Nirvana
Our guide to the local secret gems...
Towns & Villages
Ravdoucha
An authentic Cretan fishing village just minutes from Nirvana, Ravdoucha looks out over the shimmering water of Balos Bay and is framed by the dramatic mountains of the Rodopos Peninsula. Stroll down to the harbour for lunch at Taverna Nerantzia
Chania
A vibrant tapestry of Venetian, Ottoman, and Cretan architecture, Chania is a wanderer’s paradise. The city offers something for everyone—from archaeological museums chronicling Crete’s rich history and diverse houses of worship, to charming boutiques, atmospheric jazz bars, and mezedopoleia: traditional Greek eateries where every round of raki comes with an array of delectable bites.
Kissamos
Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, Kissamos is full of execllent tavernas serving local produce. Its a great base from which to explore the iconic beaches, gorges, hills and archeological sites. Don’t miss the Archeological Museum, itslef a Venetian-Turklish building in the main square.
Rodopos Peninsula
Literally on the doorstep of Nirvana, this untouched peninsula has been home to Minoans, Romans, Byzantines, Venetian and Ottomans. Ancient fortifications mark its perimeter, while the interior is dotted with vineyards, herby shrubland, and goats roaming freely.
Aptera
The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Aptera rise majestically on the slopes above Souda Bay. Less than an hour’s drive from Nirvana, this once-thriving city—inhabited until an earthquake in the 7th century CE—offers a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s Roman past.
Restaurants
Taverna Nerantzia, Ravdoucha
A five minute walk from the house, fresh fish caught every day, family run. need we say more?
+30 698 730 3632
Wave on the Rock, Ravdoucha
An execllent, authenic choice just around the corner from Nirvana. Try the dolmades and the bamia.
+30 28240 23133 | https://www.wavesontherock.eu/
Seaesta Beach Bar, Ravdoucha
Laid back and simple. An easy spot for breakfast, lunch or an evening aperitivo.
+30 697 978 2366 | https://instagram.com/seaestaonthebeach
Maracaibo, Kissamos
Top quality home-style cooking with a modern touch. Fantastic wines too. Make sure you book in advance, and try Aruba Cafe Bar next door for a drink while you waitfor your table.
+30 698 565 5920 | http://maracaibo-restaurant.webnode.gr/
Milia Mountain Retreat Restaurant, Vlatos
Authenitic, farm-to-table Cretan cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. A must try.
+30 697 317 0580 | https://miliarestaurant.gr/
Argentina Kapenekis, Kolimvari
Highly recommended. Fresh fish on the beach and next-level cuttlefish risotto.
+30 28240 22243 | https://argentinakapenekis.gr/
Tamam Restaurant, Chania
Tucked away behind the harbour in a beautiful building, for top-notch Cretan grub and delicious wine.
+30 28210 96080 | http://www.tamamrestaurant.com/
Thalassino Ageri, Chania
Menaing ‘ocean breaze’, Thalassino Ageri is one of the most established and recommended fish tavernas in Chania.
+30 28210 51136
Periplous Restaurant, Chania
Elegant and romantic restaurant with amazing seating next to the water, offering excellent food and a wine list. Go for a Santorini Assyrtiko.
+30 28210 43300 | http://www.periplousrestaurant.gr/
Restaurant Vasiliko, Chania
A simple tavern on the Chania harbor, perfect for when you feel overwhelmed by the restaurant choices.
+30 28210 44391
Pallas, Chania
A renowned rooftop restaurant and bar with a wide selection of food and wines.
+30 28210 45688 | Pallas Chania
Palazzo al Mare Restaurant, Chania
Known for its exceptional dining experience, Palazzo al Mare offers fresh seafood, and breathtaking views of the Venetian Harbour.
+30 28210 08813 | http://palazzoalmare.gr/
Arismari, Chania
A local’s top tip. Book in advance.
+30 28210 74419 | http://www.arismarichania.gr/index.php/menu/
Matzénta kuzina del sol
Perefct for when you’re craving something different and fancy a good margarita.
+30 697 240 6469 | http://www.matzentakuzinadelsol.gr/
Cafes & Bars
Monogram, Chania
The best coffee in Chania.
Daskalogianni 5, Chania 731 32, Greece | https://www.monogramroasters.gr/
Red Jane Bakery, Chania
A top-class bakery serving amazing bread, irresistible cakes, fantastic sandwiches, and great coffee.
Kidonias 101, Chania 731 36, Greece | https://www.redjaneproject.com/
Fagotto Jazz Bar, Chania
For a perfect cocktail at the bar.
Aggelou 16, Chania 731 31, Greece
The Monastery of Karolos Bar, Chania
Great cocktails in a unique setting in the centre of town.
Chatzimichali Ntaliani 22, Chania 731 00, Greece | https://www.instagram.com/the_monastery_of_karolos/
Onar Seaside Lounge, Chania
Loutraki Beach, Chania 735 00, Greece | https://onar-seaside-lounge.gr/
Cabana Mare Beach Club, Chania
Agia Marina 730 14, Greece | http://cabanamarechania.gr/
Red Havana, Chania
Agia Marina 730 14, Greece | https://redhavana.com/
Ammos & Ilios, Chania
Agia Marina 730 14, Greece | https://ammos-ilios.com/
Best Beaches
Apart from your very own access to the sea right in front of Nirvana, there are a number of exquisite beaches in the area around the house to explore.
Balos Beach & Lagoon
At the very top of the Rodopos peninsula, this beach is a perfect mixture of sandbanks and endless blue.
Falasarna Beach
Huge, golden and consistently ranked among Greece’s best beaches, Falasarna is also home to ancientGreek habour ruins. Try Karkatsouli beach if you fancy something smaller.
Kedrodasos Beach
Peaceful and remote. A true beauty.
Loutraki Beach
Protected from the winds, this gorgeous bay is a great spot if you fancy a dip in the crystal sea, followed by an Aperol Spritz.
Agia Marina Beach
Haven of beach bars for pure lounging.
Do & See
Venetian Harbour, Chania
Clamber across the huge blocks of stone and visit the remains of the lighthouse, which was rebuilt by the Egyptians in the shape of a minaret.
KAM Centre of Mediterranean Architecture, Chania
The grand arsenal, impressively restored from a roofless 16th‑century Venetian ruin that once served as everything from a school to a hospital and city hall, is now home to the KAM Centre of Mediterranean Architecture, which hosts regular events and exhibitions.
Κέντρο Αρχιτεκτονικής Μεσογείου
Archeological Museum of Chania, Chania
The beautifully restored 16th‑century Venetian Church of San Francisco—once a mosque, later a cinema, and even a WWII munitions depot—now houses an extensive archaeological collection ranging from Neolithic to Roman artefacts.
Κεντρική Σελίδα — Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Χανίων
Kissamos Archeological Museum, Kissamos
Offering a beautifully curated glimpse into the region’s ancient past, showcasing mosaics, artefacts, and treasures that trace Kissamos’ story from Minoan times through the Roman era.
+30 28220 83308 | http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/1/gh151.jsp?obj_id=3465
Topolia Gorge
A great spot for hiking. If you’re visiting in high summer, make sure to go as ealry as possible and carry lots of water with you. Park at the vantage point and hike to Agios Athanasios Chruch. Then round off the day with a beer and a bite at Taverna Spiliaraki in Topolia.
https://www.explorechania.com/place/topolia-tunnel/
Acropolis of Polirrinia
An ancient settlement at the top of a mountain.
Aptera
The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Aptera rise majestically on the slopes above Souda Bay. Less than an hour’s drive from Nirvana, this once-thriving city—inhabited until an earthquake in the 7th century CE—offers a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s Roman past.
Please call first to check restaurants and museums are open, and check the relevant government guidance before travelling.
No responsibilty can be accepted by Scott Williams for any issues that may arise as a result of the enclosed recommendations and information.