Beach and Lake in Agiofaraggo in Crete

Beach and Lake in Agiofaraggo in Crete

Heraklion, Greece

Agiofaraggo beach is a gravel beach located at the end of a gorge. Its remote location keeps it away from mass tourism and crowds. It’s mostly frequented by locals.

It’s laying at the southerly point of Crete. Driving to the parking lot takes 1h 45 minutes from Heraklion or 45’ from Matala, with the last 20 minutes on a tricky and bumpy dirt road. Don’t worry, if you are careful you can make it even with a Fiat Punto. Although you see some cars on the sides of the road, we recommend you to keep driving till you reach the real parking lot.

Once you are there, you have to walk down the gorge for about 20 minutes. On the way, you will pass by Saint Anthony church. You will also find some mysterious caves in the walls of the gorge, as well as some locals climbing them up.

It's a good spot for snorkeling because of its sheltered bay, the clear water and the rich marine life. Swimming across the rocky arch and along the walls is fascinating. You can also do cliff diving from different heights (2-6 meters).

You will not find shade on the beach at the central hours of the day but you can always walk back a little inside the gorge to find some protection from its trees. After and before midday the vertical walls that border the beach will protect you from the sun.

As it’s a very secluded area there are no buildings around, nor sunbeds nor umbrellas , so the beach keeps its natural beauty is untouched.

At the parking lot there is a kiosk where you can buy a snack (chips, hot dog, burger) or a drink. On the beach there is nothing.

There is a hidden salt lake (here) which has an underwater tunnel communicating with the sea. In order to reach it, you need to go up the cliff through a very steep path right before reaching the beach. You can swim in the lake there but the way down is quite dangerous since it’s in a hole.

Some people usually camp in the gorge or on the beach directly.

Agiofaraggo beach is not popular at all. If you are planning to go to Matala, you should also consider Agiofaraggo beach.