Location
Enjoy CretanSea
Sea
Explore Chania
Discover Akrotiri
Just a short drive from Paradisio Baby & Kinder Hotel lies the breathtaking Akrotiri peninsula – a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and authentic Cretan charm. With its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves with crystal-clear waters, and sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, Akrotiri is the perfect place for family adventures. Visit the historic Monastery of Agia Triada, a stunning 17th-century Venetian masterpiece, or explore the Monastery of Gouverneto, nestled in a serene landscape of ancient olive groves. For beach lovers, Seitan Limania offers a dramatic fjord-like setting with turquoise waters, while Stavros Beach—famous for its connection to the movie Zorba the Greek—provides shallow, kid-friendly shores. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, discovering hidden chapels, or simply soaking in the panoramic sea views, Akrotiri promises unforgettable moments for the whole family.
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What to see
Sightseeing
The Akrotiri Peninsula in Chania, Crete, is a beautiful and historically rich area that combines stunning nature, important monasteries, and quiet beaches. Here’s a curated list of what to see and do in Akrotiri:
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Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) Monastery
A stunning 17th-century Venetian-style monastery with a peaceful courtyard and olive oil production. Open to visitors. -
Gouverneto Monastery
One of the oldest monasteries in Crete, set in a dramatic rocky landscape. A good starting point for a hike to Katholiko bay. -
Katholiko Monastery
Abandoned and built into the rock, it’s a hidden gem reached through a short gorge walk from Gouverneto.
Nearest Tavernas
Where to eat
Around Paradisio you will find plenty of choices for tasting the local recipes:
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Irene’s Tavern at Chorafakia – 1 km (2 min drive)
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Anemomilos Fish Restaurant at Stavros beach – 4 km (7 min drive)
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Loukoulos Restaurant at Marathi beach – 10 km (15 min drive)
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Patrelantonis Restaurant at Marathi beach – 10 km (15 min drive)
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Bourakis Restaurant at Kounoupidiana – 6 km (10 min drive)
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Ta Gourounakia Restaurant at Kounoupidiana – 6 km (10 min drive)
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Mitsos BBQ at Kounoupidiana – 6 km (10 min drive)
Nearest Beaches
Marathi
Marathi Beach is a serene, family-friendly destination located 17 km east of Chania on Crete’s Akrotiri Peninsula. Known for its shallow, calm waters and soft sand, it’s perfect for children and elderly visitors. The beach features two scenic coves divided by a small pier, which also functions as a fishing harbor, offering beautiful views of Drapanos Cape and the White Mountains.
Well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and lifeguards, Marathi holds the Blue Flag certification for cleanliness and accessibility, including facilities for disabled visitors. Nearby attractions include the ruins of Ancient Minoa and the small pine-covered Palia Souda Island, just 500 meters offshore.
Popular among both locals and tourists, Marathi can get busy in peak season, but its relaxed vibe and nearby tavernas serving authentic Cretan cuisine make it a must-visit beach in Chania.
Nearest Beaches
Stavros
Located 17 km northeast of Chania on Crete’s Akrotiri Peninsula, Stavros Beach is a breathtaking destination known for its golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, framed by the distinctive camel-shaped Vardies Mountain. This beach gained worldwide fame as the filming location for the iconic Sirtaki dance scene from “Zorba the Greek.”
The main beach forms a sheltered semicircular lagoon with calm, shallow waters perfect for families, while a smaller secondary beach offers a more secluded experience. Well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and seaside tavernas, Stavros holds Blue Flag certification for its clean waters and excellent facilities. Visitors can explore nearby historical sites like an old Venetian quarry, enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters, or simply relax while taking in the spectacular mountain views.
Easily accessible from Chania by car or bus, Stavros beautifully combines natural beauty, cinematic history, and modern comforts in one unforgettable location.
