Discovering Paleochora: A Seaside Town in Crete
Paleochora is a charming town. Its location is on the southwest coast of Crete, 70 km from Chania.
Indeed, Paleochora is a picturesque town located in the southern part of Crete, Greece. It has been dubbed by tourists as the “Nymph of the Libyan Sea” and the “Land of the Sun”. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery, it’s not hard to see why. Additionally, Paleochora has a rich history and culture, with evidence of ancient civilizations still visible in the ruins and architecture. Therefore, it is not surprising that Paleochora is a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.
The town lays on a peninsula that separates two picturesque bays, the eastern and the western.The surrounding mountains protect Paleochora from strong seasonal north winds.
Although not imposing in height, the mountains that surround Paleochora are beautiful. They add to the area’s natural landscape.
On the tip of the peninsula, the Venetians built Castello Selino in 1279, more to police the ornery Greeks than protect their new territory.
Paleochora has the advantage of straddling two beaches. Pachia Ammos is a wide sandy beach lined with tamarisks. Chalikia is a pebbly beach.
Drive along the road west towards Koundoura and Agia Kyriaki. There are many sand and pebble coves with crystal clear water.
Don’t miss Karavopetra. It is a pebble beach with a petrified rock. Psilos Volakas is a beach facing a monolith rising from the sea.
Palaiochora’s economy is based on tourism and agriculture (mainly the cultivation of tomatoes in greenhouses, and also olive oil production. It has been a relaxing holiday destination since the early 1970s when it was popular with hippies.
Car rental in Crete is a quality way to explore Paleochora’s attractions and enjoy its natural beauty.