Experience Crete
The west of the island, as we know it
Six places we send every guest to, from a five-minute walk to a full day on the road. Ask us for the version without the crowds — we will tell you when to go.
Five minutes away
Almyrida
A shallow, sheltered bay with tavernas along the waterfront and warm, glass-clear water — the easiest swim in Apokoronas and the place most guests end up every evening.
Village life
Gavalochori
Cobbled lanes, a Venetian well, a folklore museum and a kafenio where the same men have taken the same seats for forty years. Authentic Crete without the drive.
Thirty minutes
Chania Old Town
The Venetian harbour, the lighthouse at dusk, and a labyrinth of ochre alleys hiding leather workshops, wine bars and some of the finest cooking on the island.
Day trip
Balos Beach
A wild lagoon of pink sand and impossible turquoise at the island's north-western tip, reached by boat from Kissamos or a rough track and a walk down.
Day trip
Elafonissi
A protected islet of shell-pink sand and knee-deep water at the south-western edge of Crete. Go early, stay for the light on the way back through the gorges.
Twenty-five minutes
Lake Kournas
The island's only freshwater lake, held in a bowl of mountains. Pedal boats, quiet shade under the plane trees and lunch looking back at the White Mountains.