Southwest Crete Road Trip: Gorges and Beaches

Matala

★★★☆☆

1

The caves of Matala are carved straight into the golden limestone cliff that closes off the bay to the south — some date back to the Neolithic era, while others served as Roman tombs in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. But it's their later chapter that made Matala famous: in the 1960s and 70s, hundreds of hippies from around the world moved in, living rent-free in the seaside caverns. Joni Mitchell stayed here and immortalized the place in her song "Carey" (from the album Blue, 1971). Allow 30 to 45 minutes to explore the accessible caves from the beach — admission to the main complex is €2. On the harbour wall, look out for the painted slogan that captures the spirit of the place: "Today is life. Tomorrow never comes."

⏱ 60 min

2

Matala beach stretches 250 m long and 45 m wide — not the biggest in Crete, but the setting is one of a kind: tamarisk trees on one side, cave-riddled cliffs on the other, and in the background, the snow-capped peaks of Crete in winter. The water is perfectly clear, and the westward orientation delivers genuinely stunning sunsets. Come in late afternoon to watch the sun drop right between the two rocky arms of the bay — one of the finest moments on the south coast. The beach holds a Blue Flag label.

⏱ 75 min

3

To escape the crowds on the main beach and take in some scenery, walk to Red Beach, reachable in 15 to 20 minutes along a coastal trail from the far end of Matala beach. Its reddish sand — formed from iron-rich sandstone eroding off the surrounding cliffs — creates a striking contrast with the blue of the Libyan Sea. The cove is quieter because it weeds out the less motivated: bring proper shoes, the path is rocky. It's also one of the most popular nudist beaches on this coast.

⏱ 90 min

4

If you still have energy, drive to the Palace of Phaistos, 11 km east — the second-largest Minoan palace in Crete after Knossos, built around 2000 BC. What made the site world-famous: the Phaistos Disc, a clay tablet covered in spiral symbols discovered in 1908 that no one has managed to decipher to this day. Go in the late afternoon: the low-angle light over the Messara plain is gorgeous, and the crowds thin out noticeably compared to midday.

⏱ 90 min

5

Take some time to wander the village lanes: psychedelic murals on the facades, driftwood sculptures, cafés where Bob Marley plays late into the night. The hippie soul lives on in tourist form, but the vibe remains laid-back — you won't find the designer shops of Mykonos here. Every June, a three-day festival of seventies rock and reggae takes over the beach to keep the myth alive. If you're around at that time, don't miss it.

⏱ 60 min

Activities

Snorkeling around the rocks at the edge of Matala bay offers clear water and diverse marine life — grouper, octopus, sea urchins. The best spots are at the southern end of the beach, where the cliff plunges straight into the sea. Bring your own gear if you can — rental shops on site aren't always open outside peak season.

⏱ 60 min

Where to stay in Matala

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Karampinis9.4

Budget

Beachfront Location: Karampinis in Karavovrysi offers direct beachfront access with Makria Ammos Beach just…

Beachfront Location: Karampinis in Karavovrysi offers direct beachfront access with Makria Ammos Beach just metres away. Guests can relax in the lush garden or enjoy the bar for refreshments. Comfortable Accommodations: The country house features air-conditioning, balconies with garden views, private bathrooms with baths and showers, and free WiFi. Ground-floor units provide easy access and tiled floors enhance comfort. Local Attractions: Phaistos lies 20 km away, the Museum of Cretan Ethnology 27 km, and Heraklion International Airport is 70 km from the property. Free on-site private parking is available for guests. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 8.1 for a two-person trip. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

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Arsinoi Studios and Apartments9.7

Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Arsinoi Studios and Apartments in Kalamaki offers family rooms with sea or…

Comfortable Accommodations: Arsinoi Studios and Apartments in Kalamaki offers family rooms with sea or mountain views. Each unit features a balcony, kitchenette, and private bathroom. Essential Facilities: Guests enjoy a sun terrace, garden, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include air-conditioning, TV, and a dining area. Convenient Services: The aparthotel provides private check-in and check-out, a paid airport shuttle, and free on-site parking. Bicycle parking and bike hire are available. Local Attractions: Kalamaki Beach is a 1-minute walk away. Phaistos lies 8 km from the property, and the Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 11 km distant. Heraklion International Airport is 63 km away. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.

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Villa Jodi Hilltop10

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Elegant Accommodation: Villa Jodi Hilltop in Pitsidia offers a holiday home with two bedrooms and two…

Elegant Accommodation: Villa Jodi Hilltop in Pitsidia offers a holiday home with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Guests enjoy a sun terrace, garden, and free WiFi. Comfortable Amenities: The property features air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and private check-in and check-out services. Additional amenities include a hairdresser, barbecue facilities, and free on-site parking. Prime Location: Located 60 km from Heraklion International Airport, the holiday home is 1.7 km from Kommos Beach and 8 km from Phaistos. The Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 11 km away. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the surrounding scenery. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

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Karampinis

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Arsinoi Studios and Apartments

9.7Mid-range

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10Premium

🚗Drive to next stop: 62 km · 1h15

Rethymno

★★★☆☆

1

Head up to the Fortezza in the late afternoon — the light on the sea and the rooftops of the old town is at its best, and there are fewer visitors than during the day. This Venetian fortress, begun on 13 September 1573 on the hill of Paleokastro, is one of the largest in the Mediterranean: 1,307 metres of ramparts, four corner bastions, designed by engineer Sforza Pallavicini to withstand Ottoman attacks after two raids in 1562 and 1571. Yet it held out for just 23 days against the Ottomans in November 1645 — not because the walls failed, but because cholera killed the 8,500 people sheltering inside. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours. Warning: no shade, a hat is essential in summer.

⏱ 100 min

2

Coming down from the Fortezza, duck into the alleyways of the Venetian old town. The Rimondi Fountain, built in 1629, is worth a stop: four Corinthian columns frame three lion heads that have been spouting water for four centuries. The Neratze Mosque — a former Santa Maria church converted during the Ottoman occupation — is recognizable by its tall, slender minaret. It now serves as a music school and can't be visited inside, but the exterior alone is worth a look.

⏱ 60 min

3

Make your way down to the Venetian harbour in the late afternoon — it's significantly more pleasant than Chania's, less packed with tourists, with fishing boats bobbing alongside the terraces. Spot the 16th-century lighthouse at the tip of the breakwater: its shape recalls a minaret because the Ottomans remodelled it during the occupation. Local companies run 90-minute sunset boat trips — views of the Fortezza from the sea, cocktail in hand, it's a good call.

⏱ 75 min

4

If Minoan history interests you, pop into the archaeological museum housed since 2016 in the former Church of San Francesco — a fine conversion. The collection spans from Neolithic Crete to the Venetian era: Minoan pottery, Hellenistic jewellery, Roman sarcophagi. Allow about an hour and around €4 admission. It's small but well put together, without the crowds of the big museums in Heraklion.

⏱ 60 min

Activities

In the evening, settle in at the Venetian harbour for dinner at one of the tavernas lining the quays. The atmosphere is lively in summer, calmer in shoulder season. Order the dakos (Cretan rusks with cheese and tomatoes), local mizithra cheese, and a carafe of raki offered at the end of the meal — it's Cretan custom.

⏱ 90 min

Where to stay in Rethymno

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Afroditi9.8

Budget

Housed in a historic building formerly used by the French Embassy, Afroditi Hotel stands among the well-known…

Housed in a historic building formerly used by the French Embassy, Afroditi Hotel stands among the well-known historic centre of the Old Town of Rethymno and the long stretch of sandy beach. Free WiFi is available throughout. Guest rooms at Hotel Afroditi are traditionally decorated and feature handmade local furnishings. They include free internet, air conditioning and TV. All rooms include a large, fully equipped kitchen. From their private balconies or verandas guests can enjoy views of the picturesque Rethymno Town, while some also offer sea views. Afroditi Hotel is situated next to the Venetian Harbour and is within walking distance from the Folklore Museum and the Centre of Byzantine Art. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.9 for a two-person trip.

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Philikon Luxury Suites9.8

Mid-range

Prime City Centre Location: Philikon Luxury Suites in Rethymno Town offers a convenient location with…

Prime City Centre Location: Philikon Luxury Suites in Rethymno Town offers a convenient location with Rethymno Beach an 18-minute walk away. Nearby attractions include the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno (400 metres) and Venetian Harbour (7-minute walk). Chania International Airport is 69 km from the property. Comfortable Accommodations: Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Guests enjoy free WiFi, private check-in and check-out services, and family rooms. Additional amenities include a sun terrace, garden, and outdoor seating area. Guest Services: The guest house provides a coffee shop, beauty services, and a tour desk. Free toiletries, a washing machine, and a work desk enhance the stay.

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Avli Lounge Apartments9.4

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This former Venetian lord’s house is situated in Rethymnon’s Old Town.

This former Venetian lord’s house is situated in Rethymnon’s Old Town. Avli Lounge Apartments offer charming suites, a rooftop terrace with hot tub and fine dining. Each uniquely decorated suite at Avli Lounge Apartments is equipped with free internet, TV and spa bath. Guests may choose between the 460 wine labels in the Fusion Enoteca, accompanied by delicious dishes. The on-site restaurant serves Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine, while a Greek breakfast including homemade flavours is also served daily. The Executive Suite with Spa Bath offers bathtub or walk-in shower included, subject to availability. Optional on demand services of Avli Lounge Apartments include transport to and from the airport and port, guided tours and cooking lessons.

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Afroditi

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Philikon Luxury Suites

9.8Mid-range

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Avli Lounge Apartments

9.4Premium

🚗Drive to next stop: 37 km · 45min

Chania

★★★★☆

1

Halfway between Rethymnon and Chania, pull over at Georgioupolis to see the chapel of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas). It sits on a tiny jetty stretching into the sea — to reach it, you follow a rough stone path that crosses two river arms. The contrast is striking: the blinding white of the chapel against the turquoise water of Almiros Bay. The village itself was renamed in honour of Prince George of Greece, High Commissioner of autonomous Crete between 1898 and 1906, who sent men and ships to defend the Cretan coast against Ottoman occupation. Arrive early in the morning — the spot gets busy fast in summer.

⏱ 45 min

2

About 4–5 km from Georgioupolis, Lake Kournas is the only natural freshwater lake in all of Crete — a geological oddity that earned it a place in the Natura 2000 protection network. It covers 16 hectares with depths reaching 22 metres, which explains why the water shifts from translucent turquoise at the edges to deep blue in the centre. You can rent a pedalo (expect €8 to €15 per hour depending on the model) and watch freshwater turtles gliding through the lake. Late in the season, the water level drops and temporary sandy beaches appear along the shores.

⏱ 90 min

3

Once you reach Chania, drop your bags and head straight to the Venetian harbour — this is where you'll understand why the city is so endlessly photographed. The 14th- and 16th-century shipyard buildings reflect in the calm basin. Walk to the end of the breakwater to see the Egyptian lighthouse up close: originally built by the Venetians in the late 16th century, it was rebuilt by the Egyptians in the 19th century — hence its silhouette, which resembles a minaret. From the jetty, you get the best panoramic view of the entire old town.

⏱ 75 min

4

Walking along the harbour, you'll come across the Küçük Hasan Mosque — "the mosque by the sea" — built in the 17th century by the Ottomans in honour of their first governor of Chania, on the site of a former Greek temple. It was the very first mosque ever built in Crete. Its minaret disappeared in the early 20th century during renovations, but the large central dome ringed by seven smaller domes remains intact. Push the door open in summer: it hosts local art exhibitions and historical photographs of the city.

⏱ 30 min

5

Don't leave Chania without getting lost in the old town alleyways — the Splantzia quarter is the least touristy and most interesting. Its cobbled square is overlooked by the Church of Saint Nicholas, dating from 1204, which was converted into a mosque under the Ottomans: the minaret rising from the Christian nave says everything about the city's turbulent history. Continue on to the covered municipal market, open since 1913 in a cross-shaped building — that's where you'll find Cretan cheeses, olive oil, and aromatic herbs to bring home.

⏱ 75 min

Activities

Pedalo hire on Lake Kournas to observe freshwater turtles from the water. The experience is best on weekdays outside the summer peak, when the lake is less crowded. On the right bank, tavernas overlooking the lake serve grilled dishes and Cretan specialties with a direct view of the water.

⏱ 60 min

Where to stay in Chania

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Pleiades Apartments9.8

Budget

Prime City Centre Location: Pleiades Apartments in Chania Town offers a central setting with Nea Chora Beach…

Prime City Centre Location: Pleiades Apartments in Chania Town offers a central setting with Nea Chora Beach less than 1 km away. Nearby attractions include the Municipal Art Gallery of Chania (600 metres) and Chania Old Venetian Harbour (7-minute walk). Comfortable Accommodations: Each apartment features air-conditioning, a terrace, kitchenette, and private bathroom. Guests enjoy free WiFi, daily housekeeping, laundry service, and an outdoor seating area. Modern Amenities: The property provides amenities such as a balcony, washing machine, dining table, and soundproofing. Additional facilities include a work desk, TV, and kitchenware. Nearby Activities: Guests can engage in snorkelling and explore nearby attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Chania (3.

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Epavli Grace Hotel9.3

Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Epavli Grace Hotel in Chania Town offers family rooms with air-conditioning,…

Comfortable Accommodations: Epavli Grace Hotel in Chania Town offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a bar, coffee shop, and outdoor seating area. The hotel provides free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and a tour desk. Additional services include a paid shuttle, car hire, and luggage storage. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including continental, American, buffet, and full English/Irish. Special diet menus cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

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Hilton Garden Inn Chania City9.9

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Comfortable Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Chania City in Chania Town offers family rooms with sea views,…

Comfortable Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Chania City in Chania Town offers family rooms with sea views, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes air-conditioning, free WiFi, and a work desk. Exceptional Facilities: Guests can enjoy a rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, terrace, restaurant, and bar. Additional services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and paid off-site private parking. Dining Experience: The romantic restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Breakfast is available as a buffet. Prime Location: Located 14 km from Chania International Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Nea Chora Beach (12-minute walk) and Chania Old Venetian Harbour (9-minute walk).

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Pleiades Apartments

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Epavli Grace Hotel

9.3Mid-range

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Hilton Garden Inn Chania City

9.9Premium

Chania

★★★★☆

1

The Samaria Gorge hike is Crete's most famous and one of the longest in Europe: 13 km through the national park (designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1962), plus another 3 km to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, totalling 16 km with 1,200 m of downhill elevation change. The trail starts at Xyloskalo (1,230 m altitude) and the descent takes 5 to 7 hours depending on your pace. Bring high-ankle hiking boots — your knees will take a beating on the first 6 kilometres of steep, rocky descent. The gorge is open from early May to late October, 6 am to 4 pm (entry after 2 pm is limited to the first third only). Admission: €10 — keep your ticket until the exit, the wardens check.

⏱ 300 min

2

At kilometre 7 of the hike, you pass through the abandoned village of Samaria, evacuated in 1962 when the national park was created. The villagers made their living partly from the timber trade, with logs floated downriver. A few ruined houses remain, an old chapel dedicated to Saint Mary of Egypt (14th century — she gave the gorge its name) and a still-operational park infirmary. It's the only spot with benches and drinking water for a proper picnic break.

⏱ 30 min

3

At kilometre 11, you reach the Iron Gates (Sideroportes) — the moment everyone's been waiting for since the start. The walls close in to just 3 to 3.5 metres wide while soaring over 300 metres high: you're walking through a crack in the mountain. A wooden walkway spans the riverbed 20 metres above the water. Look up — the pale limestone, eroded by millions of years of water flow, reveals layers and colours you won't see anywhere else. This is the moment to pull out your camera.

⏱ 30 min

Activities

After reaching Agia Roumeli, cool off with a swim at the pebble beach before catching the ferry. The Libyan Sea water is cool and crystal-clear — a well-earned reward after 5 to 7 hours of walking. Tavernas serve simple meals by the water's edge. The Anendyk ferry departs Agia Roumeli for Chora Sfakion at 5:30 pm — then take a bus or taxi back to Chania. Sort out your return in advance, as Agia Roumeli is unreachable by road.

⏱ 60 min

Where to stay in Chania

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Pleiades Apartments9.8

Budget

Prime City Centre Location: Pleiades Apartments in Chania Town offers a central setting with Nea Chora Beach…

Prime City Centre Location: Pleiades Apartments in Chania Town offers a central setting with Nea Chora Beach less than 1 km away. Nearby attractions include the Municipal Art Gallery of Chania (600 metres) and Chania Old Venetian Harbour (7-minute walk). Comfortable Accommodations: Each apartment features air-conditioning, a terrace, kitchenette, and private bathroom. Guests enjoy free WiFi, daily housekeeping, laundry service, and an outdoor seating area. Modern Amenities: The property provides amenities such as a balcony, washing machine, dining table, and soundproofing. Additional facilities include a work desk, TV, and kitchenware. Nearby Activities: Guests can engage in snorkelling and explore nearby attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Chania (3.

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Epavli Grace Hotel9.3

Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Epavli Grace Hotel in Chania Town offers family rooms with air-conditioning,…

Comfortable Accommodations: Epavli Grace Hotel in Chania Town offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a bar, coffee shop, and outdoor seating area. The hotel provides free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and a tour desk. Additional services include a paid shuttle, car hire, and luggage storage. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including continental, American, buffet, and full English/Irish. Special diet menus cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

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Hilton Garden Inn Chania City9.9

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Comfortable Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Chania City in Chania Town offers family rooms with sea views,…

Comfortable Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Chania City in Chania Town offers family rooms with sea views, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes air-conditioning, free WiFi, and a work desk. Exceptional Facilities: Guests can enjoy a rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, terrace, restaurant, and bar. Additional services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and paid off-site private parking. Dining Experience: The romantic restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Breakfast is available as a buffet. Prime Location: Located 14 km from Chania International Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Nea Chora Beach (12-minute walk) and Chania Old Venetian Harbour (9-minute walk).

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Pleiades Apartments

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Epavli Grace Hotel

9.3Mid-range

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Hilton Garden Inn Chania City

9.9Premium

🚗Drive to next stop: 43 km · 1h

Kissamos

★★★☆☆

1

Falassarna beach is actually five consecutive beaches stretching over 3 km — the main one, Pachia Ammos, runs for over a kilometre. The sand is thick and white, the water an intense turquoise, and the full-west orientation produces the most beautiful sunsets in all of Crete: the sun drops straight into the sea with nothing in its way. Settle in late afternoon for the show. Be aware that the beach can be windy — on meltemi days, the waves attract windsurfers but make swimming less enjoyable.

⏱ 90 min

2

Take 30 minutes to explore the ruins of the ancient city of Falasarna at the northern end of the beach — it's a story few people know. The city thrived from the 4th to the 1st century BC as a naval power, boasting the only natural harbour in western Crete. In 69 BC, the Romans destroyed everything and sealed the harbour to put an end to what they called a pirate stronghold. Excavations begun in 1986 have uncovered the docks, the acropolis, and tombs from the 6th century BC — you're literally walking on 2,500 years of history between beach towels.

⏱ 45 min

3

Kissamos — also known as Kastelli — doesn't look like the other tourist towns in Crete, and that's exactly why it's worth a stop. No restored Venetian harbour for the tourists, no souvenir-shop alleyways: just a genuine waterfront with fishermen's tavernas serving whatever they pulled from the sea that morning. Enjoy a simple dinner by the water before sorting out your Balos excursion for the next day — Kissamos port is where the ferries depart.

⏱ 60 min

Activities

Ferry excursion from Kissamos port to the Balos lagoon and Gramvousa island. The Balos lagoon can be reached either by this boat trip (departing around 10 am, returning late afternoon) or via an unpaved 8 km track by car (note: rental contracts typically don't cover damage on dirt roads) followed by a 20- to 30-minute walk. From the heights overlooking the lagoon, the view is genuinely breathtaking: a tongue of white-pink sand between two arms of intensely blue sea. The sand owes its pink tint to the same micro-organisms (foraminifera) and crushed shells as Elafonisi. Get there early — the first ferries let you arrive before the midday rush. Book ahead in high season.

⏱ 360 min

Where to stay in Kissamos

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Terra Solaris Guesthouse9.8

Budget

Comfortable Accommodation: Terra Solaris Guesthouse in Kissamos offers a recently renovated guest house with…

Comfortable Accommodation: Terra Solaris Guesthouse in Kissamos offers a recently renovated guest house with a garden and a year-round outdoor swimming pool. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Modern Amenities: Guests can enjoy air-conditioning, a terrace, kitchenette, patio, private bathroom, and garden views. Additional amenities include a hairdryer, coffee machine, dining table, outdoor furniture, and a refrigerator. Convenient Location: Drapanias Beach is a 19-minute walk away. Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 8 km from the property, while Ancient Falassarna lies 21 km distant. Chania International Airport is 49 km away. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.3 for a two-person trip.

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Sapphire Blue Suites9.4

Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Sapphire Blue Suites in Kissamos offers family rooms with private bathrooms,…

Comfortable Accommodations: Sapphire Blue Suites in Kissamos offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and modern amenities. Each room includes a kitchen, balcony, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant stay. Exceptional Facilities: Guests can relax on the sun terrace, enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, and unwind in the bar. Additional facilities include a garden, outdoor seating area, and free off-site private parking. Prime Location: Located less than 1 km from Telonio Beach, the hotel is 50 km from Chania International Airport. Nearby attractions include Ancient Falassarna (17 km) and Platanias Square (28 km).

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Villa dimitris9.6

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Modern Comforts: Villa Dimitris in Kissamos offers three bedrooms, a living room, and a fully equipped…

Modern Comforts: Villa Dimitris in Kissamos offers three bedrooms, a living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Guests enjoy sea views, air-conditioning, and a terrace with a balcony. Relaxing Amenities: The villa features a hot tub, bicycle parking, and bike hire. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, ensuring connectivity for all visitors. Convenient Location: Located 51 km from Chania International Airport, Villa Dimitris is close to Telonio Beach (2.1 km) and Kissamos Port (5 km). Nearby attractions include Ancient Falassarna (18 km) and Platanias Square (28 km). Highly Rated by Guests: Guests appreciate the recently renovated property, excellent facilities, and scenic views. Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

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Terra Solaris Guesthouse

9.8Budget

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Sapphire Blue Suites

9.4Mid-range

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Villa dimitris

9.6Premium

🚗Drive to next stop: 66 km · 1h19

Chania

★★★★☆

1

Elafonisi is technically an island — separated from the mainland by a shallow lagoon of 50 cm to 1 metre depending on the tides, which you wade across on foot to reach the islet. The beach is famous for its pink sand: the colour comes from fragments of mollusc shells and calcified micro-organisms (foraminifera) that have accumulated on the shore for millennia. The effect is most visible at the water's edge and in areas sheltered by rocky seabeds — the colour also shifts with the light and the tides. Arrive at opening or in the late afternoon: in high season, tour buses descend in waves from midday onwards and the atmosphere changes dramatically. The area is a Natura 2000 site — collecting sand, shells, or plants is strictly prohibited.

⏱ 120 min

2

Wade across the lagoon to reach the islet of Elafonisi — the water comes up to your ankles, sometimes your knees depending on the tide. On the island, the sand dunes shelter 110 plant species including the sea daffodil, a white trumpet-shaped flower found nowhere else. In summer, roped-off areas appear on the beach: these are nesting sites of loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) that come here to lay their eggs — do not cross them. If you're looking to escape the crowds concentrated on the mainland side, walk around the islet along its western face: you'll find black rocks, wild coves, and far fewer people.

⏱ 90 min

Activities

Make the most of the lagoon's shallow waters for swimming and snorkeling — less than a metre deep over a large area, warm water, no waves. It's particularly enjoyable with children. Further from shore, where the water deepens, the colours shift from turquoise to cobalt blue and a mask reveals small fish darting among the seagrass. Unlike Falassarna which can be windy, Elafonisi is generally calm — if you only have time for one beach in western Crete, make it this one.

⏱ 120 min

Where to stay in Chania

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Pleiades Apartments9.8

Budget

Prime City Centre Location: Pleiades Apartments in Chania Town offers a central setting with Nea Chora Beach…

Prime City Centre Location: Pleiades Apartments in Chania Town offers a central setting with Nea Chora Beach less than 1 km away. Nearby attractions include the Municipal Art Gallery of Chania (600 metres) and Chania Old Venetian Harbour (7-minute walk). Comfortable Accommodations: Each apartment features air-conditioning, a terrace, kitchenette, and private bathroom. Guests enjoy free WiFi, daily housekeeping, laundry service, and an outdoor seating area. Modern Amenities: The property provides amenities such as a balcony, washing machine, dining table, and soundproofing. Additional facilities include a work desk, TV, and kitchenware. Nearby Activities: Guests can engage in snorkelling and explore nearby attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Chania (3.

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Epavli Grace Hotel9.3

Mid-range

Comfortable Accommodations: Epavli Grace Hotel in Chania Town offers family rooms with air-conditioning,…

Comfortable Accommodations: Epavli Grace Hotel in Chania Town offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV. Exceptional Facilities: Guests enjoy a bar, coffee shop, and outdoor seating area. The hotel provides free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and a tour desk. Additional services include a paid shuttle, car hire, and luggage storage. Delicious Breakfast: A variety of breakfast options are available, including continental, American, buffet, and full English/Irish. Special diet menus cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

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Hilton Garden Inn Chania City9.9

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Comfortable Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Chania City in Chania Town offers family rooms with sea views,…

Comfortable Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Chania City in Chania Town offers family rooms with sea views, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes air-conditioning, free WiFi, and a work desk. Exceptional Facilities: Guests can enjoy a rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, terrace, restaurant, and bar. Additional services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and paid off-site private parking. Dining Experience: The romantic restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Breakfast is available as a buffet. Prime Location: Located 14 km from Chania International Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Nea Chora Beach (12-minute walk) and Chania Old Venetian Harbour (9-minute walk).

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Pleiades Apartments

9.8Budget

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Epavli Grace Hotel

9.3Mid-range

H

$$$

Hilton Garden Inn Chania City

9.9Premium

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Matala

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Rethymno

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Chania

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Chania

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Where to stay in Chania

Kissamos

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Chania

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Greece: Athens, Delphi and the Meteora

What to See in Athens: Acropolis, Museums & Neighborhoods

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Grand Circuit of Crete

Crete Circuit: From Chania to the Wild East

Southwest Crete Road Trip: Gorges and Beaches📷 View photos

Custom itinerary

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Edit everything

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Matala🔊

Activities

Where to stay in Matala

Rethymno🔊

Activities

Where to stay in Rethymno

Chania🔊

Activities

Where to stay in Chania

Chania🔊

Activities

Where to stay in Chania

Kissamos🔊

Activities

Where to stay in Kissamos

Chania🔊

Activities

Where to stay in Chania

Make it YOUR trip

Also discover

Greece Road Trip: Athens and the Cyclades

Greece: Athens, Delphi and the Meteora

What to See in Athens: Acropolis, Museums & Neighborhoods

Delphi and Meteora Circuit: Ancient Sites and Sky-High Monasteries

Grand Circuit of Crete

Crete Circuit: From Chania to the Wild East

Southwest Crete Road Trip: Gorges and Beaches

Matala

Rethymno

Chania

Chania

Kissamos

Chania