Filaki Beach: A Naturist-friendly beach near Sfakia Crete!
Filaki Beach is one of the nudist-friendly beaches managed by Vritomartis Naturist Resort. It is located 3 km (1.86 miles) east of Chora Sfakia and 75 km (46.6 miles) south of Chania. Filaki Beach derives its name from the Greek word "filaki", which means "prison", reflecting its remote location.
Mades Beach: A Small Pebbly beach near Heraklion Crete!
Mades Beach, located on the northern coast of Crete, is a pebbly beach within a bay. Mades is from the Greek word "mado" which means easily cracked rocks. Its rocky seabed, clear waters and two small islets make it a perfect place for swimming, snorkelling, beach sports and hiking. Mades Beach is located 20 kilometres (12.42 miles) northwest of Heraklion and is easily accessible by car rental, public transport or taxi. The best time to visit is during the summer months, between June and August when the weather is ideal for swimming and outdoor activities. Mades Beach has been well-preserved through environmental regulations and sustainable tourism practices. Visitors can stay at nearby hotels and enjoy dining at restaurants. Mades Beach offers free entry and is perfect for families, making it an ideal choice for a summer getaway.
Argilos Beach: A Natural Clay Spa Beach in Xerokampos Crete
Argilos Beach is a natural clay spa beach located in the Xerokampos settlement on the southeastern coast of Crete. The beach's unspoiled environment makes it a perfect destination for those seeking natural beauty. Argilos Beach provides a stunning backdrop for a relaxing day by the sea with its crystal-clear waters, fine golden sand and surrounding cliffs.One of the standout features of Argilos Beach is the presence of natural clay. The beach is rich in white clay, which visitors can use for a unique spa experience. Many beachgoers set themselves in mud baths by scooping up the clay and applying it to their skin, which is believed to have beneficial properties.
Limanakia Beach: Is It The Best Beach in Hersonissos?
Limanakia Beach, located in Hersonissos, 26 kilometers (16.1 miles) east of Heraklion on Crete Island, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and inviting blue-green waters. The area consists of several bays, offering a mix of both crowded and secluded spots to suit different preferences. While lively, Limanakia is less hectic than nearby Hersonissos, providing a more chill beach experience.
Triopetra Beach: An Amazing Beach in South Rethymno!
Triopetra Beach has two beaches, and they are divided by a small peninsula. Triopetra Beach means Three Rocks, and it comes from the stunning rock formations that rise at the edge of the Peninsula. The beach has a quiet, peaceful environment and is family-friendly. The cove has shallow waters suitable for kids and a perfect place to relax. There are various tours available in Triopetra Beach. It is ideal for a full-day tour or to stay there for days. The best time to visit Triopetra is during May, October, and November since the weather is pleasant and the average temperature falls between 20 degrees Celsius and 26 degrees Celsius. The dry months in Triopetra are May, June, July, and August. The warmest month is August, with an average temperature of 32 degrees Celsius. The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius. Additionally, Triopetra is an enormous, long, and sandy beach. It is positioned west of the Peninsula, often referred to as Chatzi or Western Triopetra. It reaches a few kilometres of the shore, veiled with a mixture of grey sand and fine and rough gravel. The water is high, and the bottom is coated with fine gravel. The first beach is called Small Triopetra or Koumado, situated in a closed sandy and rocky bay south of the three rocks. Akoumianos river is at the southern end. The river divides the Triopetra from the Agios Pavlos Beach. The southeast part of the beach is known as Stomio, which means mouth. Furthermore, Triopetra is prominent in the economy of Crete because of thousands and millions of tourists every year. Triopetra is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Crete. It is popular due to its crystal waters. The beach has very little in the sense of buildings and developments.
Aposelemi Beach: Visit the best beach in Analipsi Crete
Aposelemi Beach, near Analipsi in Crete, Greece, is a popular public beach with ample space for many visitors. Aposelemi Beach offers a free coastline and swimming experience for tourists, travelers, and locals. Aposelemi Beach is open to everyone without requiring advance bookings. Aposelemi Beach has no organized tours, emphasizing its public use. The climate at Aposelemi Beach typically ranges from 14.6°C to 16°C (58°F to 61°F) in air temperature, with wind speeds between 3.0 and 6.0 m/s. Aposelemi Beach is easily accessible, located next to a coastal road and close to restaurants, hotels, cafes, and bars.
Loutraki Beach: A Must-Visit Beach in Crete!
Loutraki Beach is a popular tourist destination in Crete, Greece. The purpose of Loutraki Beach is primarily for leisure and vacation activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The climate in Crete is typically Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters.
Skinaria Beach: All you need to know by Locals!
Skinaria beach is among the 477 beaches in the region of Crete. Skinaria Beach is among the beaches of the Damnoni settlement. Skinaria is quite a secluded beach popular with naturists. It is a small beach lying in a natural bay formed by two rock formations on each side. What sets Skinaria Beach apart is its crystal-clear waters, frequented by professional divers. Many compared its underwater to swimming inside an aquarium. Several fishes are prominent in the area. The Skinaria beach is slightly organised with few amenities enough for a day tour. There are no massive infrastructures like resorts in the area. The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and is accessible by a small footpath from the main road. It is known for its crystal clear waters and peaceful, serene atmosphere. The beach is relatively small, with fine, white sand and a shallow, gently sloping seabed, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding area is characterised by rugged, rocky terrain. The number of tourists visiting the beach varies from year to year and depends on various factors such as the weather, the season, and the availability of accommodations in the area. Crete is a popular tourist destination in Greece, attracting millions of visitors annually. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient history, and cultural attractions.
Myrtos Crete: Beaches, Things To Do, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Myrtos is a town on the southern coast of Crete, known for its semiarid climate. It is an ideal destination for summer visitors, especially between May and October. Myrtos is a popular destination for a range of activities, including beachgoing, hiking and sightseeing. Myrtos is located 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of Ierapetra and 51 kilometers (32 miles) southwest of Agios Nikolaos. Myrtos Beach is located right in the village but visitors can also visit the nearby beaches including Tertsa Beach, Voulisma Beach, Koutsounari Long Beach and Agios Panteleimonas Beach.
Agia Galini: Things to Do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Agia Galini, located on the southern coast of Crete, is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and convenient car rental options. The town features a semiarid climate, making it an ideal destination year-round, especially from May to October. Beachgoers can enjoy the fine pebbles and amenities at Agia Galini Beach, with sunbeds and umbrellas available for €8 ($8, £6) per day. Nearby Preveli Beach, known for its palm forest and the Kourtaliotiko River, offers a landscape, though visitors must bring their own beach gear and pay €2 ($2, £2) for parking. Travelers are encouraged to rent a car to fully explore Agia Galini and its surroundings. Renting a medium-sized car, such as a Renault Kadjar, ensures comfort and efficiency. Car rentals in the area typically cost €57 ($63, £49) per day, varying by vehicle type and rental duration. Smaller cars like economy models range from €52 ($57, £45) to €54 ($60, £47) per day, while compact cars average €68 ($75, £59). For larger groups, medium-sized cars are available at an average of €41 ($45, £35) per day. Agia Galini offers attractions such as the Gortyna Archaeological Site, the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, and the Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
Palekastro: Things to Do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Palekastro is located at Crete's eastern end, and holds a history by Venetian influence. The town's name, derived from "old fort". Hiking trails in and around Palekastro cater to different skill levels. For travelers, a medium-sized rental car from car rental crete is recommended, offering comfort and efficiency for exploring both urban settings and scenic routes around Crete. Popular routes include the Golden Beach and Grove loop and the more challenging Cyclamen Gorge. A tour in Palekastro and its surroundings is best done with a rental car, providing the flexibility to navigate both urban areas and routes. Palekastro is 16.8 kilometers (10.4 miles from Sitia, or Heraklion International Airport, 140.4 kilometers (87 miles). Palekastro's Mediterranean climate features warm summers and cool winters, so pack light, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Entry fees for key attractions include €4 ($4.50, £3.60) for Moni Toplou and €2 ($2.25, £1.80) for the Archaeological Site of Roussolakkos. Car rentals in Crete range from €18 ($22, £16) to €30 ($37, £26) per day, ensuring an affordable and comprehensive travel experience.
8 Best Traditional Folk Dances of Crete
Crete is an island filled with mesmerizing culture that combines music, dance, and costumes from a variety of historic periods. Dating since the Middle Ages, Cretan dances reflect the island's varied influences. With each passing generation, new steps and music have been added to the traditional dances, making them even more exciting. The Cretan dances are popular not only among the locals but also with tourists who visit the island. Knowing about the different types of Cretan dances can help you enjoy them, even more, especially when you see them performed during festivals and other cultural events.
Marathi Beach: All you need to know by Locals!
Marathi Beach is a breathtaking beach located on the island of Crete in Greece. The natives in the area refer to it as "Marathi" or "Old Souda". The purpose of Marathi beach is to provide visitors with a place to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the natural surroundings. It is known for its breathtaking views and scenic beauty. The climate in Crete is Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters. Crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs characterise the geography of Marathi beach. Marathi beach is prominent for the economy as it is a popular tourist destination. And many local businesses, such as restaurants, cafes, and shops, depend on tourism for their livelihoods. The beach stretches on the coast of Crete island; within the confines of the inhabited area, it is easy to reach the location in question. It is easily accessible and therefore popular among travellers. During the peak tourist season, it is an annoyance because of the many visitors there. In case the stay is close to the beach, walking is the way to reach it. It eliminates the need for finding parking or adhering to the public transport schedule.Find below a table with the main features of Marathi Beach.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Marathi Beach |
| Location | Akrotiri peninsula in Crete, 17 km (10.5 miles) east of Chania city. |
| Water Color | Crystal-clear turquoise waters. |
| Sand Type | Smooth white sand. |
| Beach Depth | Shallow waters. |
| Sea Surface | Usually calm. |
| Crowds | Somewhat Busy; popular tourist destination. It can be very busy at weekends in summer by locals. |
| Facilities | Organized with umbrellas, sunbeds, showers, changing rooms, and toilets. |
| Food Nearby | Yes, numerous taverns and restaurants nearby. |
| Accessibility | Accessible by car or taxi; public transportation is limited. The closest bus stop to Marathi Beach is in Sternes village. |
| Parking | Yes, plenty of parking space available, but busy at weekends. |
| Family Friendly | Yes, suitable for families. |
| Nudism Friendly | No, it is a popular family destination. |
| Major Activities | Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, hiking, beach volleyball, soccer, scuba diving and boat trips. |
| Lifeguard | No. |
| Sunset Views | Yes. |
Arkadi: Monastery, Museum, What to wear, History and Car Rental
Arkadi Monastery is an eastern orthodox monastery located in the southeast of Rethymnon on Crete island, Greece. Arkadi played an important part in the history of Cretan resistance to Ottoman rule during the Cretan revolt of 1866. It became a national sanctuary in honour of the Cretan resistance. According to beliefs, Arkadi Monastery have been founded by a monk named Arcadius. It lies on a rectangular, lush plateau on the northwest side of Mount Ida. The plateau is surrounded by hills, and on the west side, the plateau stops suddenly and falls off into gorges. The place where the monastery is located was first developed in ancient times. What makes it attractive is the presence of Mount Ida, known to Greeks as the childhood home of Zeus.
Kalamaki Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!
Kalamaki Beach is a sandy beach located in the seaside village of Kalamaki on the southern coast of Crete, Greece. The beach stretches for 2.5 kilometres (1.55 miles) and is part of the larger Messara Bay. Kalamaki Beach features fine golden sand, though the seabed has some flat, slippery rocks. The beach is well-organised near the village, with sunbeds, umbrellas, taverns, lifeguards, a playground, and water sports facilities available. Kalamaki village is relatively new, with development starting in the 1970s. Before then, no settlement existed in that location. The area surrounding Kalamaki Beach dates back to ancient times, with the Minoan port of Kommos located nearby, but Kalamaki as a tourist resort has a much more recent history, catering to visitors seeking a quieter destination in southern Crete.
Spili Crete: Attractions, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Spili, whose name comes from "spilia", meaning "cave", features a history dating back to the Second Byzantine era. Spili offers a variety of hiking routes catering to different levels of difficulty and interests. The hike begins at Spili’s Kefalovrissi fountains and climbs to the summit of Mount Kedros. Spili offers a range of activities and attractions, including the Venetian fountain with 25 lion head spouts, the Kourtaliotiko Gorge with its towering limestone cliffs and waterfalls. A medium-sized car is ideal for visiting Spili, offering comfort, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. This type of vehicle is well-suited for navigating the narrow streets and winding roads typical of Cretan towns. Car rental prices start from €30 ($33, £26) per day. Renting a car in Crete is recommended for visiting Spili. Car rental prices vary, with rates starting from €30 ($34, £25) per day. Spili does not require advance booking for general visits. The town welcomes tourists to enjoy its beauty and local culture without the need for prior reservations. Renting a car enhances the travel experience, offering the flexibility to explore Spili and its surrounding areas independently.
Glyka Nera Beach (Sweet Water): All You Need to Know by Locals!
Glyka Nera Beach, often called SweetWater, is a distinctive beach on the island of Crete, Greece. It is famous for its deep blue waters, white pebbles, and dramatic cliffs, some reaching heights of 500 meters (0.3 miles). Visitors can access Glyka Nera via several boat tours primarily departing from Chora Sfakion or through guided hikes along the scenic coastal trails. The climate at Glyka Nera Beach is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Glyka Nera is surrounded by high cliffs and accessed either by sea or through rugged hiking trails. This beach was recognized internationally in 2003 when it was ranked among Europe's top 20 beaches by The Times of London. Glyka Nera Beach attracts numerous tourists who are drawn to its unspoiled natural beauty and the opportunity for adventure, with activities like hiking, snorkeling, and camping. The preservation efforts are supported by managed tourist facilities and the involvement of local communities in maintaining its cleanliness and natural beauty.
Kissamos: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Kissamos, located on the western coast of Crete, Greece, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and Cretan culture. The Kissamos Archaeological Museum is a cultural landmark, inviting visitors to explore artifacts narrating the area's history from the Neolithic to the Roman era. Not far, the Kastelli-Kissamos Fortress, remnants of Venetian and Genoese architecture, offers a glimpse into the town's strategic military past. Another gem, the Church of Agia Marina, with its Byzantine frescoes, is a testament to the region's spiritual heritage. Kissamos's appeal extends to its accessible location, providing an ideal base for exploring western Crete's natural and historical sites. Transportation options with car rental services offer a convenient way to traverse the landscapes and visit remote beaches and archaeological sites. For those relying on public transport, regular bus services connect Kissamos to significant towns, including Chania and Heraklion. Kissamos also features modest nightlife options, offering cozy bars and cafes for relaxing evenings. For shopping lovers, local markets and specialty shops offer everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, reflecting the town's rich agricultural and artistic traditions.
Ierapetra Crete: Best things to do, Attractions, Beaches and Car Rentals
Ierapetra has traditionally been a significant island center, advantageously positioned and endowed with favourable natural conditions. It has developed into the biggest town in south Crete and a significant travel hub. This is a great place to visit, especially if you are looking for a town that is livelier than Agios Nikolaos or Sitia.
17 Best Restaurants in Rethymno
The best restaurants in Rethymno capture the diverse culinary scene of Rethymno, a city known for its rich history, beautiful beaches and charming Old Town. The city offers various restaurants that cater to different tastes. Notable examples include Lemonokipos, known for traditional Greek dishes and vegetarian options and CAVO, a beachfront restaurant specialising in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Another top restaurant is Avli, which merges modern and traditional Cretan cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Rethymno is renowned for its Venetian Harbor and Fortezza fortress, iconic landmarks reflecting the city's Venetian heritage. The Old Town, with its mediaeval quarter, narrow alleys, Venetian buildings and Ottoman-era influences, is a place of interest. Tourists also enjoy Rethymno's beautiful beaches and vibrant student life courtesy of the University of Crete. The city's raki production, a traditional grape-based alcoholic drink, adds to its cultural richness.
