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Xirosterni
Holiday Villa Lefka Ori is situated in a rural area next to the quiet village of Xirosterini on Crete. This village is closely located to Vamos, the former capital of the Apokoronas region, and 30 kilometers from the historical town of Chania (West Crete). The holiday villa looks out over the "White Mountains" (Lefka Ori). The "White Mountains" form one of three large mountain ranges throughout Crete, consisting of over thirty mountain tops higher than 2.000 meters. The highest mountain, Pachnes, stands 2453 meters tall.
Xirosterini is one of the oldest villages named after a dry (xiro) well (sterna) which was located in the village. The town was built surrounding the "Church of Christ". Xirosterini is unique due to its tradition and style throughout the centuries, as well as many examples of regional architecture. Every year, on the 5th and 6th of August, Xirosterini hosts a festival dedicated to the "Church of Christ".
The village provides access to a small supermarket which quickly responds to changes in demand. Should you ask for a certain product, they will make sure to have it the next day.
Most of the basic necessities such as a supermarket, apothecary, post office, bakery, ATM and gas station can be found in Almyrida.
Beaches West Crete
Georgioupolis 10 km from the villa
Almyrida 3 km from the villa
Kalives 10 km from the villa
Town of Chania
Chania, the first capital after Cretes' independency, still has its old centre which was added to the monument list in 1965. The Venetian harbor is a tourist favorite in this trading town. The town offers streets which are similar to Eastern souks with decorated doorframes and Venetian houses with beautiful balconies. Next to this, Chania also proves to be a modern city with a wide variety of terraces and town squares.
The grave of Eleftherios Venizelos, who is responsible for reuniting Crete with Greece, is certainly worth a visit when traveling through the Halepa district.
During the summer there are numerous boat tours providing splendid views of the "White Mountains". These boats pass the coastline of multiple islands, such as Agil Theodori and Lazarette.
Chania region
The beautiful green region is known for the Samaria canyon, but along the southern coast you will find the beautiful Aradena-, Imbras- and Irini canyon. These canyons are definitely worth hiking through!
Besides canyons, the region has splendid hiking and biking trails going through nature. These trails and either at sea or at the "White Mountains", and are of diverse levels of difficulty.
Vamos
Vamos is located on a hill at a short distance from Xirosterni. This results in a climate with slightly higher temperatures than the surrounding villages. A hiking trail of 2 kilometers leads you to the Kairidi sanctuary. On top of that, there are loads of cypress trees in the area, making it a beautiful region. The city flourished during the Venetian occupation, but had many casualties while occupied by the Turks.
These days, numerous houses are being renovated and the population (currently 3.000) is growing. From Vamos there are hikes leading through the beautiful region and past the most important sights of the area. Along the way, you will find breathtaking views as well. For those who are fond of Cretan food, there is a wide variety of taverns in Vamos which offer regional food prepared with local produce.
Furthermore, Vamos offers bikes for rent as well as a PADI certified diving school for those ready to explore below sea levels.
Diving schools are present in Almyrida and Kalives. We can recommend Omega Divers in Almyrida. See the banner below for more information.
Lake Kournas
Lake Kournas is close to Georgioupolis and is the only natural lake in Crete. The lake is filled with water flowing below ground from the "White Mountains". Surrounding the lake are over 400 types of plants, providing a highly diverse ecosystem.
Koumas also offers a "Taverna" where you can be amazed by the breathtaking views, while enjoying a drink or local meal.
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