This typical Cretan farming village, just over one and a half hour’s
drive from Heraklion, has kepts its original character, and remains largely
untouched by tourism. Kamilari is picturesquely set on a hill, with fabulous
panoramic views over the Ida mountains, over the fruitful Messara plain
and to the sea beyond. Thanks to Greek hospitality, the warm welcome given
to children and rural village life, it is the sort of place where one quickly
feels at home.
Alongside the small shops there are
Greek tavernas and Kafeneions which will give you a flavour of Cretan village
life. Around the village there are lots of places to explore, perhaps by
setting off on foot along some of the country footpaths, or going further
afield by car. Among some of the possible outings to choose from are the
Minoan archaeological sites at
Phaistos and Agia Triada, only 3 km away, Matala with its famous cliff
side caves, numerous old monasteries, the mountain village of Zaros
with its trout farm, and a gorge which is comparable to the well known
Samaria Gorge and well worth exploring.
For those seeking the sea, the
kilometre long sandy beach of Kalamaki is 2,5 km away, with its cliff sides
and wooden areas, as well as the 12 km sandy beach of Komos. At both of
these places there are further tavernas, little shops, Pensions and holiday
homes. |
