40 Years-Anendyk Seaways

Nestled along the azure waters of a small peninsula in Western Crete lies Paleochora. This quaint Cretan town boasts pristine beaches, idyllic bays, and a lively nightlife. Situated just over 70 kilometers from the historic city of Chania, this picture-perfect town offers fantastic ferry connections to a number of local villages, including Gavdos island. Combining relaxation and outdoor adventure, this destination is well suited to families, couples, and solo travelers looking to kick back and explore the surrounding area.

Bordering the Libyan Sea, visitors can enjoy 11 kilometers of spectacular coastline.

Once a sleepy village, Paleochora has been a popular tourist hotspot since the 1970s. It is also famed for its production of tomatoes and olive oil.

The town’s history actually dates back to the 13th century when the Castel Selino Fort was built by the Venetians in 1278. In 1539 the Fort was destroyed by pirates and later rebuilt and renovated by the Turks in the 17th century. The town then become deserted and wasn’t repopulated until 1866. It then played an important role in the Battle of Crete during World War II.

Since then, Paleochora was part of the island’s transformation into a top holiday destination. By the 1970s, it was a go-to place amongst the hippy community.

PALAIOCHORA

A few words

Nestled along the azure waters of a small peninsula in Western Crete lies Palaiochora.

This quaint Cretan town boasts pristine beaches, idyllic bays, and a lively nightlife.

Situated just over 70 kilometers from the historic city of Chania, this picture-perfect town offers fantastic ferry connections to a number of local villages, including Gavdos island.

Combining relaxation and outdoor adventure, this destination is well suited to families, couples, and solo travelers looking to kick back and explore the surrounding area.

History

Bordering the Libyan Sea, visitors can enjoy 11 kilometers of spectacular coastline.

Once a sleepy village, Palaiochora has been a popular tourist hotspot since the 1970s. It is also famed for its production of tomatoes and olive oil.

The town’s history actually dates back to the 13th century when the Castel Selino Fort was built by the Venetians in 1278. In 1539 the Fort was destroyed by pirates and later rebuilt and renovated by the Turks in the 17th century. The town then become deserted and wasn’t repopulated until 1866. It then played an important role in the Battle of Crete during World War II.

Since then, Palaiochora was part of the island’s transformation into a top holiday destination. By the 1970s, it was a go-to place amongst the hippy community.

Things to do

If you’re someone who likes to relax on the beach, then you’ll simply love Palaiochora’s crystal clear waters. Of course, it’s not just the town’s Blue Flag beaches that attract people year after year.

Palaiochora is brimming with mountains, and valleys just waiting to be explored. Discover fascinating cave formations or embark on a scenic bike ride with the kids. Those looking for some R&R can soak in the sunshine at one of the town’s beaches.

For a memorable day trip, hop on board a ferry to the nearby villages of Sougia, Loutro, and Hora Sfakion. Take a walk from Agia Irini to Sougia via the breathtaking Agia Irini Gorge. Just 3 hours long, you will encounter captivating flora and fauna as well as a magnificent lake.

For a unique stay, get to know the locals at a family-run hotel or guesthouse. Wander through the town’s winding pathways and admire its charismatic architecture.

When it’s time to eat, there are a whole host of cafes and restaurants to choose from. Tuck into succulent seafood dishes or experience traditional Cretan hospitality at a nearby taverna. Be sure to sample popular local dishes including Sfakiani pie, Kalitsounia, and Sioufichta. At nighttime, dance the night away at a nightclub or watch the sun go down with a cocktail in hand at a local bar.

If that’s not enough, visitors to Palaiochora can also take part in a range of other activities from kayaking to dolphin watching. Learn all about the town’s history and cultural heritage at the Evangelistra Church or the Museum of European Acritans. For an epic adventure like no other, Palaiochora also forms part of the iconic E4 walking track, taking hikers through ten different countries along the way.

So whether you just want to relax on the beach or get a little closer to nature, this diverse destination ticks all the boxes.

Useful Information

Regional Health Center of Palaiochora:
Tel: +30 28230-41211

Kandanos Health Center:
+30 28233-40000

Port Station:
Tel: +30 28230-41214
Fax: +30 28230-41214
e-mail: [email protected]

Police Station of Palaiochora:
Tel:+30 28230-41111

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