Chania is one of the hidden paradises of the Greek island of Crete on its northwest coast. Its magnificent 14th century Venetian port is one of its most acclaimed tourist attractions. However, strolling through its narrow streets or enjoying dinner or lunch in one of its restaurants facing the sea is a marvel. The port's lighthouse dates back to the 16th century and its structure is influenced by Egyptian, Ottoman and Venetian architecture. If you like what you are reading about this great city, you will enjoy the villages near Chania.
The charm of the villages near Chania
The word charm is an understatement when defining the magic that you will find in these privileged locations. The villages near Chania are imbued in their DNA with the history, tradition and style of the mists of the Mediterraneanthat sweeps through every inch of this Greek island. After a tour through these wonderful villages, you will notice the hospitality of their people and their unique beauty. One of the most outstanding towns in the area is Vamos. If you visit the village in July, you can enjoy the biggest jazz festival in Crete.
It is also a town full of interesting stores and taverns. A visit to its cheese factory is a must. Vamos also stands out for its architecture. The 13th century chapel of the Virgin Mary together with the Karydi Monastery are two of its most precious jewels. From this village, we move on to Douliana. It is a very special town. It has only 40 houses and about 200 inhabitants. It is located 100 meters above sea level and has a central square that exudes a unique atmosphere. However, one of its main attractions is the short walks. The best of them is the one you can do up to Gavalohori forest.
And we continue from Gavalohori. This town is very special. It has paved streets, stone houses and churches that are characteristic of the area. However, it stands out for its traditional coffee shops. It has a folk museum where you can delight yourself with local costumes or ancient coins. In this town, ancestral traditions are kept alive. Thus, the Women's Cooperative runs a store where they sell lace with Byzantine roots, called kopaneli.
Enjoy yourself by the sea
Although you won't miss the sea in this getaway through the villages near Chania, one of the best alternatives to enjoy the sea is Kalyves. This beautiful village stands out because it has a new area and an old one. Therefore, it combines tradition and modernity. And, in addition, it has a wonderful beach before you reach it that you can't miss. On your route through the villages near Chania you can't miss Fres. It is a municipality that is about 220 meters above sea level, surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. It was built in the foothills of the White Mountains.
As in almost all the villages near Chania, Fres has its main activity in the village square. However, on the outskirts of this locality there is a special place. It is the church of Panagia of the Two Rocks. It has the peculiarity of having been built on a rock that fell and that, curiously, was near another rock. And we end our trip in Vrises. This town is all about nature. It is located in a green valley full of water streams. In fact, its name means springs.
It has bridges, taverns and riverside cafes. One of its most striking bridges dates back to Greco-Roman times and is on the road to Rethymno in the east of the municipality. This village is very close to Crete's only natural lake, Lake Kourna.
And, in addition, it has a rich gastronomy. You can't leave there without tasting their antikristo, a lamb that is cooked next to the flames. Of course, this meal has to be in a Cretan tavern while listening to traditional music.
Are you ready?
It’s impossible not to want to get in the car and enjoy the villages that are close to Chania. To make it happen, OK Mobility offers you a fleet of cars that will take you to these beautiful places. All you have to worry about is getting to Chania airport and we will be waiting for you there. Contact us for more information.
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