Βλάτος – Vlatos | Kissamos | Chania | Crete | Greece

VILLAGE OF PEACE AND CULTURE – ΧΟΡΙΟ ΕΙΡΙΝΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΜΟΣ

Home of Vlatos Jazz and Park of Peace

visit Vlatos village of peace and culture

Καλώς ήρθατε στον Βλάτος, ένα κρητικό χωριό ειρήνης και πολιτισμού

Vlatos is a small village located in the Kissamos region of Chania, Crete, Greece. Here are some details about Vlatos:

Location and Geography

Altitude: Vlatos is situated at an altitude of about 432 meters in the mountains of Western Crete on the road between Kastelli and the famous beach of Elafonisi.

Surroundings: The village is nestled amidst lush greenery, with chestnut trees, olive trees, and other flora, making it a visually appealing and peaceful location.

Historical and Cultural Significance

History: Vlatos has a rich history, with roots that trace back to ancient times. The area has seen various civilizations, including the Minoans, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans, each leaving their cultural imprint.

Cultural Initiatives

visit Vlatos village of peace and culture

Vlatos Jazz: This international jazz and world music festival is one of the highlights, showcasing a mix of local and international talent in an acoustic setting.

Park of Peace: An arboretum and natural park promoting peace and biodiversity, with various walking paths and an array of plant species.

Attractions and Activities

Cultural Sites

Museum: There’s a local museum that provides insight into the historical and cultural life of the village. It was once a school but now serves as a museum of folklore and crafts.

Churches: Several churches, some dating back to the Byzantine period, including the Holy Spirit and St. John churches, reflecting the village’s religious history.

Nature and Outdoors

Hiking: Vlatos offers numerous trails for hiking, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the nearby Park of Peace.

Eco-Tourism: The village is near Milia Mountain Retreat, an eco-friendly complex known for its sustainable practices and traditional Cretan hospitality.

Facilities and Amenities

Visit Vlatos, village of Peace and Culture
Visit Vlatos, village of Peace and Culture

Accommodation: While Vlatos itself might not have many hotels, there are luxurious villas like Villa Vlatos which offer accommodations with traditional Venetian architecture, providing a serene retreat experience or HERMITAGE a luxury private villa made of earth on top of a mountain or stay at Artemis House in the middle of the village. Milia Mountain Retreat is situated about 4 kilometer outside Vlatos.

Connectivity: Vlatos benefits from modern internet facilities, with fiber optic networks providing good connectivity, which is unusual for such a rural setting.

Community and Lifestyle

Community Center: The village has a cultural association that actively engages in organizing events like the Vlatos Jazz festival, Vlatos Kazani and the yearly Chestnut Festival, which not only attracts visitors but also fosters community spirit.

Rural Life: Life in Vlatos reflects a blend of traditional Cretan village culture with modern touches, offering visitors a glimpse into a more relaxed, rural lifestyle while still being connected to broader cultural events. Vlatos, with its blend of historical depth, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, particularly through events like the Vlatos Jazz festival, stands out as a unique destination for those interested in experiencing the quieter, more authentic side of Crete.

Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025 Program

Upcoming Events

Latest News from Vlatos