near Chania
Apokoronas
Apokoronas is a municipality and former province in the Chania regional unit of Crete, Greece. The municipality was formed in 2011 by the merger of several smaller municipalities and communities, and it covers an area of 315.5 square kilometers.
The name “Apokoronas” comes from the Greek words “apo” and “korona”, which mean “from the crown”. The region is named after the crown of the White Mountains, which forms the backdrop to the area.
The municipality of Apokoronas is known for its natural beauty, with rugged mountains, green valleys, and crystal-clear waters. It is home to several picturesque villages, including Vamos, Kalyves, and Georgioupolis, which attract many visitors each year.
The area is also rich in history and culture, with numerous archaeological sites, churches, and museums to explore. One of the most popular tourist attractions is the ancient city of Aptera, which was founded in the 7th century BC and was an important city-state in ancient Crete.
Overall, Apokoronas is a fascinating and beautiful region of Crete, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes.
Georgioupolis
Georgioupolis is a coastal village located in the Chania region of Crete, Greece. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and picturesque scenery. The village is situated between the cities of Chania and Rethymno, making it an ideal location for exploring both cities and their surrounding areas.
Georgioupolis has a long sandy beach that stretches for several kilometers and is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The village also has a small fishing harbor where visitors can take a boat trip to the nearby caves and beaches. The surrounding hills and mountains offer excellent hiking and biking opportunities, and there are several trails and paths that lead to stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
The village has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and villas. There are also several restaurants and cafes serving traditional Cretan cuisine, as well as international dishes. Georgioupolis is well-connected to the rest of the island, with regular bus and taxi services to Chania and Rethymno. It is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a relaxing and peaceful holiday by the sea.
kourna Lake
Kournas Lake is the only freshwater lake in Crete., was known as Lake Koressia in antiquity but later took its current name from the Arabic word for lake.
The lake is in a beautiful landscape, lying in a valley among the hills, about 4 km from Georgioupolis in Chania Prefecture (west Crete).Kournas Lake is the ideal place for an afternoon walk or a daytrip nearby.
The landscape is lovely and relaxing, whether you want to go for a walk in the countryside, swim or ride a pedalo on the lake
Rethymnon
Rethymnon is a little smaller than Chania but is also growing quickly into a sprawling, rather ugly urban centre. However its old town and narrow alleys along the water front compete with Chania for the title of “Most beautiful city of Crete”.
There are more Turkish houses and minarets remaining here than in Chania, although most houses are of Venetian origin. Rethymnon also has a long sandy beach which starts practically in the centre of the town and stretches eastward. Needless to say, this beach is lined with hotels, restaurants, cafes and all the other accompanying touristic “symptoms”.
Samaria Gorge
The gorge of Samaria is situated in the National park of Samaria, in the White Mountains in West Crete.
This majestuous gorge is considered one of the great attractions of Crete and many tourists want to visit it.
But you must realise that it is a long (5 to 7 hours) walk on rough terrain so you will need to have a certain degree of fitness and walking experience in order to enjoy it.
Imbros
Imbros Gorge is located in the province Sfakia and is the third most visited gorge in Crete, following Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini by Sougia, all belonging to the E4 European hiking path. The scenery is beautiful and the low difficulty makes the descent of Imbros ideal for families with children. The length of the gorge is 11 km and the course lasts 2-3 hours.
German Cemetery
Maleme Cemetery is a military cemetery located in Maleme, a village in western Crete, Greece. The cemetery is dedicated to the Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Crete in May 1941, which was part of the larger World War II conflict.
The cemetery contains the graves of over 4,400 soldiers from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, and other Commonwealth countries, who died during the battle. The cemetery also has a memorial to the 1,511 Commonwealth soldiers who have no known grave.
Maleme Cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which is responsible for the maintenance of war cemeteries and memorials around the world. The cemetery is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by these soldiers in the fight for freedom and the preservation of democracy. It serves as a place of pilgrimage for many visitors who come to pay their respects and honor the memory of those who gave their lives.
Botanical Park and Gardens
The Botanical Park and Gardens of Chania is a unique and beautiful destination in Crete, Greece. It is a place where nature and culture meet, and visitors can experience the natural beauty of the island while learning about its rich history and culture.
The park covers an area of over 20 hectares and is home to over 150 different species of plants from all over the world. Visitors can explore the park on foot, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
The Botanical Park and Gardens of Chania also features a variety of cultural attractions, including a traditional Cretan village and a museum dedicated to the island’s history and culture. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the park, where visitors can enjoy traditional Cretan cuisine and local specialties.
Overall, the Botanical Park and Gardens of Chania is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Crete. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious food and drink.
The bridge of Aradena (Bungy Jumping)
The Bridge of Aradena is a historic stone bridge located in the region of Chania on the island of Crete, Greece. The bridge spans the Aradena Gorge and was built in the early 20th century to connect the villages of Aradena and Loutro.
The bridge is known for its impressive size and architecture, with a span of 138 meters and a height of 138 meters above the gorge. It was designed by local engineer George Kassimatis and was constructed using local limestone blocks. The bridge was in use until the 1950s when it was replaced by a new road bridge.
In recent years, the bridge has become a popular attraction for hikers and visitors to the area. The surrounding Aradena Gorge is also a popular spot for hiking and trekking, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The bridge is accessible by foot and requires a steep hike down into the gorge to reach it.
Today, the Bridge of Aradena stands as a testament to the engineering and architectural skills of its designers and builders, and serves as a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure and natural beauty in the region of Chania, Crete.
Botanical Park and Gardens
Nearly 20 hectares of land are waiting to welcome you, full of fruit trees from all over the world, herbs, medicinal and ornamental plants in a park different from others, where the land’s formation and the region’s microclimate make it a paradise for hundreds of plants and animals!
In the midst of this colorful and vivid landscape stands a burnt centennial olive tree, a memorial and a reference to the dismal fires of 2003, the park’s history and origin.
The Monastery of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity), or Tzagarolon Monastery
Agia Triada Monastery, also known as Holy Trinity Monastery, is a Greek Orthodox monastery located in the Akrotiri Peninsula of Chania, Crete. The monastery was founded in the 17th century and has a long history of religious and cultural significance.
The architecture of the monastery is characterized by its Venetian style, which reflects the influence of the Venetian Republic, which ruled Crete from 1211 to 1669. The monastery complex consists of several buildings, including a central church dedicated to the Holy Trinity, chapels, cells for the monks, and other structures.
The monastery is also known for its impressive library, which contains thousands of valuable manuscripts and books, some of which date back to the 16th century. The library’s collection includes religious texts, historical documents, and scientific treatises, among other works.
Agia Triada Monastery is open to visitors, and it is a popular tourist attraction in Chania. Visitors can explore the monastery’s architecture, including its ornate frescoes and intricate wood carvings, and learn about its rich history and cultural heritage.
Agia lake
Lake Agia is a small freshwater lake located in the region of Chania, on the island of Crete in Greece. It is situated approximately 15 kilometers southeast of the city of Chania, near the village of Agia.
The lake has a surface area of around 4500 square meters and a maximum depth of 15 meters. The surrounding area is densely vegetated with trees, bushes, and reeds, creating a beautiful natural setting.
The lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to swim, relax, and enjoy the natural scenery. There are several small tavernas and cafes located around the lake, offering refreshments and traditional Cretan food.
One of the unique features of Lake Agia is the presence of a small church located on an island in the middle of the lake. The church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas and is accessible via a small bridge.
Overall, Lake Agia is a beautiful and tranquil spot, perfect for a day trip or a relaxing getaway while visiting the island of Crete.
Gouverneto Monastery (Moni Gouvernetou)
Gouverneto Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Our Lady of the Angels, is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the Akrotiri peninsula in Crete, Greece. The monastery was founded in the 16th century, and it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries on the island.
The Gouverneto Monastery is situated in a remote and peaceful location, surrounded by mountains and a beautiful natural landscape. The monastery is built in the traditional Byzantine architectural style, and it consists of several buildings, including a church, a chapel, a bell tower, and a monastery.
The monastery is known for its rich history and religious significance, and it is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Visitors can explore the monastery’s impressive architecture, admire its beautiful frescoes and icons, and learn about its fascinating history.
One of the most notable features of the Gouverneto Monastery is its impressive entrance, which is carved into the mountain and features a stone archway. The monastery is also surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is filled with olive trees, cypress trees, and other Mediterranean plants.
Overall, the Gouverneto Monastery is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Crete. Its stunning natural surroundings, impressive architecture, and rich history make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
