Local Information
Local Restaurants & Cafés near the Villa
Irene's Taverna ⭐
3 mins by car • Greek classics • BBQ meats
Run by Irene & her grandson Yiannis. Try Moussaka, Souvlaki, or Stifado. Generous portions, house wine & complimentary raki.
To Antamoma (The Meeting)
Sunset views • Local experience • Free dessert & raki
Authentic dishes and a peaceful terrace outside the village, perfect for sunset dining.
Rambler’s
Live Music 🎶 • Karaoke 🎤 • Bar vibes
Fun atmosphere with reasonably priced food, popular for evenings out with live events.
Ilias – Coffee & Snacks
3 mins by car • Wi-Fi • Local hangout
Perfect for a quick sit down or takeaway coffee opposite Irene’s. Locals’ favorite for casual coffees.
Coffee Station
Sea views 🌊 • Smoothies & brunch
Great coffee, tasty baguettes & a laid-back vibe on the way to Kalathas beach.
Mitsos BBQ
Charcoal Grill • Vines-covered yard
Spit-roast meats and local flavors in a shaded garden-like setting in the heart of Kounoupidiana.
ta Gourounakia (The Little Pigs)
Authentic Grill House • Massive portions
Top spot for gyros and BBQ meats with friendly service and a local crowd.
Koukouvaya Café (Owl Café)
Stunning views 🏞️ • Famous desserts
Overlooks Chania Port from above. Try the famous chocolate 'zoumero' cake while enjoying one of the best sunsets in the region.
Almyriki
Seafood heaven 🐟 • Idyllic beachfront
Authentic Cretan dishes under a windmill’s shade at Stavros Beach. Don’t miss the octopus salad!
🏖️ Local Information – Beaches
The nearest beach is a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk. Shallow waters, sandy beach, sunbeds, parasols, and a beach bar owned by Sarah. Popular with families. Fish restaurant nearby.
Just a few minutes from Chorafakia. Sandy bay with an offshore island, slides, swings, volleyball, calm water, lifeguard, snack bars, and restaurants.
10 min by car. Sheltered bay, sunbeds, parasols, restaurants, caravan bar, and the famous Zorba mountain backdrop. Great for families and film buffs!
Hidden gem near Stavros. Tranquil, long sandy beach with a rocky shoreline and a charming palm-covered bar.
Near Stavros. Small sandy cove with access to Ternassis restaurant and facilities. Great for kids and families.
20 min drive. Two sandy beaches, port, tavernas (Loukoulos & Petrelantonis), and great views of Souda Bay. Recommended for a day trip!
🏄♂️ Local Information – Sports
Endless options including snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, SUP, water skiing, kayaking, wakeboarding, surfing, canyoning, parasailing, tubing, pedal boats, rafting, flyboarding & more.
Popular spots: Elafonisi, Falassarna, Ayia Marina, Platanias Beach, Sfakia, Kalyves, Almyrida, Lake Kournas.
Top Centers:
Local Activities & Attractions
Knossos Palace
2 hours by car • Minoan history
Explore the ancient Minoan civilization at Knossos, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Ancient Aptera
30 minutes by car • Ancient Roman & Minoan city
Visit the well-preserved ruins of the ancient city of Aptera, a short drive from the villa, offering fascinating insights into Roman and Minoan history.
Municipal Chania Market
10 minutes by car • Local shopping & fresh produce
Experience the bustling Chania market, where you can buy fresh produce, herbs, saffron, and more, all while immersing yourself in local culture.
Samaria Gorge
1.5 hours by car • Hiking trail
One of the most popular hikes in Greece, Samaria Gorge offers breathtaking views and a challenging trek through nature.
Elafonisi Beach
2+ hours by car • Stunning beach & waters
Known for its stunning pink sand and crystal-clear waters, Elafonisi is a must-see beach for anyone visiting Crete.
Balos Lagoon
1.5 hours by car • Scenic views & swimming
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Balos Lagoon with its turquoise waters and white sand, easily accessible by boat or 4x4 car.
Chania Harbour
15 minutes by car • Music bars & clubs
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Chania Harbour, filled with bars and clubs that stay open into the early hours.
Platanias Nightclubs
20 minutes by car • Late-night partying
If you're into clubbing, head to Platanias, where popular nightclubs like Mylos, Privilege, and Tropicana will keep you dancing all night.
Aqua Creta Limnoupolis Water Park
45 minutes by car • Family fun & rides
Enjoy a day at this fun-filled water park with a variety of rides, sunbeds, and dining options for the whole family.
Go-Karting
20 minutes by car • Thrilling racing experience
Visit the go-kart tracks in Chania for some thrilling fun. Great for families and friends looking for a competitive challenge.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
1 hour by car • Outdoor activity
Try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, with expert coaching available for all skill levels, set in a beautiful Cretan location.