Kamilari is a quiet, traditional village with 400 locals living in small Greek style houses on the hillside. It's in a beautiful location with rolling hillsides and a mountain view, overlooking the Messara valley on one side and the Libyan sea on the other, only 2.5 km from the beautiful sandy beach at Kalamaki.
Kamilari has been inhabited since Minoan times. The name of the village is of Byzantine origin, and is derived from the world "kamilaris" meaning the one who rides a camel. A vaulted Minoan tomb, known as the "Kamilari tomb" has been discovered just outside the village, it is one of the most important tombs found in the Messara valley, objects found here are now in the Archaeological Museum of Iraklion.
In the town there are three Greek family restaurants,
two old style coffee shops, a pizzeria and a snack bar, all run
by local people. Though it is an old town, it has modern conveniences
such as mini markets (to buy food and other items) and souvenir
shops. Also, near the town area is a small hospital with certified
doctors to take care of any medical problems.
Kamilari is a beautiful spot for a relaxing vacation.
