Aghios Rafael

Armeni is a large village in Chania Prefecture on the island of Crete, Greece. The seat of the municipality of Armenoi is in the village of Kalives, although the police have their base in the village of Armenoi. Armeni village has a very lush, green setting with tall plane trees lining the main street. Located in the middle of a verdant valley (Vrisses valley) with bountiful springs and a river running through the centre, Armeni is a quiet Cretan village where most of the occupants rely on farming the surrounding olive and orange groves to make a living.

The focal point of the village is the typical kafenion which sits under the shade of a large chestnut tree. There are some excellent tavernas, a good butcher shop, a well stocked mini market, and a number of cafés and souvlaki shops. One of the tavernas hosts regular “Cretan Nights” throughout the season, with live music and fun Cretan dancers, but be warned – you are expected to join in the festivities!

For a complete change of pace, another taverna is surrounded by an expansive lawn with the tables set on the river bank. There is a babysitter on the premises and a huge array of children’s toys so that visiting parents can have a break and eat a quiet romantic meal if they wish. Leisurely canoe trips that head up the river can be taken from here during low season. Despite being only 3 minutes drive to Kalives and the National Highway, Armeni has remained traditional and charming.