About
Keratokambos is a small seaside resort situated 72km southeast of Heraklion, a few miles east of Tsoutsouras and Ano Viannos. Keratokambos, with the nearby seaside settlement of Kastri, has become a popular family destination in the last few years. Indeed, in front of the village of Keratokambos a long sandy beach, several kilometres long, stretches in both directions.
The main beach of the village is located east of the local harbour and stretches to the east till the river Keratokambitis. This part is quite organized since it is adjacent to the village. There are big pebbles in places and it is a good choice for snorkelling. As you walk eastwards, the beach gets calmer and more secluded. The next part of the beach is called Monobouka and is close to the settlement called Kapsali, with a few tourist facilities around. Monobouka beach has sand and shallow waters, ideal for children. There are many tamarisk trees offering shade.
A few words about the area of Keratokambos
Keratokambos (and Kastri) is the harbour of the residents of the mountainous village of Ano Viannos, located further north. In the 1950s the area hosted only warehouses for carob, citrus, oil, etc. The local harbour was used for transferring the products to the urban centres with cargo ships, as the road network was absent. Today, Kastri and Keratokambos consist of one united village, which has enjoyed strong tourism growth in recent years. The village has a school, clinic and a remarkable gallery.
The name Keratokambos means Carob Fields, named after the locust trees that were grown here to produce carobs. There is a second version of the derivation of the name: Kerato means horn in Greek. Thus, the locals say that the name comes after the towering steep rock, called Kerato, that is located north of the village, in the area of Vigla, reminding of a huge horn. On the top of Vigla, there are the ruins of a Venetian fortress, while on its base there is a large cave, where archaeological findings have been extracted. The cave Nychteridospilios has rich stalagmite decoration and there are many bats. It is believed that the horn was built in the ancient city of Korea. This city, according to a third version, gave its name to the Keratokambos.
The settlements of Keratokambos and Kastri are built in a valley, formed at the exit of several wild gorges. Keratokambitis river crosses the valley through the rugged gorge of Portela. In the region of Richtra you can see a beautiful waterfall of 10m in height, which is worth visiting (in spring).
Another impressive gorge of the area is that of Kavousi and this of “Piskopi Pidima” (i.e. Bishop’s Jump), which is an extension of Portela. Its name is taken after a myth according to which the Turks once chased a bishop, who reached with his horse the edge of the gorge. He wanted to avoid falling into the hands of the Turks and decided to jump from the cliff. However, the horse made a huge leap to the opposite side and they both survived. For this miracle, the Bishop built the church of St. George near the gorge.
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FAQ
There are various activities you can do at Keratokambos beach such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and fishing.
Yes, Keratokambos beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Keratokambos beach where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.
Yes, you can rent beach equipment such as umbrellas and sun loungers at Keratokambos beach.
Unfortunately, Keratokambos beach is not fully accessible for people with disabilities as there are no special facilities available.
Yes, you can go for a walk or hike near Keratokambos beach as there are several trails and paths in the surrounding area.
No, Keratokambos beach is not a good spot for surfing as the waves are usually small and calm.
Yes, there are several nearby attractions to visit while at Keratokambos beach such as the Minoan Palace of Zakros and the Toplou Monastery.
The water colour of the beach is blue.
The beach has a mix of sand and pebbles.
The water at the beach is shallow.
The sea surface at the beach is usually calm.
The beach usually has normal crowds.
The beach has accommodation options, food and water nearby, umbrellas and beds, sports facilities, and showers.
The beach can be accessed via a paved road.
Yes, there is tree shade available at the beach.
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