- Region
- Apokoronas, Chania
- Distance
- 19 km east of Chania
- Beaches
- Xidas, Maistrali, Kyani Akti
- Facilities
- Organised beaches, bus to Chania
The beaches
Xidas and Maistrali beaches lie either side of the Xidas river bridge. Both are sandy, shallow and organised, though open to north winds. Maistrali is beside the small harbour.
Kyani Akti, 1 km west at the mouth of the Kiliaris river, is noticeably cooler because the river flows all year. Springs along this shore cool the sea in places.
The village
Kalyves has a square with a large plane tree and the frescoed church of Agia Paraskevi, built during the wartime occupation. An old watermill was adapted in 1928 to produce electricity for Kalyves and the Izzeddin fortress.
On the hill are the ruins of Castel Apicorno, built in 1206, which gave Apokoronas its name. Barbarossa's fleet sacked the area in 1538.
Nearby
Aptera is about 5 km away, Almyrida 2.4 km east. Buses run to Chania throughout the day.
Questions before you go
Is Kalyves good for families?
Yes. The beaches are sandy and shallow, and the village has shops, tavernas and buses.
Why is the sea cold at Kyani Akti?
The Kiliaris river and coastal springs bring cold fresh water into the sea.
How far is Kalyves from Aptera?
About 5 km.
