KALIVES
Area: Crete
Country: Greece


Location:
On the N coast, on Souda Bay 75 miles W of Heraklion, 8 miles E of Chania; similar distance from Chania airport.

Telephone code from UK:
30 28250

Position:
Hugging the shoreline, reached by winding hillside road with spectacular views of the sea and snow-capped white mountains behind.

Description:
Comprising one main street and crossroads, the village is largely untouched by commercial tourism. Locals gather at tavernas near the church square, close to a river but fishing is prohibited. The pace is slow and relaxed with a traditional sense of village life and an agricultural focus.

Suitability:
Older couples, nature lovers, walkers and those seeking quiet tranquillity.

Accommodation:
Apartments, studios and rooms for rent locally. Only one hotel, but development of outlying areas is planned.

Shopping:
The central street provides all the basics such as chemist, post office, bank, small supermarket; clothes and souvenir shops are quite low-key.

Beach:
A good sandy beach, 3 miles long, though the best swimming is close to the sheltered harbour.

Entertainments:
Daytime: beach; walks. Nightlife: a dozen or so local tavernas with pleasant street terraces, plus a bar which offers minigolf. A few lively bars in side streets.

Eating:
Tavernas offer a good range of fresh seafood and a moderate selection of international dishes; the local hotel offers more sophisticated dining beside the attractive river.

Public-transport:
Hourly buses to Chania, Rethymnon and Heraklion from the main road, 600 yards W of village centre. Buses from the village itself run every two hours. Local taxis available.

Local-excursions:
Organised tours to local villages, churches and Aptera's castle-topped bluff. The area is renowned for its flora including 25 rare orchids. Boat trips.