13 Must see in Sfakia - Crete
Crete, Greece
Sfakiá is a somewhat remote region compared to other areas like Chania or Heraklion. It is a much more local, isolated, and wild place (known as the Texas of Greece), hiding several less touristy but very enjoyable gems.
Located in the southwest, it is known for its impressive mountainous landscape, deep gorges, picturesque villages, and pristine beaches.
Here is a list of things to do around Sfakiá:
1. Visit the church on the mountain of Chora Sfakion
The Church of Saint Anthony is located on a high point in Chora Sfakion. It will take you about 5 minutes to get there, although you will have to climb several steep stairs. From there, you will have beautiful views of the village and the sea.
2. Eat like a horse in a Greek tavern
In Sfakia, you will find many Greek taverns. Near the port, there are several restaurants where you can taste fresh fish, other traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, or some unique to Crete such as Dakos or Apaki. Don’t miss the regional dessert "Sfakiani pita".
3. Explore the caves at Ilingas beach
Ilingas beach is located between Glyka Nera and Chora Sfakion. It is 2 km away, so you can easily reach it by walking. There, besides the Greek tavern and the beach bar, you can rent a kayak to explore a beach nearby and several sea caves.
4. Loutro - The Beautiful Greek Village in Crete
Loutro is a small seaside village, with white and blue houses and taverns that give it a unique charm. Also the big cliffs rising up directly behind it stand out in the background. It’s said that it was the location of the ancient city of Phenicia.
It’s located in a sheltered bay 8 km west of Chora Sfakion. There is no way to get there by car since there are no roads leading to Loutro. Have a look at our post:
5. The sweet water beach - Glyka Nera
Glyka Nera, also known as Sweet Water beach, is a 300 m long gravel beach, with crystal clear waters that stand out for their deep blue color. The impressive cliffs boarding it rise straight up from the beach and reach a height of up to 500 m above the sea level. Its name comes from the clear fresh and potable water springs, in fact, you can see bubbles coming out from the rocks while snorkeling.
6. Explore the caves at Marmara beach
Marmara Beach is a small pebbly beach located 4 km west of Loutro. The sea caves are its main attraction, but also the landscape with the Aradena Gorge in the background is also noteworthy. It is quite isolated, so to get there, you will need to descend the Aradena Gorge, walk along the coast from Chora Sfakion, or take a boat.
7. Walk down the popular Samaria Gorge
Samaria is the largest gorge in Europe, and one of the most emblematic spots in Crete and in Greece. Actually, the Samaria Gorge National Park and Olympus National park are Greece’s only UNESCO natural sites.
The descent of the gorge is 16 km, and it usually takes about 4-5 hours. The logistics can be a bit complicated as it is not a circular route and depends on boats and buses, so we recommend taking a look at our article:
8. Go hiking at Aradena Gorge
If Samaria isn't enough for you, the Aradena Gorge offers another hike that is well worth it. Unlike Samaria, Aradena has a section (avoidable) where you will need to overcome your fear of heights and use completely vertical and very high ladders to descend. Additionally, after the hike, you can relax at Marmara beach.
9. The Patsos Gorge
If you feel like walking but want a shorter route, this gorge is just what you are looking for. It is an 8km (one way) hike along a rocky path with a height difference of 600 meters. Along the hike, you will see several interesting rock formations, a dry landscape that turns into a pine tree forest, and an incredibly narrow passage.
10. Relax on a secluded beach - Plakaki beach
Plakaki beach is a very unknown spot near Chora Sfakion. The rock formations divide the small beach into three even smaller beaches that stand out for their natural beauty.
11. Frangokastelo Castle
It is located 20 minutes by car from Chora Sfakion. Frangokastello is known for its historic Venetian fortress, but you can also enjoy a relaxing time on the dark sandy beach. Don't forget to bring your snorkel!
12. Trip to Gavdos Island
Gavdos is known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. It is also a destination where many young people go camping.
The trip to Gavdos is a must-do if you are in the area. You can take a ferry early in the morning, spend 4-5 hours exploring the island, and return. There are several departures a day, and ticket prices are usually around €55 (round trip). You can check schedules and purchase your tickets on the Anendyk website.
13. The white mountains of Crete
The white mountains of Crete are a mountain range that has more than 50 peaks above 2000 meters. The tallest one is Pachnes (2453m), which is the second tallest mountain in Crete (only 4m lower than Psiloritis). The white colors and the landscape in general leave an unforgettable view on a sunny day.
These are some of the things you can do in Sfakiá, feel free to add more in the comments if you like!
