Seitan Limani Beach in Crete. Photo: Shutterstock Not all of you know that for a short period of time in history, Crete was an independent country. The largest island in Greece, it operated as an autonomous entity in the early 20th century. But despite the union with Greece, and not just because of its size, in Crete you will find endless experiences and amazing natural attractions, with one of the best tips being not to try to "devour" it all in one trip.
Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKTherefore, it's good that in addition to flights to Heraklion in the center-east of the island. Chania is an excellent starting point for a variety of trips to the west of the island and the southwest, and here are some particularly worthwhile recommendations.
The city of Chania was built on the ruins of ancient Cydonia, about 5,000 years ago. In the 14th century, the Venetian harbor was built, the massive walls of which can still be seen in the old city. Although the "new" and modern city is not one of the most impressive in Greece, the old city is still well preserved, well-kept and inviting.
Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKAllow yourself to get lost among the narrow alleys, where you can also find small, affordable hotels at good prices and relatively cheap Airbnb apartments.
The alleys of the old city in Crete. Photo: ShutterstockThe port itself is very commercial and lined with tourist restaurants. However, it should be noted that most of them are good to very good and even if they seem too touristy, the food is usually delicious and fresh.
The entire island is characterized by spectacular beaches with white sands and clear waters. But in western Crete you can find the Balos Lagoon, which looks more like the beautiful beaches of the Maldives, and less like Greece. Getting there is a bit complicated, but yes, the pictures are real, and the colors are dramatic and amazing.
Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKOther beaches worth visiting include Seitan Limnia, located behind Chania airport. Getting there is not easy either, and the descent is steep and not suitable for everyone. If you came by sporty, you will get to reach the small, breathtaking stretch of beach. Don't forget a snorkel or diving goggles because the underwater life here is particularly turbulent. A little tip: arrive in the morning, even if the sun is still too lazy to settle in the middle of the sky, to take a spot.
Seitan Limani Beach in Crete. Photo: ShutterstockOther beautiful beaches are Plassarena and Elafonisi, the latter known for its pink sand, which comes from Africa and colors the beach in a unique way. The beach asks in every word not to collect sand in bottles.
In western Crete you will also find picturesque towns and authentic Greek villages with perfect tavernas. A southern town that seems to be stuck somewhere in the 80s is Paleochora . Here too you will find nice beaches (some of which are clothing optional), different types of scenery from the usual island landscape, a kind of interesting hippie retreat town.
Paleochera, Crete. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKOther villages worth visiting are OMALOS on the mountains with a breathtaking view of the sea and the cliffs, Ano Vouves where you will find the oldest olive tree in the world, estimated to be between 3,000 and 4,000 years old (!), which is still used today as part of the Olympic torch route, Olympic uniforms, and LOUTRO , the unique and isolated fishing village that can only be accessed by ferry and not by any type of transportation.
One of the open secrets of western Crete are the gorges, hiking trails that are also water-based for part of the year (in the summer they usually dry up completely). Although this is a network of marked and regulated trails, it is recommended to go on guided hikes due to the fear of falls and injuries along the way.
Samaria Gorge, Crete. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKThe most famous of these is SAMARIA GORGE, a long and difficult hiking trail. Please note that there is no cell phone reception in many of the gorges.