Since I have mentioned that it is hard to find the delicious, authentic Cretan food in the touristic North coast of the island, I must notice one of the very few exceptions. In order to get there, you must drive 20 min in the National road west of Chania (just after Kolymbari small town), until you see the big (but not graffiti free) sign to Kalydonia-Ravdouha (just in the beginning of Rodopou peninsula). You follow the next signs to Ravdouha and 10min (after very careful driving) the view of the open sea to the West from above makes you feel that you are on the right way. 10 more min down, driving next to 2 very old and impressive cave churches (Agia Marina and Agios Onoufrios) the road ends in an open parking area between the “waves on the rock” tavern and the huge rock next to Ravdouha beach.
There is a chance to like this special spot of Crete so much that you wish to spend a few nights there (especially if you are a family with little kids). Maybe is hard to find one of the few rooms above the tavern free, but you’ll definitely find a table at the tavern yard, under the big mulberry trees to enjoy very tasty local recipes (try Mpoureki), very good wine and really fresh fish or octopus from the rocky sea area.
The idyllic atmosphere (especially in evening) and the friendly family in the tavern – especially Doro (the lady chef) and Giannis (the young nephew-very good English speaker) are more than happy to help you discover this less explored corner of Crete.