Family Adventure in Samaria Gorge

Crete's Hidden Gems & Cultural Delights

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the serene beauty of Crete's coastline with a deep dive into its rich history. We started with a hidden beach, followed by a visit to a historical landmark, and ended with delicious food and local drinks. It's amazing how much this island has to offer!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Rousios. I had read some great reviews about their local pastries, and they did not disappoint! Astrid especially loved the fresh orange juice. After breakfast, we packed our beach gear and set off to find Omprogialos.

Omprogialos: A Secluded Paradise

Finding Omprogialos was an adventure in itself. The drive there was a bit tricky, with narrow, winding roads that reminded me of the backroads of Vimmerby. But the stunning views along the way made it worthwhile. When we finally arrived, we were greeted by the most incredible sight: crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by rocky cliffs.

The beach itself is quite small and rocky, not your typical sandy stretch. But that's part of its charm. It felt like we had discovered a secret paradise. The water was so clear that we could see all sorts of fish swimming around, making it perfect for snorkeling. Astrid was thrilled to spot a school of tiny, colorful fish right near the shore.

Maximilian and I took turns snorkeling while Astrid played on the rocks, collecting seashells. The beach wasn't crowded at all, which allowed us to truly relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. There's a small taverna nearby, so we grabbed some refreshments and enjoyed the stunning sea views. It was the perfect way to start our day.


Explore Omprogialos, a stunning beach in Vamos, Crete, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for the ultimate relaxation and adventure.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found off the beaten path.

Stepping Back in Time at Eleftherios Venizelos House

After a refreshing morning at the beach, we decided to immerse ourselves in history with a visit to the Eleftherios Venizelos House. Eleftherios Venizelos was a prominent figure in Greek history, and his former home has been transformed into a museum.

The house is located in the Halepa suburb of Chania and is only a short drive from the Venetian harbor. As we walked through the rooms, I was struck by how well-preserved everything was. The furniture, personal items, and photographs offered a fascinating glimpse into Venizelos' life and the political events of his time.

Astrid enjoyed the interactive exhibits in the attic, which were designed to engage children and make history fun. Maximilian, with his keen interest in history, was engrossed in the displays about Venizelos' role in shaping modern Greece. I was particularly moved by the exhibits about the assassination attempts on Venizelos' life, including the clothes he wore and the bullet-riddled car. It was a powerful reminder of the turbulent times he lived through.

The house itself is beautiful, with well-maintained gardens and a lovely courtyard. It's easy to imagine Venizelos spending time here, contemplating the future of Greece. The museum provided a comprehensive overview of Venizelos' life, showcasing his accomplishments as a rebel, politician, and diplomat.


Explore the rich history of Greece at Eleftherios Venizelos House, a museum dedicated to the legacy of one of Greece’s most influential statesmen in Chania.

A Taste of Crete: Dinner at Taverna Tarra

After a day of exploring, we were ready for a delicious meal. We chose Taverna Tarra for dinner, drawn in by its reputation for authentic Cretan cuisine. The taverna is known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes, and it certainly lived up to its reputation.

We started with some local appetizers, including dakos (a traditional Cretan salad) and some delicious olives. For the main course, Maximilian ordered the grilled lamb, while I opted for the fresh seafood. Astrid, of course, chose the souvlaki, which she devoured in minutes. The food was incredibly flavorful, and you could tell that it was made with fresh, local ingredients.

The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We enjoyed chatting with them about the local culture and traditions. As the evening drew to a close, we savored a glass of local wine and reflected on the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Taverna Tarra in Agia Roumeli – where flavor meets tradition amidst stunning natural beauty.

Nightcap at Liviko Bar

Before heading back to our accommodation, Maximilian and I decided to stop for a nightcap at Liviko Bar. It was a cozy place, perfect for a relaxing drink after a busy day. The atmosphere was laid-back, and the bartender was friendly, mixing up some delicious cocktails. We sat outside, enjoying the cool evening breeze and chatting about our favorite moments from the day.

As we sipped our drinks, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared as a family. Crete had exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and cultural immersion.


Discover the lively nights of Sougia at Liviko Bar, where live music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our family adventure in Samaria Gorge. We are planning to visit the Orthodox Church of Holy Prophet Elias and Greleskas Observatory. And before we leave, we will stop by Greek Unique Concept Gift Store to buy some gifts for our friends and family back home.

I can't wait to share more stories from our travels. Until then, as they say in Sweden, *hej då*!