Platanias is the largest tourist resort in West Crete. It is built along a sandy beach and caters largely to tourists, both multi national and Greek. Located on the main coastal road, there is a frequent bus service to and from Chania. There are many restaurants and cafes, and plenty of shopping opportunities for when you are not lying on the beach or relaxing by the pool. The town has a lively nightlife, with many bars and clubs catering for all tastes. Some of the best night clubs in Crete are to be found in Platanias.
Opposite Platanias is the island of St. Theodori or Thodorou. In 1574, the Venetians built fortresses on the island’s highest and lowest points to protect Platanias from Turkish invasion. Today, only the foundations of the St. Theodori chapel remain and the island now serves as a breeding haven for the Cretan mountain goat, the Kri-Kri. It is only possible to step foot on the island once a year – on St Thodorou’s name day on June 8th when the island is open to visitors all day..
