Nestled in a lush valley of olive and citrus groves, the small, coastal village of Gerani is located 13 kilometers west of Chania city, between Maleme and Platanias. Tourism has become the main economic driver in Gerani, and the 2.5 kilometer beach is the perfect place to take advantage of the beautiful sand and clear waters. Tourist amenities such as umbrellas, showers, beach bars, water sport services and lifeguards make Gerani the perfect place for a family holiday. For those seeking a more secluded experience, there are several points along the coast that are less crowded and not organized. It is important to note that Gerani is also a nesting ground for Caretta caretta turtles, so visitors should be mindful when on the beach from May to September.
Gerani’s name is derived from the homonym of an ancient method of pumping water from wells. Some scientists even believe that Gerani is the actual site of Ancient Kydonia and that a temple was once dedicated to Goddess Vritomartis, the Cretan version of goddess Artemis. The area also has a turbulent past, as a battle against the Turks took place in 1867 and, in 1885-1886, the great Cretan novelist John Kondilakis began his career as a teacher in Gerani. The school still stands today in Pano Gerani.
