Crete, a large island in the south Aegean Sea, is much loved by many travelers.
It has famous places to visit such as Chania’s Venetian Harbor, Elafonisi with its pink sand beaches and the impressive palace of Knossos which draws lots of tourists.
Beyond the famous attractiveness, there are many other places not so well known that offer a genuine experience of Crete.
Shall we explore seven such locations close to Chania?
1. Agios Pavlos Sand Dunes
South from the town of Chania, you will find a place where sand dunes roll and make a strong contrast with the rough mountains of Crete.
The Agios Pavlos sand dunes have a charm that reminds one of deserts. Walk up to the high place for a wide look at the Libyan Sea and faraway Gavdos Island, then go down to the sand where people like to windsurf and fly kites.
When evening comes, the hills of sand get covered in soft colors – it is an image that will stay with you.
2. Ancient Aptera
People who love history, be happy. Hidden on a hill with views of Souda Bay are the old ruins of Aptera, which take you back to ancient times.
This strong city from Minoan, Greek and Roman times holds old pieces of temples, a theater place and detailed water storage systems that show how important it used to be.
When you walk among the broken walls, it feels like you can almost hear the soft sounds of history – there’s a feeling like time has stopped here.
Getting to Ancient Aptera
Aptera can be reached without trouble from Chania. When you rent a car, it allows for traveling around as per your own timing. If you would rather not drive, reserve a transfer or join a planned tour to enjoy without any trouble.
How to Get Around Crete
Since we brought up the topic of transportation, let’s pause our discussion about places to visit and instead focus on arranging your travel. You have several choices available for this purpose. You might want to try all of them if you wish to fully experience your journey.
- Renting a car could be the most sensible choice because it gives you complete freedom and allows you to discover places at your own pace, especially useful for getting to areas that are harder to reach.
- Taxis are a good choice for traveling from one place to another. You can book them through your hotel or find them at designated taxi stands.
- Organized Tours: Travel without stress, usually with a guide who knows much about history and culture.
- Book Chania Airport Transfers for a smooth start and finish to your journey. Professionals take care of the most demanding parts of travel. Choose services that provide child seats and extras you might require.
3. Kalypso Beach
This little hidden bay, located on the Akrotiri peninsula, is like a pass to paradise. Kalypso Beach represents peace – think of water that is very clear, sand soft like powder and green cliffs embracing the beachside.
The place is away from the usual paths, making it feel like you are escaping. Take your snorkel and make friends with the colorful sea creatures underwater.
4. Theriso Gorge
If you love natural beauty that is rough and wild, then Theriso Gorge will capture your heart. It’s not far by car from Chania and cuts deeply into the White Mountains. Walk among high cliffs, various plants, and sometimes mountain goats.
Near the journey’s end is Theriso, an old village known for its part in Crete’s history of resistance movements which gives more interest to your trip.
5. Loutro: Coastal Escape
The small seaside town of Loutro, which you can reach only by taking a ferry or going on a strong walk, is the ideal place to escape. Situated in a sheltered cove with no cars allowed, Loutro attracts visitors with its white-painted homes, easy-going restaurants and clear blue sea.
Go swimming, paddle a kayak, or enjoy the relaxed speed of life on the island. When you must go back, take a ferry to Chania or Sfakia and see Loutro become a small beautiful memory.
6. Diktamos Gorge
Adventure seekers, take note! Diktamos Gorge, near Chania, is an exhilarating challenge. The journey requires good physical condition and a desire for wild places. Slim pathways, climbing over rocks, and the abundant variety of plants and animals create an experience that stays in your memory.
As you overcome the deep valley, a feeling of victory spreads through you, and Crete’s wild beauty becomes deeply authentic.
7. Sfendoni Cave
The last place we visit is Sfendoni Cave, a real natural marvel. It is close to Zoniana village and has amazing stalactites and stalagmites shaped over thousands of years. Explore rooms filled with light, where every space shows different shapes that ignite your thoughts.
This beauty from another world is very different compared to the sunny beaches, displaying the many sides of Crete’s attractiveness.
