Stay on the northern road to visit the seaside village of Panormos,
21 km away from Rethymnon city.
This small village, built by the sea, has kept its picturesque
character, and a walk through its cobbled streets is definitely
worthwhile. You will see well-tended gardens, with varieties of
flowers decorating the whitewashed courtyards, and preserved or
occasionally ruined mansions with arched doorways, and then head
down to the small, attractive harbour where the village ends.
You can swim in the sandy cove, which seems to mainly attract families,
because of the shallow waters and organised beach with umbrellas
and deck-chairs. If you feel like trying some sea sports, there
is a hotel beach offering just that, about half a kilometre outside
the village.
After your swim, choose a taverna with a view of the sea and the
deserted fortress built on the rocky hill, and order fresh fish.
In June, don't miss the revival of the Klidonas tradition, which
culminates in an unforgettable feast.
