Fodele beach
Situated 26km northwest of Heraklion, Fodele beach is just a short 3km journey north from the village of Fodele, the suspected birthplace of famed painter Domenikos Theotokopoulos, or El Greco. The National Road, linking Heraklion and Chania, runs parallel to the beach, offering easy access. This sandy beach is open to the north winds and is flanked by Cape Stavros on the east and Kastellos hill on the west. Atop Kastellos hill, one can find the remnants of the old fort, Kastelos. The beach itself is formed at the mouth of the river Pantomantris or Fodelianos.
The western section of the beach is meticulously maintained and comes equipped with sun umbrellas, sun beds, showers, water sports, cafes and taverns. You can spot a large hotel on the west slope of Kastellos hill, with a small pier in front of it that provides protection to swimmers. The eastern part of the beach, near the local gas station, is less developed and exposed to the north winds.
Visitors can pair their beach day with a trip to the picturesque village of Fodele, nestled in a verdant valley along the banks of the river Pantomantris. The village, located on the site of the ancient city Pantomatri, was named after its first inhabitant. The valley is renowned for its citrus trees, especially oranges and lemons. Numerous taverns are scattered within the village and along the river, offering traditional cuisine under the cover of towering plane trees. It’s worth exploring the village streets and visiting the local churches of St. George and the Assumption. Just outside the village, you’ll find the churches of Annunciation, All Saints, St. George, St. John and Virgin Mary.
Fodele is known as the birthplace of El Greco, the most celebrated figure of the Cretan School of Iconography. El Greco spent his early years in Crete before relocating to Italy, where he worked alongside Titian. His later years were spent in Toledo, Spain, where he passed away. His artwork exhibits a fusion of Byzantine and ancient Greek influences with Renaissance art. The house he grew up in, positioned 1km southwest of the village at Skotini, is well preserved and functions as an El Greco museum housing replicas of his work. Nearby, the ancient church of Panagia (Virgin Mary) is a worthwhile visit. It’s believed that this church greatly inspired the artist. Lastly, an exhibition showcasing El Greco’s original and reconstructed works, along with items from the movie “El Greco”, has been on display at the Bethlehem Gate of the Venetian Walls of Heraklion city since 2009.
Beach details
- Sand
- Blue
- Shallow
- Usually wavy
- Vibrant
- Accommodation
- Blue Flag
- Food and water
- Lifeguard
- Showers
- Umbrellas and beds
- Water Sports
- Bus services
- Handicap friendly
- Paved road
- Family friendly
Location
Fodele beach is located at Fodele beach, in the Heraklion region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
