Characteristics of Tavronitis

The seaside village of Tavronitis lies about 20 km west of the regional town of Chania, next to the smaller tourist resort of Maleme. The village of Tavronitis is surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and orange trees, while towards the inland the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) dominate the area, and towards the coast the village is bordered by a beautiful sandy pebble beach.

Tavronitis is a small holiday resort, but it provides all the necessary facilities for its visitors. There are smaller hotels and family apartments, with traditional Greek tavernas and restaurants serving international cuisine, cafes and bars nearby. There are also a variety of shops, a pharmacy and a post office. If you want to have fun after sunset, there are also several discos and night bars towards the coast. But don't expect a lively nightlife here, so nightlife lovers should head to one of the neighbouring larger resorts (Agia Marina is a popular one) or straight to the beautiful and bustling town of Chania.

Tavronitis has good transport links, with the main road linking 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.

Tavronitis river and beach

The eastern border of the resort is formed by the river of the same name, Tavronitis, which flows into the Cretan Sea at the northern coast of the island and forms a river delta. The delta of the Tavronitis River hosts an important ecosystem, as it is home to wetlands with reeds and other aquatic plants, which are an ideal refuge for many species of birds, insects and amphibians. In summer the river dries up, while in winter its level rises significantly and provides moisture to the surrounding nature.

Tavronitis, a pleasant pebble and sand beach here, shares the same name as the village and the river. The beach is not very organized, with only a few sunbeds and umbrellas, but it has won its fans. Thanks to the gradual entrance to the water and the azure sea, families with children and couples looking for peace and privacy come here. There is also a tavern and bar near the beach.

Tips for trips in the surroundings

The village of Tavronitis is nestled in a beautiful setting of vineyards and fruit groves, and its surroundings are inviting for romantic walks and longer hikes. The nearby White Mountains (Lefka Ori) or the Samaria Gorge can also be a nice excursion tip.

Thanks to the resort's good transport links, you'll be in one of the neighbouring resorts in no time, or visit the nearby picturesque historic town of Chania, which offers both beautiful historical sights and more entertainment and shopping opportunities. The village of Tavronitis is also the start of the road leading to the southernmost coast of Crete, to the town of Paleochora. The road south is very scenic and passes through many traditional Greek inland villages where time seems to stand still.

If you want to lounge on a different beach, we recommend visiting 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 Tavronitis resort to those tourists who are looking for peace and relaxation on their holiday. The place is ideal for romantic walks in the picturesque green surroundings or for contemplation on the local pleasant pebble and sandy beach. The basic tourist services are well taken care of, 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: Kolymbari, Maleme, Rapaniana

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.