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Georgioupolis Crete

By Katia Luz

Getting to Georgioupolis Crete

Beaches

Agios Nicholaos Chapel

Georgioupolis Crete Γεωργιούπολης is a small seaside village with a long sandy beach on the north coast of Chania, Crete. The village sits at the estuary of two rivers flowing from the Lefka Ori or White Mountains, nestled in the corner of a bay with the Cape Drapano to the west and wide open beaches to the east. This village is known for its long avenue of tall eucalyptus trees upon entry, its pretty harbour and rivers, its wide sandy beach and beautiful, white, seaside chapel.

The avenue of tall eucalyptus trees upon entry to the village

The avenue of tall eucalyptus trees at the entrance to the village

Looking over to Georgioupolis and her beaches from Exopolis

Getting to Georgioupolis Crete

Georgioupolis is 42 km from Chania town and 22 km from Rethymnon town. Drive east from Chania along the national road A90 for 38 km then turn off, the village is 4 km from the national road. From Rethymnon drive 18 km west along the national road and turn off, then it is a further 4 km to the village.

Public transport is via KTEL buses from both towns to. From Rethymnon the trip duration is just under 30 minutes and cost is around €4.50. From Chania the trip duration is 30 minutes and the cost is €4.50. Services are frequent because the beach lies not far from the national road, so most of the regular buses travelling between the major cities also stop at Georgioupolis.

Taxi transfers are also available, costing approx. €65 from Chania Airport and approx. €58 from Chania Town.

Beaches

Georgioupolis Beach looking west towards Cape Drapano

The village sits directly on Georgioupolis Beach (above), which some measure to be 9 km long. It is located between the rivers Almiros and Perastikos. It is a wide beach with some resorts built on the dunes, with plenty of wide open spaces. In summer rent umbrellas and sun lounges, eat at cafes and tavernas right by the beach, and enjoy the bars.

Close by across the river is Kalyvaki Beach (below), and to the east Kournas Beach, inland lies Kournas Lake and rolling hills of olive groves. Further to the east again, at the border of the Chania Region with Rethymon Region, is Kavros Beach.

Kalyvaki Beach near Georgioupolis in Crete

Kalyvaki Beach is a lovely calm sandy beach around the cove from Georgioupolis

Agios Nicholaos Chapel

Agios Nicholaos Chapel on a tiny islet off the beach of Georgioupolis Crete

Άγιος Νικόλαος is the patron saint of sailors and this chapel’s location on a tiny islet at the mouth of the fishing village is appropriate to bless the fishermen and their boats as they depart for their morning of fishing. The narrow rocky causeway to get to the church is a lovely, yet rough walk, you may notice wobbly stones and crabs scrambling on the rocks and sea birds or Kingfishers.

As the walkway and the islet are at sea level, it is best to take this walk at low tide in good weather. There are beautiful views back towards the village and the peninsula, the mountains and the sea all around. This is a must for photographers! Some hours could be enjoyed getting the perfect image. Weddings are sometimes held here or photo shoots for weddings, which are fun to watch. Don’t forget to light a candle and make a wish, say a prayer and make a donation. A simply beautiful, characteristic and spiritual experience in Crete.

Enjoy the views across the water from every angle to Agios Nicholaos chapel in Georgioupolis, Crete

Tavernas & Restaurants

One of the greatest pleasures in Greece is dining with your feet in the sand or directly on the beach, or next to the water. This you will be able to experience in Georgioupolis, and a whole lot more.

Next to the beach are Corissia Park, the Cotton Club, Summertime and the Deep Blue Sea. A little inland be assured of great food at traditional seafood taverna Poseidon.

GB Rooftop Food Lounge, Georgioupolis Crete

For a drink before dinner head to the bar at GB Rooftop Food Lounge (a play on the Grande Britagne in Athens - pictured above), great modern place with an uninterrupted view to the chapel, part of the Georgioupolis Beach Hotel.

Walk across the river to Arkadi Fish Taverna for lovely views over the water to the chapel or Kalivaki Taverna on the cool terrace right next to the beach.

Georgioupolis by the river

Accommodation

Georgioupolis Beach Hotel - right in the centre of the village across the small road to the beach, with rooftop bar and large pool, affordable accommodation. Gaze across the water to the white chapel surrounded by the blue of the Med.

"Exceptional. Everything was amazing! Friendly staff, perfect location and delicious food."

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Strofilia Villa Rooftop showing the surrounding forest, Sellia, Crete

Strofilia Villas are located in a lush, green forested region just behind the beaches of Georgioupolis Crete on the Drapano Cape. The silence and authenticity of this beautifully restored village home will take your breath away.

Mary, your host, will be there to provide local raki and home-made goodies to make sure you get your breath back!

A vehicle is suggested for this accommodation, as you can explore the region, being only 30 km from Chania town. Enjoy your natural peace whilst making Georgioupolis Crete your 'home beach'.

"Superb. The hosts are so warm and hospitable, it felt like we were staying with family. The location is perfect - so peaceful with beautiful views but close to lots of villages, beaches and towns when you want to explore. The fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, pastries and wine offered to us daily were delicious. We had a magical stay."

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A completely private boutique villa in the very best style of Crete awaits you at Villa Athermigo. The textures of the walls will captivate your fingertips, the outdoor area is adorned with the old mill stones from the 250 year old olive oil mill that has been restored with meticulous attention to detail.

This is a one-of-a-kind property only 13 km from Georgioupolis Crete. It is ideally placed just outside the village of Gavolochori and only 28 km from Chania town. The beaches of Almyrida on Souda Bay are only 10 km. There are three villas to choose from in this village-like cottage collection.

"If you like country house with a style this is a perfectly renovated old traditional house. A few minutes drive from lively coastal life. Kids loved the pool, toys and the garden. I liked the nature, style, and relaxation."

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Villa Petra, Maza Apokoronas near Georgioupolis

Villa Petra, Maza Apokoronas near Georgioupolis - this is one of the beautifully decorated bedrooms

This is truly the best of both worlds - the traditional and the modern. Get the feel for the timeless way of life on Crete yet lack for nothing in comforts. Villa Petra accommodates 6 guests, with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a pool and nurturing garden setting.

Tucked away in the olive groves in rolling hills at the foot of the mountains, next to the small hamlet of Maza, Apokoronas and the village of Vrysses, this homely villa is only 7 km from Georgioupolis Crete.

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Exploring Around

Waterfall in the taverna at Agiroupolis, Crete

Especially on a hot summer day it is good to get into the hills and explore the hinterland of Georgioupolis. This area is called Apokoronas and is full of beauty.

A short 5 km drive will take you to Lake Kournas (below), a large fresh water lake with beaches and lovely, safe swimming. Rent a pedalo and enjoy the scenery, or take a drink at the lake side cafes.

Save your hunger for lunch in the inland village of Kournas or Agiroupolis, a further 22 km of twisting mountain roads and eat in the taverna under spreading plane trees surrounded by rushing waterfalls (pictured above).