if you rent a car in Chania, it is totally worth it to explore the whole prefecture and not to stay only around the beautiful city. The area is blessed not only with astonishing beaches but also with magnificent nature and traditional coastal and mountainous villages that travel you back in time and make you understand what the Cretan authenticity is about. We gathered here the best short excursions in a close distance to Chania with starting point the village of Vamos, which is perfectly located in the middle of a wonderful region. Car rental in Crete is the best, most convenient and most flexible way to see the island and discover remoted and untouched places away from the crowds. Take a look at these fascinating routes to do by car and get ready to plan your summer holidays in Crete. In every village you visit, don’t forget to sit in a café or a tavern and spend some moments with the friendly and hospitable locals.
Vamos – Gavalochori – Douliana
This route is about 30 km of asphalt road, and it is one of the most convenient routes in the prefecture. You will have a magnificent view of the Cretan Sea and the White Mountains as you pass through the traditional villages of Vamos, Kefalas, Kokkino Chorio, Gavalochori and Douliana. Well-preserved buildings, old schools, Byzantine churches and wild nature constitute a landscape that will take your breath away.
Vamos – Therisso
This route is about 45 km asphalt road and gives you the opportunity to enjoy the view of Souda Bay and pass through the gorges of Macheri, Diktamos and Therisso. Green forests and steep cliffs as you drive from one rural village to another make you feel like having just discovered a virgin paradise!
Vamos – Georgioupoli – Kourna Lake – Argyroupoli Springs
Start from Vamos and drive about 25 km to see astonishing water landscapes. As you drive, you have great view of the White Mountains on the one hand and Georgioupoli Bay on the other hand. Lake Kourna is a top spot to do canoeing or sea bike, and then go to Argyroupoli with its impressive springs and waterfalls.
Vamos – Askyfou – Chora Sfakion
An impressive route of 65 km asphalt road that allows you to explore mountainous Crete. You pass through the White Mountains and then you reach the Askyfou Plateau, where you can take beautiful photos with the view of Imvros Gorge. If you love hiking, you can leave your car there and go on foot in this easy gorge, ideal for beginners in hiking. Then, drive to Chora Sfakion, a small picturesque village on the southern side of Crete with cozy taverns by the sea. The view of Libyan Sea from there is amazing.
