Istron and Kalo Chorio Holidays
"Get a real feel for traditional Crete and mingle with the locals in friendly little Kalo Chorio."
It's not far from lively Aghios Nikolaos or the Cretan capital, Heraklion. But sleepy Kalo Chorio seems eons away from the hustle and bustle of its upwardly mobile neighbours. The atmosphere is much more like a traditional Greek village than a holiday resort. And you'll feel like you're really in amongst the inhabitants as they go about their day to day lives. As a result, you're more likely to catch a show by the local Cretan and Popular Dance Academy than a trendy DJ from Athens. And as for sports and leisure, it's probably going to be a kick about with the local lads rather than a chance to improve your golf swing or play some mixed doubles tennis. However, if you're into serious relaxation and enjoy simple pleasures like browsing around the colourful fruit and cheese stalls at the local market, then this is the place for you. Kalo Chorio's award-winning beaches are excellent, and its hillside position offers dazzling vistas over the beautiful Gulf Of Mirabello. For one of the best views on the island, take a trip up to the 12th century fortified monastery of Faneromenis. The evening entertainment mostly revolves around the few village tavernas, where you can enjoy a drink and some home-cooked traditional fare. But if you're feeling starved of dining variety, all you have to do is pop down the road to Ag Nik, where every taste is catered for in a rich variety of cafes and restaurants. Then again, the peace and quiet may be just too tempting…
Holidays in Kalo Chorio are Cretan village holidays at their best ... for two reasons. One, your base is a friendly little place, with great views and a gorgeous beach. And two, your nearest neighbour is one of the most popular resorts on the island.
Roughly translated, 'Kalo Chorio' means good village …which says it all really. The village proper is set back from the sea on a hillside, with panoramic views of the famously fabulous Gulf Of Mirabello. There are ample tavernas for you to sample traditional food, and the market's a lively spot to shop for fresh fruit and choice cheeses. The beach is the hub of activity during the day, a good sandy spread that draws visitors out of Aghios Nikolaos - which is just a few minutes up the road. Ag. Nik has all the shops, restaurants and bars you could ask for - along with a busy harbour front and a beautiful 'bottomless lake'. So if you split your time between the two, Kalo Chorio holidays are more than initially meets the eye.
With its leisurely pace and rural space, summer holidays to Kalo Chorio appeal equally to couples and families. Self-catering holidays are particularly popular - with some quality villas in and around the 'good village' giving you the freedom and flexibility that especially suits family life.