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Exploring Crete: Go West 

01.07.2024

If you start from Nautilux and head to the west part of Chania prefecture, you will meet an extended sandy beach of eleven kilometers. Part of this beautiful beach is the famous Episkopi beach, which enchants every visitor with the majestic White Mountains in its background.

The end of the beach is the start of the lovely Georgioupoli village, where you can visit one of the oldest wood-fired ovens and taste one-of-a-kind goodies, such as the kneaded bread and the tasty rusks.

Right after the village, the small beach named Kalyvaki is reached by two rivers. It’s exceptionally safe, ideal for scuba-diving enthusiasts, and offers a spectacular worth-seeing view.

Lake Kournas

Lake Kournas

Another must seen place is the beautiful , the island’s only freshwater lake, renowned for its beauty and surrounding lush landscapes.

Enjoy leisurely walks along its shores, paddle boat rides and enjoy bites and drinks at one of the many tavernas around the lake.  

If you follow the old highway, you will be leaded to the olive press of the Kanakis family. If you wish to, you can visit it to see all the stages of the olive oil production.

The same region is also home to the small traditional dairy company of Karkanis family. All their products are organic and made from mutton and goat milk. Here, you will be able to taste high-quality dairy products like yoghurt. You will also learn how the products are produced and various information about the cheese maturation.

At this point you have three options

  1. The first one is to move southeast of the White Mountains and reach the altitude of 900m in the area of Askifos, passing through a unique landscape and crossing one of the largest gorges of Crete, the gorge of Imvros. Then you will find yourself on the south side of the island for a swim in the Libyan Sea, or you can just enjoy the route and the magnificent views of the rich coastline. There is also the option for a boat trip (which we can arrange in advance along with excellent local food, whichever our previous stops are).
  2. Another option is to continue moving west and reach the beautiful city of Chania, to wander through its narrow streets and its beautiful town, and walk around the picturesque Venetian harbour!
  3. Your third option is to head to the Apokoronas area with the several small traditional villages and enjoy your coffee along with the local delicacies. The greenery here is very lush and the beautiful combination of the laced coastline and the picturesque architecture will capture your eyes instantly. If you continue west you will reach Balos.
Balos

Balos