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By Katia Luz
Kaliviani Village Crete - this small village in the very north-west of Crete retains its natural character and daily rhythms. Discover the warmth of friendliness in this traditional village, and explore around western Crete.
Καλυβιανή is a small village of 300
or so people with traditional and modern buildings located in the north-west of Crete, just 44 km from Chania town.
In the village, there are some old falling down houses, some restored houses, apartments and some villas. This is a traditional farming community surrounded by olive groves, just a 10 minute walk to the beach, which is wild and undeveloped, with sandy and pebbly rocky coves.
The village has an elevated aspect with lovely views over the Bay of Kissamos. Many visitors come to this region of Crete to visit the exquisite white sandy beaches and lagoons just 8 km from here at Balos Lagoon. Indeed, this village makes an excellent choice of accommodation to visit several lovely beaches and other beautiful natural places in western Crete.
The boat trip from Kastelli-Kissamos to Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon is no doubt one of the highlights of visiting Crete.
Remember these tips for visiting the lagoon:
This is a popular tour so it is a good idea to book ahead. Book a ticket
here online or with Cretan Daily Cruises, or at ticket offices in
Kissamos:
See a video overview of the cruise day tour below:
The town of Kissamos is your embarkation point for Balos Lagoon cruises and the closest town to Kaliviani, and a well-loved holiday destination itself, with many fine beaches, a ruined fortress, a seaside esplanade, historic museums and a beautiful aspect on the wide Kissamos Bay.
Located just 44 km from Chania in the region of the same name, this town is easy to access via the national roads and on the very handy KTEL local buses.
This town is 61 km from Chania airport, and again can be reached easily with a hire car via the national roads, or on KTEL buses.
If you are driving from Chania to Kissamos over 44 km, leave about 1 hour to enjoy the journey.
Once in Kaliviani, this small village provides everything you need for a break. Do visit the local tavernas for a fresh seafood dinner whilst watching the sunset down over Kissamos Bay, gazing at the soft evening colours.
There is good accommodation in Kaliviani village itself, as it is a completely natural traditional village. Other accommodation is available in the countryside and at Kissamos and beaches dotted around.
Sokaki House is located within the village. This beautifully restored village home is ready to welcome 4 guests in a 1 bedroom home. This entire holiday home provides a full kitchen, terrace and sea views in the most convenient location. Live like a local in this character-filled home.
The Kaliviani Traditional Guesthouse is in the edge of the village with easy access to the port for a day trip to Balos Lagoon. This small, quiet guesthouse is elevated with sea views, a taverna and the charm, hospitality and atmosphere of old Crete.
The restored mansion in the village which is named Villa Archontariki has 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, private gardens and a pool, as well as relaxing private courtyard areas. Sleeping 10 guests in comfort, this is luxurious accommodation in Kaliviani.
The seafood is so fresh here, you must make a beeline for the fish tavernas strung along the harbour side in Kissamos and the inland villages of the west coast.
Restaurants in or near Kaliviani:
Tavernas along the water side:
The region in the west of Crete is named Chania or Xania and holds some of the best-kept secrets of Crete, with so many nooks and crannies to explore. There are rocky mountains and gorges, forests to walk in and beautiful beaches to lie on, as well as the towns of Chania, Kissamos and Palaiochora.
Some other highlights of the region include:
See the location of this village on this map, in the west of Crete in the north.
Take a 1 hour flight from Athens to Heraklion with Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air, with many flights available per day.
Or take a 9.5 hour overnight ferry from Pireaus port of Athens to Heraklion port.
More on flights and ferries below.
Car hire in Crete is a really good idea as it is a large island 60 km by 260 km. There is so much to explore.
When you book with our car rental partners - Rental Centre Crete - you are supporting a local company with excellent service and easy online booking. We are sure you will be well looked after by the team. Choose from hybrid, electric or regular vehicles.
We trust you have enjoyed these tips from the We Love Crete team. Evíva!
Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia
are the We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
About us Contact Us Kaló taxídi!
Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia
are the
We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
About us