Apokoronas, Crete: Villages, Beaches and Real Cretan Life
Apokoronas is one of the most beautiful parts of western Crete. Set between the White Mountains and the coast of Souda Bay, the area is full of green hills, olive groves, quiet villages and welcoming locals.
It’s a lovely place to explore at your own pace, whether you’re driving, riding a motorbike or cycling between the villages. There’s always another small road, beach or taverna waiting to be discovered.
Blitz Car Rental offers free delivery throughout the Apokoronas area, so you can collect your car, scooter or bike directly from your hotel or villa. See our services to find out more about our delivery options.
Why Visit Apokoronas?
Compared with many other parts of Crete, Apokoronas is especially green. Olive trees, rivers and shady paths are part of the landscape, along with traditional villages where life still moves at a relaxed pace.
Some places worth visiting include:
- Vamos – A traditional village and home to Blitz Car Rental, with old stone houses, local tavernas and a cultural centre.
- Kalyves – A relaxed seaside village with sandy beaches, places to eat and a pleasant walk along the river.
- Almyrida – A good choice for a day by the sea, with calm water for swimming, kayaking and other water activities.
- Georgioupolis – Known for its long sandy beach, small harbour and the chapel of Agios Nikolaos standing in the sea.
- Gavalochori – A quiet village with narrow lanes, old houses and the Historical Folklore Museum.
- Fres and Douliana – Peaceful villages where you can enjoy a walk and see a quieter side of everyday Cretan life.
Things to Do
Apokoronas is best explored without rushing. Take the smaller roads and stop whenever something catches your eye.
You can:
- Drive through olive groves and vineyards.
- Follow walking routes with views towards the White Mountains.
- Visit local wineries and traditional cheese producers.
- Go kayaking or paddleboarding in Kalyves or Almyrida.
- Stop at a village taverna for fresh local food.
- Spend the afternoon swimming at one of the area’s beaches.
If you’re staying in Chania, Apokoronas is only a short drive away. With a rental vehicle from Blitz Car Rental, you can visit the villages and beaches without having to follow a fixed schedule.
A Few Local Tips
- Spring and autumn are great times to visit, with milder weather and fewer people.
- A small car or scooter is useful for the narrow roads and village streets.
- Carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller tavernas.
- Don’t be afraid to stop and chat with local people. Cretans are usually happy to share suggestions about where to eat or what to see nearby.
Start Exploring Apokoronas
Apokoronas is the kind of place where the best moments often happen between the main stops — a coffee in a village square, a swim at a quiet beach or a meal at a family-run taverna.
With Blitz Car Rental, you can explore the area by car, scooter or electric bike and discover Apokoronas in your own time.
Book your vehicle and start planning your trip.
