CreteAbout your

Holiday

villaplus.com

We make sure you love it more

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Crete holidaysyou’ll love more

ContentsA little more about Villa Plus 04

Villa Plus Service Centre 05

Before you go 06 - 07

Getting to and from your villa 08

Villa Plus Travel Insurance 09

About your villa 10 - 11

Health and Safety 12 - 13

Places to visit 14 - 15

Festivals and Events 16

Sports 17

Children’s Activities 18

Shopping 19

Food 20

Resorts Maleme 21

Gerani 22

Platanias 23

Aghia Marina 24

Kalives 25

Almyrida 26

Rethymnon / Platanes / Adele 27

Bali 28

Crete is the largest and most southerly of all the Greek islands.

The history, culture and traditions of the island are central to the identity of the proud inhabitants. The soaring snow capped mountains, the verdant plateaux and the many beaches fringing the coastline combine to make this a rich tapestry.

Add in to the mix the charming towns and villages with their individual personalities and you have the recipe for a great holiday destination.

From waterparks to museums, wildlife to wild nights, gourmet feasts to rustic fare, chi-chi boutique to rustic artisan – Crete can deliver a great holiday experience!

It’s there for the taking! Kalos orisate! Welcome to Crete!M

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Villa Plus have arranged villa holidays since 1986. Our product focus is on better villas, in better locations with private pools and more facilities. Over the years we’ve grown from just one destination to 13 across Portugal, Spain, Cyprus and Greece. We’re now one of the largest tour operators in the villa market and offer over 900 exclusive villas.

This holiday guide is designed to help you enjoy your holiday. Please read it carefully before you go. That way we can ensure all the arrangements made on your behalf run smoothly.

Thank you for choosing Villa Plus and we hope to see you again in the future.

Welcome to Villa Plus. We hope you have a fabulous holiday in Crete and would like to tell you a little about the company. As a direct sell operator we only sell our own holidays. This means we place great emphasis on quality and service. In fact we take a personal interest in the enjoyment of your holiday and all our staff receive ongoing training to ensure we provide you with consistently good service.

A little more about Villa Plus

Our resort staff are there to ensure all aspects of your holiday go as planned and to maintain your privacy. In general, they will not visit unless in an emergency or to carry out villa checks. Details of your Villa Representative can be found in the security information in your travel pack.

Villa Plus Service Centre

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Travel adaptor/s If you bring your own electrical equipment then you will need to bring a European travel adaptor.

Passport details You must give your Advance Passenger Information (API, sometimes called APIS) details to your airline before you fly. Baggage allowance Baggage allowance, normally 20 kilos per person, can depend on who you’re flying with and will be specified on your itinerary. Collapsible wheelchairs, car seats for infants, pushchairs and carrycots may be carried as hand luggage in excess of the baggage allowance and can usually be taken to the final departure gate to be stored in the hold during the flight. Many charter airlines now charge for excess baggage and equipment such as golf clubs.

Dangerous goods Please refer to the security policy of the airline you’re travelling with.

Special needs and requirements If you, or any member of your party, have any special needs or specific requirements then please let us know at the time of booking. We’ll send you a form for disabled and less mobile clients for you to complete and return so we can ensure the villa and flights you’ve chosen are completely suitable for your needs.

Any queries just call + 44 (0) 1727 836686 or email info@villaplus.com

Here’s our tick list...Travel documents You’ll receive your holiday documents – specifically itinerary and flight reference number (to quote at check in), accommodation details, directions, car hire information and voucher – about ten days before you travel. Please check the documents match your reservation.

Holiday insurance Whether you have taken the ‘Villa Plus’ holiday insurance or not, if you or a member of your party have a pre-existing medical condition, then you MUST advise your insurance company straight away. Failure to do so may invalidate your insurance.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to access state-provided healthcare in all European Economic Area (EEA) countries and Switzerland at a reduced cost or sometimes free of charge. The card is free of charge and, in addition to your travel insurance, we recommend you sign up. Register online at www.ehic.org.uk

Money Whilst MasterCard and Visa cards are widely accepted, and most resorts have ATM’s, we recommend that you get some Euro’s before you go. Please note: travellers cheques are no longer used in Spain.

Towels Although towels are provided in the villas, you’ll need to bring your own beach and pool towels with you.

Before you go

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Getting to and from your villa

Villa Plus transfer from airport If you booked a Villa Plus transfer then, in general, you’ll see your Representative in the arrivals hall who will have organised your transfer. Please refer to the itinerary in your travel pack for more information.

Villa Plus car hire If you’ve booked a car through Villa Plus then please refer to your itinerary and car hire voucher for collection details. It is advisable that one member of the party waits for the baggage whilst another goes to the desk to complete the contract and pay the appropriate deposit and so on.

Directions to your villa Your directions are included in your travel pack.

Arriving at your villa You can get into your villa at 1pm. If you arrive before 4pm, particularly in the larger villas, the maid may still be tidying up.

Leaving your villa Please vacate your villa by 10am. The maid could arrive as early as 8am.

Flight delays EU legislation entitles passengers to compensation from the airline if there is denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Reimbursement in such cases is the responsibility of the airline and will not entitle you to a refund of the price of your arrangements from us. If the airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the CAA on +44 (0) 20 7453 6888 www.caa.co.uk

Villa Plus Travel Insurance

Lost luggage If you’re unfortunate enough to lose your luggage then you need to report this at the lost luggage desk in the baggage reclaim area.

Left luggage If you have a late return flight, then there are normally facilities where you can leave your luggage on your last day. This information can be found in the villa manual or you can contact the local office.

Villa keys The keys to your villa will be contained in a security key box at your villa. Details of this together with the boxes security number are included with your final documentation. Normally only one set of keys will be supplied for the villa that you will be occupying. We would appreciate it if you could take care of the keys as obtaining replacement keys, or changing the locks can be expensive.

Villa Plus holiday insurance is provided by Union Reiseversicherung AG. If you’ve taken this out there is a 24 hour medical emergency assistance facilities service who you can call directly on +44 (0) 845 260 3 260. Remember to have the following information to hand:

n A contact telephone number

n Name and age of patient

n Location of hospital and doctor’s telephone number

n The medical problem

n Your premium receipt number and details of booked travel arrangements

Please refer to your Insurance policy for details of the procedure you should follow, should you require outpatient treatment.

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About Your Villa

Cots/extra beds The majority of the cots that we supply are of the collapsible travel type. All cots supplied in the villas comply with local safety standards. All linen is laundered together so if you have concerns about cot linen, please bring your own. Extra beds are normally of the fold-up variety and are suitable for children only up to the age of 11 years old.

Gas Supply Not all the villas have a gas supply. If applicable, the villa will usually be supplied with an orange coloured Butano gas bottle. In the unlikely event that the gas should run out, please contact our local Villa Representative, who will arrange for a replacement. Where gas water heaters are used in villas, they are subject to an annual inspection by local qualified engineers. A carbon monoxide detector is provided for your additional peace of mind.

Electricity Electricity is 220 AC with continental twin plugs. Your villa electricity supply is not always as constant as in the UK. You may find that the electricity will “trip off” if too many appliances are used at once. This has become more apparent as we have added more equipment into the villas. If this happens, simply turn off some appliances and reset the main fuse box (the location and full details will be in the Villa Manual at the villa).

Internet Most Resorts have an Internet access point ‘Hot Spots’, where you can check emails etc, and the location will be given to you in the Villa Manual. Some individual villas have internet access. Please see your Villa Manual for more details.

Air Conditioning Many villas now include air conditioning/heating in the bedrooms as standard. Please see the individual villa descriptions. Some of these units operate on a sensor that will turn off the unit if the room is not in use. Please consult the Villa Manual for full details. In the case of any malfunction, we will endeavour to rectify them as soon as possible, Villa Plus cannot be responsible for any non-operational time that is out of our control.

Barbecues All our villas have barbecues and wherever possible, brick built. It is not normal for maids to clean the barbecue and we ask guests to leave them in a reasonable and useable condition. We have asked owners to supply cleaning implements.

TV’s To keep you entertained inside your villa, you’ll find a TV which will have a mix of satellite and terrestrial channels and also offer some English speaking channels too. DVD players (including films) are provided in the majority in our villas.

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SafetyHealth and Safety

Safety information You’ll find a Villa Manual with safety information specific to your villa at the property. Please take the time on arrival to familiarise yourselves with the safety features and layout of your villa. If you’re travelling with children then please take the time to point out to any areas where they should take particular care such as the pool and balconies. If you have any questions or concerns, then your Villa Representative will be happy to assist. Should you have an accident anywhere in or around the villa you must report this straight away to your Villa Representative.

Smoking Smoking is not permitted in any of our villas and we would request you only smoke outside the villa. Please do not leave cigarette stubs in the garden.

Swimming pool Whilst the swimming pool is an essential part of the pleasure of holidaying for many people, if misused it can be dangerous:

n Make sure you know the depths of the pool.

n Please observe our strict no diving policy.

n Do not run around the pool side - especially children with wet feet.

n Do not go out of your depth unless you are a good swimmer.

n Do not swim if you cannot see the bottom. If this is the case contact your Villa Representative as soon as possible. Bad weather, thunder storms and/or excess suntan oil

(especially the non waterproof types), can turn the water cloudy. Use the poolside shower before swimming to keep the pool clean.

n Children and fair skinned people should wear a hat and T-shirt whilst in the pool as harmful ultra violet rays can penetrate water up to a depth of 1.5m and are reflected off the water surface.

n Beware of dangerous surfaces, drainage channels, slippery tiles or raised edges.

n Always supervise children and non-swimmers in and around the pool area.

n Do not swim if you have been drinking alcohol, especially late at night.

Report an accident immediately to your Villa Representative, who will attend the villa. Any fault with the pool or its equipment will be inspected and immediate action taken to correct the problem. If, in the opinion of the Villa Representative the pool must be closed for your safety until a repair is facilitated as quickly as possible, you will be instructed in writing to cease using the pool and our liability shall not exceed 33% of the villa rental portion of the holiday.

Pool Heating Many of our swimming pools have been fitted with a Pool Heat Pump, making the pool 3°C to 5°C warmer at 1pm during the day than a non-heated pool under normal circumstances. This provides the pool with a beneficial warming, but does not make it a “hot” pool. Villa Plus cannot be

responsible for any non-operational time, out of our control.

In the case of any malfunction, we will endeavour to rectify them as soon as possible and our liability shall not exceed £150 per villa per week in total. If the pool has a cover, please use it as it will significantly increase the temperature of the water.

Tap water Water from the tap is generally ok for cooking purposes. For drinking we recommend you drink bottled water only.

Sun bathing The best, safest and longer lasting tans are built up gradually - but although most travellers are aware of the danger, many holidays are still ruined by the effects of sunburn. Do take extreme care not to over-expose yourself or your children (particularly young babies), especially during the first few days. We suggest you stay under shade except for about 15 minutes in the early morning or late afternoon on the first day, gradually increasing the time as your skin becomes accustomed to the sun. Even then be sure to use a suntan preparation of the correct factor for your skin and apply it liberally at regular intervals, particularly after swimming. Children should wear sun-hats and their shoulders should be covered as much as possible. We strongly recommend the use of good quality, waterproof sun creams especially when in and out of the pool or down at the beach.

Beaches Please be aware of the local safety precautions when you visit the beaches.

At all times, for your own safety, comply with the suggestions of the local lifeguards, warning notices or flag systems. Should you have any concerns consult a qualified authority or your Villa Representative.

Breakages Please notify our Villa Representative should you notice any shortfalls in the quality of furnishings/cleaning etc. In case of breakages during your holiday, either replace with a matching item or report the damage to the Villa Representative. For details of our accidental damage waiver or security deposit, please refer to www.villaplus.com

Security Please store valuables in the safe provided including vital documents If you do not use the safe provided you may invalidate any insurance claim that you may have.

Most villas have an alarm and nightlight. Ensure the alarm is switched on when you leave the villa.

Additionally make sure all doors/windows are closed/locked if you leave the villa or are around the pool.

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Places to visit

BeachesRETHYMNON AREA

Rethymnon town - A lovely wide sweep of sandy beach fringes the old town. Tavernas, buzzing cafes and bars are adjacent. An excellent beach to take advantage of after an energetic mornings shopping.

Platanes -This beach is the one which serves the main resort in the area. It’s a mixture of sand with some shingle areas. Cafes and tavernas are nearby as are a variety of shops.

Preveli - This is a beach on the south coast which has a river flowing in to the sea. It is well known for it’s lovely sand and palm trees. However beware! This is a relatively unspoilt beach and can only be accessed by a steep path! Well worth the effort though.

CHANIA

Falasarna - A fabulous sandy beach to the west of Chania with turquoise waters and shallow rock pools. Either drive yourselves or take an organised excursion.

Almyrida - A lovely beach suitable for all the family. Watersports are available and a scuba diving school is also located in the village.

Platanias - The beach is mainly sandy and has many tavernas and cafes within a stones throw. This is a busy resort so this beach is probably best suited to those who are looking for a lively time.

Elafonissi - Pink sand and turquoise water best summarises this beach. It is situated

AttractionsRethymnon Town - The old town is a mini version of Chania. Turkish and Venetian architecture sit side by side and a minaret is being refurbished by the ministry of culture. A Venetian Fortress is worth a visit and during the summer months hosts open air events such as the Bolshoi ballet and well known popular Greek singers. The Venetian Harbour is very picturesque and coffee or an early evening glass of wine is a great way to enjoy it.

Kournas Lake - This freshwater lake attracts many types of wildlife from indigenous tortoises to water fowl. Take a pedallo out onto the lake and see if you can spot some of the resident turtles. Don’t trail your fingers in the water though! The lake has a number of traditional tavernas on the shore.

Arkadi Monastery - This monastery dates back to the 16th century and has a Renaissance design in the architecture. It is best known for the active role it played in the Cretan resistance of Ottoman rule during the Cretan revolt in 1866. 943 Greeks, mostly women and children, sought refuge in the monastery. After three days of battle and under orders from the abbot of the monastery, the Cretans blew up barrels of gunpowder, choosing to sacrifice themselves rather than surrender.

The Botanical Park Chania - This park was created from the devastation left by fires in 2004 which decimated acres of olive groves. The microclimate of the area means that many types of plants, trees and shrubs from all over the world flourish.

on the south west coast so transport is a necessity. The drive down to the beach is probably one of the prettiest taking you through some very traditional villages. If you don’t want to drive, take one of the organised excursions advertised in the local resorts.

Akrotiri - There are so many sandy beaches on this rocky peninsula. Marathi is a large sandy cove with a bar/taverna which attracts many young local people, Stavros is a quieter location more suited perhaps to families with children and Kalathas which has a beach volley net for anyone to join in as well as a great taverna. They are just a few of the beaches.

Mandraki harbour was the main harbour of Rhodes for almost 2,500 years. On the left side you can see the entrance to the harbour and the two deer, (it is believed that the Colossus of Rhodes was standing there) a Rhodian symbol of strength and wealth. Mandraki Harbour still remains very active, with lots of sailboats, private yachts and small cruise boats that offer trips around Rhodes and other nearby islands such as Symi, Tilos and Kos. From the commercial harbour you can also visit

The 3 brothers who created this small haven of calm are passionate about what they do and the excellent restaurant serves quality dishes from locally produced fresh produce. http://www.botanical-park.com/

Samaria Gorge - The longest gorge in Europe which is home to the indigenous goat, the Krikri. The challenging walk is approximately 18 kilometres and takes visitors through some stunning, truly majestic scenery.

Chania Town - There is no better place to witness the remains of the Turkish and Venetian occupations. The harbour is lined with some wonderful if rather crumbling buildings from these eras which now house bars, cafes, tavernas and shops. Take one of the many alleys fanning in from the harbour and take time to meander. There is also a nautical and maritime museum as well as local craftsmen making items still in everday use in Crete such as knives and ‘Stivania’ the traditional long black leather boots worn by farmers.

Allied War Cemetary - Situated in Souda this is where members of the Allied Forces - both men and women - who died during the Battle of Crete which started on 21st May 1941 are buried. It is maintained immaculately by the War Graves Commission .

German War Cemetary - Maleme. This is where the battle initially commenced with paratroopers landing on allied positions. The soldiers were buried throughout the island and were finally laid to rest in the cemetary in Maleme in 1965.

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March Chania - On 21 May 1941 the Battle of Crete began and every year Cretan Resistance and Allied Forces are commemorated at a number of services in and around Chania. Crete suffered heavy losses and brutal hardship during the occupation but Resistance forces were so tenacious that Hitler did not attempt a similar assault anywhere else. 4,500 soldiers lost their lives during the occupation.

July - August - September Cultural Summer Events of the municipality of Chania.They include music and stage performances at the theatre of Eastern Trench, Public Garden, Venizelio music school, Park of Peace and Friendship and other events in several neighbourhoods of the town.Cultural summer events are also organised by the municipality of Kisamos, Nea Kydonia, Pelekanos and Georgioupolis. Dates for these events are confirmed nearer the time.

Sardine festival End of August beginning of September - in Nea Chora and in Souda.

Many village festivals take place during the month of August in celebration of the patron saint of their church. Tables and chairs are usually laid out in the village square where copious amounts of food and wine are consumed and local musicians play until the small hours.

Sports

Scuba Diving There are several PADI certified scuba diving schools around both Rethymnon and Chania which cater for all levels of ability whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver.

Paradise Scuba Diving - Rethymnon - Petres - www.diving-center.gr

Evelin Divers- Platanes www.evelindivers.com/padi-courses

Kalypso Diving Centre Plakias

Chania Diving Kounoupidiana - Chania

Omega Diving Almyrida - www.omegadivers.com

Blue Adventures - Chania Town - www.blueadventuresdiving.gr

Watersports Watersports can be found on most beaches in holiday resorts. Banana boats, wind surfing, canoes, pedalloes and paragliding are usually available.

Windsurfing Almyrida has a wind surfing school on the beach. If you are planning on bringing your own gear, Falassarna and Elafonissi are extremely popular with experienced wind surfers.

Cycling

Bicycle hire is available in Platanes Rethymnonand Platanias Chania with varying types of bicycles available. There are some very good organised cycling tours available for groups or individuals.

Go Karts There are Go Kart tracks in both Chania and Rethymnon.

Chania track in located in the area of Mournies www.megadrive-gokart.gr Rethymnon is located on the Old National Road in Adelianos Kambos.

Golf There is one 18 hole golf course on Crete in Hersonissos which is east of Iraklion.

Horseriding There is a horse riding school in Georgoupolis which is between Rethymnon and Chania. All abilities are catered for and they provide a pick up service too.

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Water Parks There are several large waterparks on Crete. The most accessible for those staying in the Chania area is Limnoupolis located 8 kilomtres from Chania near to the village of Varipetro. For those staying in Rethymnon, head for either Limnoupolis in Chania or Water City in Anopolis just outside Iraklion. They both have a good selection of slides and pools as well as places to eat and drink.

Play Parks Golden Fun Park, Chania - This has both indoor and outdoor activities for children. It is situated at the Aghios Apostolos junction about 10 minutes drive from Platanias. There is also a bowling alley here as well as a cafeteria serving snacks.

Horse & Buggy Rides Take a ride on a horse and trap for a small tour of the town. You will see them around Chania Harbour.

Ten Pin Bowling Mega Place, Chania - Ten Pin Bowling open 10.00am - 12 midnight. A good way to have some family fun. It’s also very easy to get to. Just follow the road from Souda to the airport and it’s on the hill overlooking Souda Bay. There’s also a multi screen cinema and childrens play area. The cafeteria serves food too.

Boat TripsChania Glass bottomed boats are great fun especially for children and you can find a couple in the harbour of Chania. If a glass bottom isn’t to your liking then you will find many boats of varying sizes offering trips also in the harbour.

In Almyrida, a small excursion is run to the nearby caves with the opportunity to swim too.

Rethymnon A couple of boat trips are available from the small Ventian harbour stopping at various coves along the way before dropping anchor in the bay of Bali, a small fishing village.

Boats are not available for private hire to captain yourself.

If it’s jewellery you would like the choice is vast. Both gold and silversmiths can be found producing classic designs as well as very contemporary ones too using precious and semi precious stones.

Ceramics too are good value and some of the producers will arrange shipping of the large terracotta pots for gardens and patios.

In the indoor market in Chania, local cheeses, olives, oil, herbs and spices can be found as well as locally produced fruit and vegetables.

In the modern parts of the towns, chain stores such as Zara, Bennetton, Diesel and others can be found. Small privately owned shops are also well worth browsing although they may be a little more expensive

MarketsChania The Saturday market is the place to head for if you want to buy fresh fruit, vegetables and cheese. It is situated on Minoos Street on the eastern side of the old town. There is a car park close by but you may find that you have to wait for a space. The market starts at around 7am and stall holders start to pack away at around 2pm.

Both in Chania and Rethymnon shops vary enormously. In the old towns, artisans and craftsmen offer eclectic pieces, often individual pieces and the experience is further enjoyed by the quaint surroundings.

Rethymnon The largest market is held in the car park in the town centre every Thursday. Again fruit, vegetables, cheeses and sometimes local honey can be bought. You will also find linens, clothing and shoes. The market starts at around 7am and stall holders start to pack away at around 2pm.

Iraklion On Saturdays there is a very large market selling just about everything - including the kitchen sink! If you decide to head there, you’ll need stamina and patience! The times are the same 7am - 2pm.

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Food Maleme

Crete is a large island and within the different regions you will find dishes local to that area. Equally you will find sophisticated bijou restaurants at one end of the scale and simple tavernas serving a small selection of perhaps 3 or 4 dishes which you choose from looking in the pot at the other!

Try horta, a different type of leafy greens according to the season which is serves with oil and lemon juice. Fava is a puree of split yellow peas served with chopped onions and drizzled with oilive oil and lemon juice. Mizithra or as it’s called in Chania Anthotiro is a very soft cheese made from sheeps milk. This is not available during the hot summer months in it’s soft form but when dried it is used grated in pasta dishes. Greek food is paradise for vegetarians but meat dishes such as braised lamb and goat flavoured with herbs and served with melting soft roast potatoes is simple in its preparation but nectar to consume! Most Greek people will order a variety of meze and everyone then takes a little of everything so it’s rarely necessary to order a main course! More often than not there are more meze listed on a menu than main courses. Tiny fried pies filled with cheese or horta and fennel are recommended too. The list just goes on!

Look out for ‘paximadi’ a hard baked rusk type of bread. You sometimes find it crumbled into the bottom of the salad bowl so it soaks up the juices!

Dining & Nights Out This small quiet resort has a few small traditional tavernas as well as an Italian restaurant. There are also a couple of bars along the beach road which also serve snacks during the day.

Places of Interest The German war cemetetary is situated on a hillside just outside the village close to the site where the Battle of Crete started on 21st May 1941.

A few kilometres inland in the village of Vouves is the oldest olive tree which has bn dated by the University of Crete to be in the region of 4,000 years old. It has a perimeter of 12.5 metres and a diameter of 6.5 metres. A small museum adjacent gives interesting information about the area and olives.

Beaches The beaches along this stretch of the coastline are of shingle. In the resort there are sunbeds and umbrellas for hire although outside the resort there are no such facilities. Drive or take the bus to Platanias five minutes east of Maleme where you will find boat trips advertised to Balos a peninsular of land on the north west tip of Crete which is inaccessible by car.

If you’re under the impression that Greek food consists of moussaka, tzatziki and souvlakia think again!

This family friendly resort is very small with a short beach front promenade lined with hotels, tavernas and bars. The beach is shingle and pebble and a small area is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire. It is suited to those who are looking for a quiet base but are within easy reach of more lively entertainment in the resort of Platanias.

Desserts are rarely on a taverna menu. If you would like to try the well known syrup infused desserts for which Greece is so well known, you need to either buy them in a cake shop – of which there are many – or choose a café which specialises in cakes and icecream. Kataiifi is the one which looks like Shredded Wheat but has chopped nuts in the centre. Galaktoboureko has layers of filo pastry with a custard filling before being soaked with syrup. Baklava has layers of crisp filo pastry with chopped pistachio nuts between the layers and then- yes you guessed - is doused in syrup! Are your teeth and waistline screaming for mercy yet!?

Shopping There are a few gift shops in Maleme as well as a small supermarket, a number of mini markets, a butcher and baker.

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Gerani

Platanie

sGerani Platanias

Beaches The beaches in the resort of Platanias are mainly sandy with some shingle and stony patches. A variety of watersports are available and umbrellas and sunbeds are easily found. Some of the cafes have their own sun beds and umbrellas and do not charge if you use their bar. They will also serve on the beach.

Boat Trips Boat trips can be arranged through local excursion offices in the resort taking visitors to Balos and Gramvousa. These are otherwise inaccessible beaches with turquoise waters and fine golden sand.

Shopping This large resort has every type of shop! Jewellery, shoes, trinkets, linens, ceramics – the list goes on. There a few very good bakeries, numerous minimarkets, a branch of a local supermarket chain and also on the outskirts is a large well known supermarket.

Dining & Nights Out In the resort of Platanias you will find many traditional tavernas – some more expensive than others depending on the location more than the quality of food served. There are also a couple of restaurants serving Chinese and Italian food. Try the Upper Platanias, the old village a short way up a hill – which is mainly pedestrianized. There are several tavernas which have stunning views overlooking the resort below but you

Beaches The beach in Gerani extends from the Maleme beach so is also a shingle beach but does not have any facilities and is frequented by those who want peace and quiet.

Boat Trips Platanias a short drive east along the coast road offers boat trips to Balos.

Shopping This small village has a couple of traditional tavernas, a small minimarket and a butcher.

Dining & Nights Out There are a couple of tavernas on the main street and several other tavernas and restaurants on the neighbouring area. There are also several bars which stay open until the small hours.

Watersports The nearest watersports are in Platanias a short distance along the coast road.

Places of Interest The German War Cemetary is just a short distance away and worth a visit. The views from the cemeterary are panoramic and overlook the airfield where the Battle of Crete started, Platanies to the east and Tavronitis in the west.

This is the most lively resort in the area. There are enough shops to while away a few evenings browsing art, jewellery, clothes and local trinkets but a few bars which keep going until the early hours of the morning.

This village has a small selection of shops and tavernas. The beach is a very natural beach with no organised facilities and is predominantly shingle and stones. It is just a short distance from the more lively resort of Platanias.

can also see as far as Chania. This is the perfect spot to watch the sun setting.

Platanias is a lively resort, very popular with Scandinavian visitors. The many bars and clubs provide pulsing music and a crowd to enjoy it! Cocktail bars offer entertainment with experienced barmen providing much of it!

Watersports An array of watersports are available in Platanias from pedalloes, banana boats, para gliding and canoes.

Places of Interest The town of Chania is a 20 minute drive away. Local buses run regularly if you don’t want to drive. The town is well worth visiting with its old town of winding streets, the Nautical Museum and the Venetian Harbour.

Visit the district called Koum Kapi which was a Turkish enclave where boatmen, porters and servants lived in rush huts. The huts have long since disappeared to be replaced by smart cosmopolitan cafeterias - the place to see and be seen!

www.mar-mus-crete.gr

The indoor market it worth a look too and a good place to buy herbs, spices, raki (the local fire water ) and more types of olives than you can shake a stick at! Green ones, black ones, shrivelled, salted, acidic, aged, new the list goes on.

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Ag

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Beaches The beach of Aghia Marina is mostly sandy and extends from Platanias. It’s fringed with cafes and tavernas which open early in the morning and close late at night. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire. Some parts have rocky outcrops and provide interest for snorkelers.

Boat Trips Boat trips can be booked in Aghia Marina but leave from Platanias visiting Balos and Gramvousa.

Shopping There are many shops of all types and minimarkets running the length of the resort.

Dining & Nights Out Aghia Marina and Platanias run into each other so as well as the many tavernas, bars and cafes on the Aghia Marina stretch, kepp walking and you’ll have the choice of those in Platanias too. There are quiet intimate restaurants, busy family friendly tavernas and the grill houses where you’ll get soulaki, chips and salad for a knock down price.

Watersports Some watersports are available but for a larger selection Platanias is the place to go.

Beaches Sandy beaches interspersed with shingle in some places but frequented by Greek families with young children particularly at the weekends. One of the beaches ends in a small marina and this has a number of small tavernas offering a good variety of economical well cooked meals.

Boat Trips For a short boat trip, make your way a few minutes around the bay to Almyrida where a small boat which carries a maximum of 12 passengers visits caves which larger craft cannot access. You can also swim off the side of the boat.

Shopping There are several minimarkets, a small supermarket, green grocers, a couple of bakeries and a few gift shops stretch along the main street of the small village.

Dining & Nights Out For the size of the village there are a remarkable number of places to eat. They are all traditional tavernas and most are situated next to the beach or sea wall further in. There are a few bars which serve snacks during the day and close around midnight.

Watersports The nearest watersports are situated in Almyrida, four kilometres away.

Aghia Marina is a resort ideally suited to families with some lovely sandy beaches, great tavernas and a good variety of shops. The main town of Chania is just a twenty minute drive away making it easily accessible when you want to do some serious shopping or

Kalyves is a great destination for those looking for a quieter base for their holiday or just a day away from the villa. A couple of sandy beaches with cafes and tavernas close by attract both visitors and local people as it has a ‘small island’ atmosphere although it is within easy reach of Chania.

Aghia Marina Kalives

Places of Interest Visit the hilltop village of Pano Stalos with its picturesque tavernas and stunning scenery.

The town of Chania is a short distance away and easily reached by local transport. Alternatively park on the edge of the old town and walk around the harbour before investigating the myriad shops selling everything from traditional knives, antique wall hangings, Cretan leather boots which local farmers favour to chic boutiques at eye watering prices.

Places of Interest Drive to Stalos and walk along the river through avocado and citrus orchards which eventually leads in to the open sea at the edge of Kalyves. Or visit the Venetian remains of Cretes first university in the village of Armeni where there is an excellent taverna serving dishes specific to Chania under a canopy of plane trees.

Take the minor road from Kalyves which winds through the area of the Apokoronas through breathtaking scenery before dropping down into Georgoupolis with its pretty village square.

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Alm

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Beaches A long stretch of sandy beach lined with bars tavernas and gift shops. It can sometimes get quite windy here so this is the place for the wind surfing fraternity.

A smaller bay as you enter the village the Almyrida Beach Apartments is sheltered but can get quite busy over the weekends when local inhabitants visit.

Boat Trips Walk to the far end of the beach road towards the little harbour and you come across Kostas, the gentleman who runs a small boat which takes just 12 passengers. He is a mine of local information and takes you to caves which you would not otherwise be able to get to. The trip is only 2 hours but he has snorkelling equipment on board and is PADI certified.

Shopping A couple of mini markets and a bakery are on the road parallel to the beach and you can find some imported goods but mostly local brands. The minimarkets usually have fresh bread too. On the beach road there are some gift shops and jewellers.

Dining & Nights Out If its fish you want this is a good place to try – just make sure you ask the price per kilo before you order! Whitebait and sardines are always tasty and reasonably priced.

Beaches The beach in Platanes is a mix of sand and shingle. A flag system is in use and should be adhered to as the exposed coastline can be very rough with strong undercurrents. There are severals areas where watersports are available. To get to the beaches take any of the side roads which lead off the main coast road which runs parallel with the sea.

Boat Trips Boat trips are not available in the resorts but a short ride into Rethymnon and boat trips are available from the Venetian Harbour. The trips are either in an easterly direction stopping at the villages of Panormos and Bali or going west to Georgioupoli. These trips are usually half days.

Shopping Platanes is the largest of the resorts along this strip of the coast and all sorts of shops are there. There are numerous minimarkets which stock some imported items but will predominantly stock local goods. You will also find many gift shops which have locally produced artifacts such as olive wood items both decorative and useful.

Just before the bridge which joins Platanes to the neighbouring resort of Adele you will find a shop which stocks ceramic pots from very small to the large terracotta pots for outside use.

Almyrida is just a short drive a little further around the coastline from Kalyves. This pretty coastal village won the hearts of many British visitors so much so that many have left the cold British climate to set up home in the area.

This stretch of coastline is a popular breeding ground for the Loggerhead Turtles which are a protected species, cages covering the nests can be seen from the end of May through to August.

Almyrida Rethymnon / Platanes / Adele

The tavernas are well known locally and can become quite busy at the weekends so be prepared for volume to be a couple of decibels higher

The bars in the village can get quite lively on nights when local musicians come to play. Then the raki flows and suddenly Cretan dancing doesn’t seem so difficult after all!

Watersports ON the beach opposite the Almyrida Beach Hotel are a variety of watersports including wind surfing. There are also instructors so you can book a lesson if you’re a first timer.

There is also a scuba diving school in Almyrida which is PADI certified. www.omegadivers.com/ws/en

Places of InterestSouda Bay is where the British Commonwealth War Cemetery is situated and is about half an hours drive from Almyrida. Souda one of the deepest natural harbours in the Mediterranean.

Kornas Lake is also easy to get to from Almyrida by taking either the National Road east or by the more scenic route through the villages of Plaka, Drapanos, Kefalas and Georgioupoli. See the local bird life or take a pedallo out onto the lake and see if you can spot a turtle.

Dining and nights out There are many tavernas all along the main road and several down the side streets towards the beach. Most serve the usual Greek options but often serve pizzas, burgers etc for those who perhaps want a change. Some also do childrens menus. A short ride from Platanes is a very well known taverna called Zissis which attracts local customers winter and summer alike and is about the only remaining taverna where you can choose your food from trays by the kitchen. This is the place to try if you want authentic Greek food.

There are many lively bars in Platanes which stay open until the early hours but also a few which tend to be quieter for those who enjoy music but also don’t want to lip read in order to hold a conversation!

For more sophisticated cuisine make your way into Rethymnon where a restaurant called Avli has won many awards for the food and ambience. Maistros on the edge of town near the army base is situated on the rocky coastline. It has a good menu and fabulous location. You should probably reserve a table if you want to eat there.

Watersports There are several watersports situated along the beach of Platanes and Adele. Paragliding, banana boats and pedallos can be found and opposite Lydl at the Evelin Apartments is a scuba diving school.www.evelindivers.com/padi-courses

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Bali

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Beaches There are several lovely beaches in Bali. Just before you arrive in the centre, take a right turn and you will see a stretch of sand with umbrellas and sunbeds. The swimming here is lovely, crystal clear water but can be a bit tricky getting in and out due to areas where the sea bed is smooth rock. This is because it is a manmade beach. Several tavernas fringe the beach serving traditional food. Be aware that Bali is very popular at the weekends with local people and the beach can get quite crowded.

Continue into the centre of the village and there is a small ribbon of beach and a short sea wall where small fishing boats are moored.

Instead of turning right into the centre of the village take a dirt track to the left and follow it round to another bay which is more secluded. This is a popular beach with naturists. The walk down to the beach is quite steep.

This lovely little village east of Rethymnon really does have a small island feel to it. The beaches are small but well organised with sun beds and umbrellas for hire and the water is crystal clear. Tavernas are just a few steps away and those in the tiny harbour are well known locally for the fish they serve.

Language Greek

Currency Euro

International dialling code +30

Emergency Services 100 or 112

Time Eastern European Time - If you are travelling from the UK then you must set your watch forward 2 hours.

Electricity 220 AC - travellers from the UK will need a two-pin plug adaptor.

Opening Hours for Shops Shops are open from 09:00 till 14:00 hrs throughout the week and from 17:00 until 21:00 hrs. Tuesday, Thursdays and Fridays. Most tourist shops are open all day seven days a week.

Bali Useful Information

Boat trips This is a tiny fishing village so no boat trips are available.

Shopping There are a few minimarkets and gift shops but not a shoppers paradise!

Dining and nights out This village is very well known locally for the fish tavernas around the small harbour. Local people congregate there in the summer months to enjoy the great fresh fish but be aware that although Crete is an island, it does not mean that fish is economical – anything but! Anything larger than a sardine always ask the price per kilo before you order or you could end up with a very nasty surprise when the bill comes!

This tiny village does have a couple of bars which cater for visitors looking for a quitter type of evening out. They are more simple bars serving local beers as well as spirits but cocktails would be best sought elsewhere.

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