Agia Roumeli: How to go, Things to do, Beach and Ferries!

Agia Roumeli is located in the remote village in Southwest Crete. It lies at the exit of the famous Samaria Gorge and can be accessed either by hiking through the gorge or by taking a ferry from nearby towns such as Chora Sfakia, Loutro, Paleochora or Sougia. Agia Roumeli spans over 3 kilometres (1.8 miles), featuring crystal-clear deep blue waters, pebbly shores and a backdrop of wild and mountainous landscapes.

The beach presents various sections catering to different preferences. The beach’s most organised and crowded part is Gialos, located west of the harbour. Visitors can enjoy amenities such as restaurants, showers and umbrellas, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Beyond the Samaria Gorge river on the bay’s eastern side, beautiful rocky formations and caves known as Zeromouri provide an escape of pebbly beaches. On the bay’s western end, Mashali Beach offers a more solitary experience with a second dock for boats and a tavern. Visitors can also explore three caves called Spilies sto Marmaro by swimming or kayaking further west, each with its small pebbly beach.

Agia Roumeli is not just a place for relaxation but also for adventure. The beach is a gateway to the renowned Samaria Gorge, attracting hikers worldwide. The challenging trek through the gorge reveals breathtaking landscapes, including towering cliffs, ancient forests and a riverbed where hiking lovers can immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the area.

The beach is well-maintained, offering nearby accommodation options, food establishments, umbrellas, beach beds and showers. While the beach is safe, visitors should always exercise caution and follow lifeguards’ posted warnings or instructions. Responsible tourism practices are also encouraged to preserve the beach’s natural beauty.

What is Agia Roumeli?

Agia Roumeli is a magnificent remote coastline located in the small village of Agia Roumeli in Southwest Crete. Agia Roumeli is spanning a length of 3 kilometres (1.8 miles). The beach features a natural setting against the backdrop of the wild and mountainous landscape of the Sfakia province. The beach primarily comprises pebbles and crystal-clear waters that are deep blue. The beach is divided into different sections, each with its unique characteristics. The most organised and crowded part of Agia Roumeli is Gialos, located west of the harbour. Visitors can enjoy various amenities such as restaurants, showers, umbrellas and pedal boats. Gialos is a pebbly beach that attracts many visitors due to its convenient facilities. For those seeking a remote experience, the bay’s eastern side beyond the Samaria Gorge River offers beautiful rocky formations and cavities known as Zeromouri. These formations are accompanied by lovely pebbly beaches, providing a more relaxing atmosphere. On the bay’s western end, known as Mashali, there is a second dock for boats and a solitary tavern with rooms. This area features two beautiful pebble beaches, offering an escape from the crowds. In addition to the main beach areas, three caves are located further west of the beach, known as Spilies sto Marmaro (Caves in Marble). Each cave has its small pebbly beach, providing a unique and adventurous experience for those who swim or kayak to explore them.

Where is Agia Roumeli located?

Agia Roumeli is located in the small and remote village of Agia Roumeli, approximately 56 kilometres (34 miles) south of Chania City in the Chania Prefecture of West Crete. The village sits on a wide bay at the exit of the famous Samaria Gorge within the Sfakia area. The only ways to reach Agia Roumeli are by hiking through the challenging gorge or taking a ferry from nearby towns such as Chora Sfakia, Loutro, Paleochora or Sougia. These ferry routes provide accessible transportation options to Agia Roumeli and allow visitors to enjoy the scenic journey along the beautiful coastline of Crete. After reaching Agia Roumeli, the beach is located west of the harbour, known as Gialos, where the most organised and crowded section of the beach can be found.

How does the Agia Roumeli Map look?

Find below on the image a map of Agia Roumeli.

What are the activities at Agia Roumeli?

Agia Roumeli offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. One of the main activities at the beach is swimming in the crystal-clear waters. The beach provides an ideal spot to cool off and enjoy a refreshing dip, with the sea surface that is usually calm. The deep blue waters create a setting for swimming and provide enough space for visitors to enjoy the sea. Another popular activity at Agia Roumeli is snorkelling. The clear waters, rocky formations and caves, such as those at Zeromouri and Spilies sto Marmaro, make it an excellent location for exploring the underwater world. Snorkelers can discover vibrant marine life and admire the fascinating rock formations beneath the surface. Additionally, Agia Roumeli serves as a starting or ending point for hiking lovers. Many visitors choose to hike through the challenging Samaria Gorge, where Agia Roumeli marks the end of this iconic trek.

When is the best time to visit Agia Roumeli?

The best time to visit Agia Roumeli is during the late spring, summer and early autumn months. The temperatures are comfortable in late spring (May and early June) and the beach is less crowded than the peak summer months. The seawater may still be a bit cooler during this time, but it is generally pleasant for swimming and snorkelling. The summer months of July and August are the warmest and busiest times in Agia Roumeli. The beach may be more crowded, particularly in the organised section of Gialos. However, the lively atmosphere can also appeal to those who enjoy an active beach experience. The sea water is usually warm during this period, perfect for swimming and other water activities.

How was the preservation of Agia Roumeli?

Agia Roumeli has been well-preserved, maintaining its natural beauty and providing a pleasant environment for visitors. The beach is slightly organised in certain areas, offering sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and water sports facilities. This organisation helps manage the beachfront and ensures beachgoers a clean and comfortable experience. Additionally, initiatives promoting responsible tourism and environmental education have been introduced to raise awareness among visitors about the importance of preserving Agia Roumeli’s natural resources.

What are the nearby attractions in Agia Roumeli?

Listed below are the best attractions near Agia Roumeli:

Samaria Gorge: Samaria Gorge is a famous gorge located in Southwest Crete, in the regional unit of Chania. It stretches across a distance of 16 km and is known for its stunning natural beauty. Samaria gorge starts from the Plateau of Omalos and ends at the Libyan Sea. Agia Roumeli is a small village located south of Chania City, on a vast bay shaped at the exit of the Samaria Gorge. Agia Roumeli serves as a starting or ending point for those exploring the Samaria Gorge.
Mashali Beach: Mashali Beach is located at the western end of Agia Roumeli Bay, Mashali Beach is a serene and secluded spot. It features a pebble beach and a solitary tavern with rooms. The beach offers tranquillity away from the crowds and allows relaxing and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Klados Gorge: Klados Gorge is located near Agia Roumeli, Klados Gorge is another natural wonder worth exploring. It offers a scenic hiking trail through a gorge with impressive rock formations, beautiful flora and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The hike provides a chance to immerse oneself in the rugged beauty of the Cretan countryside.
Sougia. Sougia is a scenic village located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece. It is known for its beautiful scenery, including majestic mountains and the famous Samaria Gorge. Sougia offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with many cafes and taverns serving delicious Cretan cuisine. Sougia also offers a sense of peace and tranquility, making it a serene retreat from the busy world.
Paleochora. Paleochora is a charming small town located in the regional unit of Chania, Greece. It is situated approximately 70 km (about 44 miles) south of Chania, on the picturesque southwest coast of Crete. Paleochora occupies a small peninsula with dimensions of 400 meters wide and 700 meters long, offering beautiful views of the surrounding coastline.
Agios Pavlos beach. Agios Pavlos beach is a beautiful beach located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece. It is situated in a small bay surrounded by rocky capes, offering a picturesque and secluded setting. The beach is known for its rough sand, clear green water and rocky seabed. It is a popular destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Agios Pavlos beach and Agia Roumeli are connected geographically, with Agios Pavlos beach being a part of the natural beauty and attractions of Agia Roumeli.

How do you get to Agia Roumeli?

To reach Agia Roumeli, two main options are available: The first one is hiking through the Samaria Gorge or taking a ferry from nearby towns. The first option is to hike through the Samaria Gorge, which is a popular and challenging trek. The hike starts from Xyloskalo, near Omalos Plateau and covers a distance of approximately 16 kilometres (10 miles). The trail takes hikers through the landscapes of the gorge, including towering cliffs, abundant vegetation and a riverbed. It usually takes 4-6 hours to complete the hike, depending on the pace. Upon reaching Agia Roumeli, visitors can access the beach by walking west of the harbour. The second option is to take a ferry from various towns along the coast. The towns that offer ferry services to Agia Roumeli include Chora Sfakia, Loutro, Paleochora and Sougia. These ferry routes provide a convenient way to access Agia Roumeli without hiking. The ferries in Crete offer regular schedules during the peak tourist season, usually between May and September and the journey allows visitors to travel the coastline of Crete. After arriving at Agia Roumeli, the beach is west of the harbour.

Listed below are the best ways to get to Agia Roumeli.

By Car: The best way to get to the ferry boat dock is with a rental car. It’s quicker and easier to get there on your own than with a local transit bus. Since there are no roads to Agia Roumeli, you’ll need to leave your car in Sougia, Paleochora or in Hora Sfakion. There are parking lots available in all these towns.
By Ferry boat: Ferries regularly traverse the bay to take visitors and locals between Agia Roumeli, Paleochora, Sougia, Loutro, and Hora Sfakion. Ferries are considered as a pocket-friendly and convenient option for tourists who wish to enjoy their holidays within a budget. A boat leaves the shore and travels to Agia Roumeli after regular intervals. It’s best to view the timetable of the ferryboat service since the weather and crowds will determine how soon people can get to the other side. People can also arrange for a private taxi boat that can drop them off or pick them up at/from Chora Sfakion.
By Bus: The public transportation system in Crete is well-organized and dependable. People can catch a bus to Agia Roumeli from either Sougia or Hora Sfakion. Visitors coming from Chania, take either of these routes to get to the village. Visitors who come through Heraklion will need to change buses from Vrysses to Hora Sfakion. Check the bus’s schedule and choose a ride that stops at Vrysses when heading to Agia Roumeli.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee.
Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
Driver’s gender: Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of vehicles to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
Documents needed for renting a car: One important document required for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Tourists may quickly get to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination and duration. Crete’s average car rental price is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Crete car rental rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental shops in Crete, like Rental Center Crete, Hertz, Avis and Europcar, provide an online booking system whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.

How much does it cost to get to Agia Roumeli?

Agia Roumeli does not have an admission fee, which is free for all. The main expenses come from the options available when reaching Agia Roumeli. If opting to hike through the Samaria Gorge, there is an entrance fee to access the national park, which is typically around €5 to €7 per person. This fee contributes to maintaining and preserving the gorge and its surroundings. If deciding to take a ferry to Agia Roumeli from nearby towns such as Chora Sfakia, Loutro, Paleochora or Sougia, the ticket prices will depend on the specific route and the distance travelled. Ferry fares range from €10 to €20 per person, with variations based on the duration of the journey and the season.

Where to stay near Agia Roumeli?

Listed below are the best hotels to stay near Agia Roumeli:

Hotel Calypso: This hotel is located in Agia Roumeli, offering convenient beach access. It provides comfortable rooms with air conditioning and private balconies; some offer sea views. The hotel also features a restaurant where guests can enjoy meals with a beach view.
Sweet Corner Masxali: Situated in Mashali, the western end of Agia Roumeli Bay, Sweet Corner Masxali is a tavern with rooms. It offers simple yet cosy accommodation and its location provides a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. Guests can enjoy the tavern’s delicious Cretan cuisine and relax in a tranquil setting.
Artemis Studios: Located near Agia Roumeli, Artemis Studios offers self-catering accommodation options. The studios have kitchenettes and private balconies; some offer sea or mountain views. It is a short walk from the beach and provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the area.

Where to eat near Agia Roumeli?

Listed below are the best restaurants in and near Agia Roumeli:

Calypso Restaurant: Located in Agia Roumeli, Calypso Restaurant is on the beachfront. It offers a picturesque dining experience with views of the sea. The restaurant serves various Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional Cretan specialities.
Taverna Tarra: This tavern is nestled in the heart of Agia Roumeli village and provides a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Taverna Tarra serves authentic Cretan cuisine, highlighting local ingredients and flavours. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes like moussaka, lamb souvlaki and Greek salads.
Tavern Manos: Situated in Mashali, Tavern Manos is a family-run tavern known for its warm hospitality. The tavern offers a menu of Greek and Cretan dishes prepared carefully and using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing meal with sea views from the outdoor seating area.

Is Agia Roumeli worth visiting?

Yes, Agia Roumeli is worth visiting. With its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings, the beach offers a relaxing escape in the Sfakia area of West Crete. Whether arriving after hiking through the famous Samaria Gorge or taking a ferry from nearby towns, Agia Roumeli provides a setting to relax, swim and soak up the sun. The beach offers a range of amenities and facilities and there are also opportunities for snorkelling, exploring caves and enjoying the region’s natural landscapes.

Is Agia Roumeli safe?

Yes, Agia Roumeli is safe for visitors. It is a popular tourist destination known for being calm and peaceful. The beach and surrounding area are well-maintained and local authorities take measures to ensure the safety and security of visitors.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Agia Roumeli?

No, visitors do not need to book in advance to visit Agia Roumeli. There are no specific entry requirements or restrictions for accessing the beach. Visitors can simply arrive at Agia Roumeli by hiking through the Samaria Gorge or taking a ferry from nearby towns. However, if planning to stay at nearby accommodations or dine at specific restaurants in Agia Roumeli, it is advisable to make early reservations, especially during the peak tourist season.

Are children permitted at Agia Roumeli?

Yes, children are welcome at Agia Roumeli. The beach and village is open to visitors of all ages, including families with infants, toddlers and children. However, parents or guardians should always ensure their children’s safety by watching them, particularly in the water.

Published on August 26, 2023