More about Areas in Crete
The island is divided into 4 administrative regions or prefectures, running east to west across the island. These are better known as Lasithi (East Crete), Heraklion (Central Crete), Rethymnon and Chania (West Crete).
The north coast is more highly developed; indeed all major towns and cities are on the north coast.
The south coast is typically reached by crossing one of the mountain ranges that run north to south but access is getting easier. It is not possible to travel east to west across the south coast, as it is the north coast.
Central Crete
The capital city is Heraklion, in central Crete. Most airlines fly to Heraklion from all over Europe.
There is also a ferry port with frequent sailings to and from Santorini. There are many archaeological sites in central Crete. The Palace of Knossos is located on the outskirts of Heraklion and 55kms to the south is the less well known archaeological site of Phaistos.
Eastern Crete
The famous resorts of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, with the gulf of Mirabello and Spinalonga, are in Eastern Crete.
This region is the driest part of the island but in summer there is very little rainfall anywhere. The winter rains (and snow) make the north west the lushest and some would say, prettiest, area in the whole of Crete.
North West Crete
All of our villas are in the North-West, in the Chania region with Chania itself being easy to reach. The town of Rethymnon is also easily accessible from all of our villas.
This north western part of the island is the greenest and most mountainous area of Crete, although the highest mountain (Ida or Psiloritis) is in central Crete. The White Mountains dominate the area and include the famous Samaria Gorge.
The area to the west of Chania was the first part of north-west Crete to become developed for tourism due to the long stretches of (mainly) sandy beaches all the way from Stalos to Kolimbari. Although tourism plays a major part in the economy of the area, even now you don't have to venture too far inland to feel that time has passed it by.
The area to the east of Chania and Souda is the Apokoronas region where the majority of our villas are located. It is an area with lots of olive trees which makes for a green look and feel, even in the heat of summer. The other defining characteristic of the area is the villages which make exploring quite an adventure, especially if you stop to eat at a local taverna or strike up a conversation with one of the residents.
The main beaches and resorts are at Kalami, Kalives, Almyrida and Georgioupolis. Georgioupolis is the largest of these and Almirida is the smallest. Kalives has an indigenous populationn and life goes on here all year round.
For further information about Crete, take a look at our About Crete page!
Explore More Areas in Crete
Click the options below to learn more about Crete.
Chania
This impressive city is arguably the most beautiful and cosmopolitan on Crete with the White Mountains providing a picturesque and dramatic backdrop.
Almyrida & Kalives
Almyrida (also known as Almirida) and Kalives are situated in the Apokoronas region to the East of Chania which is where most of our holiday villas are. It is one of the most picturesque areas of the province of Chania with attractive villages including Kokkino Chorio, Plaka, Aspro, Gavalohori and Kefalas.
Plaka & Kokkino Chorio
Close to Almyrida, in the Apokoronas region to the east of Chania, are two very popular villages - Plaka and Kokkino Chorio. With great accessibility to local beaches, amenities, and seaside tavernas, Plaka and Kokkino Chorio are perfect destinations for a villa holiday.
Georgioupolis
Georgioupolis is a large resort well placed approximately 35 km east of Chania, and 20 kms west of Rethymnon that is popular with holidaymakers from many countries; it is best suited to families and couples. It has everything to offer the holidaymaker looking for plenty to do whilst not forsaking its Cretan charm.
West of Chania
West of Chania is the main tourist area of the north-western part of the island with well known resorts such as Stalos, Agia Marina, Platanias, Gerani and out further to Kolimbari that need little introduction. These resorts have everything you would associate with a typical beach holiday in the mediterranean; beaches with facilities, tavernas, bars and plenty of shops.
Explore Our Villas
Browse through our range of luxury villas situated in north-west Crete.
Our range includes traditional two-bedroom options, spacious villas for large groups, and everything in between, all designed with a focus on exclusivity and comfort.
Each villa offers a unique blend of traditional Cretan charm and modern amenities, such as pools and sea views, perfect for couples, families, and group travellers. With our seamless booking system, planning your dream holiday is easier than ever.
