted in the bus station, so you have to park around the bus station. It is free but may check for parking meters. It is safe, do not worry (but better do not leave any visible backpacks in the car).
You will download the guide named ''with departure from Chania''. In there, you will find the bus routes written as Chania-Samaria Gorge / Omalos.
As you will get the bus, it will drop you off (and literally everyone that will be on the bus with you) at the front of the gorge. You will pay an entrance fee and then you are on your way down to the end of the gorge. At the end you can either take a mini bus / transport to get you to Agia Roumeli or you can walk. From Agia Roumeli you can take the ferry (check ferry times here: https://anendyk.gr/routes-and-timetables/ ) back to Hora Sfakion (we also call it Sfakia) where you can find your bus back to Chania. You will have to walk up where the buses are ( you will see them, no worries, and your bus that belongs to central public transport have logos ANEK LINES on their sides and are mostly white - green - beige). Try to be on time, not to miss the bus. Drivers are always waiting for the ferry, so do not worry :)
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Samaria Gorge
Samaria gorge and its surrounding area have been declared a National Park protected by the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves because of the rarity of many, unique in the world, endemic species that live there. Endangered flora and fauna species create a unique ecosystem that is strictly protected and visitors are strongly recommended to respect and do not disrupt in any way this unique environment. The human factor has left its footprint along the descent, revealing the passage of mankind through time in this particular location. Byzantine chapels, ruins of ancient cities, old Christian graves and Venetian fortresses are a living testimony that the Samaria Gorge fascinates timelessly.
Samaria Gorge is the largest gorge in Greece, the longest in Europe measuring 18km in length and the most visited gorge in Crete. Hiking down the trail will take up to 4-7 hours depending upon your stamina and experience. Its widest point measures 150m wide, whereas the narrowest near the exit called ‘Doors’ measures just 3m with rock formations that reach 600m in height! Starting from the Omalos plateau on the White Mountains at an altitude of 1200m, the gorge leads all the way down to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.
How to get there: You have to get a bus from Chania Bus station, where you will buy a ticket for Samaria Gorge (2 ways, go and back, it's better to do this otherwise on your way back you will be delayed and may miss the bus). Buses depart in the early morning from the central Chania Bus station, you can find the timetables here https://www.e-ktel.com/en/services/dromologia.
If you are driving, parking is not permitted in the bus station, so you have to park around the bus station. It is free but may check for parking meters. It is safe, do not worry (but better do not leave any visible backpacks in the car).
You will download the guide named ''with departure from Chania''. In there, you will find the bus routes written as Chania-Samaria Gorge / Omalos.
As you will get the bus, it will drop you off (and literally everyone that will be on the bus with you) at the front of the gorge. You will pay an entrance fee and then you are on your way down to the end of the gorge. At the end you can either take a mini bus / transport to get you to Agia Roumeli or you can walk. From Agia Roumeli you can take the ferry (check ferry times here: https://anendyk.gr/routes-and-timetables/ ) back to Hora Sfakion (we also call it Sfakia) where you can find your bus back to Chania. You will have to walk up where the buses are ( you will see them, no worries, and your bus that belongs to central public transport have logos ANEK LINES on their sides and are mostly white - green - beige). Try to be on time, not to miss the bus. Drivers are always waiting for the ferry, so do not worry :)
This gem is on your way down the Katholiko gorge. It is quite steep so it is not advisable for small children.
7 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Katholiko Beach
Katholiko MonastiriThis gem is on your way down the Katholiko gorge. It is quite steep so it is not advisable for small children.
If I have to choose a place in whole Crete that I can't get enough, is Loutro. I cannot recommend enough the beauty of this place. To get there you have to drive to Hora Sfakion and take the ferry to Loutro. It's worth of a day visit.
10 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Παραλία Λουτρού
If I have to choose a place in whole Crete that I can't get enough, is Loutro. I cannot recommend enough the beauty of this place. To get there you have to drive to Hora Sfakion and take the ferry to Loutro. It's worth of a day visit.
Φαγητό
For many years now Telonio Beach is Kissamos’ meeting point. Along the length of the cobblestone road you can find cafes, traditional and other restaurants, bars and clubs. It starts east and extends almost to the municipal sports ground of Kissamos, about 1Km further east. It is essentially the westernmost part of a huge beach that starts from Kissamos and goes as far as Nopighia, many kilometres to the east.
Telonio beach
For many years now Telonio Beach is Kissamos’ meeting point. Along the length of the cobblestone road you can find cafes, traditional and other restaurants, bars and clubs. It starts east and extends almost to the municipal sports ground of Kissamos, about 1Km further east. It is essentially the westernmost part of a huge beach that starts from Kissamos and goes as far as Nopighia, many kilometres to the east.
Standing at the Venetian Harbor of Chania city, it is difficult to imagine that there is a nice beach at less than a 1 km away where you can easily get there on foot. Welcome to Nea Chora. The neighborhood has developed west from the Venetian Harbor, and the name means “New Town” in Greek, because it was one of the first suburbs of the modern Chania city, that developed outside the Byzantine walls. Prior to that time, the area was full of crop fields, irrigated by Kladisos river. Nowadays, Nea Chora features the best beach in Chania city, along with some of the most delicious fish taverns.
75 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Dalampasigan ng Nea Chora
23 Akti PapanikoliStanding at the Venetian Harbor of Chania city, it is difficult to imagine that there is a nice beach at less than a 1 km away where you can easily get there on foot. Welcome to Nea Chora. The neighborhood has developed west from the Venetian Harbor, and the name means “New Town” in Greek, because it was one of the first suburbs of the modern Chania city, that developed outside the Byzantine walls. Prior to that time, the area was full of crop fields, irrigated by Kladisos river. Nowadays, Nea Chora features the best beach in Chania city, along with some of the most delicious fish taverns.
Koum Kapi neighborhood got its name from the Turkish word “Kum Kapisi”, which means “Gate of Sand”. The Gate of Sand, or “Sabbionara”, which was its original Venetian name, was a big gate on the eastern end of the old walls of Chania city, which led to a beautiful sandy beach. Today, the neighborhood is known for its charming cafes and restaurants that are favored by the locals, so if you want to blend with local life, this is the place to do so. Koum Kapi offers one of the most distinct coastal promenades of the city, as it is elevated a couple of meters above sea level, providing great views. As the neighborhood is very close to the Venetian Harbor, most of the buildings are new or tastefully renovated, but this was not always the case during the area’s interesting past.
17 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Koum Kapi Beach
22 Ακτή ΜιαούληKoum Kapi neighborhood got its name from the Turkish word “Kum Kapisi”, which means “Gate of Sand”. The Gate of Sand, or “Sabbionara”, which was its original Venetian name, was a big gate on the eastern end of the old walls of Chania city, which led to a beautiful sandy beach. Today, the neighborhood is known for its charming cafes and restaurants that are favored by the locals, so if you want to blend with local life, this is the place to do so. Koum Kapi offers one of the most distinct coastal promenades of the city, as it is elevated a couple of meters above sea level, providing great views. As the neighborhood is very close to the Venetian Harbor, most of the buildings are new or tastefully renovated, but this was not always the case during the area’s interesting past.
Please find more information here about the El. Venizelos Tombs that has the best view spot of Chania https://www.chaniatourism.gr/neighborhood/el-venizelos-tombs/
69 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Estatwa ni Eleftherios Venizelos
Platia Elenas VenizelouPlease find more information here about the El. Venizelos Tombs that has the best view spot of Chania https://www.chaniatourism.gr/neighborhood/el-venizelos-tombs/
The best place to start your walk is from the west side of the harbor and the imposing, red-colored Firkas Fortress. It is a building that changed use many times in its long history, and now houses the Maritime Museum of Crete. Right after the fortress, the restored fine buildings of the Venetian era create a setting that puts you in a laid-back mood and travel you back in time. Walk leisurely heading east, past the picturesque cafes, restaurants, shops and boutique hotels, always along the coast. After about 300 m, on a corner of the promenade with ample space around, you come across Yali Tzamii, with its exemplary Islamic architecture. It is the only remaining Mosque, a reminiscent of the Ottoman era, which has been painstakingly restored. Continuing towards the east, along the array of fine cafes and restaurants, you reach the Chania Marina, along with the impressive 16th century stone-built Grand Arsenal. It is the grandest of the Venetian shipyards(Neoria), which has been restored to all its previous glory and now houses the Center of Mediterranean Architecture. Right next to it, you see the other 7 attached Venetian shipyards(Neoria). Continue walking towards the east, and after the marina, in the corner of the port, you will find the Moro Neoria. It is the last Neorio on the docks and is now serving as the headquarters of the Sailing Club of Chania.
Seemingly, your walk along the Venetian Harbor would end here however don’t be hesitant and continue on the Old Sea Wall; the big stone wall the Venetians built to protect the harbor from the northern waves. While on the wall, just stop for a minute and admire the magnificent view facing the harbor and that of the sea. Get past the St. Nicholas bastion that used to protect the port from the pirates and continue all the way towards the emblematic Egyptian Lighthouse, having made a full circle around the Venetian Harbor. There is one last thing left to do, however it’s not an easy task; to choose your favorite spot from a large selection of bars, cafes and restaurants in the harbor and just sit leisurely and relax, capture the moment and watching the world go by under the Cretan sun.
399 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Lumang Venetian Harbor
8 Agiou MarkouThe best place to start your walk is from the west side of the harbor and the imposing, red-colored Firkas Fortress. It is a building that changed use many times in its long history, and now houses the Maritime Museum of Crete. Right after the fortress, the restored fine buildings of the Venetian era create a setting that puts you in a laid-back mood and travel you back in time. Walk leisurely heading east, past the picturesque cafes, restaurants, shops and boutique hotels, always along the coast. After about 300 m, on a corner of the promenade with ample space around, you come across Yali Tzamii, with its exemplary Islamic architecture. It is the only remaining Mosque, a reminiscent of the Ottoman era, which has been painstakingly restored. Continuing towards the east, along the array of fine cafes and restaurants, you reach the Chania Marina, along with the impressive 16th century stone-built Grand Arsenal. It is the grandest of the Venetian shipyards(Neoria), which has been restored to all its previous glory and now houses the Center of Mediterranean Architecture. Right next to it, you see the other 7 attached Venetian shipyards(Neoria). Continue walking towards the east, and after the marina, in the corner of the port, you will find the Moro Neoria. It is the last Neorio on the docks and is now serving as the headquarters of the Sailing Club of Chania.
Seemingly, your walk along the Venetian Harbor would end here however don’t be hesitant and continue on the Old Sea Wall; the big stone wall the Venetians built to protect the harbor from the northern waves. While on the wall, just stop for a minute and admire the magnificent view facing the harbor and that of the sea. Get past the St. Nicholas bastion that used to protect the port from the pirates and continue all the way towards the emblematic Egyptian Lighthouse, having made a full circle around the Venetian Harbor. There is one last thing left to do, however it’s not an easy task; to choose your favorite spot from a large selection of bars, cafes and restaurants in the harbor and just sit leisurely and relax, capture the moment and watching the world go by under the Cretan sun.
If you are looking for a good place to have lunch or dinner, this is highly recommended , especially if you find your way to the old harbor in Chania.
109 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Chrisostomos
και IkarouIf you are looking for a good place to have lunch or dinner, this is highly recommended , especially if you find your way to the old harbor in Chania.
City/town information
Somewhere around the late 19th century, near the end of the Ottoman era, the increasing city’s population was suffocating within the limits of the Venetian Walls. Therefore the city began stretching out to the West, the East and mostly to the South. In 1870, the Turkish Chief Commander of Crete, Reouf Pasha, envisioned a city master plan of a Grand Walk for purposes of leisure and outdoor activities, beyond the Venetian Walls. Part of his daily routine, to walk towards a sandy area with a shady fig tree, gave him the inspiration to construct a City Garden (bahce) for everybody to enjoy some public, open, green space where cultural events could take place according to the European standards of the time. Exotic plants, trails paved with sand, pavilions and flowered arches lured the upper class to move outwards and to the new city grid where more space gave the opportunity for housing grandeur of European standards; let us not forget it was the beginning of the industrial era. Merchants, doctors, industrialists, architects and engineers started buying land and building neoclassical mansions on Nearchou St, A.Papandreou St, Tzanakaki St and Hroon Polytechniou St. and further to the East at Chalepa neighborhood.
https://www.chaniatourism.gr/neighborhood/modern-chania/
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Chania
Somewhere around the late 19th century, near the end of the Ottoman era, the increasing city’s population was suffocating within the limits of the Venetian Walls. Therefore the city began stretching out to the West, the East and mostly to the South. In 1870, the Turkish Chief Commander of Crete, Reouf Pasha, envisioned a city master plan of a Grand Walk for purposes of leisure and outdoor activities, beyond the Venetian Walls. Part of his daily routine, to walk towards a sandy area with a shady fig tree, gave him the inspiration to construct a City Garden (bahce) for everybody to enjoy some public, open, green space where cultural events could take place according to the European standards of the time. Exotic plants, trails paved with sand, pavilions and flowered arches lured the upper class to move outwards and to the new city grid where more space gave the opportunity for housing grandeur of European standards; let us not forget it was the beginning of the industrial era. Merchants, doctors, industrialists, architects and engineers started buying land and building neoclassical mansions on Nearchou St, A.Papandreou St, Tzanakaki St and Hroon Polytechniou St. and further to the East at Chalepa neighborhood.
https://www.chaniatourism.gr/neighborhood/modern-chania/