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Situated 80km southeast of Chania and just 1.5km west of the renowned Fragokastelo beach, you’ll find the scenic location of Vatalos. Many Fragokastelo hotels and lodging options are found in the Vatalos area, which boasts fertile fields, breathtaking views of the south slopes of the White Mountains, and transforms into a significant wetland during winter. This wetland stretches about 2km to the west, starting from the castle.
Vatalos is dotted with peaceful coves boasting sandy beaches interspersed with pebbles and rocks. From the fortress, you’ll encounter the beaches of Iligas, Hodros Volakas, Mavro Nero, and finally, Vatalos. While most visitors prefer the shallows of the bustling Fragokastelo beach, Vatalos’ beaches provide an idyllic setting for peaceful vacations and snorkelling. Fragokastelo is noted for its medieval castle, the exotic beach, and the legendary Drosoulites ghosts.
Get directions to Vatalos beaches
Vatalos beaches are a group of beaches located in a specific area.
There are several beaches in Vatalos, but the exact number may vary.
The water condition of Vatalos beaches may vary, so it is best to check before swimming.
Visitors can enjoy various activities such as sunbathing, beach volleyball, and beach soccer.
It depends on the specific beach and the regulations in place.
Facilities near Vatalos beaches may vary, so it is best to check beforehand.
The presence of a lifeguard may vary depending on the specific beach and the time of year.
It depends on the specific beach and the regulations in place.
The best time to visit Vatalos beaches may vary depending on personal preference and the weather conditions.
The water colour of the Vatalos beaches is blue.
The Vatalos beaches has sand, with rocks in some places.
The water at the Vatalos beaches is shallow.
The surface of the sea at the Vatalos beaches is usually calm.
The Vatalos beaches is usually quiet.
The Vatalos beaches has accommodation options and food/water nearby.
The Vatalos beaches is accessible via a paved road.
The Vatalos beaches is ideal for snorkeling/spearfishing and has tree shade.
Find below list of things to do near Vatalos beaches:
You will be picked up at your hotel in the Chania area and then journey by bus to the Imbros Gorge in the eastern part of the White Mountains of Crete. Upon arrival you will enjoy an easy 3-hour hike through the narrow passages and marvel at the stunning rock formations, with an expert guide to teach you about the area.
During your descent you will see famous locations such as the Stenada, Mesofarango, and Xepitira Arch. You exit the gorge at Komitades village, where a bus will be waiting to bring you to Chora Sfakion for some relaxing free time at one of the taverns or cafes overlooking the sea.
Continue by bus to the south coast, and visit a beautiful beach for a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea. You can relax and enjoy a traditional lunch before the bus trip back to the Chania area.
After pickup at your area or hotel, we will begin our journey with a ride to the South of the island, providing insider information and history about the beautifula reas we pass by. We take a break for a coffee stop at Imbros Gorge, where we can view its entrance. Guests have the option to hike the gorge. Then, we will head (with our non-hikers) to the port of Sfakia to take a private boat trip to Loutro, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the island. Upon arrival at Loutro, you will have free time to explore the town or go swimming. After the hikes finish their hike, they join the rest of the guests in Loutro. Free time is 4 hours for non-hikers. Free time for hikers depends on how long it takes to hike the gorge. Finally, we will take a private boat ride back.
Discover Imbros Gorge, which runs parallel to the more famous Samaria Gorge. Although the Imbros Gorge is smaller, many people prefer to cross here because it offers a very different hiking experience than the Samaria Gorge. After your tour, enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea and lunch at a village taverna.
Enjoy hotel pickup and arrive at Imbros around 10 AM. Have breakfast and then hike about 2.5 hours to discover the beauty of this narrow natural passage. Learn about the rock formations and the legend of the 2 brothers that Imbros is named after.
For many years, the Imbros Gorge served as part of the trail that connected Chania to Hora Sfakion. Stroll through a piece of World War II history, as you walk where thousands of British soldiers passed through after the Battle of Crete to get to Egypt.
End your hike in Komitades Village and then depart for Sfakia. Take a swim in the refreshing Libyan Sea and eat lunch with the locals in the taverns before returning to your hotel.
Imbros Gorge is located in the south-eastern part of the White Mountains, it’s length is 7 km and has slopes up to 300m high. It begins in the village of Imbros (800m) and ends in the village of Komitades (300m).
It is part of the E4 European Long Distance Trail, it’s relatively easy and pleasant path. At the beginning of the gorge you may see the old cobbled road that used to be the only way to connect the village of Sfakia with the northern side of the island. It’s famous for its rare flora and beautiful scenery.
Our bus will pick you up from a designated pick up point (outside or near your hotel) and after about 90 minutes drive we will arrive in the village of Imbros. Then follows the walk through the gorge, guided by our licensed trekking guide who will help you if you need it and give you information about the whole area.
You will then visit Frangokastello, where we will have two hours free time to enjoy the sea!
In the late afternoon we will return by bus to the same point you got picked up in the morning
Our driver will lead you south through the Askifou Mountains to the village of Imbros. But first there will be a short stop for refreshment in a charming tavern. The walk will last about two hours since the gorge is 8 km long. The end of the gorge is close to Komitades Village. The bus will be waiting for you there and will take you to a beautiful beach. There will be time to swim and have lunch prior to returning.
This gentle hike is suitable for all those who are steady on their feet. It is also appropriate for families with children as well as fit elderly people.
Start your hike from the quaint village of Imbros and traverse the serene Imbros Gorge, the second largest gorge in Crete, famed for its accessibility and breathtaking scenery. This 9 km trail, taking about 2.5 hours to complete, offers a gentle adventure suitable for families.
As you descend, encounter iconic landmarks like the “Airplane,” “Stenada,” “Mesofarango,” and the striking “Xepitira Arch.” The gorge’s historical significance as an escape route for Allied troops during the 1941 Battle of Crete adds a layer of historical intrigue to your journey.
Following the old stone-paved paths once the primary route from Sfakia to Chania, you reach the gorge’s narrowest point, where the towering walls close to less than 2 meters apart. Your guide leads you to Komitades village, where a bus awaits to transport you to Chora Sfakion.
Conclude your trek in Chora Sfakion, the capital of the rugged Sfakia region. This peaceful seaside village invites relaxation with its sandy beach and clear blue waters. Enjoy the local hospitality in the nearby coffee shops and taverns, and consider a visit to the ruins of the Venetian fortress for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Find below the list of hotels near Vatalos beaches:
In a most scenic location, enjoying the background of the Lefka Ori and the Libyan Sea, Kallicrates Village is located at Fragokastello, 11 km east of Sfakia, at the southern coast of Crete. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout.
Kallicrates Village offers 10 studios. All are simply furnished, spacious and airy and surrounded by large garden areas.
Guests can have breakfast at the pool bar. Refreshments and drinks are available at the rooftop terrace, which offers beautiful views.
Quietly located in Frangokastello Village and just 30 metres from the beach, Kritamos Beach Apartments is set in the Southern Coast of Chania. It offers self-catering accommodation opening out to a balcony with Cretan Sea views. WiFi is offered throughout.
All air-conditioned units at Kritamos Beach are simply yet tastefully decorated with earthy tones. Each features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels in the living room. A fully equipped kitchen with microwave, coffee machine and dining table is also provided. Free toiletries and a hairdryer stock the private bathroom.
The closest taverna is 120 metres away, while a supermarket lies within 350 metres. The famous medieval castle of Frangokastello is at a short distance. Chora Sfakion can be reached within 12 km and the scenic town of Chania is at a distance of 80 km. Free private parking is available in the premises.
Just a short walk from the beach, Pasithea villas offer indepedent villas located in Frangokastelo Village. The property is 2.3 km from Fortress of Frangokastelo. Free WiFi is available, while free private parking is also possible.
Opening to a balcony with Libyan Sea views, accommodation will provide you with a satellite TV, air conditioning and a fireplace. There is a full kitchen, including an oven with hobs and a refrigerator. There is also a private bathroom in every villa with a washing machine and hairdryer.
Various tavernas and grocery stores are 300 metres from the property. At Pasithea villas you will find a garden.
Nikos Kazantzakis Airport is located 89 km away.
from
€85
/night
FYSIOPHYLIA VILLAS has mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Frangokastello, 600 metres from Vatalos Beach.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with shower and slippers. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at FYSIOPHYLIA VILLAS.
Frangokastello Beach is 2.9 km from the accommodation, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 48 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 84 km from FYSIOPHYLIA VILLAS.
from
€285
/night
Set amidst lush gardens, the family-run Oasis Apartments is located in Fragkokastelo of Chania, just 50 metres from the beach. It offers free Wi-Fi in public areas and self-catering units with a balcony or patio.
Overlooking the garden, the Libyan Sea or the mountain, all studios and apartments have a well-equipped kitchenette or kitchen. Each unit is equipped with air conditioning, TV and a fridge. The private bathroom comes with a shower.
Guests can taste traditional Cretan flavours and fresh fish at the owner’s tavern, located next to the property. A mini market can be found within 150 metres away.
The famous Venetian Castle of Frangokastello is located 800 metres from Oasis Apartments. Chora Sfakion is 15 km away, while Chania International Airport is at a distance of 65 km. Free public parking can be found on site.
Just 150 metres from the beach of Frangokastello, Ledakis Studios features a traditional restaurant. It offers air-conditioned studios with patio overlooking the Libyan Sea and the Cretan mountains.
A kitchenette with cooking facilities, coffee machine and fridge is provided in all studios at the Ledakis. Each has a private bathroom with shower.
The owners’ restaurant serves traditional dishes such as the famous Sfakia pie and local spirits. BBQ facilities are provided in the garden.
Free Wi-Fi access is possible in public areas. Sfakia is at a distance of 14 km. Staff can arrange car rental and free private parking is possible on site.
from
€55
/night
Find below list of beaches near Vatalos beaches:
Frangokastello, meaning “Castle of the Franks”, is a renowned beach in Western Crete, steeped in history and folklore due to its age-old Venetian castle and the intriguing legend of the Drosoulites ghosts. This beautiful beach lies in a valley at the foot of the White Mountains, situated 13km east of Hora Sfakion and 80km southeast of Chania.
Fragokastelo’s main beach is an appealing spectacle with its sandy shoreline and shallow turquoise waters, a perfect setting for children and families. Despite being well-equipped with amenities and buzzing during the summer months, the beach is sometimes subject to bothersome northern winds that sweep the sand. However, the area boasts plenty of accommodations, dining options, shops, and an ATM, with the nearest hospital located in Sfakia.
To the west of the main beach, the expansive Vatalos beach and a significant wetland (in winter) offer a different experience, with a mix of sand, pebbles, and rocks perfect for snorkelling. A short 300m walk to the east from the main beach leads you to the breathtaking Orthi Ammos beach, renowned for its sand dunes.
Accessing Fragokastelo from Crete’s northern coast requires a drive along the National Road connecting Chania and Heraklion, exiting at Vrysses and following the road to Chora Sfakion (Sfakia). This route takes you across the Askyfou plateau and through the stunning Imbros Gorge to the southern coast of the Sfakia province. Fragokastelo is well-signposted from here, and the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. If you’re coming from Rethymnon, take the road to Plakias, then head east to Rodakino before reaching Fragokastelo. This drive is around one hour and provides a less challenging but also less scenic route than through the Imbros Gorge. Alternatively, buses to Fragokastelo are available from Chania.
Koutelos, a tranquil and unstructured beach with large round pebbles, is situated close to the village of Nomikiana. It’s approximately 9km to the east of Chora Sfakion, 4km to the west of Fragokastelo, and 76km to the south of Chania.
If you’re traveling from Sfakia, take the road leading to Fragokastelo. Shortly after passing Vouvas and Nomikiana, turn onto the road leading to the beach. Koutelos is clearly signposted. It’s a place worth visiting if you’re in the area, but it’s not a standalone attraction. It’s best to combine a trip to Fragokastelo with a visit to Koutelos if you’re looking for some peaceful moments or a bite to eat at the local fish tavern.
The beach features a traditional fish tavern where you can also find accommodations in a few adjacent rooms. Additionally, the beach is dotted with tamarisk trees providing shady spots. Next to the beach, you can explore the cave of Anapsis or set up camp at the small bay of Pera Koutelos, located to the west of the main beach. Between Koutelos and Vatalos beach, you’ll find the rocky beaches of Psilou Roumi Cape. Just a few meters to the west of Koutelos beach, there’s the secluded Leska beach.
Orthi Ammos is a stunning sandy, shallow beach located next to Frangokastelo, 80km south of Chania, on the edge of a large valley with a warm climate. It has seen modest development compared to the neighboring tourist hotspot of Frangokastelo.
The beach is known for its vast sand hills and dunes, as well as its crystal-clear waters. Although it is affected by southern winds, the impact is mild. The eastern section of the beach has traditionally been a spot for nudists, though their numbers have dwindled in recent years. The beach can be reached by a 10-minute walk from Frangokastelo or by parking above the sand hills. But beware, the sand can get very hot on the descent to the beach!
Compared to adjacent Frangokastelo, Orthi Ammos is a peaceful beach. However, it offers limited accommodations and food amenities, without any sunbeds or water sports services. Its easternmost part, known as Kritama, is marked by high cliffs and turquoise water.
Legend has it that the sand of Orthi Ammos hid the unburied bodies of the 335 Greek heroes who fought against the Turks in the Battle of Frangokastelo on 17 May 1828. These heroes’ spirits are known as the Drosoulites, the famed “ghosts” of Fort Frangokastelo.
A few meters to the west of Koutelos beach, you will find the hidden gem known as Leska beach. Its name, which translates to “Steep Place” or “trap” in the local Cretan dialect, is derived from the sheer cliffs that surround the area. The beach is mostly pebbly, but you can find patches of sand here and there. On the western side, there’s a tiny cove with a rocky seabed. It’s primarily accessible by boat, as the journey on foot from Koutelos beach can be dangerous due to unstable terrain and towering cliffs.
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