We are taking the Little Fun Train for a bit of sightseeing in Crete. What better way to get around than an open aired train that lets us see some of Cretes’ more out of the way places.
Today we had off from our resort at Maleme on a Western Adventure. Our early afternoon tour picks us up from our hotel and takes us on a journey that reveals the beauty of the old fishing village of Kolymvari, the myths of saints at Marathokefala and the traditions of Spilia. The hilltop views from the outside are also magnificent. The village of Vouves boasts groves of olive trees along the way and includes a stop at the oldest olive tree in the Mediterranean. Whilst on our adventure we sample wine, honey and raki from the local growers located in Polemarhi.
Kolymvari
Kolymvari (or Kolymbari) is a small fishing village about 25km from the Venetian port of Chania. It exudes small village charm with churches situated in olive groves, a tiny harbour with protected blue water swimming area and a sea front lined with restaurants. The charming Gonia Monastery sits up on along the rocky outcrops overlooking the whole scene. Read more here…
Marathokefala
A short way up into the hills we arrive at the traditional village of Marathokefala where time seems to stand still. Here, the pace of life takes the slow road, with many daily rituals continuing as they have done for centuries. Here, we also visit the cave and church of St. John the Hermit. Read more here…
Spilia
Another traditional village, Spilia boasts groves of olives and oranges as far as the eye can see. There are a number of small B&B style accommodations here as well as a taverna. The real drawcard, however, is the surrounding countryside and the simple way of life. We pass four generations on the way through. Sleeping babies, children playing, adults working and the elderly sitting along the roadside, watching us as we watch them.
Vouves
The little village of Vouves boasts an big achievement. It is home to the “Olympic Olive Tree”, recorded as the oldest olive tree in the Mediterranean. It was the source of the olive leaf crowns for Greece’s Olympic games in 2004 and then again for Beijing in 2008. Read more here…
Polemarhi
This small homemade operation is run out of Polemarhi in the foothills of Crete’s Maleme region. Get ready for the taste sensation of Crete’s own rakomelo. Read more here…
Good To Know
The Tour lasts a couple of hours and there are short stops at each location with a talk and information from the guide. Take hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and plenty of water with you on a hot day. There is a rest stop at Vouves for snacks and the bathroom if required. Stock up on rakomelo at Polemarhi. You’ll surely regret it if you don’t.
Would I Return?
No. There’s not enough to see in these small villages to warrant returning except, perhaps, for the rakomelo.