Damnoni Beach: All you need to know by Locals!
Damnoni beach in an idyllic bay just a few kilometres from the more famous resort of Plakias. It is about 35 km south of the city of Rethymno, on the southern coast of the island, on the southern coast of the island. Damnoni Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Crete. The beach of Damnoni is backed by mountains and closed in by splendid rock formations, with white sand and turquoise waters.
Rodakino Beach: A stunning, long, narrow beach in South Crete
Rodakino Beach is a stunning, long, narrow beach rich in sand. Rodakino is found in the south of Rethymnon prefecture. Culture, history, environment, and adventure all abound in the interesting region of Crete known as Rethymnon. Located on the Libyan Sea, the south coast of Crete is well-known for its beautiful scenery and pristine beaches. Rodakino Beach is surrounded by high cliffs and crystal-clear waters, which are good indications that the place is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach-related activities. The beach has adequate tavernas and coffee shops nearby that are good for satisfying the visitors’ appetites and cravings. It is referred to as a quiet beach since it belongs to a secluded village. However, it becomes busy and crowded on Saturday and Sunday. Rodakino, Creta, is a beautiful beach located in one of Creta's wildest and most untouched locations. Nature enthusiasts find a variety of surrounding diversions and activities, both by the sea and in the region's rugged terrain.
7 Best Restaurants in Chania
Chania is a city on the northern coast of Crete, Greece. It is known for its Venetian harbour, narrow streets, and delicious food. The city has a rich history and culture, and its culinary scene reflects this. From traditional Cretan dishes to international flavours, Chania has something to offer everyone. With a myriad of dining options to choose from, we have curated a list of the 7 best restaurants in Chania that are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveller, Chania offers an array of dining experiences that can satisfy every palate. From bustling tavernas serving traditional meze to chic eateries offering contemporary Greek cuisine, each restaurant tells a unique story through its food. In this guide, we'll explore the 7 best restaurants in Chania: Barraki, To Monastiri Tou Karolou, Well of the Turk, Chalkina, Prassein Aloga, 63 Mezedoscholeion, and Xilouris (Ta Neoria).
Balos Beach Guide: Turquoise Waters in Crete
Balos Beach is one of the most gorgeous beaches in Crete. Famous for its turquoise waters, Balos beach is considered one of the most iconic sights in Greece. Balos Beach is actually a lagoon located on the northwestern side of Chania on the island of Crete, in the region of Kissamos. One of the most photographed beaches in all of Crete, Balos Beach really exudes a unique beauty. Besides its scenic view, Balos beach and its surrounding area are home to several plants and flowers. Many of these natural wonders are endemic to the area. There are plenty of interesting birds to watch for in the area, such as the Eleonora falcons and bearded vultures. The whole region is a protected Natura 2000 area. Balos beach has shallow waters ideal for small children. The sand is mostly soft and the bottom part of the beach is quite muddy, which sometimes produces an unpleasant smell, especially at low tide. The beach sits at the bottom of the Platiskinos Mountains. Balos beach is protected on the far side by a rocky reef, which is why the water is always calm. Despite its remoteness, visitors cannot resist the charm of Balos Beach. Balos beach has a mild,mid with dry, hot summer. Its warmest month has an average temperature of more than 22 degrees Celsius. During those months, Balos beach water temperature does not drop below 20 °C, and is suitable for nice swimming.
Plakias Beach: Breathtaking Beach in Crete
Plakias Beach, 32 km south of Rethymno in Crete, is a peaceful destination known for its crescent-shaped bay, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It offers swimming, snorkeling, mountain tours, and cultural exploration. Visitors can enjoy hiking, diving in the Libyan Sea, and authentic Cretan meals by the seaside.
Falassarna Beach: An Amazing Exotic Beach in Crete!
Falassarna Beach is a beautiful coastline in Crete's northwestern shore, 59 kilometres (36.6 miles) west of Chania city and 17 kilometers 17 kilometres (10.5 miles) west of Kissamos town. It is widely recognized as one of Crete’s best beaches and consistently ranks among the top 10 in Europe.
Krios Beach: A fine golden sand Beach in South-West Crete!
Krios Beach is located on the island of Crete, Greece, 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) west of Paleochora and 90 kilometers (55.9 miles) south of Chania. Krios Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. Crete's Mediterranean climate features mild winters and warm summers, making it ideal for beach activities. The island's geography is marked by rugged peaks, a rocky coastline, and golden beaches, providing a beautiful and varied landscape for visitors to enjoy.
Car Rental Insurance Coverage in Crete: Things You Should Know Before You Get There
Insurance for a rented vehicle safeguards against financial loss in case of an accident or theft. Car rental companies usually offer a number of insurance alternatives from which to choose in the event that a renter is involved in a mishap, their leased vehicle is stolen, or it sustains damage. Personal accident insurance, collision damage waiver (CDW), full damage waiver, third-party insurance (TPI), theft waiver, fire protection (FPI), and tyre insurance are just some of the many insurance options that are made available to anyone who rents a car on the island of Crete. It is possible for coverage specifics and restrictions to shift over time due to the fact that every rental company and insurance policy is unique.
Venetian Fortezza Castle: History, Tour and Car Rental Guide
The Venetian Fortezza Castle is one of the wonderful tourist destinations in Greece. It is a Venetian stronghold, known as “Castrum Rethemi'' which means “old castle”, located on the hill of Paleokastro in the town of Rethymnon in Crete. The popular tourist destination, the Venetian Fortezza Castle, has undergone partial restoration and preservation as a cultural heritage monument. The walls, bastions, and structures of the castle are capable of being explored by guests. The castle holds cultural events including musical performances and theatrical productions along with exhibitions and art fairs. The Fortezza Castle is a remarkable historical artefact and a tribute to the Venetians' military prowess and architectural prowess.
Top 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Crete
Crete, the largest island in Greece, is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the island's rich history and cultural heritage. Palace of Knossos, Palace of Phaistos, Palace of Malia, Palace of Kydonia, and Palace of Zakros are all Bronze Age Minoan palace complexes that offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and cultures of the ancient Minoan civilization. These palaces feature stunning architectural design, intricate frescoes, and other artefacts that attest to the advanced nature of the Minoans. The gorge of Samaria, and the Spinalonga Fortress are included in the list of sites in Crete that are full of history. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Crete provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore one of the world's earliest civilizations and to appreciate the contributions that such a remarkable culture made to human history. These top Unesco sites in Crete are witnesses to the impressive Minoan civilizations that left a tremendous impact on the life and culture of Crete.
Mount IDA (Psiloritis) Crete: History, Hiking, Tour and Car Rental Guide
Mount Ida, also known by many as Psiloritis, is the tallest mountain in Crete. It has a height of 2,456 meters or 8,058 feet in elevation. The mountain is situated in Greece’s Rethymno region. The mountains were considered divine in the early days of Minoans and Greek mythology. It was the home of the Goddess, where she hid her son from his monstrous husband. Nymphs and good demons were also situated in the mountain. They were entrusted by the Goddess to protect and care for her son. Moreover, in the modern-day, Mount Ida has become the most hiking place in Crete. Tourists love to conquer the height of the mountain and to see places with mythical stories. Also, the best vehicle to ride around the attractions of Mount Ida, while listening to the mythical stories and legends, is a car. It allows tourists to reach and explore all the attractions in Mount Ida.
Kotsifou Gorge: History, Trekking, Tour, and Car Rental guide
Kotsifou Gorge is a gorge on the southern side of the western part of the island of Crete. It is noted for the high number of Cretan endemic plant species that grow in the area. The road in Kotsifou Gorge runs through a narrow slit in the mountains. It is located west of the mountain of Kouroupa, north of the town of Plakias. It is on the road between Sellia and Angouseliana.
A Guide to Sarakina Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
The Sarakina Gorge has a length of 1.5 kilometres, and its width ranges from 3 to 10 metres. The borders of Sarakina Gorge reach a height of 150 kilometres. The narrow wall of the gorge makes the visit impressive. Krypotamis river flows all year in the gorge. The name Sarakina comes from the locals' faith. The locals believed that Saracenes used to hide there. The locals named the gorge Saranyapihos. Sarakina Meskla is a gorge in the village of Meskla, in Chania. The majestic rock formations are highly impressive and worth the time to visit. Tourists and visitors love the landscape that changes after the first 10-minute hike to boulders of limestones. It is an incredible sight and a true miracle of nature. The beautiful scenery of the gorge receives high ratings from tourists. The tourists enjoy its well-maintained trail with a perfect viewpoint at the top. The Sarakina Gorge is popular with its amazing rock formations and tranquil silence. It takes an average of 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete the trail with a moderate level of difficulty.
A Guide to Patsos Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
In the region of Sivritos, the Patsos Gorge, which is commonly referred to as the St. Antonios Gorge, is found to the north of the settlement of Patsos. Patsos Gorge is located in the Rethymno region of Crete, about 37 kilometres southwest of the city of Rethymno. The gorge is located in the foothills of the White Mountains, and is part of the Patsos Natural Park. There are several trails that run through the gorge, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. The length of the gorge is around 5 kilometres, and it takes approximately two and a half hours to travel through it. It becomes a little challenging at some points in the process. Patsos gorge has a very lush and shaded ravine, and there is a tiny river that flows through it continually throughout the year. There are some breathtaking rocks, and right at the beginning is where visitors get to see the cave church of St. Antonio. Hiking is one of the main activities in Patsos Gorge, and there are several trails to choose from. The most popular trail is the one that leads to the Cave of Agios Antonios, which is located at the top of the gorge. The trail is about 3 kilometres long and takes about an hour to hike. Hikers are able to see stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and lush vegetation along the way. Patsos Gorge is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Crete. One way to reach the gorgeous gorge is by renting a private car through several car rental companies in Crete. The drive from Rethymno to Patsos Gorge takes about 45 minutes, and the roads are well-maintained.
A Guide to Kritsa Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
Krista is a narrow gorge found on the route to Tapes or to Lato near the village of Kritsa. The gorge of Krista begins at the northeastern exit of the historical community of Krista and ends up at a flat area 2.5 km to the north. Kritsa gorge begins a little north of the village and ends after 13 km at the village of Tapes. Kritsa is clinging to the wild mountain range of Dikti and the upper village is a maze of narrow, car-free alleys and an ambience of peace. It is easily accessible with a few points that need attentiveness, where hikers have to climb over some big rocks. Kritsa gorge is 6.5 km in length. The average walking time in Kritsa gorge is between 2.5 to 3 hours of hiking. The first section of the gorge is ideal for trekking. It is 2.5 kilometres long and requires approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to pass through and return to Kritsa. The elevation difference between the entrance and the outlet of the gorge is approximately 200 metres. From Agios Nikolaos, the village of Krista is less than 10 km in distance. The scenery inside the gorge is surpassing. The watercourse is thick with plane trees, oak trees, oleanders, and many kinds of plants that are endemic to Crete.
A Guide to Karteros Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
The Karteros Gorge is considered to be an enchanting area. The Karteros Gorge is well-known for having a nature-centred ambiance, amazing myths, and rich culture. Karteros Gorge is described to be filled with green views, springs, and small lakes. On the other hand, the rock formations in the surroundings leave visitors with an astonishing impression. The Karteros Gorge is an area that lies 1.5 kilometres east of the city of Heraklion. The gorge does not stand on its own, since it is a component of a much larger group of gorges and gorges. It is a part of a wider geological complex together with Astrakiano Gorge and Kounaviano Gorge. The Karteros Gorge has five primary entrances that tourists are allowed to take. These five entrances include Karteros village, Aitania village, Ag. Paraskies, Kato Astrakoi, and the flatland of Peza. There are tons of things found in the Karteros Gorge that represent its past civilisations very well, such as the watermill system, ruins of Basilica, and the church of Panagia, among others.
A Guide to Pefki Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
The Pefki Gorge is a scenic gorge in Crete, Greece, known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. The Pefki Gorge is a deep and narrow gorge in Crete, Greece, characterised by its rugged and varied landscapes, unique geology, and rich plant and animal life. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Here is a brief guide to Pefki Gorge: The best way to explore the Pefki Gorge and its surroundings is by car. A recommended car rental company in Crete is "Rental Center Crete - Car hire", which provides reliable, affordable, and well-maintained vehicles. The gorge has been a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts for many years, attracting visitors from all over the world with its stunning views, vibrant flora, and fauna. There are several maps available online that highlight the different hiking trails in the Pefki Gorge, along with their levels of difficulty, distance, and scenic beauty. The most popular activity in the Pefki Gorge is hiking, with many visitors coming to explore the various trails, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience the unique geology and vegetation of the area.
Gorge of the Dead: Hiking, Tour and Car Rental Guide
The Gorge of the Dead or Zakros Gorge is located near the village of Ano Zakros, where the trail starts. The Gorge of the Dead ends in the small town of Kato Zakros. The gorge derived its name from the burial grounds found in its caves. During the Minoan period, the gorge was used by the Minoans as a resting place for the dead, hence the name “Gorge o the Dead”. Despite its name, the Gorge of the Dead remained a beautiful place frequented by visitors. Hiking is prominent in the area. The Gorge of the Dead is easily accessible. Anyone is welcome to explore the historical gorge. The Gorge of the Dead is considered an easy hike for many. One doesn’t have to be an experienced hiker to be able to hike through the gorge.
A Guide to Aposelemis Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
Aposelemis Gorge is situated in Analipsi and exits at the settlements of Agriana close to Hersonissos in Crete, Greece. Aposelemis Gorge is the most extensive and significant geological Gorge in the northern part of Heraklion and eastern Crete. It is known as “Vulture Gorge”. The Gorge starts at an altitude of 120 metres near Xerokamares Village and directs west of the Agrianá Village to the coast. The small and tight valley is the primary part of the Gorge, while the slopes in the centre are high, with 200 metres and the part close to the Agrianá Village are low hills. The Gorge was made years ago by the shepherds and, today, is still used every day. The elevation gain of Aposelemis is 315 feet (96.01 metres), while the elevation loss is 59 feet (17.98 metres). The maximum elevation of Aposelemis Gorge is 349 feet (106.38 m), while the minimum height is 89 feet (27.13 metres). Aposelemis is possible to hike. The hike is about 8 kilometres to 10 kilometres. The trek difficulty level of Aposelemis Gorge is easy to moderate. Aposelemis Gorge is traversed by the Aposelemis River; However, the water in the Gorge appears after heavy rain. In addition, throughout the rainy season, the river at higher altitudes has water, and the reason behind that is the phyllite rocks. The Gorge has a wall of up to 200 metres and various rock shelters. The purpose of the shepherds on why they built Aposelemis Gorge was to easily navigate their sheep and goats from the mountains back to the valley. The name of the Aposelemis or Abou Selim is an Arabic word that Crete still preserves. Perhaps, it was derived from the name of an Arab who functioned in the region during the Arab occupation. One of the things that makes the Aposelemis exceptional is the abundant flora and fauna. Some trees and plants that grow in Aposelemis are sycamore and walnut trees, while some of the animals that live here are rabbits, pigeons, hedgehogs, and martens.
Spinalonga Castle: History, Tour and Car Rental Guide
Spinalonga Castle is located on an island in the gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete. According to Venetian documents, the name of the island originated from a Greek expression. The Venetians could not understand the expression, and they familiarised it using their language. They called it spina, which means “thorn”, and longa, meaning “long”. The strategic location of the place made it a very important port and base. Spinalonga remained under Venetian rule even after the rest of Crete was occupied by the Ottomans. However, in 1715, the Ottomans managed to conquer the island but eventually left in 1903. In the first decades of the 20th century, Spinalonga Castle served as a leper colony. During those times, leprosy was a serious illness and there is still no available medicine to cure it. By the year 1948, the first drug to treat leprosy was discovered. Patients on the “Greek Leper Island” began to be treated, and until the last one left in 1957. The leprosarium then was permanently closed. Today, the island is a popular tourist attraction in Crete. Spinalonga Castle is known for its small pebbled beaches and shallow waters. A beautiful novel, called “The Island”, told the story of Spinalonga. It made people more curious about the fascinating history of Spinalonga Castle. It was once called the “grave of the living”, but it is now the second most visited archaeological site in Crete.
