Crete's Hidden Gems: Beaches, Gorges, and Palaces
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@THAT GREEK GUY
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Explore the map in the DocentPro app26 attractions in Greece: To Maridaki, Omprogialos, Ilingas Beach, and 23 more. Every place is verified on Google Maps, featured in a YouTube post by THAT GREEK GUY.
To Maridaki
Restaurant
4.6
This village is situated a few kilometers east of Triis Ekklisies. Driving to Maridaki is challenging due to a tough, bumpy dirt road, making walking from the more organized village of Tsoutsouros a preferable 20-minute option. The beach boasts white pebbles and crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with a small stream running through the village into the sea.
Omprogialos
Beach
4.7
This rocky beach, located 25 km east of Chania on the east coast of Drapanokefala, near Kefalas village, is known for its blue, deep waters. It features a small dock for diving and is perfect for snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters. There's also one tavern famous for its fish dishes, but be aware that the area is not highly organized with accommodation options, making it ideal for a day trip.
Ilingas Beach
Beach
4.7
Ilingas Beach is another beautiful stop along the coastal hiking trail, offering clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. It is accessible by foot from the nearby villages or by boat, making it a great spot for relaxation.
Hora Sfakion
Place
Chora Sfakion is the final destination for those hiking the coastal path from Marmara, or for those who prefer to travel by boat. This village serves as a hub for ferries to other southern coastal towns and offers various amenities and stunning sea views.
Loutro
Place
Loutro is a charming village located in a beautiful bay, part of a scenic coastal hiking trail from Marmara. This car-free village is accessible by foot or boat, offering a tranquil escape with crystal-clear waters.
Glyka Nera beach
Beach
4.7
Sweet Water Beach (Glyka Nera) is a beautiful spot on the coastal path, renowned for its fresh water springs emerging from beneath the pebbles. It is a popular stop for hikers and those arriving by boat, offering a unique swimming experience.
Kourtaliotiko Gorge waterfall
Hiking area
4.5
Hidden within the impressive Kourtaliotis Gorge, this waterfall offers a rewarding discovery for those who venture beyond the main viewpoints. To reach it, stop at the second smaller parking area (not the large open one) and follow the stairs; the right path leads directly to the waterfall for an invigorating swim.
Kalypso Beach
Beach
4.4
Nestled in Cape Kakomouri, a historic pirate hideout, Kalypso beach is a hidden gem featuring a fjord-style cove surrounded by high cliffs. There's no sandy beach; access to the deep blue water is by jumping from the rocks. The area is made accessible by a hotel that shares its name.
Kedrodasos Beach
Beach
4.8
Kedrodasos is a stunning beach located a couple of kilometers southeast of Elafonisi, offering crazy blue waters, beautiful sand dunes, and a small juniper tree forest for shade. Unlike more developed beaches, it lacks sunbeds, umbrellas, canteens, or toilets, so be prepared and remember to take your garbage with you. Snorkeling here is highly recommended as it's considered one of the best spots in Western Crete.
Paralia Tris Ekklisies
Beach
4.5
This secluded village, situated 60 kilometers south of Iraklio, is nestled within the wild landscape of Asterousia Mountains. The beach here features thick black sand and crystal-clear water, typical of South Crete, with coffee shops available for drinks or snacks by the waves. Getting there involves navigating a serpentine road with 19 hairpin bends that offer stunning views.
Aba waterfall
Scenic spot
4.7
The Abas Waterfall is a 145-meter free-fall waterfall, ranking as the second highest in Greece. While it flows primarily in winter and spring, its dramatic scenery remains impressive even when dry during the summer months.
Katholiko Bay
Scenic spot
4.7
Also known as Avlaki Agiou, this gorge offers a fantastic combination of hiking, sightseeing, and swimming near Chania. The hike starts from the Governeto Monastery, passes through caves, an old stone bridge, and concludes at a small rocky cove resembling a fjord with clear turquoise waters. It's a perfect short escape for those looking for adventure and natural beauty.
Virgin of the Angels Monastery (Gouvernéto)
Place of worship
4.5
To access Katholiko Gorge, you drive to Governeto Monastery, where you can park at the gate. Walking through the monastery allows you to begin your hike down the gorge.
Skinaria beach
Beach
4.7
Located a short 5-minute drive from the village of Lefkogia, Schinaria beach is known for its beautiful clear waters and intriguing rock formations beneath the surface. It's an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving, offering a serene experience away from the more crowded beaches of Plakias and Preveli.
Agios Pavlos Sandhills' beach
Beach
4.8
Though very close to Triopetra, accessing Agios Pavlos Sand Dunes requires an 8 km drive. This beach, in a wild, sandy landscape with massive sand hills, is considered one of Rethymno's most beautiful. While a few umbrellas are available, shade can also be found under the rocks in the middle of the beach.
Faraggi Aradenas
Natural feature
4.9
Near Chania, in the area of Sfakia, Aradena Gorge is the deepest gorge in Chania at 138 meters. It is ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and even bungee jumping from the bridge. The trek within the canyon, approximately 15 kilometers to Marmara Beach, offers an unforgettable experience.
Marmara beach
Beach
4.7
Marmara Beach is the majestic exit point of the Aradena Gorge hike, offering stunning caves and delicious food at a taverna overlooking the beach. After a challenging hike through the gorge, it's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the clear waters and the local cuisine.
Taverna Manolis
Restaurant
4.8
This new restaurant in Triis Ekklisies Village was set to open in the summer of 2021 and is currently the only dining option in the village. It offers a proper meal experience in a setting overlooking the village and the sea.
canyon Aba
Hiking area
4.8
Before or after visiting Triis Ekklisies, make sure to stop at the top of Abas Gorge to witness the imposing 145-meter Abas Waterfall. This waterfall is the second highest free-fall waterfall in Greece, boasting breathtaking scenery even when dry in summer.
CAROB MILL ARTS & CULTURAL CENTRE - EPIMENIDES
Cultural center
4.8
Located just west of Triis Ekklisies, this forest is accessible by a 15-minute walk from the village. It provides a natural area for walking and exploring the surroundings.
Richtis Gorge
Landmark
4.7
Through the village of Maridaki, a small stream originating from a spring at the end of Lihnistis Gorge flows all the way to the sea. You can walk a couple of minutes from the village's only taverna/cafe to see the Lihnistis Waterfall, which usually has water until late spring.
Ιερά Μονή Αγιόυ Νικήτα
Place of worship
5.0
A 40-minute walk west of Maridaki leads to the beautiful Agios Nikitas Monastery, offering a serene visit. Nearby, a clear water beach under the cliffs provides excellent snorkeling opportunities, including a small cave on the left side rock that you can snorkel through.
Agios Antonios Villas
Services
4.9
Located about 20 minutes further by foot from Agios Nikitas Monastery, this palm grove is the third largest in Crete after Preveli and Vai. It's a surprising natural oasis found in a remote and unexpected location.
Potamida
Place
On the way to Kedrodasos or Elafonisi, you can stop at the village of Potamida to see the bizarre and interesting Komolithi landscape. These small hills, composed of soft clay, have transformed into beautiful conical shapes due to erosion over time, often described as the 'Cretan Arizona' or 'Cappadocia'.
Triopetra
Place
Meaning 'the three rocks', Triopetra is a wide beach south of Rethymno, boasting beautiful scenery and often experiencing windy conditions. Visitors can find shelter in a cave or at one of the tavernas along the beach. Its wild, sandy landscape with huge sand hills offers a unique coastal experience.
War Tunnel
Historical landmark
4.1
Located near Kokkino Chorio, on the way to or from Omprosgialos, this bunker was built during World War II by forced local laborers from Apokoronas province. Visitors need flashlights to explore its dark corridors, which lead to a top observation point that once guarded the entrance to Souda Bay with three large cannons.
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