CULTURE

Aptera - An archaeological site on the bay of Souda, near the village of Megala Chorafia. Here lie the remains of ancient Aptera, a strategically located city that grew into one of the most important trade centers of Crete at that time. A visit to this place will lead you past impressive remains and reward you with stunning views of the Bay of Souda and the White Mountains.

± 15 minutes from Villa PI (π) - Visit of about 1 hour 30

Tip: do not do it in the hottest part of the day and take water with you

WW2 Bunker - After the "Battle of Crete" and the Nazi occupation in 1941, the Germans began building fortifications on the coast of Crete, or in places overlooking the coast, to control the surrounding areas.

One of these fortifications, a bunker in Kokkino Chorio was built after the Nazi invasion of 1941 and still stands today.

± 5 minutes from Villa PI (π) - Visit ± 30 minutes

Tip: Bring bottle of water

Akrotiri Peninsula - Two beautiful monasteries + hike + beach

The peninsula where Chania airport is also located. Head towards the airport, just before the exit to the airport turn left towards 'Agia Triada' and 'Moni Gouvernetou'.

Agia Triada has its own wine as well as olive oil! Then drive on to Moni Gouvernetou, park in front of the entrance, then walk through the gardens of the monastery to Moni Gouverneto itself.

Tip: Bring appropriate clothing, otherwise you will not be allowed inside.

Then continue walking toward the sea along a path past an abandoned town and the Moni Katoliko monastery. Continue your trek through the mountains all the way to the sea. Definitely worthwhile and very beautiful. Back is the same path, uphill, and consequently a bit more difficult. Always take a bottle of drinking water with you! You are in the middle of nowhere!

Tip: Sturdy shoes and a bottle of water.

To end this day you can enjoy a nice meal and a splash in the sea at Marathi beach. Here many Greeks stay by the sea, on Sunday very busy (drive back to the roundabout, instead of going right towards Chania go left).

± 40 minutes from Villa pI (π) - Visit and walk ± 3 hours

Moni Chrisoskalitssa Monastery & Elafonissi

Just before the paradise beach of Elafoissi, you arrive at the Moni Chrisoskalitssa Monastery. Beautiful, all whitewashed, built on a rock. Definitely make time to visit here. (€2 entrance).

The Elafonissi lagoon is a beautiful large beach, you can walk through the water to an islet about 200 meters further in the sea, pastel-colored sand. As a true beach and nature lover, it is best to take a day for Elafonissi. Can also be combined with Paleochora.