A villa holiday in Armeni, Crete, offers a blend of relaxation, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Armeni is a charming village in Crete, Greece, known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings. The villas here are typically set in tranquil locations, offering privacy and comfort. Imagine a spacious, airy villa with a private pool, offering views of the lush Cretan landscape and the azure sea. …

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with warm hospitality, characteristic of the Cretan people. The villas are often traditional in design, with modern amenities. They feature large living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and comfortable bedrooms. Outside, there’s usually a patio or terrace, perfect for al fresco dining or enjoying a morning coffee.

The village of Armeni itself is picturesque, with narrow streets lined with stone houses and blooming bougainvillea. There are local tavernas where you can enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine. Dishes like moussaka, fresh seafood, and Greek salad are common, made with locally sourced ingredients.

Overall, a villa holiday in Armeni, Crete, is a mix of leisure, exploration, and immersion in Greek culture. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind in a beautiful setting.

Places of interest and activities you can enjoy when going on a villa holiday in Armeni:

Armeni Village Itself
A peaceful, authentic Cretan village with narrow alleys, stone houses, and an old-world atmosphere.
Enjoy the main square with traditional tavernas shaded by large plane trees, offering local food and wine.

Armeni Ancient Minoan Cemetery
Located near Rethymno (about an hour’s drive from Armeni in Apokoronas), this archaeological site offers insight into the Minoan civilization.
Features an extensive necropolis with well-preserved chamber tombs carved into soft limestone.

Nearby Village of Vrises
Known for its picturesque bridges and cold springs.
A perfect spot to relax by the water and try yogurt with honey – a local specialty.

Kournas Lake
Crete’s only freshwater lake, about 25 minutes away.
Ideal for kayaking, paddle boating, and relaxing by the lakeside cafes.

Aptera Archaeological Site
A vast ancient city with impressive ruins, including Roman cisterns, an amphitheatre, and views of Souda Bay.
Roughly a 30-minute drive from Armeni.

Hiking and Nature Walks
The Apokoronas region has a network of scenic trails with views of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori).

Trails wind through olive groves, vineyards, and small hamlets.

Agrotourism Experiences
Participate in olive oil tastings, wine sampling, or even cheese-making workshops at local farms.

Visit traditional olive presses and learn about Cretan agricultural life.

Village Festivals (Panigiria)
If you’re visiting in summer, check for local festivals celebrating saints or seasonal harvests.
Expect music, dancing, grilled lamb, and raki (Cretan spirit).

Chania Old Town & Harbour
Venetian architecture, boutique shopping, and a vibrant nightlife (30-35 mins away).

Theriso Gorge
A scenic drive with a historic village at the end and ties to the Cretan revolution.

Imbros Gorge or Samaria Gorge
If you’re into more serious hiking.

Restaurants which are worth a visit:

Here are some of the best restaurants in and around Armeni (within a 20-minute drive), along with their specialties:

In Armeni Village Itself:

Tzitzikas (Τζιτζίκας):

Specialties: A highly recommended traditional Cretan taverna. Expect classic Cretan dishes like lamb or goat “antikristo” (slow-cooked over an open fire), various stews (stifado), moussaka, fresh grilled meats, and a wide array of Cretan mezedes (appetizers). They often use local ingredients, ensuring freshness and authenticity. It’s known for its friendly, family atmosphere.

Tavern “Chrisoula”:

Specialties: Another local taverna in Armeni. Focuses on homemade Cretan dishes, grilled meats, and local produce. A good spot for a relaxed, authentic meal.

In Nearby Villages (Within 20 minutes drive):

Kalyves (Approx. 5-10 minutes drive): Kalyves is a seaside village with many tavernas, often right by the water.

Taverna Akrogiali:

Specialties: Known for fresh fish and seafood due to its seaside location. Also offers traditional Greek and Cretan cuisine with tables right next to the sea.

Taverna Provlita:

Specialties: Another excellent choice for fresh fish and traditional Cretan dishes, also with a prime seafront location.

Taverna Koumos (Stone Cottage):

Specialties: Located slightly up on a hill in Kalyves, offering traditional Cretan cuisine in a rustic, stone cottage setting. This offers a slightly different ambiance from the beachside tavernas.

Argyroupoli (Approx. 15-20 minutes drive): Famous for its natural springs and lush environment, Argyroupoli has tavernas built around waterfalls and streams.

Athivoles:

Specialties: Very popular for its unique setting with tables set next to waterfalls and running streams. Specialises in traditional Cretan cuisine, including their famous antikristo lamb, fresh trout (often from their own tanks), and sturgeon. They emphasise local products.

Archaia Lappa Restaurant – Tavern:

Specialties: Another highly-rated traditional taverna in Argyroupoli. Known for authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with interesting and unique menu choices. They often have hourly roasts and specialties like kontosouvli (spit-roasted meat). Described as a non-touristy, real Cretan experience.

Lake Kournas Area (Approx. 15-20 minutes drive): While some restaurants are directly on the lake, many good options are in the surrounding area.

Restaurant Ambrosia (near Lake Kournas):

Specialties: A cosy taverna offering traditional Greek dishes and fresh seafood with views of Lake Kournas.

Pelagias Yard (Apokoronas region, near Lake Kournas):

Specialties: Offers Western-style and Cretan dishes in a relaxed setting.

 Rethymno Old Town (Approx. 20-25 minutes drive): Just outside the 20-minute strict limit, but a major dining hub.

Veneto Restaurant:

Specialties: Located in a historic 15th-century mansion. Certified with the ‘CRETAN CUISINE’ quality label, offering high-quality Cretan and Mediterranean dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Known for its wine cellar.

Agrimia:

Specialties: Creative Cretan cuisine, revisiting traditional recipes with a modern touch. Offers premium quality meats from local producers, fresh fish, and diverse seafood. Has vegetarian/vegan options.

To Parastratima:

Specialties: Emphasizes traditional slow-cooked dishes crafted with organic products from local, small-scale producers. Focuses on authentic Cretan and Mediterranean flavours

Details correct as at 15/03/2025. These restaurants are neither endorsed nor recommended by Villa Select

The best beaches to visit in Armeni:

Armeni’s inland location means you’ll need a short drive to reach the coast, but within a 20-minute radius, you have access to some lovely beaches. Here are the best options, their types, amenities, and activities:

Kalyves Beach (Approx. 5-10 minute drive from Armeni)

Type of Beach: A long, well-organised sandy beach with clear, shallow waters, making it very popular for families. It’s often awarded Blue Flag status for its cleanliness and facilities.
Amenities: You’ll find a wide range of amenities here due to the presence of hotels and the nearby village. This includes sun loungers and parasols for rent, showers, changing rooms, and lifeguards during the summer season. There are numerous beach bars, tavernas, and restaurants directly on or very close to the beach. Hotels often have poolside snack bars accessible to beachgoers.
Activities: Excellent for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxed beach days. Due to the calm waters, it’s suitable for children. You can also find opportunities for water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and potentially diving (equipment rentals usually available from local operators). The village of Kalyves offers charming shops and cafes for strolling.

 Kiani Beach (Also very close, often considered part of Kalyves/within the same stretch – Approx. 5-10 minute drive from Armeni)

Type of Beach: A beautiful sandy beach, also with clear waters and often part of a Blue Flag awarded stretch. It’s often associated with the Kiani Beach Resort but is accessible to the public.
Amenities: Similar to Kalyves, you’ll find sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and beach bars. Being connected to resorts, you might find more comprehensive facilities like nearby mini-markets, restaurants, and snack bars.
Activities: Ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The calm, clear waters are great for snorkeling. Resorts in the area often offer or arrange water sports like canoeing, and sometimes have facilities like beach volleyball courts. Its family-friendly nature means you might see playgrounds near the beach.

Gerani Beach (Approx. 15-20 minute drive from Armeni, west towards Chania)

Type of Beach: A long (about 2.5 km) sandy beach with clear water. It’s generally a quieter, less crowded option compared to the more bustling tourist beaches. It has organised sections but also quieter, more natural spots.
Amenities: The organised parts of Gerani beach offer sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, beach bars, and lifeguards. You’ll find a few restaurants and tavernas near the beach, often associated with local hotels.
Activities: Good for swimming and relaxing. Water sports such as sea kayaks and jet skis can be rented in front of the larger hotels. A unique activity here is Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) nesting, which occurs from May to September. Visitors should be mindful of marked nesting areas, as the beach is an important habitat for these endangered turtles.

Platanias Beach (Approx. 20-25 minute drive from Armeni, west of Rethymno town)

Type of Beach: A very lively and well-organised sandy beach. It’s a popular tourist hub, so expect more crowds and a vibrant atmosphere.
Amenities: Extensive amenities including numerous beach bars, restaurants, tavernas, sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. Lifeguards are present during the summer season.
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and a wide array of water sports (jet skiing, parasailing, banana boats, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling). The area also has a lively nightlife scene in the evenings with clubs and bars.

Adelianos Kampos Beach / Rethymno Gulf Beach (Approx. 15-20 minute drive from Armeni, east towards Rethymno)

Type of Beach: Part of the long sandy stretch that makes up the Rethymno Gulf, extending east from Rethymno town. Adelianos Kampos is a well-developed tourist area along this strip. The sea here is typically shallow but can be wavy due to its open position on the north coast.
Amenities: Very well-equipped with amenities, including a multitude of umbrellas, sunbeds, lifeguards, changing rooms, showers, and numerous beach bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops directly on or alongside the beach.
Activities: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and a wide variety of beach sports and water activities (jet skiing, parasailing, banana boats, etc.). Similar to Gerani, this area is also a nesting ground for Loggerhead sea turtles, so you might see marked nests.