A guide by people who live here
Discover Crete
Beaches, ancient sites, trails and flavours of western Crete: the places we recommend to our guests, with the nearest excursions and stays.
Where to start
Four ways to enjoy the island
5 placesBeachesTurquoise lagoons, pink sand and coves among the rocks: the western Crete beaches we recommend to our guests, with the best time to go.Explore
6 placesCulture & historyMinoan palaces, Venetian harbours, fortresses and monasteries: four thousand years of history within a few miles.Explore
3 placesNatureGorges, plateaus, lakes and uninhabited islands: wild Crete, between the White Mountains and the sea.Explore
2 placesFood & flavoursOlive oil, cheeses, mountain herbs and raki: what to taste and how to enjoy the Cretan table.ExploreNot to be missed
The places we recommend first
The areas
Western Crete, area by area
Where our properties are and where the excursions leave from: a quick guide to help you choose where to stay.
- ChaniaThe Venetian old town, harbour and market. The most convenient base: almost all excursions leave from here.
- AkrotiriA quiet peninsula near the airport, with the bays of Stavros and Marathi and monasteries among the olive groves.
- PlataniasA long sandy beach west of Chania, resorts, tavernas and nightlife. Ideal for families.
- KolymvariA fishing village at the foot of the Rodopou peninsula, quieter and right on the sea.
- Kissamos · FalassarnaThe far west: Balos, Gramvousa, Falassarna and Elafonissi. Nature and sunsets over the open sea.
- RethymnoA Venetian and Ottoman town east of Chania, with its Fortezza and the south coast at Preveli.
Found the right place? We will take you there
Excursions you can book online with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and stays chosen one by one.