Villa Tamina
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Ferienhaus auf Kreta
Our Excursion Tips
We are happy to share our experiences with you so that you can explore the island in the best possible way. The excursion tips cover a wide range of activities so that you have a wide choice and an overview of the possibilities in the region.
The most beautiful beaches
Petres beach
Petres beach is located 15 minutes on the west side of Rethymno. It is one of the longest sand beaches on the island of Crete. The perfect beach to relax and enjoy the sunset. There are several different tavernas directly next to the beach. Our favorite is either Chrysos Asterias.
Spilies beach
Spilies beach is located 15 minutes on the east side of Rethymno. It is a small bay with a rock beach covered with stunning cliffs. When there a big waves it is worth visiting to see the waves crashing in. Additionally there is a great taverna which offers delicious fish.
Hint: If it is a busy day, ask in the restaurant to reserve a fresh fish for you.
Plakias
Plakias beach is in the south of Rethymno and is unique because of its crystal clear water. The weather is usually a little bit warmer in the south, however, the temperature of the water is a bit colder. Perfect for hot days to refresh yourself in stunning water. If you get hungry there are plenty of tavernas. We recommend Lysseos.
This beach is located directly next to Plakias. A very small bay where you have to "climb" down. During high season you better be there early to save you a spot close to the rocks to secure shadow as there are no sunbeds provided. If you are looking for some adventure, you have the possibility of cliff jumping.
Paralia Skinaria
Balos Beach
Balos beach is on the west coast of Crete approximately 2 hours drive from our house. It is a stunning beach with bright blue water and sometimes you can see a pink beach.
Hint: The last part of the road is quite narrow and bumpy. If you do not feel comfortable driving you have the possibility to drive to Kissamos and get on a ferry. This is the safer way.
Triopetra
About 1 hour away you will find Triopetra on the south of the island. This beach is a long sandy beach with 3 stunning rocks in the sea. If you get hungry we suggest Taverna Apanemia which is on the other side of the three rocks (5 minutes drive).
Hint: If you plan on going there, always check the wind forecast as it can get very windy there which is not very pleasant to be there.
Cities & Culture
Rethymno
Rethymno has a beautiful old town which invests to just have a stroll around and get lost in the tine little streets. There is a beautiful promenade with lots of bars were you can have a drink. The old habour is beautiful to walk around and have a coffee at Nuvel.
Fortezza
The Fortress in Rethymno is a Venezia fortress from the 16th century and is definitely worth a visit. Not only the old ruins are fascinating but also the stunning view will leave you speachless.
Chania
Chania is famous for its beautiful 14th-century harbor. It takes about an hour to get to this unique harbor town. Here you will find many restaurants and bars right on the waterfront. The city is also known for its narrow streets that invite you to stroll.
Spili Lion Fountain
Spili is a small mountain village on the way to Triopetra. It has small cafès and boutiques where you can enjoy a drink or shop local herbs for a very good price. However, the main reason why we go there is the lion fountain. This water comes directly from the mountain and you can refill your drinking bottles with this water full of minerals.
Mountains & Gorges
Vouno Vrisina Mountain
This mountain is our so-called "local mountain". You can walk directly from our house which takes around 2.5 - 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive the first part and start hiking further up the mountain. Make sure you always close the fence behind you so the sheep will not run away. Yes, you will most likely see some sheep along the way.
Hint: If you do not feel comfortable driving on bumpy roads, start walking directly from the house.
Myli Gorge
Myli Gorge is 10 minutes drive from our house and is known since the Venetian reign because of its richness of water mills. The ruins you can see today are signs of the early agricultural work on the island.
Samaria Gorge
The Samaria Gorge is one of the most famous hiking trails in Crete. It offers a beautiful landscape of rocks, forests, and freshwater sources along the way.
Arkadi monastery
The Arkadi Monastery is a historical, architectural impressive building. A monastery and church from the 16th century.