Fruit Trips Villages Tour
(Prices valid for departure from the Platanias region)
We are at your service 24/7 to pick you up from your accommodation and take you on a refreshing and scenic tour through the most fruitful and lush villages of the Chania region. Enjoy multiple stopovers along the way at your own pace. The trip concludes with a return to your original pick-up point.
Alikianos – A Historic Village in Bloom
Our journey begins in Alikianos, a charming village just 13 km from Chania. This area is not only rich in citrus groves but also in history, having played a key role in the resistance during the German occupation of World War II.
At the heart of the village stands an impressive Orthodox church, crowned by two towers and a large dome. Nearby, a war memorial with a bronze bird honors the fallen heroes of the Greek resistance.
Explore the ruins of a Venetian castle that once belonged to the noble Molini family, and visit the beautiful Byzantine church of Agios Ioannis, located amongst the orange trees – a peaceful hidden gem accessible via a marked footpath.
Ai Yannis Kyr-Yannis – A Byzantine Treasure Among the Groves
Nestled in the orange-scented landscape of Kydonia, the Byzantine church of Ai Yannis Kyr-Yannis stands as a remarkable monument of religious architecture.
Built atop a 10th-century church destroyed in the 1303 earthquake, it reflects influence from the great Byzantine churches such as Hagia Sophia. The cruciform structure is adorned with marble columns, capitals, and remnants of frescoes still visible inside.
The peaceful setting and historic significance make this a must-visit spot on the tour.
Vatolakkos – In the Heart of the Orange Valley
Located about 15 km from Chania, Vatolakkos is a fertile, lowland village in the Platanias municipality, known for its vast orange orchards and agricultural charm. The entire area is a living canvas of fruit-bearing trees and Cretan rural life.
Valsamiotis Dam – Nature & Engineering in Harmony
Near Vatolakkos lies the impressive Valsamiotis Dam, an important source of irrigation and one of the most significant wetlands in Western Crete.
Completed in 2014 after over a decade of construction, the dam holds 6 million cubic meters of water. It not only supports local agriculture but also attracts nature lovers and bird watchers.
Surrounded by serene landscapes, it’s a great stop for those looking to explore Crete’s lesser-known natural gems.
Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete – A Living Paradise
In the village of Fournes, just 17 km from Chania and near Omalos, lies the incredible Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete. This lush 200-acre park is home to tropical trees, fruit orchards, herbs, medicinal plants, and Cretan flora.
Created by four brothers who transformed their family land, the park stretches from hillside to valley and is perfect for a relaxing walk through nature.
Well-marked paths guide visitors through citrus groves, vineyards, and a peaceful lake that houses ducks and geese. Don’t miss the open-air amphitheater, or the pairs of buzzards soaring overhead.
Meskla – Ancient Roots & Natural Beauty
Our final stop is Meskla, a quiet and traditional village nestled 21 km southwest of Chania in the Keritis Valley. Surrounded by green hills and crossed by a river, Meskla offers tranquility and history.
Once the site of an ancient city, you’ll find ruins, remnants of Cyclopean walls, and traditional stone houses. The village, set at the foot of the White Mountains, is steeped in stories of revolts and resilience, having been destroyed during both the Venetian and Turkish occupations.
Today, it stands as a peaceful testament to Crete’s enduring spirit.
Taste, Breathe & Discover the Fruitful Soul of Crete
This tour combines lush landscapes, historic landmarks, and the flavors of rural Crete in a journey that’s ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking the island’s authentic charm.
Let us take care of the driving, while you enjoy the beauty, fragrance, and spirit of the fruit villages of Chania.
