Beach Diana at Aspes

Tripiti beach – Chania is located 0.6 km away.

The Tripiti beach, which is situated at Aliki, 7km south of Karave harbour, holds the distinction of being the southernmost point of both Gavdos and Europe. The eastern side of the beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, while the area near Tripiti’s cape consists of larger stones and pebbles.

This southernmost European beach is renowned for its three arches, or Kamarelles, formed at the island’s eastern corner. These “holes,” from which Tripiti derives its name, are a notable feature of the beach’s landscape. A monumental chair, installed by Russian residents of the island, towers over the Kamarelles. Climbing this chair provides a breathtaking view of the South Cretan Sea.

Tripiti’s formation is at the mouth of a dried river and adjacent to the beach is a salt pan, or aliki in Greek, which evaporates in the summer. This salt pan serves as a stopover for numerous birds migrating from Europe to Africa during early spring.

As for reaching this beautiful beach, unless you own a boat, the only way to access Tripiti is by foot via a trail starting from Korfos. The 3.5km journey passes through pine forests and offers stunning sea views at almost every turn. Along the way, you’ll encounter some abandoned stone farmhouses in the Alyki settlement, where another trail to Vatsiana begins. On your return trip, consider visiting the settlement of Vatsiana, home to a handful of residents and a place where you can savour the local cuisine.

Lakoudi beach is located 1.5 km away.

Situated a kilometre south of Korfos beach and settlement on the island of Gavdos, lies the tranquil pebble beach of Lakoudi with its breathtaking seabed. The only way to reach this beach is either by foot from Korfos or by boat. The path to it is found by following the trail towards Tripiti beach and venturing through the dense pine forest. Along the way, you’ll find a small trail leading to Lakoudi beach, which runs beside a small stream at Limni.

Lakoudi is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and is well worth a visit. Its white pebbles give the sea water a vibrant azure and crystal clear appearance. The beach is home to some fascinating geological formations, including caves, sea fossils embedded in the rocks, and distinctively striped pebbles with incredible colours. Furthermore, after a swim at Lakoudi, you can visit the impressive sea caves of Plystres.

Korfos beach is located 2.9 km away.

Located just 2km south of the sole port in Gavdos, Karave, you’ll find Korfos, also known as Bosom. A scenic footpath meanders along the coastline, connecting Karave to Korfos in about an hour’s walk. However, many tourists choose to take the bus that runs between Karave and Korfos. Nestled in a long bay, Korfos beach is a haven of beautiful sand and pebbles, with a smattering of rooms and taverns nearby. It’s an ideal spot for a tranquil family getaway, offering basic amenities within easy reach.

In close proximity to Korfos is the St. George chapel, complete with a nearby spring. Notably, artifacts from the Late Minoan era (1600-1100BC) have been discovered south of the beach, suggesting that Korfos has been a thriving settlement since ancient times.

Karave beach is located 4.8 km away.

Situated 21 nautical miles south of Sfakia, the unspoiled paradise of Gavdos Island stands as one of Europe’s final untouched sanctuaries, boasting stunning beaches and striking untamed landscapes. The island’s primary harbor, Karave, is nestled on the eastern coastline. Adjacent to the harbor is the pebbled Karave bay, extending southwards to Korfos bay via Agii Pateres beach. Despite its lack of organization, it remains the lone option for those desiring a swim near the port while awaiting the ferry’s arrival. The bay’s waters are notably clear and deep, although Karave’s swimming experience may not compare favorably with the other beaches on Gavdos.

Nearby the beach, you’ll find a handful of houses, a café, a tavern, and some available accommodations. There’s also a bus service operating from Karave, providing access to the island’s other settlements and beaches.

Historically notable, pottery from the Late Neolithic era, believed to originate from a tomb, was discovered south of Karave. The tomb itself, however, has not been located and is presumed to have been destroyed.