The Village
GAVALOHORI
is situated in Apokoronas, a region in the north-west of Crete, about 3.5 km from the sea, This green area lies between the 2 most charming towns of Crete: Chania and Rethymnon.
In both cities you will find an Old Harbour and many small winding roads, full of bars, restaurants and shops.
Gavalohori, like Aptera, has had many “visitors” throughout the ages: Romans, Byzantins, Venetians, ... In spite of all these visitors, Gavalohori has stayed a 'real' Cretan village that is proud of its traditions.
TAVERNAS
To taste the traditional Cretan wine or the the delicious home made food, like the slooooowwww cooked lam, you can go to:
Taverna Gavalianos (also 'Monica's) on the village square.
This restored building is about 200 years old and on its terrace in the shadow of its mulberry trees it is wonderful to relax and enjoy a drink, a mèzzè or some dishes in this coasy ambiance.
Arismary (Rosemary) is also a nice place (pictures above right).
And Giorgos' café on the picture richt now also serves home made food.
BAKERY & GROCERIES
On the village square of Gavalohori you will find two small grocery shops and a bakery, perfect for buying fresh bread and everyday supplies.
MUSEUM
This small, but beautiful museum in the centre of Gavalohori strives to keep the past alive. It is situated in a small but beautifully restored Venetian house down twisting small streets behind the remains of an old Turkish Café.
The museum contains a small collection of beautiful pottery, coins, wood carving, weapons, lace and traditional costumes. The visitor gets an idea how the Cretans lived in the past 150 years. Especially nice is the bed above the wine press. This tourist attraction is worthy of a visit!
THE WOMEN'S CORPORATION
On the village square of Gavalohori there used to be a Women’s Cooperative, where local women sold traditional handmade products. The cooperative helped preserve old Cretan crafts such as embroidery, lacework and other local specialties.
Today the charming shop “To Helidoni” (The Swallow) continues this tradition, offering
a beautiful collection of handmade Cretan products. Inside you will find crafts such as embroidery, pottery, jewellery and other items created by local artisans.
Gavalohori is also well known for its traditional “kopaneli” lace, a delicate craft that has been practiced by the women of the village for generations.
THE SQUARE
is also a pleasant place to experience a bit of village life. Cretans truly appreciate it when visitors greet them and even more so if you try a few words in Greek: “Kalimèra” (good morning), “Kalispèra” (good afternoon/evening), “Kalo vradi” (good evening) and “Kaliníhta” (good night).