Chora Sfakion is located in southern Crete, 75 kilometers away from Chania and 65 kilometers from Rethymnon. The whole area is known for its natural beauty and wonderful beaches. Based in Sfakia, one can explore the beautiful nearby South Crete destinations, either by car or by one of the ferries.
The secluded beaches of the area offer rest and tranquility. Illigas is located 2 km west of Sfakia. The larger beach is easily accessible by car or on foot from Sfakia, while the smaller one is isolated, accessible only by boat. Both beaches have crystal clear waters, silver sand and huge caves.
Glika Nera, 4km west of Sfakia is one of the most beautiful and award-winning beaches of Crete. The scenery is breathtaking as the steep mountains of the White Mountains descend to the beach. The beach is pebbly and the waters deep blue. To come here, one has to take the ferry from Sfakia. The more adventurous can take the well-maintained but tiring 30-minute trail from Sfakia.
Loutro is a picturesque village, west of Sfakia. Its natural harbor is a good choice throughout the summer because the waters are always calm and safe even when the south winds are strong. There are no big hotels, mass tourism or cars in Loutro. There is access to Loutro by boat from Sfakia, the journey takes 15 minutes, and on foot, the path starts from Sfakia and lasts 1,5 hours.
Marmara is a small isolated beach at the exit of the spectacular gorge of Aradaina. It has fine dark pebbles and crystal blue waters. It got its name from the white smooth rocks that surround it, Marmara means Marbles. In many places, caves are formed and visitors can explore them. Access is through the Aradaina Gorge or from Loutro by water taxi or a 1.5-hour hike from Loutro.
13 kilometers east of Sfakia, there is the beach of Frangokastelo with its imposing medieval fortress with its great history and legends about the Drosoulites, the ghosts of soldiers who appear in the morning hours in the area. When it's not windy, the sandy, organized beach with the shallow waters is suitable for families and children.
The most imposing route in Crete, the snake road, is a mountainous road with many tight turns and impressive views that take your breath away. It is the southern part of the provincial road Vrisses Sfakia and starts from the Village of Imvros, 18 kilometers from Sfakia and ends at the Village of Komitades, 6 kilometers from Sfakia.
Sfakia, charming and untouched by mass tourism, is an ideal place for trips to relax and explore the nearby beaches, trails and routes. Whether by car, on foot or by boat, the visitor will discover the wildest and most adventurous side of Crete.
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