Agia Galini, 55 km from Rethymnon, used to be a small, remote fishing village, which the locals called the "small Capri of Crete"; today it has been transformed into a cosmopolitan holiday destination, which attracts countless Greek and foreign tourists.
The picturesque harbour, the amphitheatrically built village, the voluminous, imposing rock standing overthe beach next to the harbour, and the joie-de
vivre of the village's inhabitants and store-owners, give the area a special character. In the uphill cobbled streets, you will come across small, low stone shops, built in the Cycladic style, with doors painted in bright colours, especially the typical Cycladic blue.
You will be travel d by the sense of mirth, fun and joy coming from the groups of people wandering around the village or toasting each other to the sounds of disparate musical rhythms, whose one common denominator is "kefi" and
enjoyment. Have a coffee in one of the cafes looking onto the harbour. At night things become even livelier, with alcohol, music, dancing and fun playing the leading roles. Stay the night in Agia Galini (Saintly Peace) and you will realise how unfitting the village's name really is!
Special moments of fun are to be had in the area's bars, and don't be surprised if complete strangers buy you drinks. Accept them gracefully, and make a toast to their health.
It only means that they like you... If you feel hungry after a long night of entertainment, souvlaki restaurants are open until the early hours of the morning, to feed the exhausted revellers. The beach at Agia Galini is not what we would call ideal. The cove next to the harbour is too small for all the holiday-makers that gather there every summer.
Besides, the huge rock literally hanging over the beach and the possible rock slides that are contained by barbed wire (!) are not the area's friendliest characteristic...To the east there is a larger sand beach, with umbrellas, deck-chairs and showers. The sea deepens gradually, but is not exactly spotless... However, the locals have made arrangements for the tourists who decide to visit the area. Small boats leave regularly from the harbour, taking people to the Paximadia islets opposite, to Agiofaraggo, Vathi, Agios Georgios and Preveli Lake. Platys river flows through the village, and you can take a walk over the bridge, in search of quieter beaches. The area also offers itself for sea sports. Accommodation is plentiful, picturesque and the service is very good. You will also find an organised camp-site with wooden tents, or set up your own tent within its boundaries. We don't recommend free camping, as it goes against the interests of organised camping... Finally, it is possible to rent a car, in order to explore the area from Agia Galini to Messara or Amari valley. Near Agia Galini, you can find incredibly beautiful beaches and picturesque villages. Heading south and west of Agia Galini, you will encounter extraordinary beaches, where you can swim in crystal clear water and relax in the peacefulness of the surroundings.
Remember the names and visit at least one of the following: Agia Irene, Ligres, Triopetra and, most beautiful of all, Agios Pavlos. Agios Pavlos is a true natural masterpiece, with a sandy beach stretching from the foot of the mountain to the edge of the sea. The bay is quite wide, with rocks at either end, and Siderotas mountain rising behind it. The turquoise sea, enchanting beach and tranquil environment offer moments full of relaxation. If you get hungry, seek out the famous omelette or fresh fish in the area's tavernas. From this last village, the road turns towards Saktouria village. Take a break in picturesque Saktouria, have a drink in one of the cafes in the village square and rest in a picturesque setting that is different to anything else you have seen thus far.
Instead of heading north from Agios Pavlos, turn right to the unique beach of Triopetra and the traditional taverna "Filenia". Here you will not only find local dishes to taste, but also rooms where you can stay and enjoy the magic of the as-yet unexplored side of Crete.