Approximately 10 kilometres far from Souda at the Southeast, by the village Megala Chorafia
Megala Chorafia, recently re-named Aptera in 2008, by the local council and meaning `Big Field’, is a scatter of houses and farms with an ornate orthodox church as its centre piece.
Some local signs reflect this change. However the signs on the main road, and the name in maps, remain Megala Chorafia.
The 'Metoche' area on the eastern side is on a ridge which extends towards the ancient town of Aptera. 'Zacharias' is a cluster of houses on the hilltop to the west. Wild flowers bloom along narrow roads on which shepherds move their flocks between fields.
There are three small tavernas in the village and a new mini-market. The archaeological remains of Aptera, dating from the Minoan and Roman times, are within walking distance of the village. Beyond these stands a Turkish castle, perched strategically on the headland overlooking the sea.
There are an abundance of local beaches;
Kyani Akti (blue beach) is about 4 km. Just beyond Kalami, on the road to Kalives. The beach is popular on Sundays with local people but quieter on other days.
Kalives Beach stretches for some distance divided by a river and headlands. Tavernas and cafeterias can be found dotted along various parts of the beach.
Almerida is reached by a particularly pretty drive along the coast from Kalives, with beautiful views across the bay en-route. As it is a bay, it is a good place to go to on windy days. The first part of the beach has shallow sea and is suitable for small children.
Gavalochori Museum is situated near Almerida on the road to Vamos, Gavalohori Museum is a traditional folk museum which gives the visitor a clear idea of the appearance of a traditional Cretan house. There is a shop next door selling local handicrafts. Open all day during high season.
Drive through Almerida and Plaka to Kokkinohorio where a glass blowing factory offers unusual souvenirs.
Argiroupolis and the Ancient Roman City of Lappa;
Follow the road to Rethymnon and soon after Georgiopoli you will see the Argiroupolis and Episkopi turn off to your right, to discover the Ancient Roman City of Lappa.
Amongst other things to see there are a wonderful Roman floor mosaic from around the 1st Century BC, a 2000 year old plane tree, the ancient Necropolis, and the waterfalls giving a choice of great taverns.