Hot, sunny days. Iced freddo cappuccinos. People watching all day and refreshing dips in the Mediterranean. I mean, can you blame me? That’s what summer in Greece is all about! Espeically in Paleochora.
Welcome to Paleochora!
A hidden village off the south coast of Crete full of shops, tavernas, bars, camping, tide pools, coves & beaches.
It feels different over here than other parts of western Crete. More hippieish, maybe? Definitely more secluded from your typical tourist destination.
Or maybe it’s the gorgeous tide pools sitting next to colorful, rustic buildings that remind me of an Oregon vibe mixed with a Baja town.
This place is just so peaceful and vibrant – all at the same time.
 Paleochora is a locals favorite getaway and a tourists hidden gem.
You can camp along the coast, hotel it for a few days or just go for a day trip.
There is plenty to see with enough time to do absolutely nothing and relax – all while staring out onto the vast ocean with a drink in hand.
And don’t be fooled. Paleochora is phenomenal during the day, but just wait for the nightlife.
Thirsty? Make sure to check out Agios Bar for a fantastic night out! The DJs make for a superb vibe and you won’t regret it!
 The bartenders are amazing and make you feel at home. Plus, their cocktails are on point!
Hungry? Grab a bite at Veggera, The Family Grill House and Palm Tree cafe. The food is wonderful!
And if lounging isn’t exciting enough, you can take a boat to Elafonisi, Loutro and many other Mediterranean beaches along the southern coast of Crete.
TIP:Â Make sure you talk with the boating company personnel once you arrive in Paleochora (and view the schedule via their website) to make sure you don’t miss the boat trip you want to go on and to check the weather (it can get super windy on the south side of the Island and you may not have the best time). Also, check out 10 vital tips you need to know before visiting Elafonisi
 It takes about 1 ½ to 2 hours to drive from Chania and about 2 ½ to 3 hours from Rethymno.
Along your way, you’ll see gorgeous views of the mountains and Mediterranean sea scattered with teeny tiny villages.
You may even see a little old Greek Yia Yia (grandma) walking the side of the narrow road. (Be careful when driving!)
TIP: Bring cash! Most tavernas (restaurants) don’t accept card.
Plus! When you drive through the mountains to get to Paleochora, you’ll have a chance to stop at a few small shacks along-side the road that offer a plethora of local and organic honey, raki (Greek moonshine), royal jelly and many other mountain village products!
If you take a stroll along the east side of the village and walk as south as you can go, you will find crystal clear turquoise tide pools that line up with a small cove, beach and taverna.
This little beach is so blissful. You can snorkel and scuba dive around the rocky cove or post up on the beach, reading a book.
TIP: On the way to or from Paleochora, make sure you stop by Charma “Cretan” Brewery! The brewery is located in a village 5 minutes off the main road to Paleochora.
Charma Brewery offers some of the best Greek craft beers we’ve ever had and you can even get some brews go to! It’s a definite must-stop and they don’t mind having kids around! They offer a full menu and plenty of seating.
Not to mention you may be lucky enough to have a little Greek lady hand you fresh figs off her tree!
We can’t wait to visit Paleochora again! How about you?!
Figs! Charming, old greek villages! Peacefulness…looks like some slice of Heaven you two are
enjoying over there. Well done with the blog, I enjoyed the virtual tour!
Thanks Jeff! So happy you’re enjoying the photos and blog! And yes, the figs! Just like the ones in California. YUM!