a body of water with buildings along it
Location & Map
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Kalyves Location & Map

a beach with a body of water and a hill with trees

Kalyves Beach Hotel is beautifully nestled in the picturesque village of Kalyves, a little charming village preserving its authentic character and natural beauty. Prepare to enjoy your holidays in a place where nature and tradition go hand in hand, where the river and sea meet the mountains and the pace of everyday life is simply paused.

Set on the side of Souda Bay in the region of Apokoronas, next to the river Xidas, the quaint village of Kalyves is considered as one of the best seaside resorts in Chania, Crete. The Xidas river, passing through as well as the mesmerizing beach of Kalyves create the perfect setting for relaxing holidays far from the crowds.

Experience the authentic way of island living as you stroll through the streets of the village and you pass by its central square with the traditional shops, cafes and restaurants. Visit the nearby villages of Almyrida, Plaka, Kokkino Horio, Armeni, Nio Horio, Stylos, Gavalochori and discover the archaeological site of Aptera. Test your limits with a great range of water sports offered at the beach or set off on a rafting trip from Armeni.

Explore the greater region of Apokoronas and enjoy a nature walk along Kiliaris river, visit St. John at Platanakia, Ombrosgialos in Cape Drapano, the traditional Vamos Village and Vrisses Village as well as Kournas Lake. Whichever way you wish to go the scenic landscapes and authentic settlements will take your breath away!

Useful Links

Key Locations

  • Chania port (Souda): 9 km
  • Chania centre: 17 km
  • Chania airport: 29,5 km
  • Rethymno town & port: 43 km
  • Heraklion town, port & airport: 120 km
  • Bus stop: 10 meters (bus schedules available at reception)
  • Almyrida beach and village: 3 km
  • Traditional villages nearby with tavernas, restaurants, with locally produced goods: Almyrida, Plaka, Kokkino Horio Kalyves, Armeni, Nio Horio, Stylos.
  • Inland village and archaeological site: Aptera
  • Rafting: begins at Armeni and ends at Kiani beach
  • Watersports: available at Kiani Beach Resort

(to reserve a taxi please email [email protected])

Kalyves Beach Hotel
a stone building in a field
Ancient Minoan Aptera

Ancient Aptera, a hidden pearl steeped in History and Myth, that was once one of the most important city-states in the whole of Crete and was actually totally autonomous from around the 6th to 4th century BC, minting its own coins.

people walking on a path near a river and mountains
Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is classified as a national park, and is one of the most spectacular natural parks in Europe.

It is the largest gorge in Europe and contains rare species of flora and fauna, such as the Cretan wild goat as well as rare species of eagles and wild birds, which are all protected by international treaties.

Find out more about our excursion program to Samaria Gorge.

a beach with a large rock island
Balos lagoon

If you wish to explore the region further, set off for an adventurous excursion to the greater area of Apοkoronas, visit, the exotic beach of Balos with its scintillating turquoise waters!

Find out more about our excursion program to Balos Lagoon.

a narrow alley way with a sign
Chania town

The medieval city of Chania has flourished through the centuries and thus has been influenced by many civilizations.

From the old town's maze-like alleys, the Venetian mansions, the historical monuments, the unique architecture, the churches, the museums and fountains to the exceptional cuisine and spell-binding atmosphere, the city of Chania is a magical place worth exploring.

a person in the ocean
Elafonisi beach

Elafonissi is a tiny island with white sand, separated from the shore by a lagoon no more than a meter deep.

The sand is pinkish in many places, taking its colour from thousands of broken shells. Near the "breaking" point of the peninsula, the water does not exceed 1m in height making it a perfect place for children.

You can easily cross the lagoon in order to reach the island.
Find out more about our excursion program to Elafonisi Beach.