Kastelli Kissamos Crete

holiday report and map

Kastelli Kissamos Crete

KASTELLI KISSAMOS is found about 42km west of Chania along the north coast highway and is the largest town and capital of the province of Kissamos with about 5,000 inhabitants.
Kastelli Kissamos resort has a very long seafront overlooking Kissamos Bay and formed by the long peninsulas of Gramvousa and Rodopou, with rocks to the east and a small sandy beach to the west.
At the centre of Kastelli Kissamos are two squares - Kastelis and Venizelis. Kastelis is the main bus terminus and has the most facilities. The town's main street runs off it where there are several tavernas and cafes.
Kastelli Kissamos was much more important in ancient times, being the seat of one of the most important city states - Polyrinia - which minted its own coins and there are the ruins of an acropolis, theatre and aqueduct about 6km inland.
Kissamos was well fortified and often under attack. The Venetians built old city walls that are still standing and the Venetian fortress or Castelo has given it its name, with Kissamos added as there are so many towns in Crete with the name Kasteli.
The modern Kastelli Kissamos resort has a somewhat dowdy air and a scruffy beach of sand and pebble that's open to the northerly winds. Inland though the countryside is very attractive and this is a big region for olive oil and wine.
Kastelli Kissamos also has some of the best beaches and sights, such as Falassarna and Gramvoussa, within striking distance so its a good base for those looking to explore the western coast of Crete.
There is a regular bus service to Chania and regular ferries to the Peloponnese and to Kythira. The E4 European Walking Path starts the Cretan leg here over the mountain trails for 320km across Crete taking in some spectacular scenery on the way.