Villages nearby
Alymrida
Closest to Villa Louisa is Almyrida, a seaside resort on the northern coast of Crete in the Apokoronas region. It is about 25 km east of Chania, and very close to Souda Bay. This is a lovely stretch of the island. It has plenty of unspoiled natural beauty as well as easy proximity to every urban convenience and is a great child friendly beach.
Some history:
Like most of Crete, Almyrida has been inhabited since ancient times. The area was inhabited during the Minoan era (brief history lesson here, the Minoans were an advanced Bronze Age civilization that flourished in Crete from around 2700 BC to 1450 BC). However, it is seems Almyrida was inhabited not by the Minoans but rather by the Phoenicians, who were mates with the Minoans.
Almyrida has been called home by other civilizations in Cretan history. Ruins of the Greco Roman era have been found, as well as early Christian ruins. Stalwart Cretans also battled the Ottomans near Almyrida for their independence.
What to See and Do in Almyrida:
No need to take on the Ottomans, rather explore the great restaurants and experience a bit of night life here in season. This area is well suited to families, it has a gentle beach and it’s a 10 minute drive from Villa Louisa.
Plaka
Plaka is one of the best-known and most traditional villages in West Crete. Plaka is approximately 23 km from Chania in the Vamos Municipality along with the neighbouring villages of Αlmyrida and Κalyves. Plaka is slightly inland on a hill and you will want to mosey down here for groceries and the tavernas. Plaka is a friendly little village, set out in a horseshoe shape on the hillside, with an excellent view of Almyrida and Souda Bay, which of course, you get to see from Villa Louisa.
There is a lovely mini market here, with great fresh produce and a surprising selection of wine, spirits and champagne. The village is verdant with plants and largely preserves its lovely natural environment, as it is set on the slopes of Mount Drapanokefala. You can see olive and plane trees, low scrub and even organic farms, which makes you feel like you are deep in the heart of Crete.
Kalyves
Kalyves is about 19 km east of Chania. Unlike Almyrida, this is a real deal authentic “working” village with a good sized local population, shops, cafés and tavernas that are not seasonal. Kalyves has great sandy beaches. Kalyves is great for children, the sea is shallow and there are loads of umbrellas and restaurants right on the beach.
