South Coast

Frangokastello

For those who have visited Crete before, or want a different location for the second week of their stay we suggest Patsianos, a 2-hour drive from Chania airport, and 1.5 hours from Megala Chorafia.

The name originates from the family name 'Patsaki', of whom there were 5 sons. In 1340, while the Venetians were building the great fortress of Frangokastello, the Patsaki brothers would go by night to destroy what had been built during the day. The Venetians were building the fort to dissuade the pirates of the African coast from attacking Crete. Eventually, the brothers were caught and hung, one in each corner of the fort and one in the main gate.

The inhabitants of Frangokastello then moved closer to the mountains and built Patsianos, in order to fight both the pirates and the Venetians more effectively.

Today, Frangokastello is a sleepy village overlooking the lonely fort and Libyan Sea. There is a cafenion, but you will need to drive 10 minutes into Frangokastello itself for tavernas, a mini-market and money exchange.

The houses we offer are about 200 years old, offering stunning views towards the sea.

To order a brochure:

Telephone  +44 (0) 20 8760 0879