Kissamos and Tertsa

Christina Beach Hotel pool

Kissamos is at the top northwest corner of Crete. Crete is the largest Greek island and a strategic place from a military background. Hitler during WW2 met tremendous resistance here from the Greeks and the allies used it in the fight against Rommel in Egypt. Kissamos is a laid back beach town with access to the west side beaches and is only 38 kms north of Chania. It offers a great alternate location to stay while visiting. We also found out that once a week (Thursday) a ferry goes from here to Gythio on the Peloponnese peninsula and  is a day ferry instead of an overnight from Heraklion to Pireaus. It is 1/3 the price, and completely bypasses the Athens corridor. It is a great alternative.

Church built into Rock Cave

Our hotel (The Christina Beach Hotel) was excellent with a top floor sea view/pool view from the room. We lazed around the pool while working out the kinks from our Samaria gorge hike and then walked 6 kms to the Port of Kissamos, where we discovered this neat Orthodox church built into a rock cave along the side of the road.

We had been invited by some HU members, Jen and Rog Preston to come and see their eco-village just above the village of Tertsa in southwestern Crete and we made our way there across the Amari valley. After a gorgeous lunch stop  on the west side of the island, facing the Libyan Sea, Libya /Egypt border being 200 kms away, we arrived at their place about 4:00 pm. 

Lunch on the Libyan Sea

Sandra Jen and Rog

The village, currently a collection of 5-6 restored ruins, is powered solely by solar and wind power with a fuel source of LP gas for cooking.

They are retired school teachers with a rich history of experience teaching in foreign countries and between drinks, and a wonderful supper prepared; we didn't stop the visiting until midnight.

They have purchased several small apartment ruins which they have rebuilt into their own residence and a guest suite, complete with Olive trees, and other fruits. They were very gracious hosts while we were there and Rog and I had so many similar hands on experiences that allowed us to instantly relate.

Many thanks for your hospitality!