Cocoon Villas Maleme Bay

02/05/2026

Story 7/20
What to do when visiting western Crete?

Nestled in the heart of southwestern Crete, the legendary Samaria Gorge is one of Europe’s most spectacular natural attractions and a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Located within the protected White Mountains, this breathtaking gorge stretches approximately 16 kilometers, making it one of the longest in Europe.

Trekking trip to Samaria Gorge is safest with organized tour operator. There are plenty of operators in Chania area and all of them will come and pick you up with a bus.

Your journey typically begins at Xyloskalo, an elevated trailhead offering panoramic views that will leave you in awe from the very first step. As you descend into the gorge, you’ll pass through dense pine forests, rugged cliffs, and winding pathways carved by nature over thousands of years. The landscape constantly change, offering a rich blend of flora and fauna unique to the region, including the rare Cretan wild goat, known as the kri-kri.

One of the highlights of the trek is the famous “Iron Gates,” the narrowest point of the gorge, where towering rock walls rise dramatically up to 300 meters while standing only a few meters apart. It’s an unforgettable spot that captures the raw power and beauty of nature.

Midway through the hike, visitors encounter the abandoned village of Samaria, a peaceful resting point where traditional stone houses and an old church tell stories of the past. It’s the perfect place to pause, enjoy the surroundings, and soak in the history of this unique landscape.

The trek concludes at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, where the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea await. After the long hike, a refreshing swim and a meal at a seaside taverna are the perfect reward.

From Agia Roumeli a ship will take you to either Sougia or Sfakia where your bus is waiting for you.

The gorge lies within Samaria National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, ensuring its pristine condition and ecological importance. It is typically open from May to October, depending on weather conditions.

Whether you are an avid hiker or simply a nature lover, Samaria Gorge offers an unforgettable experience combining adventure, natural beauty, and cultural heritage—truly one of the highlights of visiting Crete.

Book you holiday with Cocoon Villas directly [email protected] or using Booking/AirBnB

26/04/2026

Story 6/20
What to do when visiting Western Crete?

A day trip from Maleme to the Botanical Garden of Crete is less about the distance and more about savoring western Crete’s layers—sea, village life, and mountain greenery—all unfolding within a short, beautiful drive.

You set off from Maleme just after breakfast, when the light is still soft over the olive groves. The road inland begins gently, passing through quiet farmland and small villages where old men sip Greek coffee under plane trees.

Mid-morning Stop: Fournes Village

As the road climbs toward the foothills of the White Mountains, you reach Fournes—a lush, green village known for citrus trees and shade.

Here’s a good place to slow down:

* Take a short stroll through the village lanes
* Visit a small local bakery for fresh bougatsa or kalitsounia
* Enjoy the scent of orange and lemon groves all around

It feels like stepping into a quieter version of Crete.

Botanical Garden of Crete

This is the heart of your trip—a hillside garden built after a wildfire, now transformed into a thriving ecosystem. You follow a circular walking path (about 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace), winding through:

* Exotic fruit trees from around the world
* Herbs and medicinal plants native to Crete
* Shaded forest sections and small lakes
* Stunning views over the valley and mountains

It’s not just a garden—it’s a story of regeneration.

Lunch with a View

At the top of the garden sits its well-known restaurant:
Botanical Garden Restaurant

This is where you should linger.

The menu focuses on seasonal, local ingredients—many grown right there:

* Lamb with herbs from the garden
* Fresh salads with edible flowers
* Traditional pies and slow-cooked dishes

Sit on the terrace. Take your time. The view stretches across green valleys toward the distant sea.

Book your vacation with us directly:
[email protected] or
Booking/AirBnB

19/04/2026

Story 5/20
What to do when visiting Western Crete?

A Day in Falassarna💦

You leave before the heat settles in, windows down, the scent of wild herbs drifting in as the sea slowly reveals itself in flashes of blue between the hills.

On the way to Falassarna, there’s a pause worth taking—a small, peaceful stop at the church of Ioannis Prodromes. It stands quietly, almost blending into the landscape, a place where time slows down. You step out, stretch your legs, and take in the stillness. The whitewashed walls glow under the morning sun, and for a moment, everything feels simple and grounded before the day opens up again.

Back on the road, the anticipation builds. Falassarna beach appears suddenly—wide, untamed, and breathtaking. The sand stretches endlessly, and the water shifts between shades of turquoise and deep blue depending on how the light hits it. It’s the kind of place that feels both wild and welcoming.

You settle in for the day, choosing your rhythm. If you’re in the mood for something laid-back yet vibrant, Liokalyvo is the spot. Time drifts there—morning swims, cold drinks, music slowly rising as the afternoon rolls into evening. As the sun begins to set, the atmosphere transforms. The colors deepen, the sky turns dramatic, and the beach party begins almost effortlessly, as if it’s just a natural continuation of the day.

Or maybe you choose Macaya instead—where the experience blends beach and pool, offering a slightly more polished escape. You move between saltwater and fresh, lounging and swimming, never quite deciding which you prefer because both feel perfect. It’s relaxed, stylish, and easy to lose track of time.

As the sun dips below the horizon and the sky fades into soft pinks and purples, hunger finally calls. The drive back carries that satisfied, sun-tired feeling.

Dinner becomes the final highlight. In Kastelli, you might sit down at a simple table near the water at Fish tavern 1960, where fresh fish is the star—grilled, lightly seasoned, and served with the kind of simplicity that only works when everything is truly fresh. The sea is still nearby, and you can taste it in every bite.

Or you head somewhere warmer and more rustic, choose Maracaibo where the table fills with traditional Cretan dishes—slow-cooked meats, fresh vegetables, olive oil that tastes like the land itself. The atmosphere is lively, welcoming, and deeply comforting, like being invited into someone’s home.

By the end of the night, the day feels full in the best way. From the quiet morning stop to the wild beauty of Falassarna, the music, the sea, the food—it all blends into a memory that lingers, long after the drive back under a sky full of stars.

Book Cocoon Villas directly [email protected] or using
Booking and AirBnB

15/04/2026

Story 4/10
What to do when visiting Western Crete?

Balos Lagoon trip can not be missed💦

A trip to Balos Lagoon is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Crete, combining adventure, history, and stunning natural beauty. The journey typically begins with a scenic drive to the small harbor of Kavousi Harbor, where visitors board a boat for a relaxing cruise along the rugged coastline.

The first stop is the island of Gramvousa, famous for its Venetian fortress perched high above the sea. Those who choose to hike up are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise waters and surrounding landscape. Down by the shore, there’s time to swim in crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the beach.

After exploring Gramvousa, the boat continues to Balos Lagoon. As you approach, the view is striking: shallow, shimmering waters in shades of blue and green, soft white and pink-tinged sand, and a wild, untouched landscape. Here, visitors can spend several hours swimming, sunbathing, and wading through the warm, shallow lagoon. The calm waters make it ideal for a relaxing day, while the scenery offers endless photo opportunities.

A must place to eat after coming back to the harbour is Gramvousa Restaurant in Kaliviani.

Book your holiday directly from [email protected] or using Booking or AirBnB

07/04/2026

Story 3/20
What to do when visiting Western Crete?

Families staying at Cocoon Villas often discover that some of their happiest holiday memories are created not only inside the comfort of their villa, but also during simple day adventures shared together across Crete.

After a relaxed breakfast on the terrace, while the morning sun gently warms the garden and the children finish their juice already asking about the day ahead, many families choose to begin with a visit to Limnoupolis Water Park. The short drive quickly turns into excitement as the children spot the colorful slides in the distance and begin guessing which one they will try first.

At the water park, the day immediately fills with laughter. Parents race their children down twisting slides, younger kids splash safely in shallow pools, and everyone eventually gathers at the lazy river where even the busiest parents finally relax under the Cretan sun 💦🌴 The wave pool becomes the family favorite, where every new wave brings fresh laughter and playful competition.

After lunch and a short rest back at Cocoon Villas, when the heat softens and the afternoon becomes golden, another kind of adventure often begins — a visit to the go-kart track. Here, excitement changes from splashing water to friendly racing. Children put on helmets with serious expressions, parents suddenly become competitive again, and every lap around the track creates cheers, jokes, and unforgettable little victories 🏎️✨

What guests love most is how naturally these experiences fit into a villa holiday. The children enjoy active, joyful days, while parents know they can always return to the peaceful privacy of Cocoon Villas, where the evening slows down again — perhaps with dinner by the pool, tired happy children, and stories about who was fastest on the track.

For many families, this balance becomes the true magic of staying here: peaceful mornings, exciting afternoons, and evenings full of shared memories under the Cretan sky 🌅

Book your holiday by contacting us directly:
[email protected] or using Booking or AirBnB

05/04/2026

Story 2/20
What to do when visiting Western Crete and Cocoon Villas!

Leave Maleme early in the morning, when the light is still soft and the sea behind you is silver-blue.
The road first feels easy: olive trees, small villages, sleepy cafés, old men already sitting outside with coffee ☕.

Soon you pass toward Tavronitis, where the landscape starts changing. The coast slowly disappears behind you, and the mountains begin to rise.

After that, the road climbs inland toward Topolia Gorge — one of the most dramatic parts of the drive. Here the cliffs come close, the road narrows, and suddenly you feel like you are driving through stone itself. Open the window here: the air smells of wild herbs and rock 🌿⛰️.

A good stop is the village of Topolia. Tiny, quiet, and perfect for a short coffee or fresh orange juice. In the Topolia Gorge there is the Cave Church of Agia Sophia. This stunning chapel is built directly into the side of a massive cave, offering dramatic views and serving as a popular, quick stop to explore its natural cathedral-like structure.

Then continue to Elos, a mountain village surrounded by chestnut trees. This is a lovely lunch stop: simple tavernas, local cheese, olives, and sometimes goats wandering nearby 🧀🍅. Many people consider Elos the nicest village on this route.

A little farther on, before reaching the beach, stop at Chrysoskalitissa Monastery. It sits on a rock above the sea, white against the blue sky, and gives you one of the best first views of the south coast. It’s only a short stop, but worth it for the feeling alone ✨ 

Then the final road drops toward Elafonissi.

Suddenly the sea appears — bright turquoise, almost unreal.
The sand becomes pale, then pink in places.
And you arrive at Elafonissi Beach, where shallow water stretches like glass and you can walk far into the lagoon barefoot.

If you want to see pink sand, visit Elafonissi early spring. There is a big car parking area when reaching Elafonissi. Drive as close as possible because the walk is 10 minutes. Remember to take water with you, buy it before going to the beach!

Book your holiday: [email protected] OR
Booking and AirBnB

01/04/2026

To the Sweet Water

01/04/2026

Story 1/20
What to do when visiting Western Crete and Cocoon Villas:

Owners favorite is the Sweet Water beach for a day trip!

Take a drive to Hora Sfakion 1 hour and 15 minutes from the Cocoon. You will drive through the village called Vrysses, then you start to “climb up” the mountains to the southern side of Crete. When closing to Hora Sfakion the view is magnificent.

The first taxi boat to the Sweet Water leaves from the Sfakia harbor at 10.20.
Just 5 minutes after you will arrive to the beach.

There you will find a small beach tavern.
You might even see mountain goats 🐐 during the day.

We will help you to find these unique spots when visiting Cocoon.

Here are some pictures from the road, starting from the Cocoon Villas, enjoy🌴

[email protected] OR
Booking/AirBnB

01/04/2026

Many of you are asking about the Maleme beach. From Cocoon Villas the beach is 850 meters away about 8 minutes walk or 2 minutes by car. If you are searching for a crowded beach, this is not the place. Just some sun chairs and umbrellas and lots of quiet 🙏

16/03/2026