Open Hours

• Summer (May – September): 9.30 – 21.00
• Winter (October – April): 9.30 – 17.00

Tickets

This beach is located approximately 80 kilometers from Heraklion in the Southern part of Crete. It is a small bay at the end of an impressive gorge. The beach is encircled by two huge rocks and the view from above will take your breath away! The beach is a combination of sand and pebbles and the turquoise waters are crystal-clear. To reach this paradise you will need to follow the road that starts at Treis Ekklisies (=Three Churches) village on the west. The footpath, 5 kilometers in length, is not easily accessible and rather difficult to traverse.

South of Heraklion and near Matala, you will find Agiofarago. This is an amazing gorge which leads to a magnificent pebbly beach. The beach is also accessible by boat from Kaloi Limenes port and its natural beauty remains unspoiled. The walk through the gorge takes approximately 20 minutes and will reward the hikers with a breathtaking view of the landscape and crystal-clear waters. A day-trip to Agiofarago or camping on the beach is a worthwhile experience if you want to experience the tranquility of nature.

Near the village of Myrtia and just 32 km. from Heraklion city, you can find Neraidospilia. This two levels cave used to be the temple of Goddess Athena and inside it you can find the fountain of the aqueduct of Astraka. Don’t forget to ask the locals about the legend of the fairy and the lyre player! 

Awarded by the European Union as a model traditional village, the town of Arhanes is the "gem" of Heraklion. Situated at an altitude of 380 meters and surrounded by mountains, it offers its visitors a breathtaking view. Its history dates back to the Minoan times and you can learn all about it by visiting the museums of the area and admiring the architecture around the town. In Arhanes you can also find the oldest wine press in Europe and visit the traditional olive and wine presses of the area.