Chania

The second largest city in Crete is also the most beautiful and is a perfect place to visit and is right on your doorstep. To find out more about Chania, visit the city's web site at http://www.chania.gr/ 

Agia Marina

Agia Marina is a village of two halves. The obvious half is the coastal strand. Miles of golden sand and safe bathing make Agia Marina a very popular holiday resort. Lots of Tavernas and beachside bars contribute to summer night life.
The old village lies a little inland set on a hillside that overlooks the sparkling ocean and the National Park Island of Ayi Theodori, home to the protected KRI-KRI. The main town of Chania is only 10 minutes away. 20 minutes from the airport.

Platanias

Platanias is the main resort west of Chania. During the summer season the place can be packed, but becomes a ghost town in the winter. Perfect for buying a holiday home or a buy-to-let house, villa or apartment, but move further west along the coast or inland if you want to live in Crete all year.

Gerani

Gerani is the next village westward after Platanias and also has its fair share of tourists, but this village stays open all year with a nice range of shops and tavernas.

There are two parts to Gerani - Pano Gerani (upper Gerani), slightly inland from the sea and Kato Gerani (Lower Gerani) which is the tourist area.

Maleme

Maleme is located 16 km west of Chania town and until recent years, mainly only associated with two major historic events. One being the centre of the World War II Battle of Crete and in 1966 archeologists discovered a very important find in a late Minoan Tomb.
Since the 1980's Maleme has taken advantage of its beautiful seaside location to develop as a tasteful tourist centre. It therefore has comprehensive amenities consisting of supermarkets, restaurants and for high season a nightclub

A beautiful German cemetery is situated on the hill of Maleme. Very moving Memorial services are also held every year in May, for the Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives during the Second World War here in Crete.

Don't buy too close to the airfield, though, unless you like the sound of the bugle as reveille is called every morning!

Xrokabi

Set back 3 kms from National coastal road. It stands on elevated ground with breathtaking views of Chania Bay and the White Mountains. Maleme stands 3 kms away on the coast with it's night life and amenities, so civilization is minutes away but the beauty of this tranquil village is it's peaceful isolation.

Tavronitis

14km west from Chania.
A delightful, living Cretan village. Set on the northern coast road of Crete and at the junction of the main road to the southern coast . Tavronitis is not a typical tourist town but an authentic centre of Cretan life. It does accommodate tourists however and has tavernas on it's seafront.
All essential amenities available and because of it's location, it is an ideal base to discover all parts of Western Crete.
The sweeping beaches stretch from Maleme along the curving coast line to the foot of the Rodosou peninsular at Kolymbari.
The mouth of the Tavronitis river flows to the sea here and is a magnet for ornithologists from all over the world to see the unique wild bird life.

Tavronitis is well known for the Tavronitis Bridge battle in 1941, during the Second World War, after the German paratrooper landing in the neighboring village of Maleme. The "old bridge" is still standing!

Polemarchi
Polermarchi village has all the charm of an old village, with friendly villagers. Just a 3 minute drive to the coastal village of Tavronitis, a traditional Greek "all-year round" working village, with cafeneions, tavernas, bakery, mini-markets, newsagent, chemist, doctors and also the popular pebbly beach with its traditional tavernas.  
Just a 10 minute drive away from Polermarchi, is the beautiful sleepy fishing village and new Marina of Kolimbari. Due to European investment, it is now becoming a popular holiday destination for the "laid back!" It is also famous for the historical 16th century Monastery of Gonias and the Crete Orthodox Academy.
The very popular, busy seaside resort of Platanias is situated only a 13 minute drive away, with tavernas, cafeterias, bars, clubs, and tourist shops. For those of you, who like to have a "cosmopolitan night out"…then this is the place to visit!
From Polermarchi, the 45 minute drive to the South coast to the popular resort village of Paleochora, boasts fantastic mountainous scenery, whilst the coastal village has a choice of sandy & rocky beach coves.

Kamisiana

The sleepy village of Kamisiana is located off the old coastal road.
It is a truly authentic traditional agricultural community in an elevated position that overlooks the sea looking North and with views of the White Mountains to the South. The coastal strand it has several tavernas and shops that serve the village all year round. Easy access to the main National Highway is 1km away. Many beaches within walking distance.

Kolymbari

One of the most picturesque villages in all of Crete. Initially a traditional fishing village hence it's collection of superb fish restaurants. The old harbour is still working on a daily basis and nestles next to a developing yachting marina.

Kolymbari for all it's beauty is located only 1 km from the National Highway. Not only is it famous as a fishing centre but the surrounding olive groves produce the highest quality in the world. It contains all essential amenities with shops etc.
One of Crete's best kept secrets - but not for long!

Due to the vagaries of the Greek language, where an 'M' followed by a 'P' (pi sign) is pronounced as either a 'B' or an 'MB', you will find four different versions of the English equivalent of 'Kolymbari' on the road signs. You will see the correct version (Kolymbari), but you will also see 'Kolybari' on another sign because MB can also be 'B'. On another sign you will see 'Kolympari' where they have forgot the MP translates in English to MB and as a final twist in the tail, the Greek B translates to an English V, so some 'bureaucrat' has translated the MP to the English MB, then got carried away and re-translated the B of the MB to a V, so we also have another sign directing you ot Kolymvari. Whether you go to Kolymbari, Kolybari, Kolympari or Kolymvari, you will find yourself in the same town!!

Spilia
Just five minutes from the new national highway and another 5 to Kolymbari, Spilia is the epitome of the Greek idyll in all it's splendour.
Many Byzantine churches are to be seen nestling amongst the cypress trees in the verdant foothills creating an almost theatrical vista.
Spilia houses reflect the past prosperity of the area with many bougainvillaea clad venetian villas built in the local honey coloured stone.

Nohia

With an old tradition of pottery making, this authentic Cretan village, 7 Km inland from Kolymbari is an ideal place to either live or visit. If you like English TV or English football, Nohia is the place to be as the British owners of a cafenion feel the same and have the satellite to get it.

In August, the Cultural Club of Nohia organizes the Laina Festival celebrating the Laina(jug) which is made here and nowhere else. There is a pottery exhibition, where visitors can admire and buy rare exhibits. This is followed by a feast in the Elementary school square with traditional dishes and Cretan music, urging visitors to have fun and dance till morning.
Generally, every visitor leaves with some sample of the traditional art which is given as a gift.

Afrata

Afrata is situated at the base of the Rodopou Peninsula close to the fishing village of Kolymbari. It is a tranquil village with many tastefully restored stone buildings.
It has a secluded cove to it's seaward side and mountains to the back, the home to much wild life.
On it's approach the coastal road passes through stunning scenery much of it is a protected National Park rich in indigenous flora and fauna.
Afrata boasts some of the most famous tavernas in this area of Crete which serve the authentic food of the island

Drakona

Drakona is a million miles away from tourist Crete. It is the real deal, an idyllic agricultural village set in green hills with views of the stunning White Mountains.

This location is perfect for those who desire peace, authenticity and tranquillity. Having said this the picturesque coastal town of Kolymbari is only a ten minute drive away with it's famous fish restaurants and beautiful harbour side cafes. Edging a perfect bathing beach.

Kastelli/Kissamos

The beautiful working town of Kissamos is located 42 km west of Chania and it is the capital of the Kissamos county. and has about 3.000 inhabitants. Kissamos is still really an agricultural town and is only just starting to catch on to the tourist trade, which makes for an interesting town where you can buy grain for the chickens at the shop next door to a trendy cafe/bar. 
Being a working town, Kissamos or Kastelli whichever you wish to call it, has all the facilities you require and its position makes it an ideal place from which to visit the host of sights in the area, such as the magnificent Falassarna beach, the archaeological site of Polyrinnia and the beautiful Balos Lagoon..
The name Kastelli comes from the period when the island was ruled by the Venetians with Kissamos being the newer name. 

Kissamos harbour is the starting point for the boat trips to the beautiful lagoon of Balos and Gramvousa (Pirate island). There is also a the ferry service to the Peloponese islands and Athens.

Kalergiana

A small village 1.5 km inland from Kissamos with a population of about 70. With a slightly raised perspective, it affords excellent views of Kissamos bay.

Voulgaro

Voulgaro is a typical Cretan mountain village 9km north of the region's capital Kasteli. It has all essential amenities and is basically an agricultural centre.
The surrounding landscape is picturesque mountain views. Some 3km further north is one of Crete's stunning gorges the Topolia gorge, on the way to the stunning beach of Elafonisi.
Perfect village for lovers of the mountain way of life.

Topolia

A lively village high up in the mountains on the road between Kissamos and Elafonisi. With Ia population of around 370 inhabitants, it is big enough to have a range of mini markets, tavernas and restaurants. Topolia gorge is close by, as is the cave of Agia Sofia, which has impressive stalactites and stalgmites. Topolia is 16 kilometres from Kissamos and is 280 metres above sea level.

Meridiana

A very small village only 2 km from Kissamos. The whole area around Meridiana has amazing views of the gulf of Kissamos. 

Kalathines
Turn your clocks back 100 years! This is an authentic Cretan village.
It overlooks a verdant valley of ancient olive groves stretching towards the beach of Kissamos which is 12 km away.
It has a Taverna and the traditional cafenion. Although no supermarket, it has a local village shop that supplies all essential needs.
This village is truly for the people who want authenticity in every way. It is situated in hills 12 km from the county town of Kastelli the region's capital.

Melissia

One of the "Innachorio" (9 villages) set in a shady, hilly area halfway between Kissamos and Elafonisi. The area in which the Innachorio reside is hisg in the mountains and famed for its chestnuts. Another village in the Innachorio - Elos, has a chestnut festival every October.

Delianna
Is an ideal place for walkers as it is situated near to the beautiful Mesavilia Gorge to the south and the equally stunning Topoliano Gorge to the West. Although very much a rural setting the village itself has several authentic tavernas serving the best of Cretan fare. The scenery is of the White Mountains.
15 minutes north you will find the traditional fishing village of Kolymbari with it's famous fish restaurants. If it's peace and serenity you desire this property needs looking at.

Kaliviani

A small village just outside Kissamos on the road to Falassarna. It boasts two excellent restaurants which both have superb views over the gulf of Kissamos, one serving a delicious goat meal every day.

Neo Chorio

A small village, just past Kaliviani on the road to Platanos and Falassarna. A mini-market, cafenion and bread shop are in the village, but not much more, but the area has stunning views over the gulf of Kissamos.

Platanos

Half-way between Kissamos and Falassarna is the sizeable village of Platanos. Being slightly raised, the area affords wonderful views of the bay of Kissamos, but still has all the ameneties you would expect of a sizeable village, including banking facilities. The main street of Platanos can get quite busy during the tourist season with all the cars and buses going to Falassarna.

Falassarna

This is a place of outstanding natural beauty boasting one of the biggest sandy beaches in all of Crete.
Bathing in the clear turquoise sea is ideal for children the beach having in gently sloping approach.
Wild life abounds in this wild and unspoilt area. The settlement is steeped in ancient history dating back to the 4th century bc.
The beach has some tavernas that accommodate visitors in the summertime.
Village of Platanos is two kilometers from Falasarna with all modern amenities shops , banks etc.

Kontomari

One of the most attractive villages in Western Crete. The skyline is dominated by the dome of the church situated in the heart of the village. A labrynth of narrow streets makes for fascinating walks of discovery. Essentially an authentic Cretan agricultural village. It's elevated location offers sea views as it is only 2km from the deserted beach of Pygos Psilonerou. 14 kms from Chania

Chorafakia

Panoramic vistas of the gulf of Chania with the fabulous White Mountains in the background.
The village itself is a pleasing mix of old and new buildings. There are many choices of places to eat and all necessary amenities i.e. supermarkets, shops etc.
The beaches of Tersanas and Kalathas are in easy strolling distance.
Another big plus for this beautiful village is that you are within a 10 minutes drive to the airport

Mouri
The village of Mouri is blessed with the only fresh water lake in all of Crete, Lake Kournas.
It is set in the foothills of the White Mountains and views of the ocean can be seen.
The ambiance of the village is strictly traditional and the pace of life siga siga (slowly slowly).
There are local shops but the bustling seaside town of Georgeopolis is only a five minute drive away with it's sparkling night life and amenities.
There are many tavernas situated on the edge of Lake Kournas which is virtualy on your doorstep.

Vamos
Vamos is the major village of the Apok0ronas region and is 26kms east of Chania. It is a very picturesque village with many old stone houses in a setting of verdant olive groves. Officially classed as a traditional Cretan Village it is practically untouched by tourism. It does however, have all essential amenities with tavernas serving the wonderful local cuisine.
It is rumoured that Vamos has applied for a license to build a golf course in the area. 

Plaka

The village of Plaka is in an elevated location above the beach side resort of Almyrida with fantastic sea views with a cosmopolitan population set in traditional Cretan setting.
Lots of tavernas and bars.
Five minutes to Almyridas 'Blue Flag' beach. 20 minutes to the airport.

Gavalahori
This village is the epitome of all things Cretan. It is situated on a gentle, verdant escarpment in the beautiful Apokronas region over looking the historic Souda Bay.
The village has many old stone buildings and a picturesque square surrounded by ancient mulberry trees planted by Turkish silk merchants in the 19th century.
All amenities are situated here varied restaurants, supermarkets, craft shops and essential services.
There is a growing foreign community that have integrated into the traditional Greek way of life.
The pretty coastal village of Almyrida is only two minutes drive from Gavalahori. Almyrida has a lively water sport center with a plethora of tavernas and restaurants edging a sandy beach.

Kefalas
Kefalas one of Crete's prettiest villages set on a hill with views of the sea to the east and the west and breath taking mountain scenery as a backdrop. It is a small community but has all necessary amenities plus tavernas kafenions etc. Set in a labyrinth of windy stone streets. Ideal location for people with an interest in the stunning environment and nature. The mountains nearby are home to many birds including eagles.

Kalamitsi
Kalamitsi is the archetypal Cretan rural village with it's labyrinth of narrow streets and lanes set amid lush olive groves and orange trees. Beautiful stone village houses abound in this idyllic setting with the dramatic backdrop of the majestic White Mountains.
It is 6km from the administrative centre of the Apokoronas area Vamos where you will find all essential amenities and 5km from the lively coast resort of Georgioupoli.
An ideal centre for lovers of stunning mountain scenery and perfect beach life.