Environment
BALOS
It is surely one of the most incredible places you will ever see in Crete! Balos Beach, its brilliant blue lagoon and the island of Tigani in the background make this location in the far northwest of Crete the perfect postcard that alone will sum up any vacation. But a trip to Balos Beach is worth it! Access is not necessarily easy. If you are going with children, consider bringing water bottles.
KATHOLIKO GORGE
On the Akrotiri Peninsula with 115 caves and five small gorges, the verdant Katholiko (or Avlaki Agiou) gorges are worth a visit. Once you arrive at the famous Gouverneto monastery, at an altitude of 260 m and 16 km from Chania, you will start your walk with a good path to the north. Ten minutes later you will find the cave of Panagia Arkoudiotissa and the small Church of the Virgin, as well as the ancient sanctuary of Artemis. If you continue, you will pass an aqueduct. Following the bed of the river you will arrive in a small cove with crystal clear waters,bring your swimsuit for a well-deserved dive. Allow 1 hour and a half round trip. Few tourists know this ballad, you will be in peace. Absolutely stunning. Recently in season, access has become paying around 3 euros per person for adults. Coming back to Almyrida, stop by the monastery of the holy trinity, it is superb.
Chania
Chania will take you by surprise as it presents multiple feelings. Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Venetians, Ottomans, etc. came here, creating a truly multicultural place in Crete. While strolling in the port, you will discover the Venetian lighthouse, the Grand Arsenal, Kum Kapi and Halepa. You will enjoy luxury accommodation in the elegant villas and you will enjoy the bars with a lively atmosphere, as well as very good restaurants.
SEITAN LIMANI
Limani is a Greek word meaning ‘port’. “Seitan” is a term inherited from the Ottoman Turks. The current was actually said to be devilishly strong near this area, especially during the winter months. As a beach, “Seitan Limania” is somewhat of a ‘newcomer’ – it was until relatively recently known – only a few fishermen and locals.
Aptera
Ancient Cretan city now in ruins located in the district of Chania, fifteen minutes drive from Almyrida.
This site dominates the whole bay of Souda. The archaeological excavations began in 1942 by the Germans who occupied the island. Today they continue and the theater is being renovated.
It is the most interesting site in western Crete.
Generally open between 8:00 and 15:00 and closed on Mondays.
RETHYMNON
It is a small Cretan city built during the Antiquity. While walking around you will discover many Venetian and Turkish vestiges.
The old town dates back to the Venetian period and has a lot of character.
Its old port where many small taverns are spread out is charming.
Crete in October and November
In Crete, October and November in the Kalives valley is the time when everyone harvests their olives to turn them into oil.
A unique opportunity to see how this precious liquid is made. The days are generally warm, the sea is still at a good temperature.
Crete between December and February
It is the ideal time to go for a walk, to go cycling, to go for a nice hike. The days are mostly beautiful, the evenings cool. The white mountains are covered with a beautiful white coat, they are sublime. One hour drive from Almyrida and you can have snowball fights. The contrast is striking.