Chania, Crete
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The port of Chania. January 2018. Photo credit: Annika Barbarigos.
“Crete 2013: Chania” by Rev Stan is licensed under CC BY 2.0
 “Streets of Chania” by Romtomtom is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Western Crete is home to Chania and Rethymnon, two cities that boast of having Crete's loveliest beaches. Crete is a tourist hub, and rightfully so. It combines natural wonders with plenty of industry to accommodate the tourist's desires to shop, eat, relax, and learn, all at once. Tourists will delight in the family-run tavernas that supply the hungry visitor with meat like lamb and pork, and a multitude of specialty cheeses and wines. However, Crete's landscape is probably its biggest asset. Its coastline has earned it the nickname Big Blue. Cretans enjoy the water that surrounds them, as do tourists. A favorite sport at most any beach is windsurfing, and rentals are normally available. Much of the terrain on Crete is rough, but this can also make for a nice challenge if you are a hiker, biker, or nature enthusiast. For those less physically inclined, Crete offers plenty of museums and unique activities that will allow you to take it easy and enjoy. Regardless of your interests, Crete is sure to inspire awe with its rich history and modern splendor.
Should you be able to arrange your own itinerary, make sure to visit the picturesque village of Vamos, located 25 km from Chania, at the foothills of the White Mountains. It is said that Vamos’ first inhabitants were Saracen pirates in the 8th c. AD. During the second half of the 19th c. and the Turkish domination, Vamos became headquarters of the Turkish army and was designated as the capital of the province of Sfakia, due to its strategic position. During this period, the village experienced great development, as important public works were made and public buildings with neoclassical elements were built. During the Cretan revolutions in 1866 and 1896, bloody battles took place, while in the latter Turks fled and the rebels burned the most important buildings in the area, among them the old Girls' School. Nowadays, most of the houses and buildings of the village have been restored and renovated, preserving the elements of both folk and neoclassical architecture, so that Vamos is one of the most attractive destinations of the area while the architectural heritage is well-preserved here. The houses have been built with local materials, such as stone and wood, and maintain their traditional character. Nearby beaches include Almirida, Georgioupoli and Kalivaki beach, Kalyves, Kera, Kiani Akti, and Ombrosgialos. For your accommodation, we strongly recommend you check with Fabrica Farm and Houses. On Main Street, look for Sterna of Bloumosifis, one of the best traditional eateries in the area! Enjoy!
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1664 map of Chania, by Ioannes Peeters.
Weaving a tapestry of awe and wonder, the town of Chania is a centuries-old mix of Minoan myths, well-preserved Venetian monuments and mansions, a mesmerizing Old Town complete with labyrinthine passageways, and atmospheric Kastelli Hill, once the site of a Roman acropolis. Chania is also known as a gateway to the breathtaking 4,000 year-old Minoan ruins at Knossos, home of the legendary King Minos and the part man and part bull known creature as the Minotaur. And around every corner of this idyllic area you'll find picturesque villages, breathtaking views and architectural wonders that will remain with you for a lifetime. Chania is the birthplace of my own father, who, alas, became an orphan at a very tender age and left his hometown. Thus, there is no family property, not even immediate relatives to connect me with this wonderful town, the crossroads of so many cultures over the ages...
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Offering views of the old port and the lighthouse, Domus Renier Boutique Hotel - Historic Hotels Worldwide is situated in Chania Town, in the heart of the old Venetian Harbor, 100 m from the Maritime Museum Of Chania.
Each room at this hotel has AC and is equipped with a smart flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Some units feature a seating area to relax in after a busy day. You will find a coffee machine in the room. All rooms have a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find bath robes and slippers. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. A traditional breakfast with Cretan products is offered. Guests can relax at the lobby area. The hotel also offers bikes and cars for hire. The Archaeological Museum of Chania is 200 m from Domus Renier, while Municipal Art Gallery of Chania is 200 m from the property. In 2018, Domus Renier Boutique Hotel was voted best European Historic Hotel by «Historic Hotels Worldwide®», a global community representing more than 300 historic hotels in 43 countries! |
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Map of Chania, Crete
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