The most beautiful Beaches of Western Crete
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The most Beautiful Beaches of Western Crete
The touristic mess on the outskirts of Chania, the third major city of the north coast of Crete, ends up in Gerani.
There are good beaches around Kolimbari where you can admire also the Moni Gonias monastery, a beautiful ochre building with carved balconies.
The archaeological site of Falassarna presents a pleasant and huge sandy beach.
Two images of Falassarna: beach and bay
The beaches in Sfinari are with dark gray stones and you will notice huge gaudy signs for free camping that will lead you to a little bay where two restaurants have equipped a space with water and facilities to give hospitality to the campers who want to stop.
The most beautiful sea in Crete can be found in Gramvousa (Balos) where you can get to only with a daily visit by boat from Kissamos or following a dirt road for 10 Km (not with the scooter!) and coming down by foot along a beautiful path. From the top you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay and the little island of Gramvousa. There is no shade and only a small bar at the end of the beach. This gem of the Mediterranean makes you think you are at the Tropics!
The spectacular lagoon Balos
In Elafonisi, according to the map, we would expect to find at least a village; on the contrary there is only the famous beach, crowded with bathers.
The impact, especially during high season, may not be so good but then you will find that in front of you there is an island you can easily reach by foot. It will offer relaxing and hidden spots.
The wonderful lagoon of Elafonisi in Crete
If you prefer to stay on the sandy shore there is enough space and you can even find the shadow of a tree or a large bush, while two beach bars offer excellent fresh sandwiches and drinks at un-touristic prices: in 2008 a bottle of water cost only 80 cents and cans of soda 1 euro. In addition, the shower is free.
Also the village of Paleochora in the south-east of the island is nice and out of the usual routes. Here you can choose between a pebble beach with calm seas and a sandy beach where the sea is often more rough. In the evening the centre of the village is closed to traffic and you can eat at the local tavernas with the tables laid on the street.
Two images of the village of Paleochora and its pebble beach
Do not miss a visit to Frangokastello, a fortress built by the Venetians to defend themselves against the pirates and also the rebels of Sfakia, the coastal village well known for its combative reputation.
The fortress is still well preserved and has a beach with crystalline warm water – an ideal place for families with children.
Frangokastello
The Orthodox monastery of Moni Preveli was built during the Venetian occupation and is still operative. Just 1 km to the east you will find the beautiful lagoon of Preveli with crystalline water, palm trees and a river that reaches the sea. It is possible to get there by car, continuing by foot along a footpath.
The famous Preveli Beach
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Archaeology
The Palace of Knossos in Crete
Archaeological Museum of Heraklion in Crete
The Nature
The most beautiful Beaches of Eastern Crete
The most beautiful Beaches of Western Crete