Fraskia beach
Beach description
The Panagia’s Fraskia Bay is nestled 24km northwest of Heraklion, on the western fringe of the Heraklion Bay. It is situated at a small valley’s exit, adjacent to the existing private settlement of Theseus. The name, Fraskia, originates from the Cretan term ‘fraski’, a type of jar used as a beehive by the Cretans. The surrounding area abounds in thyme, herbs, and shrubs, making it a perfect spot for beekeeping.
A significant portion of the coastline is peppered with alternating tiny coves of sandy and rocky seafloors, extending southwards to the area known as “The Garden of Priest”. Beyond this area, remarkable caves can be found. The sea, usually calm due to the infrequent eastern winds in northern Crete, was used by the Venetians as a harbour to shield their ships. Particularly on days when the northwest winds prevail, Panagia becomes the preferred choice for Heraklion’s boat owners.
Access to the beach is primarily by boat, with a strenuous path from the Heraklion-Rethymnon highway (before the exit to Ligaria) leading to the bay. A shorter, more accessible path starts from the neighbouring Theseus beach, but entry is restricted as it is private property. The beach is secluded, with no amenities. Sadly, unchecked construction by thoughtless locals has marred the shoreline. These squatters brazenly constructed cement bases on the beach, causing significant damage to the landscape with their refuse.
The beach is named after the Panagia (Virgin Mary) monastery, of which only ruined walls remain. A solitary shrine is the only reminder of a once-existing church. The church continues to celebrate annual festivities, with residents of Rogdia and Achlada villages arriving by boat. A dry creek with dense vegetation lies near the church.
In front of the settlement, there is a deep, pebbly beach with a calm, artificially created sea meant for the residents. The seabed starts shallow but deepens abruptly after a few meters. Umbrellas are provided for the village dwellers. Non-residents or visitors are prohibited from driving cars to the beach and must park near the village exit. A steep 1km walk is required to reach the beach, making the return journey quite exhausting. The beach may not be worth the effort unless permitted by a security guard to drive down. Alternatively, boats from the nearest harbour, Pantanassa, can be used. The deep waters are ideal for fishing, especially for avid snorkelers.
Beach details
Most frequent asked questions
What activities can I do at Fraskia beach?
There are various activities you can do at Fraskia beach such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and beach volleyball.
Is Fraskia beach suitable for families with children?
Yes, Fraskia beach is suitable for families with children as the water is calm and shallow, making it safe for kids to swim.
Are there any restaurants or cafes near Fraskia beach?
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Fraskia beach where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while enjoying the beautiful view.
Can I rent beach equipment at Fraskia beach?
Yes, you can rent beach equipment such as umbrellas, sun loungers, and beach towels at Fraskia beach.
Is Fraskia beach accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, Fraskia beach is accessible for people with disabilities as there are ramps and special facilities available for them.
Are there any water sports activities available at Fraskia beach?
Yes, there are several water sports activities available at Fraskia beach such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Is Fraskia beach a good spot for snorkeling?
Yes, Fraskia beach is a good spot for snorkeling as there are various marine species and colorful corals that can be seen underwater.
Is there a parking area near Fraskia beach?
Yes, there is a parking area near Fraskia beach where you can park your car for a fee.
What is the water colour of the Fraskia beach?
The water colour of the Fraskia beach is deep blue.
What type of sand is found on the Fraskia beach?
The Fraskia beach has fine pebbles.
How deep is the water at the Fraskia beach?
The water at the Fraskia beach is deep.
What is the surface of the sea like at the Fraskia beach?
The sea surface at the Fraskia beach is usually calm.
What is the crowd like at the Fraskia beach?
The Fraskia beach is usually quiet.
What facilities are available at the Fraskia beach?
There are no facilities available at the Fraskia beach.
What are the access options to the Fraskia beach?
The Fraskia beach can be accessed via a paved road or by boat.
What other activities can be done at the Fraskia beach?
The Fraskia beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
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User reviews
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- 1.8 km
Stays near Fraskia beach
- 9.8 / 10
- Theseus Beach Village
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a pool with a view, Antiopi Luxury Villa is situated in Agia Pelagia. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, tennis at the tennis court, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The villa offers a barbecue. Snorkelling and fishing can be enjoyed nearby, while a car rental service and a private beach area are also available on site.
Popular points of interest near Antiopi Luxury Villa include Theseus Beach, Fraskia Beach and Mades Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from the accommodation.
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€375
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Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Luxury Suite Artemisia by the sea is situated in Lygaria. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
This villa features 3 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom fitted with a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
The villa offers a children’s playground. A an indoor play area is also available at Luxury Suite Artemisia by the sea, while guests can also relax in the garden.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Theseus Beach, Fraskia Beach and Mades Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 23 km from Luxury Suite Artemisia by the sea, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
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€356
/night
- 20 m
- 10 / 10
- Vorios Odikos Axonas Kritis
Featuring a garden, rooftop pool and garden views, Aegean blue dream Villa is set in Lygaria. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, and free WiFi.
The villa is fitted with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views. The air-conditioned villa also offers a washing machine and 3 bathrooms with a shower.
The villa offers a children’s playground. Guests at Aegean blue dream Villa can enjoy tennis on site, or snorkelling in the surroundings.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Theseus Beach, Fraskia Beach and Mades Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from Aegean blue dream Villa.
- 120 m
- 10 / 10
- Vorios Odikos Axonas Kritis Theseus Beach Village, Λυγαριά, 35.3
Featuring quiet street views, Aerope Apartment provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around a few steps from Theseus Beach. It features a private beach area, city views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home comes with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The holiday home offers a sauna. A a children’s playground is also available for guests at Aerope Apartment.
Fraskia Beach is 60 metres from the accommodation, while Mades Beach is 1.6 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from Aerope Apartment.
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€138
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- 200 m
- 8.9 / 10
- Vorios Odikos Axonas Kritis theseus beach village 8.20
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a pool with a view, mountain view and a balcony, Suite Fleria with private beach is located in Lygaria. There is an on-site restaurant, plus free private parking and free WiFi are available.
The holiday home comes with 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Staff at the holiday home are always available to provide guidance at the reception.
Suite Fleria with private beach offers a children’s playground. A car rental service and a private beach area are featured at the accommodation.
Popular points of interest near Suite Fleria with private beach include Theseus Beach, Fraskia Beach and Mades Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 23 km from the holiday home, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
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€251
/night
- 350 m
- Lygaria
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Luxury Seaside Villa, Heraklion Crete is situated in Lygaria. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Popular points of interest near the villa include Theseus Beach, Fraskia Beach and Mades Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from Luxury Seaside Villa, Heraklion Crete.
from
€342
/night
- 390 m
