Gavalohori is an old big traditional village, with fine examples of traditional rural architecture and stone buildings that are well preserved. The village has been declared a traditional settlement and is awarded a protected status. Many interesting buildings still stand, such as the 18th century olive press, the church of Panagia (Virgin Mary) and that of Agios Sergios, the old school and the complex of the wells from the period of the Venetian occupation.

The village’s name is derived from the noble Gavaladon family (who got possession of the village during the division of Crete to the 12 young rulers of Byzantium in 1182).The Historical and Folk Art Museum of Chania is also located in the village, with many beautiful exhibits pertaining to the local folklore lifestyle. Finally, there is an agriculture and tourist women's co-operative, with a cottage industry producing knitting embroideries and laces of delicate art.

The surrounding countryside is of unique natural beauty and there are many areas and paths for walkers, such as the group of the Venetian wells, the Roman cemetery, and Agios Pavlos neighborhood and church.

The village has small shops and grocery stores, as well as beautiful tavernas and traditional ‘kafeneia’ (cafes). It is situated just 3.8km from the beautiful sandy beach of Almirida.