Characteristics of Kolymbari

The seaside village of Kolymbari lies about 24 km west of the regional city of Chania, at the very end of the long Gulf of Chania. Kolymbari is set in picturesque and quiet surroundings, bordered by a beautiful sand and shingle beach on the coast and already touching the Rodopou peninsula to the west.

Kolymbari is a really small and not yet very touristy holiday resort. There are a few small guesthouses and family apartments, with traditional Greek tavernas, restaurants and cafes nearby. There are also a few shops, a pharmacy, a post office and a car rental service. Otherwise, however, the village is quiet and don't expect a lively nightlife. Nightlife enthusiasts will have to head to one of the neighbouring larger resorts (e.g. Agia Marina or Platanias are popular) or straight to the beautiful and bustling town of Chania.

The resort of Kolymbari has good transport links, with the main road connecting Chania and Kissamos/Kasteli passing directly through the resort. The Cretan motorway also runs close to the village. If you want to liven up your stay in the resort with some excursions or shopping, we recommend renting a car. You can also use the local bus service for travelling to the nearby resorts.

Kolymbari beach

Kolymbari, a pleasant pebble and sandy beach, bears the same name as the village. The beach is not very organized, with only a few sunbeds and umbrellas, but it has won its fans. The advantages of this place are the gradual entrance to the water, the beautifully clear sea and several small coves that provide visitors with plenty of peace and privacy.

The fishing tradition is still alive in the village, with a small fishing harbour on the edge of the beach and several excellent fish tavernas along the coastal promenade, which are stocked with fresh catches by local fishermen. So be sure to pop in for some of the local fish specialities.

Tips for trips in the surroundings

About 1 km northwest of the resort, up on a hill, stands the beautiful Gonia Monastery, which is dedicated to Our Lady of Odigitria and resembles more of a fortress. The monastery dates back to the 17th century and is still inhabited and managed by several monks. On its premises there is a small museum with various religious artefacts (Bibles with silver bindings, silver crosses, old religious icons, etc.). The Gonia Monastery has a reputation as a place of resistance against the occupying forces, over several centuries. Thus, the monastery has been damaged and rebuilt several times.

Small cruise boats also leave from the port of Kolymbari and sail around the coast to Cape Rodopos with interested parties. During the cruise you can observe the impressive cliffs here or make a stop at one of the small and hidden beaches (the most famous is probably Menies beach).

Thanks to the resort's good transport links, you'll be in one of the neighbouring resorts in no time (try Platanias or Agia Marina, for example) or visit the nearby picturesque historic town of Chania, which offers both beautiful historical sites and more entertainment and shopping opportunities. If you want to lounge on a different beach, we recommend Gramvousa, Balos, Falassarna or Elafonisi. Water lovers can also try the Limnoupolis water park near Chania.

Who is the centre suitable for?

We would recommend Kolymbari resort to those tourists who are looking for peace and relaxation, away from the big tourist crowds. The place is ideal for romantic walks in the picturesque, green surroundings or for contemplation on the local pleasant pebble and sandy beach. Basic tourist services are well taken care of here, but don't expect any major entertainment or lively nightlife from the resort. However, with good transport links, the larger resorts can be reached in no time and the location can also be ideal as a base for travelling around the western part of Crete.

More touristic destinations of Crete

Close resorts: Maleme, Rapaniana, Tavronitis

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.