Vamos

The town dates back to the 12th Century, and has at times served as the administrative centre for the area. It is now popular as a destination where traditional living and crafts are maintained. The village boasts several high quality tavernas, and even has an ostrich farm!

Kalyves

This very large village is unspoilt by tourism. The present day village incorporates the two older villages that previously existed under Turkish rule. If you enjoy old architecture, or just a a relaxed peaceful day, this village is worth exploring.

Gavalochori

A great village located in a sheltered basin surrounded by hills. Hours can be spent exploring all the little streets, enjoying the several tavernas and visiting the local folklore museum, church of Agios Pavlos, Venetian wells, Roman tombs, 18th century olive press, and the women's lace making association.

Litsarda to Koustouriana

An interesting route that takes you through several traditional villages which are all worth the time to simply walk around and explore, from Litsarda, through semi-deserted Souri, Selia with it's hilltop church, Likotinara and ending at Koustouriana which boasts a fabulous lookout point over the coast with views stretching east beyond Rethymno.

Kalyves

The village has two excellent sandy beaches. The eastern beach is the most popular because it is in the village. The western beach is quieter and is about 1km away from the village. Plenty of beach bars for refreshments.

Almyrida

Close to the mouth of Souda Bay, the small sandy beach in Almyrida is naturally protected by it's headland. Usually very calm with shallow water. The beach is popular with locals and holiday makers alike. Good selection of bars, tavernas and kafenion for refreshments.

Georgioupolis

The longest sandy beach in Western Crete, running to 9km. Away from the village you can still find very quite spots. Nearer the town, there are plenty of places to obtain refreshments.

Ombriogolas

Not a beach at all, infact there is no sand in sight. If a spot of snorkelling takes your fancy, then the drive to Ombriogolas is well worth it. The secluded bay is rocky and provides an ideal home for marine life. The taverna on the jetty is a great place to chill out after a refreshing swim.

Vamos

With a good handful of traditional tavernas, kafenion and modern bars; there is usually a mix of local traditional entertainment to be found in the town. The Art Cafe is always worth a visit - especially to take in the views over the town towards the sea.

Kalyves

A popular holiday town with a plethora of traditional and modern bars, tavernas and a couple of late night music spots and nightclubs.

Chania

The full range of entertainment options can be found in the city from quite bars, live music, traditional dance, theatre, and of course night clubs. The area around the Old Harbour is very popular with the locals during the earlier part of the evening.

Sterna tou Bloumofisi, Vamos

Only 10 minutes walk from The Views! Famed for it's authentic wood-burning ovens this family run taverna serves a wide menu of traditional Cretan specialities. Considered to be in the Top 10 tavernas in Crete!

Ta Douliana, Douliana

This typical village taverna is centrally located in the tiny hamlet of Douliana - a short drive from The Views. The menu changes daily and is focused on hearty local cooking. Try the lamb in lemon sauce!

Kafenees Gavalianos, Gavalochori

Don't miss this shady and cool kafenion located in the plateia (village square) in Gavalochori. This popular year-round traditional family-run kafenion serves authentic Cretan dishes using locally grown produce.

Psaros Taverna, Almyrida

Traditional 'blue & white' beach front taverna in Almyrida. A wide choice of traditional snacks and meals for all times of the day. Get there in good time to enjoy the romantic sunset views!

Spoilt for choice!

Throughout the area you'll find good eating places, if the locals are eating there, it's usually good. The popular holiday villages of Almyrida and Kalyves have several good quality tavernas serving fresh fish and local meat dishes, or if you fancy somewhere away from the crowds Gavalochori, Armeni and of course, Vamos are worth trying.

If you are eating out in Chania, try Tamam, Ela, Dino's or Karnagio - all of them are considered to be among the best available in the city.

Well, what do you want to do?

You can relax and do nothing, or you could take advantage of any of the many local activities, such as:

• guided walking/trekking
• guided nature trails
• learn traditional local cooking
• cycling (bike hire can be arranged)
• swimming
• water sports (just turn up on the beach and choose)
• clay pigeon shooting (local shooting guide available)
• motorcyle trail riding (bike hire and guide available)
• snorkelling
• diving (PADI dive clubs nearby)
• horseriding (centres nearby)

Ask us for details, we'll be glad to provide details and make recommendations.

Car Hire

For car hire we recommend Flisvos Tours - their cars are always clean, inside and out; reliable and the support is excellent. They have an office at the Chania Airport and local offices in nearby Kalyves and Almyrida.

Regional Walks

We can recommend Faragi Tours - excellent local walks to suit all abilities as well as some more arduous walks for the more adventerous. Reasonable prices and transport provided.