The broader location of Kissamos, in which Villa Helidoni is situated, has a lifelong history, since Late Neolithic Age, Minoan Era, Mycenaeus Era, Hellenistic Era, Roman Era, even Byzantine and Venetian Era. Kissamos is a town and municipality, part of the Chania regional unit and of the former Kissamos Province which covers the northwest corner of the island. The city of Kissamos is also known as Kastelli Kissamou and often known simply as Kastelli after the Venetian castle that was there. A town museum is located in the old Venetian governor’s palace and there have been important archaeological finds in the town, including fine mosaics, dating from the Roman city of Kisamos.
Polyrrhenia was an important hilltop town, whose territory occupied the whole western extremity of Crete. According to Strabo, it was founded by Achaeans and Lacedaemonians. It was 30 stades from the sea and 60 stades from Falasarna, and it had a temple of Dictynna.
tHE VENETIAN
HARBOR OF
CHANIA
The Venetian Harbor of Chania is a captivating destination that should not be missed by any traveler. Its Venetian architecture, dating back to the 14th century, adds an air of charm and authenticity to the area. Strolling along the harbor’s promenade, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters, the iconic lighthouse, and the majestic White Mountains in the distance. The narrow streets and alleys branching off from the harbor are filled with vibrant shops, inviting cafes, and traditional tavernas, offering a delightful culinary journey. Whether you’re exploring the Venetian shipyards, admiring the grandeur of the Firkas Fortress, or simply enjoying a leisurely boat ride, the Venetian Harbor of Chania promises a magical and enchanting experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Falasarna
Balos
elafonisi
gialiskari
paleochora
frangokastello
The stunning beaches of Western Crete are a true paradise for beach lovers. With their golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes, these beaches offer a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From the famous Balos Beach, with its unique lagoon and turquoise hues, to the secluded and serene Elafonissi Beach, known for its pink sand and shallow waters, each beach in this region has its own charm and beauty. Falassarna Beach, with its vast stretch of sandy shore and mesmerizing sunsets, is a favorite among surfers and sunbathers alike.Further along the coast, the beaches of Platanias and Agia Marina offer a lively and vibrant atmosphere. These bustling resorts provide a range of amenities, including beach bars, water sports, and lively beachfront promenades.
The village of Potamida is located 3.5km away from Kastelli Kissamou, and 40km from Hania on the road to Kaloudiana- Potamida- Topolia, at an altitude of 40 m. a.s.l and has 238 permanent residents.The village is built near the river “Tyflos” (the name “potamida” means the river’s embankment) in a magnificent landscape, plenty of vegetation. It is the seat of the municipality and was first mentioned at the census of 1834 by Pashley. The cave of Agia Sofia in Topolia in western Crete is a large cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Xrisoskalitisa is a historical monastery of great tradition. Kalathenes is a historical village with some historic buildings from the Venetian times that worth a visit. A visit to Kalathenes can always be combined with a walk to the Sirikari Gorge. On the eastern tip of the Rodopou Peninsula in West Crete are the scanty remains of a temple dedicated to the Cretan goddess Diktynna. Diktynna was the virgin goddess of hunting and she was worshipped fervently in western Crete as the patroness of hunters and fishermen. All the villages of this region are historical and traditional. The Olive tree of Vouves is an olive tree in the village of Ano Vouves in the municipal unit of Kolymvari in Chania regional unit. Probably one of the oldest olive trees in the world (3000 years old), it still produces olives today