Away from the hustle of the towns and tourist, Kokkino Chorio – meaning ‘red village’ is situated above Almirida (5 minutes drive) and still further on up the mountain from Plaka. Here you will find an unspoilt Cretan village, with breathtaking views over the Bay of Souda and North out to sea, in fact it doesn’t seem to matter where you situate yourself in this village you will be overwhelmed by the views. Local Kafeneios are open all year round and the basketball court, although seemingly deserted is used from time to time. The local atmosphere and attitude is extremely friendly as the older generation watch their once derelict villages start to come to life again.