The Apokoronas Area

The district of Apokoronas in the north-eastern corner of the Chania region lies at the foot of the White Mountains and is one of the greenest areas of Crete. It contains some interesting sights, such as Lake Kournas, the island's only freshwater lake, picturesque villages and small beach resorts, archaeological sites, monuments and wonderful countryside.

From January 1st, 2011 Apokoronas forms a new administration unity under the Kallikratis law.

Villages near to Gavalohori

Aspro

Aspro is an ancient village which had a turkish name until just 30 years ago and there are many homes and stone details in Aspro which identify its Turkish past. It is a small peaceful village with countryside of outstanding natural beauty. Its narrow winding roads and beautiful restorations make it a unique village in this area. Aspro is situated high on a hillside between Almirida and the historic village of Gavalohori and is a 5 minute drive to Almirida’s golden sandy beach
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Drapanos

Drapanos is a sleepy, peaceful hamlet set in the hills and is an 8 minute drive from Almirida’s popular blue flag beach. It has stunning views of the White Mountains and sea views from the North side of the village. Facilities in the village consist of a supermarket, a taverna and a kafenion. The neighboring village of Palleloni is home to two fresh seafood tavernas that are reached by following narrow, winding roads all the way down to the shore, offering views as far as Rethymno.

Almyrida

Not so long ago Almyrida was a fishing village and a weekend retreat for people visiting from Chania and the surrounding areas. Over the past few years Almyrida has slowly grown into a small resort with an expanding number of accommodation facilities and other tourism services. Despite this change, Almyrida has remained popular with Cretans and many use it for their weekend breaks. Still Almyrida has managed to maintain a laid back, friendly atmosphere. The area has been just developed the last ten years, in a way that the traditional characteristics which attracts the most demanding guests. Holidays in Almyrida are popular with families, couples and nature lovers. Almyrida holidays are slowly becoming more established with travel agencies, but Almyrida remains relatively quiet and unspoilt, and the atmosphere is still low key than many of the more well known resorts in Crete.

Kokkino Horio

Kokkino Horio is considered one of the most scenic areas in the region with fantastic views of the snow covered mountains in the winter and unobstructed sea views all the way down Souda Bay. Out over the Bay on a clear night the sunsets are incredibly beautiful, a must for the romantic hearted. At the end of the village along the coast, there is a small cove with a secluded beach which lies next to a cave. This area was used as the setting for parts of the film “Zorba the Greek” and was also a stronghold of the Germans during World War II. Kokkino Chorio’s elevated position at the entrance to Souda Bay made it an ideal watch tower and observation point. It is located just minutes from the villages of Plaka, Almirida, Gavalohori and Kalives while the Venetian town of Hania is just a 30 minute drive.

Vamos

Vamos is the former administrative area of the Apokoronas district and is a large, traditional village with many restored homes. The village offers a wide variety of services such as a district court, post office, bank, OTE-the Greek phone company, police station, pharmacy and a 24-hour health centre. It also has several tavernas and cafes and the area is known for its hospitable and friendly people. According to unverified historical sources, Vamos may have first been inhabited by Saracen pirates in the 8th century A.D. A traditional stone road still runs through the village and a walk down it is of great interest. Today, because of its year round activities it has become a village known for its rich heritage. Vamos is an ideal starting point for hikes to the surrounding hills where one can enjoy their rich flora and fauna and the village hosts the only pine woods in the area.

Kambia

Kambia is in a small village just 2km from Plaka. It has beautiful sea views across Souda Bay as well as stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding countryside. Set in a peaceful area with little development, Kambia is an ideal spot for a private home in a picturesque setting. The villages of Plaka, Kokkino Horio, Gavalohori and Almirida with its sandy beach are all just minutes away.

Xirosterni

Xirosterni is situalted midway between Vamos and Kefalas and is a traditional village with beautifully restored homes and a peaceful atmosphere. The approach to Xirosterni is through pine woods and the village itself is high on a hillside with sweeping views down towards Souda Bay. It is an ideal location for a private home for those seeking to live in a tranquil place yet close to local amenities. The historic village of Gavalohori is just a few minutes drive.