Frequently described as a paradise on Earth and included in lists with the best beaches around the globe year after year, today Elafonisi beach ranks #1 in our hearts, especially due to its natural beauty – it belongs, after all, to the Natura network!

Are you spending your holidays in Crete and thinking of visiting the mesmerizing pink Elafonisi beach yourself to enjoy the crystal-clear shallow turquoise waters?

Here’s everything you need to know before setting sail!

Can you drive to Elafonisi beach?

Although you can get to Elafonisi beach by car, please keep in mind that this is a rural area: the roads are fairly safe but mountainous and with quite a few turns, so speed is out of the question.

If you are not an experienced driver, or if you simply want to sit back and relax, taking in the view from the comfort of your backseat, it would be best to trust a professional driver/guide for your day trip to Elafonisi.

How to get to Elafonisi beach?

There are several ways to reach the popular beach, be it by car, public transportation, or a guided tour to save you the hustle.

More specifically, Elafonisi is located about 75 km southwest of the city of Chania, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. If you’re coming from Heraklion, it will take about 3 hours to reach the beach.

If you prefer public transportation, there are several buses that operate daily from Chania to Elafonisi during the summer months, although this trip would normally take more than 2 hours.

One of the best, fastest, and most stress-free ways to get to Elafonisi beach, Crete, is to book an Elafonisi beach tour with an experienced local travel agent!

Balos Travel has offered day tours to Elafonisi for many years now and has the insider’s info you’re looking for, including what’s the best time to get there, how much time you’ll need to spend on the beach before starting to get bored etc.

After careful planning and consideration, Balos Travel has created the ultimate Elafonisi day trip, only at 30€ per adult and 15 € per child (5-12 yrs old).

The tour includes pick up from your exact location (street, hotel, airbnb etc) and drop off, plus transportation services to the beach and an English-speaking guide with you at all times – one of the best ways to explore the area, for sure.

Now that you know how to get from Chania to Elafonisi beach, let’s dive deeper into what you can do there.

Why is Elafonisi worth visiting?

Elafonisi is undoubtedly worth visiting, and if you’ve seen at least one photo of the beach, you already know why! Still thinking about it? Here are 5 reasons why you should visit Elafonisi beach in Crete!

Reason #1: the pink sand

First and foremost, the beach is known for its unique pink sand, which is a result of the red coral fragments mixed with the white sand. The contrast of the pink sand against the turquoise waters is a sight to behold, and we’re certain it will sweep you off your feet.

Reason #2: its rare flora

Elafonisi beach is home to more than 100 rare plants, some of which are only found in this particular part of the world, including the summer sea daffodils and the winter-flowering bulb Androcymbium rechingeri.

It’s also worth mentioning that Elafonisi is part of the Natura 2000 network, classified as a nature reserve, meaning you should show the utmost respect while you’re here.

Reason #3: its natural beauty

The beach is known for its natural beauty, with several coves and rock formations dotting the landscape.

Although practically an island as its name suggests (nisi=island), Elafonisi is separated from the Cretan coast by a shallow lagoon and a sandbar going up to 1 meter deep under the water during high tide, meaning you can easily walk to the other side in no time.

Reason #4: great for families

The underwater sandbar that only submerges up to 1 meter deep makes the whole beach ideal for families with young children. The shallow waters are great for swimming, walking in the water, snorkelling, or even playing with the sand, without worrying about the tide.

Reason #5: a spot for everyone

Besides being great for families, the Elafonisi beach in Crete is ideal for all sorts of travelers.

Do you prefer organized beaches? On the mainland you will find hundreds of sunbeds and umbrellas, including facilities like toilets and canteens for coffee and snacks.

Looking for a romantic getaway? You can walk a little longer to the island part, until you find a more secluded cove to rest.

More into watersports? There is a Kite Surfing center offering classes for beginners, where you can also rent all the necessary equipment.

What to expect from your Elafonisi beach excursion

As already discussed, Elafonisi beach has sunbeds and umbrellas on the mainland part. However, if you’re visiting during the high summer season of July and August, the area will be rather crowded, so it’s always a good idea to have your own umbrella with you, too.

Please note there aren’t many trees around for natural shade, so as far as the Elafonisi beach weather is concerned, it gets a little hot!

The area also features a plethora of canteens for snacks, but unfortunately there are no restaurants directly on Elafonisi beach, so come prepared.

When is the best time to visit Elafonisi?

The best time to visit the popular beach is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather is warm and sunny, and the water is perfect for swimming and some Elafonisi beach snorkeling.

However, due to its popularity, the beach can get quite crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.

If you prefer a more peaceful experience, it’s recommended to visit Elafonisi during the shoulder season, in May or September. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the beach.

Where to stay near Elafonisi beach

Crete is a rather large island, and there are dozens – if not hundreds – of beaches and villages to visit if you want to make the most out of your trip.

If you book your stay in Chania, one of the largest cities on the island with its own airport, you will be able to travel to many different destinations within no time.

For example, you can get to Elafonisi beach from Chania in 1 hour and 30 minutes, to Knossos in about 2 hours, and to Samaria Gorge in approximately 1 hour.

Further reading: Samaria Gorge: The Definitive Hiking Guide for The Iconic Crete Location

Why should you book your trip to Elafonisi with Balos Travel?

Balos Travel is the ideal partner for your Elafonisi beach tour. Our team of experienced travel experts will take care of everything to ensure that your trip is stress-free and enjoyable.

Our transportation services are comfortable and reliable, and we’ll make sure that you arrive at the beach safely and on time. We also provide knowledgeable tour guides who will take you through the history and culture of the area, providing insights that will enhance your experience.

In the end, you can’t go wrong by visiting Elafonisi beach if you are in the area. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

Hopefully, we’ve been able to provide at least some insight into how Elafonisi beach actually is.

Its unique pink sand and turquoise waters make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so if you plan your vacation right this summer, you might just be able to soak up some of the magic that makes it such a special place.

And if you do, please let us know! Balos Travel offers beach tours to this paradise on Earth, providing a stress-free and enjoyable experience for travelers and tourists. Book your trip with us today and experience the beauty of Elafonisi for yourself!

Book Now

The route from Chania airport is 50km. Heading due west to Kissamos via highway E-75/65 Chania-Kissamos you reach Kissamos. If you need more info about contact us.

How to reach us from Souda port:

The route from Souda port is 45km. Heading due west to Kissamos via highway E-75/65 Chania-Kissamos you reach Kissamos.

How to reach us from Iraklion airport:

The route from Iraklion airport is 185km. Heading due west to Chania via highway 90E-75/65 Chania-Kissamos you reach Kissamos.

While entering Kissamos, go ahead for 1km and you will reach Alpha Bank (on your left) and National Bank (on your right),  you are on Eleftherios Venizelos Square. You will reach us at 30m straight at your left hand (next to the kiosk).

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS

Calling code  for  Greece 0030

If driving

The road network in the prefecture of Chania is good but the drivers are required to be cautious. The distances are short, yet the roads are mostly hazardous and have a lot of curves; therefore, driving is more difficult.

In Greece, driving is done on the right lane of the road therefore, the steering wheel and the driver’s seat are on the left side of the vehicle. The same traffic regulations are applied to Greece as in the USA and Europe. While driving, you have to abide by the right of way, whereas it is forbidden to overtake a vehicle through the right side for safety reasons. On a highway with 2 lanes at least, always drive on the inside lane letting the outside lane for those who drive at high speed.

All routes are measured in kilometers. Let the right of way for those coming on your right. The speed limit in main roads is about 80-90 kmper hour (48-55 milesper hour). In villages and all residential areas the speed limit is 50km per hour (30 milesper hour). Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts. Do not consume alcohol when driving. The laws for drinking and driving are very strict.

Motorcyclists and bicycle riders are obliged to always wear helmets. Rear lights and headlights are essential on bicycles at night. On motorcycles the headlight is obligatory during day and night.

It is essential you have an International Driving License, which has a cover written in all European languages. You can be provided with one by approved travel co-operations. It is valid in most countries worldwide and it has to be accompanied by your of-validity driving license.

DISTANCES FROM BALOS TRAVEL (or from the Eleftherios Venizelos Square):

Taxi

If you need a taxi in Kissamos, it will not be much of a trouble to find one either you are on Eleftherios Venizelos Square or Janakaki Square. Or you may also call Radio Taxi Service at tel. 28220 24024.

Bus Station

The bus station is in the center of Kissamos (Janakaki Square) and offers quick and cheap bus routes to contiguous villages and towns. The bus station lies 50m from our office. For more information about bus routes and fare call our office or tel. 28220 22035.

Site : http://bus-service-crete-ktel.com/default.html

Port

The port (Kavonisiou) Kissamos is the westernmost port of Crete. Distance from Kissamos 3 km / 5 minutes.

Ferry to Antikythira, Kythira, Peloponnese and Piraeus (Tickets from Balos Travel)

Transportation: bus, taxi

Port Authority: 28220 22024

Passport/Visa

Within the European Union you are not obliged to carry your passport provided you already have the European identity card. Only the citizens of the United Kingdom have to carry their passport.

For non-EU citizens: If you are a citizen of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Japan, Iceland, Norway, Israel or certain countries of South America, you only need your valid passport to visit Greece for 90 days or less without a visa.

In the event that you are a citizen from a developing country, you are allowed to visit Greece for 60 days or less without a visa. For a visa extension you need to submit an application and a certain amount of money to the authorities.

What to wear

The weather in Greece is mild all year round, making it the idyllic place for holiday at any time of the year. Naturally, each region has its own climate according to its geographical features and location.

The climate in Kissamos is a temperate Mediterranean climate and is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. In summer you should wear light clothing (cotton clothes are preferable), a jacket at cool night hours, as well as a hat and sunglasses are necessary when touring or you are on the beach. In spring and autumn it is advisable to bring warmer clothes, such as jackets, long-sleeved shirts and trousers. Since it is quite sunny in spring and autumn, we recommend you have a hat and sunglasses. If you come in winter, it is essential to bring warm clothes, an anorak and appropriate footwear. In the event you visit mountainous areas and winter resorts, we recommend you have a woolen scarf, gloves and a woolly hat.

If you prefer to avoid mass tourism, it is preferable to come from April to June or from September to October when the weather is more pleasant and the visitors are fewer. However, if you like crowded streets and beaches, July and August are the best months when the area is lively and full of people from all over Greece and abroad.

The weather in Kissamos

http://www.meteo.gr/cf.asp?city_id=416

Currency

As a member of the European Union, the currency in Greece is the euro (EUR). Euro (EUR) is available in notes of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 euros, as well as in coins of 2, 1 euro and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1 cents. You can convert exchange at several places in Greece, in every bank, at the post office agency, as well as at certain hotels. There are also money exchange kiosks in airports, ports and train stations. If you own a credit card that can be used as an ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) card, you may withdraw money from the ATM of a bank.

International Exchange:

http://www.xe.com/ucc/

Banks

Cooperative Bank of Chania “Synetairistiki”(Iroon Polytechniou  76, Kissamos) tel : 28220 83010

National Bank of Greece “Ethniki”  (Eleftherios Venizelos Square, Kissamos) tel : 28220 26001

ALPHA  BANK (Iroon Polytechniou, Kissamos) tel : 28220 83300

PIRAEUS  BANK (Heroes & Vardantoni University, Kissamos) tel : 28220 83450

Telephone booths

There are public telephone booths all around the center of the town, as well as at the port and in most of the villages. Those are mainly prepaid telephone card devices. You may obtain prepaid telephone cards from kiosks, convenience stores, super markets, the post office and the Greek national telephone company.

Post Office Agency

In Greece the postal code is of 5 digits and unique to every region. In Kissamos the postal code is 73 400.

The post office agency offers:

Mailing letters of A&B priority, sending money inside and outside the country, paying home bills, purchasing a prepaid telephone card, purchasing safes & envelopes, fast courier service, mailing packages, renting a private mailbox, exchanging money

The Post Office Agency of Kissamos is situated at:

Street Iroon Polytechniou 120, Kissamos, 73400, Chania

National Holidays:

• March 25^th (Annunciation and remembrance of the revolt of 1821 against the Turks)
• October 28^th (Commemorates the “No” (Oxi) of the Greek government to the capitulation ultimatum of Mussolini in 1940)

Other Holidays:

• May Day 1^st   of May (Labor Day)

Important Religious Holidays and Festivals

• January 1^st (St. Basil’s Day-New Year’s Day)
• January 6^th (Epiphany, Baptism of Christ)
• Ash Monday/Clean Monday (varies from year to year-the Monday of the seventh week before Easter Sunday)
• Easter Sunday (varies from year to year – the first Sunday after the first full moon of the Vernal Equinox)
• Easter Monday (the day after Easter Sunday)
• Ascension (varies from year to year -40 days after Easter Sunday)
• Pentecost (varies from year to year -50 Days after Easter)
• August 15^th (Dormition of the Theotokos)
• December 25^th (Christmas)
• December 26^th (Boxing Day)

Local Religious Holidays and Saints

• St. Spyridon, December 12^th, Kissamos (Local Holiday- cathedral of Kissamos)
• St. ninety-nine Fathers, October 7^th, Azogyres of Selinos (a cave where the Saints’ holy bones are kept)
• St. Ioannis the Hermit, October 7^th, Marathokefala of Spilia Kissamos
• Blessed Ioannis, September 20^th, Falassarna of Kissamos (where the Saint’s tomb lies) and Tsourouniana of Kissamos (where the Saint’s holy skull is kept)
• Decapitation of St Ioannis the Baptist, August 29^th, Giona of Rodopos, Kissamos
• St Eftichios, August 24^th, Tsiskiana of Selinos
• St Fotios and Akinitis, August 12^th, Falassarna Kissamos
• St four Martyrs Emmanuel, Georgios, Anezina and Maria, July 14^th, Melissourgio Kissamos
• St Theodoros, June 8^th, Seliniotiko Gyro Omalos
• St Holy Martyr Melchisedek, Bishop of Kissamos, May 19^th, Bishopric of Kissamos

Kissamos Health Center

The Health Center of Kissamos is situated in the center of Kissamos in Omogenon Amerikis Street and is under the direction of the General Hospital of Chania Agios Georgios (41 kilometerswith average access time of 30 minutes). The Health Center of Kissamos offers primary health care to the local population.

There are several medical departments of primary health care in the Health Center of Kissamos.

(General Practitioner-Pathologist, Dental Practitioner, Pediatrician)

A number of other specialties within the medical profession offer supportive work in the Health Center of Kissamos. More specifically, the Health Center has: Social Worker, Obstetrician, Orderlies, Nurses, Radiologist/Radiographer, Physiotherapist

Tel: 2822340100

Medicines/Pharmacies

It is advisable for you to have with you the doctor’s prescription written in your name and confirming the necessity of the medicine for your health condition. If possible, the prescription is advisable to be translated at the Greek embassy or consulate of your country. You should always carry the doctor’s prescription in case you need to purchase the same medicine in Greece. It is not allowed to bring in the country any medicine consisting codeine, contained in most pain alleviating medicine. Greece has plenty of pain alleviating medicine which you can purchase at pharmacies.

Pharmacies in Kissamos

– John  Farangitakis  (Omogenon Amerikis (Expatriate  amerikanischen),  Kissamos, Chania  73 400), Tel.  28220 22742

– Katakis  Pantelis  (Omogenon Amerikis (Expatriate  amerikanischen),  Kissamos, Chania  73 400), Tel.  28220 22451

– John  Revelakis  (Omogenon Amerikis (Expatriate  amerikanischen), Kissamos, Chania  73 400), Tel.  28220 24080

– John  Mazokopakis  (Skalidis, Kissamos, Chania  73 400), Tel.  28220 22182

– Papadogiannis  Nikolaos (St.  Anthony, Kissamos, Chania  73 400), Tel.  28220 23230

– Antony  Stathopoulos  (Platanos, Kissamos, Chania  73 400), Tel.  28220 41190

– Roustom  Alexander (Kaloudiana,  Kissamos, Chania  73 400), Tel.  28220 31390

– Rizos Konstantinos (Elos, Kissamos, Chania 73 400), Tel. 28220 61040

Internet

You will find easy and quick access to the internet in almost every district of Kissamos. Most hotels have this service in the hotel rooms, as well as in the hotel lobby. There are also plenty of internet cafés (Eleftherios Venizelos Square & Janakaki Square) and cafés where you will have internet access.

Kissamos Journal

Independent Weekly Journal “ΝΕΟΙ ΟΡΙΖΟΝΤΕΣ” (“New Horizons), Central Office: Kissamos of Chania. Tel.: 2822023615 Tel/Fax: 2821088066

“Νέοι Ορίζοντες” journal was first distributed in the county of Kissamos in 1992.

As time passed, “Νέοι Ορίζοντες” journal has achieved to have its own readers not only in the entire county of Kissamos, but also in the rest prefecture of Chania.

“Νέοι Ορίζοντες” journal distributes about 3,000 papers nowadays and it is the second in popularity newspaper in the prefecture of Chania. It is published every Wednesday.

http://neoiorizontes-press.blogspot.com/

Radio station in Kissamos

Manager of Radio Rizites: Evaggelos Hatzikokolakis Tel/Fax:2822024320

Radio Rizites station has been broadcasting traditional Cretan music at 92,4 FM since 1993.

Radio Rizites promotes the genuine traditional Cretan music while through its website, besides the Cretan music you may listen to 24 hours a day, you may also find mantinades (short Cretan poems and lyrics), photographs and you will find out information about many local artists.

Site : http://www.radiorizites.gr/index.html

Cultural Association of Kissamos

Cultural Club “Youth of Kissamos»

Club-Promotion Kissamos “Gramvousa”

Cultural Association Lousakies

Local Educational Association Gramvousa “Die Gramvousiakos”

Hotel Association

Philologische Association of Kissamos

Association of Women Platanos

Association of Women Kissamos

Club Riziton of Kissamos “Kissamos”

Cultural Club Pirgos

Association of Women Pirgos

Cretan Cultural Association “kretischen Muse”

New Commercial Association of Kissamos

Gas station

Mavrodimitraki  Maria  – Kissamos,  Tel.  2822023514

Rodousakis  Emmanuel  – Kissamos,  Tel.  2822022028

Maris Anthonios     – Kissamos,  Tel.  2822022025

Ch.Kontopyrakis–V.Mpariotakis  OE  – Kissamos,  Tel.  2822022997

Taktikakis  Michael –  Gramvousa, Tel.  2822024147

Sofoulaki Bros –  Gramvousa, Tel.  2822022550

Nikolakakis Minas  –  Platanos, Tel.  2822041374

Annousakis Stavros  –  Platanos, Tel.  2822041044

For more info about TOURS – CRUISES – TRANSFERS visit the homepage of our website balos-travel.com

The beach of Balos is located just 14 km from the town of Kissamos (1 hour drive – daily cruise 1 hour – cycling 1 hour and fortyfive minutes – hiking 4 hours).

Falasarna Beach is just 10 km from Kissamos (20 minutes drive – cycling 1 hour and thirty minutes – 4 hours hiking ).

Elafonisi beach is located 45 km from the town of Kissamos (2 hours drive).

Click here to find other beaches of Kissamos, ask us for more details.

Of particular interest are the villages of Kissamos where you will find very good food, paths and depending on season, folk music events. Ask us for more details!

In the town of Kissamos you can enjoy swimming at a beach from April to October, shopping in the city center and have a drink in a bar or enjoy good Cretan cuisine.

During the summer months, many events take place throughout the city and villages.

During the winter months you will find several coffee-bar for coffee or a drink and of course many taverns with Cretan cuisine and good music.

Consult our office or a local to guide you.

Kissamos, the town!

In the center of the  bay that has the same name, Kissamos is a little town in the middle of a fertile area with olive groves and vineyards. Originally built in a short distance from the sea, Kissamos  has now extended to the coast , while it is the so-called gate of western Crete as it is the only way through to the other destinations of the area. Kissamos was named after the  namesake pre-Hellenic settlement located on the same site, referred by Plinios and Ptolemaios. Ancient Kissamos was the port of the ancient town Polyrenia, the oldest Dorian city of Crete, situated 7 km south of Kissamos, while at the same time it was an autonomous town having its own coin which depicted the head of Hermes (the master of commerce) on the one side, and the picture of a dolphin on the other side. The dolphin is still the emblem of the town nowadays. The port of Kissamos was located on the western side of the modern town, on  today’s location of Mavros Molos.

As the capital of the county, Kissamos is regarded as an autonomous town, whose economy is mostly based on agricultural production, commerce and tourism. As a matter of fact, the oil and wine of Kissamos are exceptionally famous products. Having kept in full its scenic characteristics and without having been spoiled by tourist development, Kissamos remains the center of attraction for the visitors who seek quiet vacation, familiarizing themselves with the habits and traditions of the local people. A wide variety of cultural events, as well as, alternative forms of tourism (agro- tourism and hiking tourism) are the best choices for the nature lovers.

The Banks, the Post Office Agency, the Health Centre and all the various kinds of shops enable Kissamos to be a functional and fully organized town. You will come across café-bars and restaurants in various central points of Kissamos. However, at Telonio Beach area, a pedestrian precinct, you will find cafés and various types of restaurants and snack bars all gathered in the same area, opening early in the morning till late at night.

Do not miss a visit to the town’s Archaeological Museum located at the square of Statigos Janakakis.  It is a listed building with spaces designed in contemporary art style, preserving precious findings of the area from the Roman and Hellenistic times.

As you walk through the picturesque Street Skalidi, in the ancient market of Kissamos, you will be impressed by the traditional arches of the buildings, the small shops and the traditional cafés.

As you walk westwards, you will see the Limni(=Lake), a lovely little port with fish taverns ,which are a greatly traditional characteristic. Moreover, take a few minutes of your time to visit the chapel of St Giannis Damialis, which was built inside a rock, in the 10^th century ,and was reconstructed in 1947. A small tunnel in the front yard of the chapel will lead you to the beach of Damialis, which is a small bay with pebbles and crystal-clear waters.

Telonio beach

The old Telonio beach  is located 100 meters north from the center of Kissamos, along a pedestrian precinct  by the sea. Meeting point for locals and visitors of the city of Kissamos. Here you will find traditional taverns, restaurants, fast food, cafe and bar next to the sea  with view to  the blue bay of Kissamos.
Start your day in the morning with  coffee, juices, ice cream or dessert at one of the cafes. At noon and evening you can enjoy the traditional cretan cuisine in some of the restaurants  ,while late at night  the bars will offer you plenty of drinks and music for all tastes.

Skalidi Street (old market)

Particularly picturesque Skalidis street, with small shops and cafes, was the old downtown known as the”old market” until today. The architecture of the listed buildings ,with the traditional arches,is typical  . Here you will find traditional cafes, cafeterias, restaurants, internet café. Do not forget to visit the shops for memorabilias and souvenirs .

Limni (Little Harbour)

The small picturesque fishing harbor of Kissamos (1.5 km from the center), with its fish taverns,  is a key element of the traditional side of Kissamos.

From this little harbour we offer some of our PRIVATE CRUISES TO GRAMVOUSA & BALOS

Drapanias

Drapanias is a seaside village with relative development on tourism ,especially in recent years. Along the road to the beach of Drapanias are several cafes- restaurants,, where you can eat or drink by the sea. Villa Trevisan is proudly crowning this village .

Kaliviani

A few kilometers from Kissamos ,the village Kaliviani , the biggest settlement of the area. At the northwestern tip of  Crete, in the peninsula of Gramvousa, and a few hours before the lagoon of Ballos, a stop here is essential, either for food in traditional famous tavern in the village square, or a little further, at special Ethnic Jazz Bar.

Platanos / Falasarna

Platanos is the main village of the area, and is located 10km from Kissamos.
In the village you will find several tavernas and cafes ,where you are given the opportunity to enjoy good traditional food, but also ,to experience the untouched Cretan tradition and  the people.

A few km from Platanos , Falassarna is located(5km) ,one of the most famous beaches in Greece, famous for its crystal blue waters and beautiful sunsets. Driving down to Falasarna, you will find restaurants that will compensate you with their traditional Cretan cuisine, but also the great view (the sunset, especially during the first summer months).
In Falassarna you will find tavernas with fresh fish and beach bar, across the beach, an area of 3 km!

From Platanos port we offer also PRIVATE CRUISES TO GRAMVOUSA & BALOS!

Mavros Molos

Mavros Molos is the main beach of Kissamos and attracts the most people coming  from the city’s beaches. It’s a great beach, with sand and relatively shallow waters. There are many cafes, restaurants and hotels near the beach. Furthermore,  umbrellas are offered, and there are several tamarisks providing shade.
Do not forget to visit the shops on the promenade for memorabilia.

Main Characteristics of Kissamos

Geographical features

Kissamos area belongs to the precincts of Chania County located in western Crete, being the second county of Crete in land area and population, after Heraklion County. Kissamos lies on the northeastern part of the county and is the western connection point between Crete and Peloponnesus. On its northern and western side, Kissamos is washed by the Cretan Sea. A special geographical characteristic of the area is Gramvoussa and Rodopos peninsulas which lie vertical to the northern coast, forming  this way the bay of Kissamos.

Ground Morphology

The morphology of the region’s ground is distinguished by its profound corrugations with deep valleys in successive hill and mountain areas . Dominated by mountainous terrain (48%), while the plain and fertile land (17%) is found in most of the north west. Furthermore, there are a number of gorges  in the area, such as the Gorges of Malathyros, Roka, Pateriana, Sirikari, Topolia, Kambos, Kalogeros.

In the north and west side the areas are dominated by the stunning beaches of the gulf of Kissamos, Falassarna, Sfinari and Elafonisi.

The general morphology of the area complete rivers and streams, leading to the northern and western coasts.

Climate

In the northern coastal part of the Kissamos region the Mediterranean climate is prevalent with the prosperous effect of the sea, which peters out ,as you sheer off from the coast and the altitude becomes higher. In its western and southwestern part the climate is mainly Mediterranean, mild ,marine with the intensity of the prosperous effect of the sea. Its main characteristic is the exquisitely mild winter, the increased sunshine, particularly during the winter period, the limited rainfall and the long warm dry period.

An important characteristic of the area is the fact that the sea temperatures in the southern coast ,during the winter period ,are nearly the same as the sea temperatures in the northern Europe, during summer. Therefore, winter swimming has become a most favorite activity in recent years with a growing number of followers.

Land Area-Population

Western Kissamos region has 340.285 km² in area. It has a population of 11.820 people.

Kissamos precinct used to be divided into 3 municipalities (Kissamos, Methymna, Innachorio). Today, according to the Kallikratis project of the municipality unification, we only have the Municipality of Kissamos.

The Kissamos cuisine is based on

1.The finest quality olive oil (it is famous for its low acidity and distinct aroma).
2. The outdoor organic garden products  (tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, vegetables, etc.).
3. The wild herbs, that are plenty on the slopes and beaches of the area (stamnagathi, askrorlympoi, petrofyllies, akournopodoi, lagoudochorto, vrovioi, radykia, avronies etc.) which are consumed  raw or cooked.
4. The aromatic, medicinal, apiarian plants (oregano, thrympa, thyme, stamatochorto, malotyra etc.) used either as a  drink, or condiment.
5. The meat from free range sheep and goats, as well as ,chickens and rabbits and, pork etc.
6. The snails of the mountain and the sea.

7. The fish and various seafood from the area (famous salad sea )
8. The products produced by bakeries and crafts of the area. Rusks, bread, cookies, olive bread, etc. are made.
9. Pasta and traditional products from the housewives and the small industries of Kissamos (hilopites, xinochontros, kalitsounia, spoon sweets, xerotigana etc.)
10. The wine and raki from local grape varieties of excellent quality in the area (the local wine  is famous from the Minoan era).

see also : Cretan Traditional Cooking Lessons

Products

The largest number of local people is involved with agriculture and stock raising. Indicative quote:

• Olives –  olive oil of high quality (internationally awarded) and productivity (first place in olive oil production per olive tree internationally)
• Vineyards, it is registered in Venetians’ reports that Kissamos is not only an olive productive area, but also well-known for its excellent wine
• Citrus fruits
• Pears
• Chestnuts
• Outdoor and greenhouse vegetables
• Honey with special characteristics due to its medicinal and aromatic herbs with which bees are fed by
• Meat and dairy products (cheese, myzithra, yoghurt, fat milk etc.), which are produced by grazing goats and sheep
• Meat by small farm animals, such as rabbits, hens etc.

Small Industries of

Bakery Products (nuts, olive-bread, cookies etc.)

Traditional handmade products (noodles, xinochondros, frumenty, kallitsounia, traditional sweets, etc.)

Wood processing

Handicrafts

Pottery, etc.

Sourse : http://www.kissamoshotels.com/default.aspx?lang=el

Mavro Molos

It is the main beach area of Kissamos located in the front of the coastal road and was the harbor of the town in ancient times. It attracts a lot of people and has a lot of hotels, beach bar with sun beds, umbrellas and taverns, while at the coastal road you will find nice shops for souvenirs. It is suitable for every visitor since it is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters.

Mavro Molos shore is a meeting point and an attraction for locals.

Telonio

The beach of Telonio is a part of a vast beach starting from Kissamos and ending at Nopigia, covering a distance of about a kilometer. It has pebbles and sand, crystal clear waters and it is located next to the pedestrian precinct of Kissamos with cafés, taverns, snack bars and night clubs. It is the best choice for those who prefer the amenities that the nearby shops offer and at the same time would like to avoid the crowds.

Livadia

Besides the beach ending at Nopigia, there is a second one starting 1 km east from Kissamos, reaching the peninsula of Rodopos. It is mainly sandy with a small number of pebbles and low tourist infrastructure. It has clear, rather shallow waters and due to its great stretch, it offers comfort and serenity providing, at the same time, the necessary amenities with small taverns and souvenir shops which are everywhere alongside the beach.  

Korfalonas

This beach was named after the nearby village of Korfalona. It is a beautiful beach located 2 km east of Kissamos, perfectly combining sand and pebbles, crystal clear deep waters and perfect tourist infrastructure. There are showers, umbrellas and sun beds, while in a short distance there are rooms to let, taverns and cafés. On Korfalona beach you will also find a mobile canteen with everything you will need while bathing.

Drapanias 

The beach of Drapania is located 5 km east of Kissamos. It was named after the same-named village lying 1.5 km south of the beach. In fact, it is a part of the large beach area starting from the peninsula of Rodopos, en ding at Kissamos.

In the village of Drapania there are campsites, rooms to let, taverns, bars and cafés, while on the beach there are showers, umbrellas and sun beds. The beach is sandy and the waters are clear and shallow, making it an ideal place for families.

Nopigia 

Nopigia is a coastal village located 6 km east of Kissamos. In front of the village lies a large sandy beach with shallow waters extending all the way to Kissamos. Nopigia village is next to the beach and offers umbrellas, restaurants, showers and lodgings to the visitors. It is the best choice for quiet holidays in beautiful surroundings. The landmark of the area is a stone-made theatre located at the end of the coastal road. It was built in 1992 based on the patterns of the ancient theatres and has perfect acoustics.

Ntamiali 

Only 1.5 km northwest of Kissamos, you find the small but extremely beautiful beach of Damiali. It was named after the same-named church of St Ioannis located there. It is a small cove with beautiful rocks, some trees offering their shadow to the visitors and a small diving board.

Trachilas 

4km west of the port of Kissamos, we reach the thorp of Trahila of Gramvoussa. There you find one of the most beautiful beaches of the area. The locals call it “Pahia Ammos” (thick sand). It is not very organized, yet it has sun beds and you may be served by the hotel bar. On the beach of Kissamos, Kissamos Youth (Neolaia Kissamou) organizes a beach party (usually on August 16^th) where plenty of people gather from Kissamos and other nearby areas. If you head1 km due west, you find the beach of Vigglia at the end of which the promontory of Gramvoussa and the road to the lagoon of Balos begins.

Viglia

The beach of Vigglia, 5 km west of the town of Kissamos, lies in a quite large area. It has pebbles, sand and crystal waters. Despite the fact that it is not an organized beach, it attracts a lot of enthusiasts.

Sfinari 

The beach of Sfinari is located 16 km west of the town of Kissamos. It has pebbles and it is known for its wild beauty, the great fish taverns and the beautiful sunset.

All these beaches you can visit hiking or cycling from Kissamos city! Ask us for more information.

The number of visitors is bigger at weekends and holidays, therefore it is advisable to avoid these time periods if you wish to avoid the crowds. From April to November we organize daily tour from Kissamos, Kolymbari, Gerani, Platanias, Chania and more pick up points.

It is located 15 km west of the town of Kissamos, passing the village of Platanos. It is an organized beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, cafés and small taverns and it lies on a vast area. For reasons of practicality, it is divided namely in smaller beaches, such as Pahia Ammos, Megali Paralia etc.

What makes Falassarna beach (Falasarna beach) an ideal destination is the crystal blue water and its fine white sand along the entire beach.

The “Blue Flag” is a symbol of quality in over 41 countries today, which is constantly increasing, awarded on strict criteria to organized beaches and marinas operated by coastal Municipalities, hoteliers and others.

You can also visit ancient Falassarna (ancient Falasarna). The area was explored in the late 19th century by British travellers, who discovered the harbour and the ruins of the ancient city. You can rent a bicycle and explore the ancient city.

From Falassarna port we can offer also PRIVATE CRUISE TO GRAMVOUSA & BALOS.

The island of Imeri Gramvousa with its pure and impressive scenery and its turquoise waters attracts a lot of tourists every year not only for its virgin magnificent landscape, but also for its long history and the Venetian fortress at the top of the island, which is a major attraction to visitors.

On a steep rock of 137m height lie the ruins of the Venetian fortress. Originally, it was built in 1579-1582, but it was destroyed by a thunderbolt fallen on the powder magazine in 1588. It was rebuilt in 1630. Its natural fortification was conducive to be unconquerable and remain, along with the fortresses of Sitia and Spinalonga, under Venetian occupation after the conquest of Crete by the Turkish army.

However, the fortress was handed over to the Othomans in 1692 due to the corruption and bribery of the Venetian commander. In 1825, Imeri Gramvousa was the first region of Crete that was set free from the Othomans, when the Cretans, pretending the new guard, entered the castle and occupied it. On Imeri Gramvousa we come across a small pebbled beach with the view of a shipwreck and the lagoon of Balos.

The desert island of Agria Gramvousa, where there are frequently strong winds and the steep rocks turn coppery at sunset, according to a certain version, is the island of Aeolus and Homer in Odyssey describes it as an island “surrounded by an impenetrable coppery wall”. The origin of the name of the peninsula (Korykos, meaning leather bag) is explained by a myth according to which Aeolus tamed the winds and confined them all, except for Zephyrus, in a leather bag in order to help Ulysses’ return to Ithaki.

Visit Gramvousa with the DAILY CRUISE or with the PRIVATE CRUISE

You can reach the lagoon in two ways:

By road: Follow the dirt road (recommended with bicycle, about 1 hour) from village Kaliviani for 11 km and from there, where the road ends, you need only a few minutes on foot to go down to the beach. Your descent is facilitated by stone steps with large landings where you may rest and admire the superb view of the lagoon lying in front of you.

By the sea: The second option is to take one of the small boats that depart from the port of Kissamos every day (Cruise to Gramvousa & Balos) and after an hour’s journey you reach the magnificent lagoon. During the trip you may admire the impressive wilderness with steep rocky hills and hidden coves with sandy beaches while the small boats pass by the coasts. The phenomenon of the rise of the land is also quite noticeable. With this cruise you visit also the island of Gramvousa.

The lagoon of Balos is worldwide well-known for its turquoise clear waters, its wild beauty and the magnificent landscape which gives the visitor the feeling of being in a South Seas lagoon.

The natural beauty of Balos beach comprises a great variety of rare plants and animals which are unique in this part of the world. More specifically, about 400 species of plants have been registered, 25 of which are indigenous in Crete and 3 of which are indigenous only in the area of Balos. A significant distinctiveness of the lagoon is the seasonal fluctuation of the sea level and its salinity.

In addition, Balos beach accommodates a great number of birds which are fed and bred in the area or shortly migrate here, as this place is a way stop during migration period. The caves of the area serve as nests for peregrine falcons, shags and cormorants. Balos is also a preserve for the protected Mediterranean seal and Caretta-Caretta sea turtle which visits the coast to feed itself and lay its eggs.

All above render the lagoon of Balos a nature reserve of great ecological value and rare natural beauty. It has been claimed a Natura 2000 site for years and it is a strictly protected area, such as a lot of other places in Crete.

Other option to visit Balos Lagoon is our PRIVATE CRUISES

A very special summer season started a few days ago! On 15^th May 2021, the government launched officially the tourism season in Greece. People are tired of a months-long, rigid quarantine, thirsty to go on holiday, met new places and experience new moments.

Greece and especially Crete is a destination which has much to offer to the Greeks themselves and to visitors from other countries.

This unprecedented situation has helped us by giving us the – the Balos Travel team – to see our services again, improve and enrich them, and of course take into consideration and study the suggestions, comments and advise of all of you visitors, friends and colleagues. So in view of the need of a real reboot and with the natural heavens of Crete and Chania in particular, we are here to travel, walk, swim, taste, host and discover together the beauty of our place.

We are here readier than ever and introducing our services for the summer of 2021.

SERVICES – SUMMER 2021 – DAILY TOURS

• Daily tours such as Samaria gorge, Elafonisi, Knossos, Santorini etc. for individual customers or groups with various departures from Kissamos to Chania.
• Cruises to Gramvousa and Balos – Ticketing and information on the daily cruise in the Balos lagoon and the island of Gramvoussa.
• Mountain bike renting – which can be delivered directly to your hotel or picked up from our office.
• Cooking classes and wine tasting on a small traditional farm near Kissamos. A tour on the olive groves, the orchard, the vegetable and the herb garden, the chicken and sheep pen and the small cellar. Afterwards the Cretan products are presented and our customers cook with us and taste local tastes. At the end of the afternoon they all have dinner together.
• Private cruise ships with luxury boats, avoiding crowds and travelling comfortably, as well as private transportation by minivan and luxury buses all over Crete to all accommodations on the island – Private excursions on all sights and beaches of Crete – Group transport.
• Our office also provides information on itineraries and tickets issuing by all shipping and airlines companies.

Our office follows all the special health protocols under which tourism enterprises operate in the context of measure against the COVID-19 pandemic.

With regards

Balos Travel team

 Tel.+30 28220 22900 – fax.+30 28220 22970

Mob.+30 694 7091549

Mail : info@balos-travel.com

Mail 2 : balostravel@yahoo.com

Site : www.balos-travel.com

Balos Travel

General Tourism Services

Kissamos Iroon Polytechneiou 131

According to tourist predictions, this season like the previous years is expected to be… even better than the last. The hundreds of beaches of Crete have rested, their waters have been refreshed as well as nature itself, in order to welcome all these visitors who honor with their presence this blessed island.

The earth has rested in order to be cultivated again and offer its unique nutritious and tasty peculiarities. The Mediterranean diet is now a standard model of healthy eating in Crete and especially Kissamos has a prime role in it. So the world of tourism is indissolubly combined with the agricultural sector to offer the experiences of the Cretan dietary conditions to all visitors.

The entire mechanism and the tourism chain is currently on hand, so our office has begun planning for this season.

The farm with the traditional cooking lessons is preparing the gardens, the cutting of woods, pruning and all the necessary tasks.

The fleet of mountain bikes has been renewed and from the beginning of March cycling tours in Balos and Falassarna have begun, since this period is ideal due to mild weather conditions.

The cruise to Gramvoussa and Balos starts on 24 of April but the reservation system is already at your disposal.

At about the same time the organized excursion to Elafonisi begins, while the National Forest with the unique Samaria gorge opens on May 1^st.

At the beginning of April there will be available through our website the rest of the alternative activities such as: diving, wine tasting, walking excursions, private cruises, scup lessons and more.

Browse our website and our facebook page to be informed with our news.

The Balos Travel team wishes you a happy summer and a good 2018 season!!!

Last September we had the great pleasure to host 21 travelers from United States of America, to our family’s farmhouse in Metochi (a small village near the town of Kissamos).

Eleni Saltas was the one who booked this Cretan Traditional Cooking Lesson , for herself and her 20 fellow travelers!

Eleni and many of her friends have Greek roots and although living in United States, they love the Greek way of living! They all enjoyed their evening with me and my mother and that made us feel so happy and proud!

We would like to thank them all once again for join us to our cooking lesson but most of the greetings  goes to  lovely Eleni who decided to write an article about this experience to her wonderful blog!

That’s a very interesting blog about fitness, healthy way of living and great greek recipes!

You can visit Eleni’s blog and read her post about Cretan Cooking Class, here.

Eleni

I don’t travel often but I still know people from all around the world!

People who love my town and select it for their vacation. Many of them return back every year! They love our climate, our culture, our beaches, the sun and also our rich cuisine! They know it is the most representative sample of the Mediterranean diet, but apart from that, they love the different tastes they try.

During the cooking class, I share with our visitors stories and customs of Crete, I explain to them how our pristine olive oil is produced, the wine, raki, and other local products.

At the end of the evening, when they say goodbye I feel that I spent an evening with some good friends!

I feel so wonderful later on when I reading the positive comments they write to us! Especially when someone spends time to write on his webpage about the cooking experience we had together!

Along with Carlota and her husband Thomas, a couple from Spain, we cooked together on June of 2015, in one of our Cretan Traditional Cooking Lessons.

Today, two years later, Carlota created a nice and interesting blog with subject the food and the traveling experiences around the world. So she wrote an article which describes the evening we spent together!

I would also like to publicly thank her for visiting us and even more, for deciding to share her experience with the readers of her blog!

Visit Carlota’s blog and read the article here.

Eleni

A visit in Crete on September is definitely the best choice. All of the September tours are available without so much crowd like the previous 2 months. The weather conditions this time of year are warm but without heatwaves and high temperatures.

The tours with buses to Elafonisi beach, Samaria Gorge and Knossos Palace take place every day while the same applies for Gramvoussa and Balos but with reduced itineraries.

At this period hiking and cycling tours take place with guide or without, simply with our instructions. The renting of a bicycle costs only 9 euro for all day and you are given the chance to venture the mountainous or coastal countryside of Kissamos. If your rental is for more days, there is a discount in the price and therefore more advantageous.

Apart from the tours, this time of year offers the visitor multiple activities which relate with nature, dance and music or gastronomy (eg Cretan Traditional Cooking Lessons). On September you can easily attend the traditional ‘’grape stomping’’ and enjoy the traditional wine making as well as the Cretan hospitality.

September and October usually have pleasant weather accompanied with short and small rains, we hope for this year too for the usual temperatures.

Have a nice staying and good ventures.

The overloaded August comes slowly to an end and we are ready to welcome our beloved September. The occupancy of August like every year is admirable. All of the daily tours need to be booked several days before. For this reason the daily cruise of Gramvoussa & Balos make every day extra timetables in order to serve its customers. So take care of your bookings on time!

For your transport by ship or plane if you have not booked your tickets yet, it will be very difficult to find available places while the same applies for your accommodation too. Our office is at your disposal to help you with your bookings whether for a tour, a ticket or your accommodation.

Crete which is one of the most popular holiday destinations has managed in the last year to extend the summer season until end of October, while September rivals August in occupancy.

Especially for the daily tours of Gramvoussa & Balos, Samaria gorge and Elafonisi, the nice temperatures of September keep the occupancy in high levels and that makes the booking important.

In our website (www.balos-travel.com) you will find all the details necessary for the booking procedure. You will have to fill in the Request Form for the corresponding tour and we will answer you as soon as possible. We hope your vacation in Crete and especially in the region of Chania to be long remembered.

At your disposal

Balos Travel Team

Rokka is a semi-mountainous village that belongs to the Municipality of Kissamos. It is located 12 km from Kissamos and 39 from Chania. It’s a small beautiful and hospitable village which after the active effort of the organizational committee and in cooperation with the Co-organizers: Region of Crete, Municipality of Kissamos, Municipality of Platanias, Cultural Association of Kera ‘’Antonnousa’’, Orthodox Academy of Crete and The Ephorate of Antiquities of Chania offer us every year the opportunity of  unique and nostalgic music nights.

Kera is a neighboring village of Rokka. Thus the two villages are considered to share brotherly – links. Since the begging Kera was a staunch supporter and aid in the creation of the Feasts of Rokka. Together with Rokka they offer us the opportunity to watch and hear every year this unique social and cultural activity.

The Feasts of Rokka begun for the first time in the summer of 2013 and ever since with the beautiful background of the full moon attract a lot of people not only Greek but abroad as well.

This year the events will begin from today 24 of July and will be completed on 7 of August.

In more detail:

Monday 24 of July

20:00 Official beginning of Feasts of Rokka, with the participation of local musicians.

Program presentation. Display of local products.

21:30 Music initiation with traditional songs from Georgina Tsontaki and Nick Stamataki.

Music night with Psarantoni and Psarogiorgi. Along with them Yiannis Papatzanis and Yiannis Polychronakis

23:30 At the end of the night the club ‘’Friends of Astronomy of Crete’’ will organize observation of the new moon and the sky with telescopes to the archaeological site of Rokka.

Wednesday 26 of July

19:00 Acts for children. Initiation and registration of children’s art workshops with the coordination of the school counselor Maria Drakaki.

20:30 Choirs of the music school of Chania.

21:30 Summer night’s dream of William Shakespeare from the Theater Company Thesis

Monday 31 of July

20:00 Tour to the archaeological site of Rokka and its picturesque alleys.

21:30 The village sings with the music group ‘’Kath odon’’

Wednesday 2 of August

20:00 Display of local products

21:30 The Theater Team ‘’Idea’’ presents the performance ‘’the tree of Oedipus’’

Saturday 5 of August

9:00 Organized tour in the gorge of Rokka.

21:30 Presentation of sculptures from the participants of the sculptor Aspasia Papadoperaki.

Monday 7 of August

21:00 Concert with the soprano Myrto Papathanasiou and the bass Christoforos Stampogli.

Athenian Concert of Youth coordinated – ASON. Coordinated by Pavlos Stergiou.

For more details visit the official website of “Giortes Rokkas”

A few days earlier a young man came to our office and asked us to help him in order to make a surprise to his girlfriend. The purpose of the surprise was to make her a special marriage proposal.

So I suggested him a private cruise to the wonderful beach of Falassarna during the sunset.

In complete ignorance to the girl, we organized everything along with the skipper.

The young man asked her to go for a meal to a tavern located near the small port in Falassarna. ‘’Accidentally’’ the waiter talked to them about a friend of his who is making private cruises with his boat. The young man asked the waiter to show him where exactly the boat was docked and so he went with his girlfriend to see it.

By the time she realized what was going on she was already on board!

There, enjoying the fresh fruits and wine and having the beautiful sunset on the background asked her to marry him!

And of course she said the so desired YES!!

The next day they came by our office to thank us about the organization.

What a wonderful feeling, to share the happiness of two young people that through a small journey to the sunset are starting together the long and fascinating journey of life.

If you want your holidays and your stay in Kissamos or Chania to be special contact us to suggest you something special! Send your wish to our contact page!

Eleni

Kissamos or Kasteli is a small town in Western Crete, at the northwestern edge of the island. Kissamos, which many still refer to it with its old name Kasteli is located in the middle of the gulf of Kissamos, 43km from Chania.

Kissamos at first look seems to be a town with only a few fascinating things to do, however the reality is totally different. Don’t forget that at the west shore of Crete there are some of the most popular sights of the island, such as Elafonisi, Falassarna, Balos and Gramvoussa.

Kasteli is a small town of 2000 population, with services, banks, post, many shops, cafes and taverns, a small fishing port and a big port.

It’s a bustling place that can easily cover the needs of a visiting tourist.

Arriving in Kissamos you see the big grey sand which spreads towards the town and the rocky shore to the west.

At the western part there is the main road, Iroon Polytechneiou street, full of stores and super markets (our office is located in this street at the number 131 – Balos Travel website). However the heart of the city during the summer months – or during the whole year when the weather is fine – beats at the coastal road close to Tzanakaki square which is for pedestrians at its biggest part and cars are prohibited. It allows the visitors and citizens to enjoy a walk near the sea.

The region of Kissamos is quite fertile, rich in the production of olive oil, grape, wine and raki as well. Since its first historical years, the town played an important role as the capital of the area and financial center of the province of Kissamos and county of Chania.

The port here is located outside of the town and is also a link of Crete with Peloponnesus and Piraeus, connecting the county of Chania with Kithira, Gythio and Kalamata.

Also the ships which make the daily cruise to the island of Gramvousa and the Balos lagoon depart from this point.

How to get to Kissamos

From Chania to Kissamos. If you are in Chania you can take the national road leading west to Kissamos and you will reach the town after 45 km. The road is fine and after 30 minutes you will reach your destination.

From the airport of Chania. Follow the road from Souda in order to get to the highway and keep driving west. The same for those who want to travel from the port of Souda to Kasteli.

Taking the bus from Chania. Access to Kasteli is also attainable with the public buses ΚΤΕL from Chania, with connection every one hour during the summer months and frequent timetables the rest of the year.

Kissamos offers a lot of food and drink options, our office suggests the best, combined with nightlife and beautiful beaches.

Telonio beach

The beach of old Telonio is located along a pedestrian street next to the sea 100m north from the town’s center. It’s a meeting point of the locals but of visitors of Kissamos as well. There you will find traditional taverns, restaurants, fast food and cafes next to the sea with view the infinite blue of Kissamos bay.

Start your morning with café, juices, ice cream or a sweet in one of the cafes.  For lunch or dinner you can enjoy the traditional Cretan cuisine in one of the restaurants while late in the night the bars will provide you with ample drink and music for every taste.

Skalidi Street

The picturesque Skalidi street with its small commercial stores used to be the old town’s center ‘’old market’’ (agora) as today. The trademark of the market is the architecture of the preservable buildings with the traditional arches. Here you will find traditional cafes, restaurants, internet café. Don’t miss to visit the commercial shops for souvenirs and mementos.

Mavro Molos

The main beach of Kissamos where most locals choose for swimming. It is located northwest (1 km) of Kissamos and it is a big bay which used to be the port of Kissamos in ancient times.

It’s sandy with shallow waters while a few meters from the sea there are many cafeterias, bars, taverns and hotels. It is an organized beach with umbrellas, loungers, baywatch, shower and blue flag.

Limni (small port) and Kavonisi port

This small picturesque fishing port of Kissamos (1.5 km from the center) with fishing tavern and café is the main element of the traditional side of Kissamos, with its small fishing boats attracting a lot of visitors who want to try fresh fish.

2 kilometers further from the small port you will meet the main port of town named Kavonisi port. Here is where the ships depart for the daily cruises of Gramvousa and Balos, ships for private cruises and the ship of Lane Lines with destinations to Antikithira, Kithira, Peloponnesus and Piraeus. In the port of Kissamos you will find a traditional tavern with delicious fresh fish and sea food in a beautiful environment.

Drapanias

Drapanias is a coastal village with relatively small touristic development especially the last years with only a few and small hotels, apartments to let and a camping. Along the road in the beach of Drapanias there are many café-restaurants in which you can enjoy your food or drink next to the sea. Here lies the magnificent villa of Trevizan.

Kaliviani

Kaliviani is a picturesque village west of Kissamos (around 5 km) developing in the last years with many hotels, houses for rent, villas and rooms. In Kaliviani there are cafes and some of the best taverns of Chania with traditional Cretan food where during the summer period you will have to go very early in order to find a seat! Apart from the traditional tavern you will also find taverns with more creative cuisine but based on the Cretan tradition and local products.

Kaliviani is the last village before the Balos lagoon. Hundreds of people go from this point without this, however, meaning that it loses its identity. It is definitely a picturesque village that you shouldn’t miss.

Platanos – Falassarna

The village of Platanos is the biggest village of Kissamos 9km away and close to the Falassarna beach. In Platanos you will find exceptional taverns and cafes, super markets, gas stations, pharmacy, bank and of course very good bakeries that you should visit.

Falassarna is only 5km from Platanos in an enjoyable route with stunning amphitheatrical view. The beach is one of the most famous in Crete, the biggest in Kissamos and of course worthy of the blue flag.

On your way you will find many good taverns while next to the sea there are many Café snack bars where you can enjoy the enchanting sunset listening to summer music. Later in the afternoon you can enjoy more music and a lot of happenings.

Nopigia

A few kilometers before Kissamos (around 8) there is the coastal village of Nopigia. The options in Nopigia are many as the area and the dirt coastal road is offered for walking, cycling, music and theater nights to the very beautiful and picturesque ‘’Stony Theater’’ that exists there.

Our new brochures for the summer of 2017 are at your disposal! Our staff is also available for any information regarding the tour timetable, help with any question you may have and of course book you one of the tours you wish and suits you best.

Choose a daily cruise for Gramvousa and Balos, a tour to Elafonisi or a hike to the unique Samaria gorge.

Take part to a journey through the centuries and the kingdom of king Minos by joining a daily tour of Knossos palace.

If you prefer an alternative we have also other suggestions. You can rent a bike and explore the province of Kissamos.

If you like the Cretan traditional cuisine, we have to suggest you a unique experience you will have the chance to see, once you take part to the cooking lessons we’re organizing on our small farmhouse to a village outside of Kissamos.

Other activities that you can take part into are the follows: Diving, Hiking, Wine tasting, Private cruises and many more.

In our office you can also buy your air and ferry tickets and make a booking for the accommodation that suits you, whether it is villa, hotel, in the city or the countryside.

Our office and its staff are always at your disposal and ready to fulfill your desires in order to make your vacation in Kissamos and Crete unforgettable.

Topolia

Topolia is a nice big village 16km away from Kissamos. Its villagers are mainly farmers and stock breeders. In Topolia is the well known ‘’Topolia gorge’’. It is a very beautiful scenery with overgrown olive trees and plane trees. Wild and imposing with sheer walls and height that reaches 300 meters with many cavities in different places. After crossing the tunnel you will reach the cave of Saint Sofia and her church at the entrance. In Topolia you will find many Byzantine churches with murals like Saint John the Theologist, Saint Paraskevi and Triumphal Cross.

Elos

One of the mountainous ‘’nine villages’’, Elos is a lush, picturesque and full of plane and chestnut trees village. You will find it on your way to Elafonisi and it constitutes a very beautiful station for traditional food and local taverns.

Elos is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in the province of Kissamos with running waters in many parts of the village. At the center of the village there are some cafes where you can enjoy a cool drink under the shade of towering trees.

Vlatos

Vlatos is a lush mountainous village. On your way there you can admire a perennial olive tree with colossal trunk which reveals its age. Vlatos is also known for the village of Milia located a few kilometers north. Milia is a village with no electricity, among chestnut trees, built with private initiative and has stony guest houses, traditional food and welcomes visitors all year around.

Chrisoskalitissa

It’s a small settlement 45km southwest of Kissamos. Named after its homonymous monastery where its located there and you have the possibility to visit it, while it’s definitely worth visiting at 15 of August where the celebration of the church takes place.

The monastery of Chrisoslaitissa is built upon a rock of 35m height and offers an amazing view of the Libyan sea. It is named after a tradition that says that among the 90 stairs that you need to climb in order to reach the monastery, one of them is made of gold and cannot be seen by sinners. It is believed that where the monastery is located today used to be a priory.

Nowadays the monastery of Chrisoskalitissa is devoted to the Assumption of Mary and Holy Triad. It is also said that the icon of the Assumption which is kept there is 1000 years old. It is also worth saying that the village of Chrisoskalitissa is only 5km away from the beach of Elafonisi.

Lousakies

Lousakies is a small village 10km Kissamos. It has a big folklore and cultural tradition because it’s the birthplace of Syrtos of Kissamos. Also every 15 of August in the church of Astratigos a big feast with music and dance takes place while traditional dishes are served.

If you find yourselves there you should not miss the gorge of Maganistra which starts south of Lousakies, it is 5km long and ends up to the establishment of Pateriana and the churches of Saint Polykarpos, Saint Barbara and Mary in Zachariana.

It is expected to be opened soon a folklore museum in Lousakies which will be housed in the old Elementary school and will host exhibits from the broader area of Kissamos.

Polyrinia

Polyrinia is a mountainous traditional village 6km from Kissamos. Named after the homonymous archaeological site which is located there and to which some of the materials found for the building of the village belong to.

It has preserved its traditional character with houses and alleys which lead to the village’s square. In the temple of Assumption of Mary which is built within a rock and used as a hidden school during the Turkish domination, you have the chance to admire some notable icons.

Historically, Polyrinia used to be a great and mighty city, it was amphitheatrically built and surrounded by high walls. It is said that the city found great prosperity during the Roman period and was a ‘’rival’’ of Kydonia

Mountainous or coastal, with only a few kilometers away from the town’s center it’s worth it discovering the villages of western Kissamos, taste the traditional Cretan cuisine and enjoy swimming on their beaches. Far from the impersonal mass tourism, the visitor in Kissamos will have the chance to spent his vacation among the locals and meet our Cretan products cooked with love and oriented towards quality and tradition.

Platanos, Sfinari, Kaliviani, Kaloudiana, Drapanias, Nopigia, Topolia, Elos, Vlatos, Chrisoskalitissa are some of the villages that are worth visiting.

Platanos

Platanos is the biggest village of the region and is located 10km from Kissamos. It is a modern, spacious village with around 1000 population which are occupied with agricultural works and tourism as well. Here we also meet Falassarna (5km) one of the most popular beaches in Greece, famous about its transparent waters and the beautiful sunset. The village of Platanos provides a lot of facilities, infirmary, gas stations, many shops, rental apartments and taverns. Platanos combines the traditional with the modern life, while in the last years there has been a population increase. Many of the locals occupy professionally themselves in Falassarna because of the tourism development in these parts.

Sfinari

The journey to Sfinari through the steep mountains and view to the sea will be unforgettable. You will reach this small sea-village after 17km from Kissamos. Sfinari combines perfectly the mountain and sea view. Along the coast you will find many taverns with traditional food and many rental apartments and rooms.

 Kaliviani

Kaliviani is a small traditional village, 7km from Kissamos. The church and the small cafes located to the villages square compose a picturesque image that impresses visitors.

Here you will find some of the most remarkable restaurants & taverns in the region of Kissamos, while through Kaliviani is possible for someone to drive with the car to the point where the path to the beach of Balos begins.

Around 1 km north of the village you will find a big enough beach with soft sand which is almost always empty. There you will be led by a smooth dirt road. The village is not touristic developed but has preserved its traditional character even being a few kilometers from Kissamos and the lagoon of Balos which attracts a big number of tourists during the summer season.

Drapanias

Drapanias is a coastal village that started developing in the sector of tourism in the last years, it has an organized and a very good beach for swimming.

There you will meet many cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy your food or drink with view to the sea.

In Drapanias there is also located the Venetian Trevizan villa. It’s one of the 120 feudal residences of Venetian and Cretan origin which exist in many places along Crete. It is a building from Renaissance age of high architecture and its composition has been influenced by local elements and the islands tradition. Although the villa is in a ruined state while the middle floor and the roof have fallen, it remains sturdy through the ages and quite imposing.

All the daily trips our office organizes, are in your disposal and you can send us your requests for participation in one of the trips, your questions, or any info you might need.

The cruises for Gramvousa and Balos have started on a daily basis since 23 of April. The timetable is every day at 10:40 and returns at 18:00. (Departure and return in the port of Kissamos) The price is 27 euro per adult and 13 euro per child. There is also the potential your departure to be from the port to Falassarna at 13:00 and return at 18:00.

If you live in Chania or one of these locations (Daratso, Ag.Apostoloi, Kalamaki, Stalos, Agia Marina, Platanias, Gerani, Maleme, Kolympari) there is the potentnial of transportation to the port for the Gramvousa and Balos cruise at the cost of 39euro. (Ship ticket and transportation)

A few days later we started the organized daily trips in the Elafonisi beach. We start daily from Chania to Kissamos (Starting point Chania at 8:30 last stop to our office (Balos travel) at 9:35). After a small intermediary stop we reach at the enchanting beach of Elafonisi at 11:00 where you can enjoy your swimming for 3 hours. On our way back we make a stop for lunch to a picturesque Cretan village for about 1 hour. Around 18:00 we return back to Kissamos and at 19:00 in Chania. The cost is 24 euro from either Chania or Kissamos.

Since 1st of May the biggest gorge of Europe, the Gorge of Samaria has opened. On daily basis tours, our office gives you the potential to live a unique hiking experience. The cost is 24 euro from Chania and 34 from Kissamos. See information and book your trip to Samaria gorge at least one day before.

One more special trip we organize is the daily tour to the palace of Knossos and the city of Heraclion. Here, you are given the opportunity to discover the way of life in one of the oldest civilizations, that of King Minoa! We can surely tell that this is a journey through the ages which ends up to the city of Heraclion and the archaeological museum of the city. The tour takes place every Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday. The cost is 34 euro from Chania and  44 euro from Kissamos.

Browse our site and see all the info of our tours and of course the booking procedure through the communication form you ll find at the end of every page. Always  remember to fill all the necessery fields at the form (name-e-mail-phone-country-number of persons-hotel)

Apart from the above trips, we suggest you  different and alternative proposals such as the trip to a small farmhouse and the cooking lessons, cycling tours, hiking tours, diving, wine tasting and many more. You ll find all the details at the page of alternative tourism in our website.

Happy ventures and have a nice summer!

The medicinal or therapeutic plants also known as herbs are a big part of the plant kingdom. These herbs provide active substances that after their intake of a living organism present the pharmaceutical property of a medicine. All parts of a plant can be identified as pharmaceuticals, whether flower, leaves and fruits or stem and roots. Aromatic plants are beautiful and fragrant and provide an abundance of useful pharmaceutical properties while at the same time are being used every day for cooking.

Some of the herbs that we use mostly in Kissamos and in Crete are the follows:

THYME

It’s a bush of small height (30 cm), with upright sprouts, extremely durable, scents a pleasant aroma. Located in the southern and Mediterranean regions of Europe, in different regions of Asia and cultivated in North America.

When dried, the leaves of thyme take a green-brown color and give off their aroma when crushed. Their flavor is very strong, slightly spicy and rich. Along with its dried flowers it is used as spice for the flavoring of different dishes of fish, meats, many sauces, soups etc. It’s one of the main ingredients of the Benedictine liquor.

Thyme is particularly loved by bees and thyme honey is of exceptional quality.

OREGANO

The plant has a height of 20-80 cm and its leaves are of opposite lengths 1-4 cm. Its flowers are white-purple color and blooms especially from June until August depending on the region.

Greek Oregano is a perennial and bushy plant and its quality is considered to be the best worldwide. Apart from its distinctive aroma and flavor in the food, oregano has a lot of pharmaceutical properties, most importantly (known pharmaceuticals) the active substance of carvacrol. It’s anti-diarrhea, anti-inflammatory and bactericidal. In tea-form it’s used for laxity of the intestines, expectorant for cough, helps against hypertension and arteriosclerosis. The oil of oregano helps in toothache.

It’s used as a seasoning mostly in cooking and less often as tea, which is referred to be helpful against cough. It’s commonly used in the salad.

The harvesting of oregano begins at the flowering of the plant, the plants are being dried in special canopies or driers and then are grinded and sieved.

It’s the main seasoning of Mediterranean countries and the main ingredient of the Greek and Italian cuisine.

ROSEMARY

It’s an aromatic, evergreen bush which belongs at the race of ‘’Rosemarinos’’ and the family of weeds. It sprouts itself and is evergreen, it is known since ancient Rome and Greece for its cooking and medicinal purposes.

It is said to be one of the herbs Adam and Eve took along when banished from Heaven. That’s why God gave it special medicinal properties in order to alleviate humanity.

Rosemary has exceptional curing and pharmaceutical properties and for this reason it’s widely used in pharmaceuticals.

Rosemary is one of the main herbs of the Mediterranean cuisine. It matches with baked potatoes and fried as well. Gives a nice smell to the bread, beef, lamb, game hunting, fish, seafood, omelets, soups, sauces, vegetables and snails. Generally it has high durability in cooking and can be used from the start of the cooking.

SPEARMINT

It’s a very popular kind of plant in Greece, with a nice and very pleasant fragrance which is cultivated in patios and gardens. Spearmint belongs in the family of mint and has the same aromatic properties with it .In order for it to thrive it needs rich, damp soil and sunny weather or some shade. It blooms from July until September and has little pink or purple flowers. Spearmint belongs to the plants that multiply and interbreed so easily, that it’s easy for someone to find more than 30 different kinds.

Spearmint can be harvested all year long and we can have it always fresh in a pot or dry it in a vase.

Its restorative, digestive, soothes the stomach, antispasmodic, stops the hiccups, while the chewing of its leaves relieves from migraines and toothache.

PARSLEY

Its leaves contain a large amount of vitamin A and C and inorganic salts. It also contains a very strong oil in its spores in which aphrodisiac properties exist.

It goes perfectly with fish, meats, sauces, soups and vegetables.

In our small botanical garden you can meet all of the above herbs and many more. In our cooking lessons you will have the chance to see their different uses and of course taste them in different combinations with other local products.