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Arvi beach

  • Arvi beach

About

Arvi is a large seaside village located 79km southeast of Heraklion and 35km west of Ierapetra, in a small valley formed in front of the imposing Gorge of Arvi. It is built on the location of the ancient city Arvi. In the valley of Arvi and the surrounding area, there are many greenhouses. The locals deal mainly with agriculture because the warm climate of the region favours the production of bananas, fresh vegetables and olive oil. The small banana of Arvi has a special scent and unique flavour; in 1981 banana imports were banned in Greece and the bananas of Arvi became very famous throughout Greece.

The village tourism sector has developed during the last years, mainly because is very close to truly beautiful beaches. Arvi is a very quiet place, ideal for families. West of the small harbour is the main beach of the area, with coarse sand and some pebbles in places. It is well organized with umbrellas, water sports and with many options for accommodation and food around. If you walk westwards, you will find a long pebbly beach, where you can relax and stay more secluded. It is near the main road heading to Amira’s village and next to the pebble beach of Kolimbi, settlement. 

West of kolimbi we can walk and in 5′ minutes, we reach the remote sandy beach Makis, also known as Vahoudianos Xerokambos. The beach is located in a secluded bay with fine sand and clear water, which is never busy. It is a haven for those seeking isolation.

Arvi is inhabited, at least, since 2600 BC, as neolithic findings have been extracted. The good climate of the area has probably contributed to this early habitation. During the Roman era, Arvi was one of the major ports of the Mediterranean Sea. A Roman bath has been found next to the church of Saint Panteleimon, and several tombs, unfortunately, were looted. However, the most important finding of the region is the marble sarcophagus, carved with Dionysiac scenes, found near the sea by locals in the 19th century. Unfortunately, the locals broke the sarcophagus in order to find gold and it is now exhibited and restored in the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge. Similar is the story of a second sarcophagus of the Roman ruler of the region. The people broke it into pieces, in order to build the altar of the church, but the cap was rescued and is now exhibited in the same museum.

Arvi got its name after the temple of Arvios Zeus, who was worshipped in Arvion Mount, near the village. It is assumed that the sanctuary was built at the exit of the wild gorge of Arvi, in the area where the Monastery of Saint Anthony is now built. The Monastery of Saint Anthony is truly unique because it is built on the steep slopes of the gorge. Finally, some scientists believe that Arvi was the point where the Saracens disembarked when they conquered Crete in 828AC.

Photos

FAQ

What is the location of Arvi beach?

Arvi beach is located in the south-eastern part of Crete, Greece.

Is Arvi beach suitable for swimming?

Yes, Arvi beach is suitable for swimming as the water is clear and calm.

Are there any water sports activities available at Arvi beach?

No, there are no water sports activities available at Arvi beach.

Is Arvi beach a good spot for fishing?

Yes, Arvi beach is a good spot for fishing as there are plenty of fish in the area.

Is there any nearby accommodation available for visitors?

Yes, there are several hotels and apartments available for visitors near Arvi beach.

What is the best time to visit Arvi beach?

The best time to visit Arvi beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Is there any parking available at Arvi beach?

Yes, there is a parking area available for visitors at Arvi beach.

Are there any restaurants or cafes near Arvi beach?

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Arvi beach where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.

What is the water colour of the beach?

The water colour of the beach is blue.

What type of sand is found on the beach?

The beach has sand.

How deep is the water at the beach?

The water at the beach is shallow.

What is the surface of the sea like at the beach?

The sea surface at the beach is usually calm.

What is the crowd like at the beach?

The beach usually has normal crowds.

What facilities are available at the beach?

The beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, and showers.

How can I access the beach?

The beach can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.

Is there any tree shade available at the beach?

Yes, there is tree shade available at the beach.

Beach facilities

  • Accommodation options
  • Food / water nearby
  • Umbrellas / beds
  • Sports
  • Showers

Crowds

  • Normal

Water depths

  • Shallow

Beach sand type

  • Sand

Sea surface

  • Usually calm

Water colour

  • Blue

Accessibility

  • Bus services

Other information

  • Tree Shade

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