The district of Apokoronas is located north-west of Crete, only a 30-minute drive from the city of Chania. The area of Apokoronas starts in the foothills of the White Mountains and extends out towards the coast. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and is very green and fertile. The Kiliaris river runs through the region and flows out to the sea through the town of Kalyves. The major towns of the Apokoronas are Vamos, Armenoi and Vryses which have local amenities, police and municipality. Kalyves, Almyrida and Georgioupoli host a wide range of tourist facilities and beach resorts.
Tourism and agriculture are the main industries in the area. Olive groves and vine yards are aplenty along with orange and avocado orchards. There are still several working olive mills located in Tsivaras and Kalyves which can be visited as a tourist attraction in the summer months. There are over 34 villages located in the Apokoronas, each with their own charm. Some are more populated with a range of nationalities such as Gavalohori, Kokkino Chorio and Plaka. Others are more traditional and quieter such as Fres, Agios Pavlos, Tzitzifes and Douliana.
The Apokoronas region hosts a range of beautiful beaches. Sandy and shelter beaches include; Kyani Akti, Kalyves and Almyrida. Pebbly coves include; Koutalas Bay, Octopus Bay, Kera and Kalami.
One of the best ways to explore the area is on foot. There are a number of signposted walking paths ranging in length and duration, that pass through all the different villages in the Apokoronas. Offering glorious views of the White Mountains and out to the sea, past ancient ruins, through forests and gorges and amongst the flora and fauna of Crete.
