Visiting West Crete

Crete is the largest island in Greece. The island offers incredible variety, combining snow-capped mountains, rolling hills covered with olive trees and over 1000 km of varied coastline. Crete has far more endemic plants than any other island in Europe.

Crete is also a mix of large tourist resorts, small fishing villages, remote settlements, and cities such as Chania and Heraklion which have been inhabited for almost 8000 years. Whether you come to Crete for the sea and the sun, the culture and traditions, the peaceful seaside villages of South Crete or the dramatic landscapes, there is something for everyone.

A unique and important part of the island is West Crete. These are a small part of the interesting things you may do.

Lissos

A walk to nearby Lissos is almost a must. Lissos was an important town during the ancient times, and there are still many ruins left, particularly an Aesculap (Asklepios) sanctuary.

Lissos
Lissos

The walk to Lissos From Sougia Village and back takes about 3 hours at a leisurely pace. The atmosphere in Lissos is so peaceful that it is well worth spending time there, wandering around the
ruins and enjoying the silence.

Agia Irini Gorge

Driving up (by bus early morning or by taxi) from Sougia to the village of Agia Irini and walking down through the gorge of Agia Irini is also a very beautiful walk. It takes circa four hours.

Prophet Elias Church

Another beautiful walk follows the coast towards the East of Sougia beach to the chapel of the Prophet Elias. As it takes about 4 hours to get there, it is a good idea to hire a boat one way and return on foot.

Elyros Ancient City

You may also visit the ancient city of Elyros (situated close to present day Rodovani). It is located on a hill overlooking the sea and the mountains, and there are plenty of ruins to see (although only a few have been excavated).

Samaria Gorge

Samaria gorge
Samaria gorge

You can also take a public bus (or a taxi) in the morning to Omalos and walk through the famous Samaria Gorge. An alternative is to take the ferryboat to AgiaRoumeli and walk a part of the Samaria gorge from the bottom up, returning in time for the afternoon ferry which returns to Sougia.

Agia Roumeli
Agia Roumeli

Paleochora

Paleochora beach
Paleochora beach

Paleochora is the other well know village of the South Coast of Chania. You can drive there (40 minutes) and enjoy the sandy beach and superb restaurants and taverns.

Elafonissi – Kedrodassos

Kedrodassos
Kedrodassos

Since you are in the area, you cannot miss Elafonissi. The beach is GREAT with PINK sand. The drive is circa 90 minutes but, believe me, it worths the effort.

Elafonissi
Elafonissi

Kedrodassos is almost next to Elafonissi and also one of the best beaches in Greece and the world.

Moni Village

In Moni Village, it is worth spending an hour visiting the ancient church of Agios Nikolaos, built in the thirteen century which was also a Monastery.

Also, the church of Virgin Mary, situated next to the river is an absolute beauty with a very tall bell tower.

E-4 path

The famous path that connects the south part of Chania from Elafonisi to Sfakia. From Sougia you may start from the left side of the village following the blue sign. It’s a beautiful coastal walk, taking you to Polyfimos cave – to Pefki later and then to Tripiti. From Sougia to Tripiti it is a total of 4 hours, so maybe it’s wise to hire a taxi boat, one of the two ways.

Loutro

From Sougia or Paleochora also you may visit the picturesque village of Loutro. The windless village which is not accessible by car is a pleasant daily excursion that will also help you enjoy the amazing water colors and the sharp coastal mountains.

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