Kandanos: History, Memories, and the Must-Try Galaktoboureko
Kandanos is a historic and beautiful place that holds a sombre distinction. It became the first location the German conquerors decided to demolish entirely, while the inhabitants resisted with whatever means they had.
This village played a significant role in the Second World War, thanks to the resistance efforts of the local population.
Kandanos is renowned for the stunning beauty of its gorge. It's also an excellent destination for enjoying high-quality cuisine in its tavernas and offers accommodation options in hotels.
Lastly, in the heart of the village, you can indulge in superb culinary delights at the local tavernas. ‘Pilaf with staka butter’ and ‘galaktoboureko’ are among the must-try dishes that you should not miss.
nearby destinations
Plemeniana, Chania: A Hidden Gem in a Verdant Valley
Nestled at an altitude of 333 metres, Plemeniana is a charming small village with a big agricultural output. With an estimated population of 150 residents, primarily engaged in livestock farming, Plemeniana thrives in its fertile surroundings.
Situated in a lush valley, the village boasts a bounty of agricultural produce, including olive oil, chestnuts, walnuts, wine, grapes, and an assortment of fruits.
Photo: By Brandon Hoogenboom Via Unsplash
Kambanos: Enjoy Coffee under the Plane Trees
Kambanos is a semi-mountainous village situated in the municipality of Kantanos, Selino. Nestled at an altitude of 400 metres, it occupies a conical hill and bears a striking resemblance to a bell!
The majority of permanent residents in Kambanos are farmers and livestock breeders, with some also involved in activities such as olive oil production, and pottery.
In the central square stands the church of Saints Constantine and Helen, while in the northern square of the village, you'll find the Memorial of the Fallen. This memorial comprises plaques commemorating the local heroes who sacrificed their lives for their homeland.
Visitors can delight in aromatic coffee or raki at the village cafés, where the plane trees add to the aesthetic appeal and provide refreshing shade.
Photo: Wikipedia
Sklavopoula: Echoes of Pirate Times
This traditional village maintains its authenticity without succumbing to tourist development, preserving the island's timeless essence. Residents engage primarily in livestock farming, agriculture, and beekeeping.
Legend has it that Sklavopoula earned its name during the era of pirates, when corsairs abducted a beautiful girl from the village and forced her into slavery. Surrounding Sklavopoula, numerous ancient churches and remarkable monuments of Byzantine art abound. The church of the Holy Spirit, adorned with a bell tower, unfortunately lacks its bells. Locals recount a tale from the Turkish occupation era, when Christians buried the bells for safekeeping, which remain undiscovered to this day.
While a café is available, accommodation options are absent in Sklavopoula.
Photo: Wikipedia