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Ahlia, also known as Achlia, is situated 50km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 15km east of Ierapetra, within the jurisdiction of the village Schinokapsala. It’s a small community nestled in a cove, with the Thrypti Range’s steep slopes and pine trees surrounding it. The cove opens up into a stunning beach with coarse sand and vibrant blue water. The beach has minimal development, with only a few umbrellas, water sports, and some nearby accommodations, mini markets and taverns. Tamarisk trees provide shade for visitors, and the sea is usually calm. This location is perfect for a tranquil vacation, particularly for families.
The Achlia Gorge, which is small but reasonably wide, begins west of the Skinokapsala village at the Kipos location. The gorge, covered in pine trees, ends at Ahlia beach. During winter, water from the Thripti Range forms a river with several waterfalls (between 5 to 8 meters high) along its path. As the sandstone walls are not narrow, hiking is relatively easy without the need for canyoning equipment.
To get to Ahlia, take the main road east to Makrigialos, following the southern coastline of Crete, until you see the signpost for Ahlia. East of Ahlia, before reaching the Agios Panteleimonas community, you’ll find the small beach known as Bonda or Grias Pidima.
Ahlia beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Yes, Ahlia beach is suitable for swimming as the water is calm and clear. However, it is always important to be cautious and aware of any potential hazards.
Yes, there are various water sports available at Ahlia beach, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking.
Yes, Ahlia beach is family-friendly as it offers a safe and enjoyable environment for children and adults alike.
The best time to visit Ahlia beach is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, it can get crowded during peak season, so it is recommended to visit during weekdays or early in the morning.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Ahlia beach that offer a variety of local and international cuisine.
Yes, there is parking available at Ahlia beach, but it can get crowded during peak season. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.
The Ahlia beach water colour is deep blue and blue.
The Ahlia beach sand type is fine pebbles.
The Ahlia beach water depth is normal.
The Ahlia beach sea surface is usually calm.
The Ahlia beach crowds are normal.
The Ahlia beach facilities include accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, and a Blue Flag.
The Ahlia beach can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.
Yes, there is tree shade available at the Ahlia beach.
Find below list of things to do near Ahlia beach:
Explore the “wild heart” of East Crete, undiscovered by tourism, where “time” seems to
stand still. A combination of tar and off roads, will guide you from Ierapetra to the mountains of Thripti . A highlight of the tour is the stop at the summit Afentis (850 m) with an unforgettable panoramic view on both seas (Libyan/Aegean). We continue to Kavousi, where you can admire the oldest olive tree in the world (3250 years). In Mochlos, you can enjoy the “greek cuisine” in a typical tavern. Our trip continues through the vine yards and olive fields, among small chapels, towards authentic villages with their simple lifestyle (Sfaka, Lastros-known as the “cat village”). To end this adventures day, refresh yourselves in the crystal clear water at the bay of Tholos.
An unforgettable day for nature lovers and adventurers
Enjoy the unforgettable panoramic view over the entire north-east coast of Crete. In the mountains, it smells of the most aromatic herbs that will be shown and explained to you. Our adventure will take you to the rustic mountain village “Stavrohori”. There will be time to stroll around, visit the old church and sit down to savour a refreshment. Your tour guide, who has lived in Crete for the past 33 years, will share with you some Greek secrets with pleasure as well as some little anecdotes.
Nature lovers will experience the ultimate adventure wrapped into a half day excursion!
On our ATV-Quad tour from Ierapetra we go off-roading in the rugged landscapes of Crete’s southern coast. We start with a theoretical introduction and a small driving practise, before we start the adventure. Lonely tracks away from main traffic, in the midst of the most beautiful nature will take you to a beautiful landscape on the Cretan mountains. Splash through streams, wind along ancient gorges, and look for island wildlife from behind the wheel of a personal quad vehicle. Get a taste of Cretan history and culture during several stops along the way, including a traditional Greek brunch at Kalamafka Village. The off-road quad safari from Ierapetra explores hard-to-reach areas of Crete’s southern coast. A Great way to experience Cretan culture and nature off the beaten path.
Find below the list of hotels near Ahlia beach:
Located a few steps from Achlia Beach, Summer Vibes offers a garden, barbecue facilities and air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi.
Each unit is equipped with a terrace offering sea views, a satellite flat-screen TV, a well-fitted kitchen and a private bathroom with walk-in shower, slippers and a hair dryer. An oven, a fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
The apartment offers a picnic area.
A bicycle rental service is available at Summer Vibes.
Agia Fotia Beach is 2.3 km from the accommodation, while Lake Voulismeni is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 46 km from Summer Vibes.
Located in Achlia, 100 metres from Achlia Beach and 2.3 km from Agia Fotia Beach, Blue Horizon offers barbecue facilities and air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free WiFi.
The apartment comes with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Lake Voulismeni is 47 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 46 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 46 km from Blue Horizon.
from
€114
/night
Featuring mountain views, Villa Achlia provides accommodation with a terrace and a coffee machine, around 100 metres from Achlia Beach. It features an infinity pool, a garden, sea views and free WiFithroughout the property.
This villa comes with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 3 bathrooms equipped with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
The villa offers a hot tub. If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings.
Agia Fotia Beach is 2.5 km from Villa Achlia, while Lake Voulismeni is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 46 km from the accommodation.
from
€221
/night
Set in Achlia, Achlia Beach Villa is located on the beachfront. The villa offers air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. This villa features a private pool, a garden and free private parking.
This villa is fitted with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom equipped with a shower.
A terrace is available for guests at the villa to use.
The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 28 km from Achlia Beach Villa.
from
€238
/night
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony, Mystique Luxury Suite is located in Achlia. This property offers a rooftop pool, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
Spa and wellness facilities including a hot tub, a hammam and a steam room are at guests’ disposal during their stay at the villa. Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Achlia Beach is 400 metres from Mystique Luxury Suite, while Lake Voulismeni is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public, 45 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Featuring a terrace, Villa Aphrodite is a holiday home, situated in Achlia. This holiday home provides a seasonal outdoor pool and free WiFi. Free private parking is available on site.
A dishwasher, an oven and a microwave can be found in the kitchen. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, Blu-ray player and DVD player are provided. There is a private bathroom with a bath. A BBQ and a wood oven are available.
Agios Nikolaos is 24 km from Villa Aphrodite, while Malia is 48 km from the property. Sitia Public Airport is 42 km away.
from
€232
/night
Find below list of beaches near Ahlia beach:
Situated 47km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 13km east of Ierapetra, near Achlia beach, lies the quaint village of Galini. Nestled amidst a lush landscape dotted with pine trees, Galini is a small yet slightly developed village. The coastline surrounding the village is marked by numerous hidden coves and pebbly beaches, only accessible via a few well-concealed paths.
Among these is Galini beach, a serene spot nestled between Ahlia and Agia Fotia. Characterized by fine pebbles and clear calm waters, the beach’s seabed is rocky in certain spots. The beach remains concealed from the main road due to towering conglomerate rocks and isn’t easily accessible, making it a quiet and ideal spot for those seeking solitude. While the beach is not organized, the proximity of village hotels and taverns makes it convenient for visitors. A short path from Galini’s main road leads directly to the beach.
The beach of Agia Fotia is situated 45km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 12km east from Ierapetra. It’s a small bay nestling at the outlet of a stream flowing down from the Thripti mountain. The name of the settlement is derived from the local Church of Agia Fotini, also known as Agia Fotia. The stream is cloaked by enormous plane trees, while the bay is encircled by conglomerate cliffs, adding to the enchanting landscape.
This beach is well-known and a favourite among the inhabitants of the city of Ierapetra. Its shores are covered in coarse greyish sand, while the water is crystal clear and tranquil. The beach is well-equipped with amenities including beach bars, taverns, and hotels. There are tamarisk trees on the beach where one can find shade. Additionally, beach volleyball tournaments are hosted annually at the local court, a recent tradition that has added to its popularity.
The beach known as Mavros Kolimbos or Agios Panteleimon is situated 51km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 16km to the east of Ierapetra. This quaint coastal settlement has experienced gentle growth over recent years. The area boasts several rental accommodations and small eateries. The beach itself is a charming spot with dark grey pebbles and typically tranquil waters. Some parts of the seabed are rocky, making it perfect for snorkelling. Although the beach is not organized, there are tamarisk trees nearby that provide natural shade.
To reach Mavros Kolimbos from Ierapetra, take the main road east towards Makrigialos, which runs along Crete’s southern shoreline. Public bus services are also available to Makrigialos and can stop in the area. If you’re driving, consider stopping by the mountainous Orino village in the Thrypti Range and the Gorge of Red Butterflies. Within the settlement, pay a visit to the Agios Panteleimonas church, from which the beach derives its alternative name.
Situated about 10km east of Ierapetra and 45km southeast of Agios Nikolaos, within the vicinity of the Agios Ioannis village, lies the beautiful Giorgakis beach. This stunning beach is nestled in the Ferma area, a region renowned for its numerous beaches. Despite being surrounded by towering cliffs, you can reach the beach via stairs originating from the Ferma Solaris Hotel. Once you descend, you’ll find yourself on one of the most picturesque beaches in East Crete, adorned with fine pebbles, rocks, and naturally formed caves.
The beach is segmented into two sections by a low-lying rock. The smaller western beach is the outlet of a local stream that meanders from the Strongyli peak region. Before reaching the beach, the stream creates a stunning waterfall, about 10 meters in height, which showcases vibrant rocks and dries up during the summer.
Ferma’s broader area is a lush oasis within the typically dry landscape of Eastern Crete, enveloped by pine trees and dense vegetation. Nearby, you’ll find several freshwater springs that continue to drip, even in summer, promoting the growth of such lush greenery.
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