In the Area

Almirida and Kalives are situated in the Apokoronas region to the east of Chania which is where our Villa is situated.  Apokoronas is one of the most picturesque areas of the province of Chania with attractive villages dotted all around. The main village of the region is Vamos where you will find full facilities including a 24 hour health centre.

The White Mountains dominate the area and provide a dramatic backdrop to our Villa and the sandy beaches at Almirida and Kalives.  Villa Petra is situated slightly inland, a little bit removed from the tourist area, in one of the most sought after traditionally Cretan locations but with beaches and the sea close at hand.

The large bay that makes up the seaside resorts of Almirida and Kalives has many separate, safe, sandy beaches, usually with full facilities. Almirida, once a fishing village is now a thriving seaside resort with a windsurfing school and tavernas and bars lining the sea front. There are a couple of mini-markets, a bakery, patisserie, a wine shop and a newsagents. Mountain bikes can be hired and there is also a small taxi rank. The Almirida Beach Hotel is open to non residents and has internet facilities as well as a 10 pin bowling lane.  At the entrance to Almirida archaeologists discovered an ancient Mosaic which belongs to the 5th century. Other archaeological finds have been unearthed about 10 minutes away at Aptera, between Kalives and Chania.

Kalives is a working village as well as being a tourist destination so in addition to the beaches, tavernas, bars and tourist shops you will find many local shops as well as a fairly big supermarket of the INKA chain. Banking, post office, pharmacy and petrol station facilities are available in Kalives.

Plaka – approx 25 kms east of Chania and just above above Almirida; once a sleepy place of approx 250 inhabitants, Plaka has grown over the last few years as people have discovered its charms and moved into the area. You could come to Plaka for a holiday and never move out of the village because it has everything you need, a petrol station, well stocked mini markets, tavernas and a couple of bars that are popular with locals and tourists alike. The area around Plaka has so much to offer that it would be a shame not to explore the other local villages. There are many marked walks and pathways in the immediate area. Local transport and taxis are available in Almirida.

Kokkino Chorio - Just a few minutes drive up the hill from Plaka, Kokkino Chorio is famous for its part in the filming of Zorba The Greek; nearly all the village participated. Anthony Quinn is still talked about in the village kafenions!! There's a fine traditional taverna in the village square. The village boasts some of the most stunning views out to sea and has deservedly become a desirable location both for permanent residence and as a holiday destination. There is a glass blowing factory in the village with a shop and a café – don’t forget to re-cycle your bottles.

Gavalochori - The historical village of Gavalochori is situated just a few kms inland from Almirida, on the road to Vamos and was named after the Byzantine family Gavalodon who lived there about 1200AD. The village has many old buildings which are being lovingly restored and make this village much sought after. In the centre of the village is a shop exhibiting traditional arts and crafts of the local women. There is also a folklore museum. Kafenion and tavernas edge the village square inviting you to sit and to pass the time away.

Walking in the area around Almirida and Kalives - there is a great deal to interest walkers in this lush area. Extending about 10 kms  or so inland it is rich in olive and citrus groves, pasture lands and tiny hamlets rarely visited by tourists. In the spring-time, the fields, groves and tracks abound in an endless variety of flora including many species which are endemic to Crete.  Keen birdwatchers will find a large number of local as well as migratory birds to see, ranging from tiny warblers to large buzzards and even the odd kite!