Characteristics of Kalives and its amenities

The picturesque village of Kalives (or Kalyves) belongs to the Cretan region of Apokoronos, which is famous for its lush and almost untouched nature and beautiful sea. Kalives is situated in a fertile valley through which several rivers and smaller tributaries flow. To the west of the village flows the larger river Kiliaris Potamos and directly through the village runs the Xidas river. In contrast, the White Mountains rise against the backdrop of Kalives.

The combination of a favourable geographical location and fertile soil has led to the area being inhabited since the earliest times. The area of today's Kalives and its surroundings is considered to be the site of the ancient city of Amphimatrion. The name Kalives means 'huts' and refers to earlier times when there were only a number of fields and small huts where farmers spent their summer nights.

Today Kalives is a pleasant tourist resort with several small hotels and guesthouses, restaurants, taverns and shops of all kinds. Visitors can also use the car rental, petrol station, post office and ATM. And if you are in the mood, take a stroll through the old and narrow streets to the main square of the village with its large plane tree and beautiful church. The resort also has a small harbour and beautiful sandy beaches.

The resort of Kalives lies approximately 19 km east of the regional town of Chania and there is a regular bus service between the resorts. The area falls under the prefecture of Chania.

Kalyves beaches

The village of Kalyves is situated along the northwest coast of Crete, in the southern part of the Souda Bay. The resort has several small, beautiful sandy beaches, which are linked by a gentle entrance to the water and a beautifully clear and usually calm sea. Thanks to the bay, the beaches here are better protected from the strong northerly winds and do not get such big waves. Most of the beaches are also equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas.

There are two beaches between the local harbour and the river Xidas - the main beach of the resort, Kalives beach, which is also popular with families with children, and another beautiful sandy beach, Mistralis (Maistrali). These beaches are very well organised, with good tourist services. They are followed across the river by the smaller and quieter Xidas beach. And thanks to a small bridge over the river, you can easily cross from one beach to the other.

The Kiliaris Potamos River, flowing north of the resort, is one of the few rivers in Crete that has water all year round. And because it brings water from the White Mountains, it's really cold. So much so that the sea water near its mouth is noticeably colder than the surrounding sea. At the mouth of the river lies the small and quiet beach of Kiani Akti. In these quieter parts of the beach you can also see the rare beach lilies.

Tips for trips

The unspoilt nature and the vast olive groves that surround the village invite you to romantic walks and cycling. A particularly popular activity is watching the breathtaking sunset from the local beaches. If you like hiking and history, you can, for example, climb the nearby Castelli hill with the remains of a Venetian castle. Not far from the resort (about 5 km) are the remains of the ancient town of Aptera.

If you want to explore further afield, you can visit the Botanical Park in Omolos, enjoy a day of water fun at the Limnoupolis Water Park or go to the Samaria Gorge. Of course, we recommend a visit to the Venetian port town of Chania, just a short distance from Kalives.

Who is the centre suitable for?

The peaceful atmosphere of this place together with the beautiful sea, picturesque nature and good tourist facilities attract especially families with children and older couples. Especially in spring, when everything comes to life and blooms, the surrounding area is very charming. Children love to build sand castles on the beautiful local beaches.

The area is based on its picturesque setting and close connection with the surrounding nature, so don't expect any big tourist traffic. However, for more exuberant entertainment or more shopping, you can go to the nearby town of Chania (there is a regular bus service, and you can also use taxi services).

More touristic destinations of Crete

Close resorts: Almirida

Most favourite resorts of Crete: Adelianos Kampos, Agia Marina, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion (Iraklion), Hersonissos, Chania, Ierapetra, Kalamaki (Matala), Malia, Platanias (Chania), Rethymno, Stalis

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Crete.