Whether you're coming as a couple for a quiet break, or planning family holidays in Kolymbari, you'll be delighted with this friendly little village. It's a pretty fishing port, with all the old cliches of whitewashed cottages and colourful flowerpots … but there's nothing wrong with cliches as authentic as these. In Kolymbari, holidays can be the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. The village is nestled at the foot of the Rodopos peninsula, about 15miles from Crete's 'second city' Chania. There's gorgeous scenery, great views and a very rural feel to the rugged and untamed peninsula, where tiny little hamlets cling to the slopes a thousand feet above sea level. And there's a huge variety of restaurants, tavernas, nightlife and shops in Chania – where locally crafted leather bags, belts and boots are particularly cheap. Holidays in Kolymbari itself are not without history and atmosphere. Visit the ancient monastery on the outskirts on the village … then reward your effort with a dip in the crystal clear waters of the rocky cove nearby. If you're more of a beach person, Kolymbari has a sweep of sand and pebble shore and a choice of restaurant/tavernas for light lunches and good Greek cuisine.

Castello City Hotel - Crete
ideal choice for the visitor of the city of Heraklion in Crete giving the feeling of a boutique luxury hotel. Castello City was designed so as to satisfy the highest demands of its select clientele, professional as well as recreational. It is open throughout the year and its convenient location offers easy access from and to the airport or the port, being at the same time very near to the commercial centre of the city. The Hotel Castello comprises 68 standard and superior rooms, Luxury Junior and Business suites...

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Kolymbari Quick Info
Nestling between the dazzling sea and the jade-green cliffs, Kolymbari is a pocket of delightful Cretian charm. From the serene monastery with its rust-coloured domes and beautiful church to the tiny harbour where boats creak beneath the weight of giant nets, this quaint fishing village is the epitomy of rural Crete. Boasting a long, pebble beach - which is soon to be topped up with fine, powdery sand - Kolymbari is ideal for swimming.
Kolymbari has several good quality tavernas serving traditional, rustic food. Try 'psistaria' - chicken, pork and lamb kebabs barbecued over charcoal and served with crisp salad or steaming rice. Greek cheeses are worth trying. From white, salty feta to ewe's milk 'myzithra', they are full of flavour and add a tangy kick to any dish. If you like your evenings calm and quiet with long drinks and lazy dinners, Kolymbari could be your perfect holiday choice. Alternatively, nearby Chania boasts late-night clubs and loud bars. There are several shops here, selling everyday essentials and some souvenirs. For a more varied selection, head to nearby Chania which offers everything from second-hand books to bespoke jewellery to modern art. Seize the opportunity to explore the rest of stunning Crete during your stay. Once a 'hippie' beach, Matala is now one of Crete's most beautiful swathes of sand and offers some intriguing sightseeing too. Man-made caves cut into the cliffs are thought to be ancient tombs previously inhabited by early Christians whilst the underwater remains of ancient Matala, an important harbour during Roman times, can be seen from the cliffs here.