Gournia, a remote area situated on the outskirts of the Pigaidakia village in the Asterousia Mountains, lies between Vathi beach and the rugged location of Sideropetra. This is along the route that links Matala with Vathi. Reaching Gournia from the mainland demands a high level of fitness due to the strenuous and shadeless journey. However, the raw charm of the landscape makes up for the difficulty.
The region is marked by the soft white limestone that has been eroded by the sea, giving it a resemblance to a lunar landscape. In Gournia, there are five successive, narrow, and rocky bays formed at the outlets of deep streams, reminiscent of tiny fjords. Several small natural ponds, or troughs, which give the place its name, Gournia (meaning troughs), are also present.
In the largest and most dramatic fjord, a small, captivating beach is occasionally formed, depending on the eastward carrying portable materials by the winter rains. This unnoticed beach was photographed by Manolis Dretakis and Nektarios Savvakis in May 2020, providing a delightful surprise as it was previously considered just a rocky bay.
To reach Gournia, one has to endure a walk from Matala, which takes around two and a half hours, or from Vathi, taking one and a half hours, where a dirt road from the Monastery of Panagia Odigitria leads to the area.
Beach details
Rocks in places
Sand
Blue
Normal
Usually wavy
Tranquil
Boat
Hiking
Ideal for snorkeling
Rock shade
Location
Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is located at Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach, in the Heraklion region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Get directions:Google Maps·Waze
Frequently asked questions
What is Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?Gournia Fjord is a small inlet located near Vathy beach in Greece.Is Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach suitable for swimming?Yes, Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is suitable for swimming.Are there any water activities available at Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?There are no water activities available at Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach.Is Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach accessible by car?Yes, Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is accessible by car.Is there any parking available near Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?There is no designated parking available near Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach.Is Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach suitable for families with children?Yes, Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is suitable for families with children.Is there any accommodation available near Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?There is no accommodation available near Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach.What is the water colour of the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?The water colour of the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is blue.What type of sand is found on the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?The Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach has sand, with rocks in some places.What is the water depth of the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?The water depth of the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is normal.What is the surface of the sea like at the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?The sea surface at the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is usually wavy.What is the crowd like at the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?The Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is usually quiet.What facilities are available at the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?There are no facilities available at the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach.What are the modes of access to the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?The Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach can be accessed by boat or walking.What other information is available about the Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach?The Gournia Fjord near Vathy beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing, and there are rock shades available.
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