There are many popular tourist attractions that you will certainly
hear about once you are on the island. Places like the Palace of Knossos,
home of the Minoans, and the Samaria Gorge, a spectacular hike through the rugged Omalos moutain range. On this
page you will find some of the less famous places we recommend you visit
to see the island in all its beauty.
Elafonissos
This is a beautiful unspoiled sandy beach on the south-western
tip of the island. Words or pictures cannot do justice to the natural beuaty
you will find there. On the way, you pass through several small villages
where you can join the locals for a drink in the traditional coffee shops.
Also on the way is the Monastery of Chrisoskalitisa, where the Virgin Mary
is said to perform miracles.
Stavros
You may know this area from the film Zorba the Greek.
On the north-west, Stavros is located on Akrotiri which offers beautiful
views of the northern coast line.
Platanias
Platanias is the place to be for those looking for a little more
action. 10 Km west of the city of Chania, Platanias is a resort area offering
several bars, restaurants and shops where locals and tourists alike gather
to enjoy the Cretan summer.
Falasarna
This is an ancient port located on the north-west of the island.
With many interesting villages and towns along the way, Falasarna is an
ideal destination for a relaxing day trip.
Frangocastello
The fortress of Frangocastello was built in 1371 to protect the small bay near by from pirates.
In 1828 Cretan rebels occupied the fortress and during the siege that followed, its towers
were destroyed. According to tradition, during the second half of May,
shadows of the armed cretan warriors, who lost their lives there, seem to march towards the fortress.
The locals call them Drosoulites.