This small day trip from Chania on Crete is perfect for those who don’t want to lie by the pool all day while on vacation but enjoy being a bit active. The trip takes you first to Lera Cave, and then you can relax, enjoy the sun, and take a refreshing swim at Stavros Beach.
Note: This trip requires a rental car, scooter, or similar.
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Lera Cave
We recommend starting with Lera Cave and cooling off afterward with a swim at the beach, but of course, you can do it in the reverse order. The great thing is that the cave and the beach are right next to each other.
It takes about half an hour to drive from Chania city center. During peak season, it’s best to leave as early as possible to ensure you find parking, both at the trailhead to Lera Cave and at Stavros Beach. See the map below for the driving route from Chania center to the parking lot where the trail starts.
The trail up to Lera Cave is hard to spot.
CAMOUFLAGED: It’s not easy to see the trail up to Lera Cave.
On the way up the steep Vardia Mountain, there is a main path that zigzags up. It can be a bit tricky to follow this path since there are a maze of smaller paths crisscrossing. This became particularly evident when we were descending, and we ended up taking longer to go down than up. You can also climb straight up the mountain. It takes about 15-30 minutes to hike, depending on your pace.
The group on the way up to Lera Cave.
The cave itself is relatively small and honestly not much to shout about. This is not a fancy stalactite cave lit up in pretty colors. It is possible to crawl into a larger inner chamber filled with stalagmites, but it didn’t seem very appealing. It was dark and full of goat droppings and trash when we were there. However, the view from the cave is what makes the trip worthwhile. Even though you’re not particularly high up, the view is amazing.
Stavros Beach
Stavros Beach is right below the mountain where Lera Cave is located. Chances are you’ll be hot and sweaty after the climb. A refreshing dip is perfect!
Stavros Beach may not be Crete’s most beautiful beach, but the mountain landscape around it is very special. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is pleasant. Since the beach is located in a bay, it is well shielded from waves. It is also relatively shallow, making the beach suitable for children.
It’s possible to rent sunbeds and umbrellas. There are also some restaurants and a kiosk right by the beach.
Looking for more beach experiences? Read about Elafonissi Beach – the pink beach. (In Norwegian only at the moment.)
Compare prices and book your rental car here:
Did you know…
Lera Cave and Stavros became world-famous through the film “Zorba the Greek” in 1964. The film, starring Alan Bates and Anthony Quinn, was filmed in Stavros. Many scenes were shot inside the cave, which was depicted as a mine. The famous Zorba dance was filmed on Stavros Beach.
Stavros and two of the three beaches in the town.
Curious about other things to do in Chania? (In Norwegian)
Remember this before you go:
- The trip involves a bit of mountain climbing, but most people in reasonably good shape can handle it. The trip is also suitable for children who are used to hiking (we had children aged 9 and 12 with us).
- There are many loose stones on the way up to the cave, so watch your step and swap flip-flops for sneakers.
- There are also plants with sharp thorns and leaves, which can easily cause injuries. Several of us got scratched!
- Bring enough water for the trip.
- During peak season, it’s wise to go early in the day if you’re driving. Otherwise, it might be challenging to find parking.
