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Koutelos, a tranquil and unstructured beach with large round pebbles, is situated close to the village of Nomikiana. It’s approximately 9km to the east of Chora Sfakion, 4km to the west of Fragokastelo, and 76km to the south of Chania.
If you’re traveling from Sfakia, take the road leading to Fragokastelo. Shortly after passing Vouvas and Nomikiana, turn onto the road leading to the beach. Koutelos is clearly signposted. It’s a place worth visiting if you’re in the area, but it’s not a standalone attraction. It’s best to combine a trip to Fragokastelo with a visit to Koutelos if you’re looking for some peaceful moments or a bite to eat at the local fish tavern.
The beach features a traditional fish tavern where you can also find accommodations in a few adjacent rooms. Additionally, the beach is dotted with tamarisk trees providing shady spots. Next to the beach, you can explore the cave of Anapsis or set up camp at the small bay of Pera Koutelos, located to the west of the main beach. Between Koutelos and Vatalos beach, you’ll find the rocky beaches of Psilou Roumi Cape. Just a few meters to the west of Koutelos beach, there’s the secluded Leska beach.
Get directions to Koutelos beach
Koutelos beach is located in the southern part of the island of Corfu, Greece.
Yes, Koutelos beach is suitable for swimming. The water is clear and calm, making it safe for swimmers of all levels.
No, there are no water sports available at Koutelos beach. However, visitors can enjoy snorkeling and diving in the clear waters.
No, there are no restaurants or cafes near Koutelos beach. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks.
No, Koutelos beach is not accessible by public transportation. Visitors will need to rent a car or take a taxi to reach the Koutelos beach.
No, there is no fee to enter Koutelos beach. It is a public beach and open to all visitors.
Yes, Koutelos beach is suitable for families with children. The water is calm and shallow, making it safe for children to swim. However, there are no facilities or playgrounds for children on the Koutelos beach.
The water colour of the Koutelos beach is deep blue.
The Koutelos beach has pebbles and rocks in places.
The Koutelos beach has a normal water depth.
The Koutelos beach usually has a calm sea surface.
The Koutelos beach is usually quiet.
The Koutelos beach has accommodation options and food/water nearby.
The Koutelos beach can be accessed via a paved road.
The Koutelos beach is ideal for snorkeling/spearfishing and has tree and rock shade.
Find below list of things to do near Koutelos beach:
After pickup at your area or hotel, we will begin our journey with a ride to the South of the island, providing insider information and history about the beautifula reas we pass by. We take a break for a coffee stop at Imbros Gorge, where we can view its entrance. Guests have the option to hike the gorge. Then, we will head (with our non-hikers) to the port of Sfakia to take a private boat trip to Loutro, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the island. Upon arrival at Loutro, you will have free time to explore the town or go swimming. After the hikes finish their hike, they join the rest of the guests in Loutro. Free time is 4 hours for non-hikers. Free time for hikers depends on how long it takes to hike the gorge. Finally, we will take a private boat ride back.
Discover Imbros Gorge, which runs parallel to the more famous Samaria Gorge. Although the Imbros Gorge is smaller, many people prefer to cross here because it offers a very different hiking experience than the Samaria Gorge. After your tour, enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea and lunch at a village taverna.
Enjoy hotel pickup and arrive at Imbros around 10 AM. Have breakfast and then hike about 2.5 hours to discover the beauty of this narrow natural passage. Learn about the rock formations and the legend of the 2 brothers that Imbros is named after.
For many years, the Imbros Gorge served as part of the trail that connected Chania to Hora Sfakion. Stroll through a piece of World War II history, as you walk where thousands of British soldiers passed through after the Battle of Crete to get to Egypt.
End your hike in Komitades Village and then depart for Sfakia. Take a swim in the refreshing Libyan Sea and eat lunch with the locals in the taverns before returning to your hotel.
Imbros Gorge is located in the south-eastern part of the White Mountains, it’s length is 7 km and has slopes up to 300m high. It begins in the village of Imbros (800m) and ends in the village of Komitades (300m).
It is part of the E4 European Long Distance Trail, it’s relatively easy and pleasant path. At the beginning of the gorge you may see the old cobbled road that used to be the only way to connect the village of Sfakia with the northern side of the island. It’s famous for its rare flora and beautiful scenery.
Our bus will pick you up from a designated pick up point (outside or near your hotel) and after about 90 minutes drive we will arrive in the village of Imbros. Then follows the walk through the gorge, guided by our licensed trekking guide who will help you if you need it and give you information about the whole area.
You will then visit Frangokastello, where we will have two hours free time to enjoy the sea!
In the late afternoon we will return by bus to the same point you got picked up in the morning
Our driver will lead you south through the Askifou Mountains to the village of Imbros. But first there will be a short stop for refreshment in a charming tavern. The walk will last about two hours since the gorge is 8 km long. The end of the gorge is close to Komitades Village. The bus will be waiting for you there and will take you to a beautiful beach. There will be time to swim and have lunch prior to returning.
This gentle hike is suitable for all those who are steady on their feet. It is also appropriate for families with children as well as fit elderly people.
Start your hike from the quaint village of Imbros and traverse the serene Imbros Gorge, the second largest gorge in Crete, famed for its accessibility and breathtaking scenery. This 9 km trail, taking about 2.5 hours to complete, offers a gentle adventure suitable for families.
As you descend, encounter iconic landmarks like the “Airplane,” “Stenada,” “Mesofarango,” and the striking “Xepitira Arch.” The gorge’s historical significance as an escape route for Allied troops during the 1941 Battle of Crete adds a layer of historical intrigue to your journey.
Following the old stone-paved paths once the primary route from Sfakia to Chania, you reach the gorge’s narrowest point, where the towering walls close to less than 2 meters apart. Your guide leads you to Komitades village, where a bus awaits to transport you to Chora Sfakion.
Conclude your trek in Chora Sfakion, the capital of the rugged Sfakia region. This peaceful seaside village invites relaxation with its sandy beach and clear blue waters. Enjoy the local hospitality in the nearby coffee shops and taverns, and consider a visit to the ruins of the Venetian fortress for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
After pickup from your hotel in the Rethymno area at approximately 7:30 AM, journey by bus to the Imbros Gorge in the eastern part of the White Mountains of Crete.
Upon arrival, enjoy an easy 3-hour hike through the narrow passages and marvel at the stunning rock formations. The Imbros Gorge is the second most popular gorge for walkers in Crete after the gorge of Samaria. This picturesque gorge is smaller (8km long) than the Samaria but is just as beautiful. During your descent you will visit various famous locations such as the Stenada (the gorge’s narrowest passage), Mesofarango (a wider passage) and Xepitira Arch (a natural stone arch).
You’ll then arrive at Komitades Village where buses will be waiting to bring you to Chora Sfakion for some relaxing free time at one of the taverns or cafés overlooking the sea. Continue by bus to the south coast and visit a beautiful beach for a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea.
Relax and enjoy a traditional lunch before the bus trip back to Rethymno area at approximately 5:30 PM.
Find below the list of hotels near Koutelos beach:
Olive and Aloe Villas features sea views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Nomikianá, 700 metres from Koutelos Beach.
Featuring a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, each unit also comes with a safety deposit box, a satellite flat-screen TV, ironing facilities, desk and a seating area with a sofa. There is a private bathroom with walk-in shower in some units, along with bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer.
The villa offers a picnic area. There is also a business centre and a an indoor play area on site.
Barbecue facilities are available and guests can also relax in the garden, beside the infinity pool, or on the sun terrace.
Pera Koutelos Beach is less than 1 km from Olive and Aloe Villas, while Fortress of Frangokastello is 8.5 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 81 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€162
/night
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, sea view and a patio, Villa Olvía is set in Sfakiá. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa has a terrace, 4 bedrooms, a living room and a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
The villa offers a beauty services. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Villa Olvía, while snorkelling and cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 49 km from the accommodation, while Fortress of Frangokastello is 5.6 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 81 km from Villa Olvía, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€47
/night
Just a short walk from the beach, Pasithea villas offer indepedent villas located in Frangokastelo Village. The property is 2.3 km from Fortress of Frangokastelo. Free WiFi is available, while free private parking is also possible.
Opening to a balcony with Libyan Sea views, accommodation will provide you with a satellite TV, air conditioning and a fireplace. There is a full kitchen, including an oven with hobs and a refrigerator. There is also a private bathroom in every villa with a washing machine and hairdryer.
Various tavernas and grocery stores are 300 metres from the property. At Pasithea villas you will find a garden.
Nikos Kazantzakis Airport is located 89 km away.
from
€85
/night
Quietly located in Frangokastello Village and just 30 metres from the beach, Kritamos Beach Apartments is set in the Southern Coast of Chania. It offers self-catering accommodation opening out to a balcony with Cretan Sea views. WiFi is offered throughout.
All air-conditioned units at Kritamos Beach are simply yet tastefully decorated with earthy tones. Each features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels in the living room. A fully equipped kitchen with microwave, coffee machine and dining table is also provided. Free toiletries and a hairdryer stock the private bathroom.
The closest taverna is 120 metres away, while a supermarket lies within 350 metres. The famous medieval castle of Frangokastello is at a short distance. Chora Sfakion can be reached within 12 km and the scenic town of Chania is at a distance of 80 km. Free private parking is available in the premises.
FYSIOPHYLIA VILLAS has mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Frangokastello, 600 metres from Vatalos Beach.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with shower and slippers. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at FYSIOPHYLIA VILLAS.
Frangokastello Beach is 2.9 km from the accommodation, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 48 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 84 km from FYSIOPHYLIA VILLAS.
from
€285
/night
In a most scenic location, enjoying the background of the Lefka Ori and the Libyan Sea, Kallicrates Village is located at Fragokastello, 11 km east of Sfakia, at the southern coast of Crete. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout.
Kallicrates Village offers 10 studios. All are simply furnished, spacious and airy and surrounded by large garden areas.
Guests can have breakfast at the pool bar. Refreshments and drinks are available at the rooftop terrace, which offers beautiful views.
Find below list of beaches near Koutelos beach:
A few meters to the west of Koutelos beach, you will find the hidden gem known as Leska beach. Its name, which translates to “Steep Place” or “trap” in the local Cretan dialect, is derived from the sheer cliffs that surround the area. The beach is mostly pebbly, but you can find patches of sand here and there. On the western side, there’s a tiny cove with a rocky seabed. It’s primarily accessible by boat, as the journey on foot from Koutelos beach can be dangerous due to unstable terrain and towering cliffs.
Situated 80km southeast of Chania and just 1.5km west of the renowned Fragokastelo beach, you’ll find the scenic location of Vatalos. Many Fragokastelo hotels and lodging options are found in the Vatalos area, which boasts fertile fields, breathtaking views of the south slopes of the White Mountains, and transforms into a significant wetland during winter. This wetland stretches about 2km to the west, starting from the castle.
Vatalos is dotted with peaceful coves boasting sandy beaches interspersed with pebbles and rocks. From the fortress, you’ll encounter the beaches of Iligas, Hodros Volakas, Mavro Nero, and finally, Vatalos. While most visitors prefer the shallows of the bustling Fragokastelo beach, Vatalos’ beaches provide an idyllic setting for peaceful vacations and snorkelling. Fragokastelo is noted for its medieval castle, the exotic beach, and the legendary Drosoulites ghosts.
Venturing east from Fylaki beach, a mere 100 meters away, you’ll encounter the terminus of the Sfakiano Gorge, where a beautiful pebbly beach has taken shape. This region, known as Plakakia, is home to some of Crete’s most breathtaking beaches, nestled within slender fjords. In fact, several of these beaches have developed within small caves! A challenging dirt road provides access to the vicinity of the beach.
Filaki beach is located 3 km from the village of Sfakion on the south coast of Crete and 75km south of Chania. If you are staying in Chora Sfakion, it is an easy walk to the beach. Filaki means “Prison”, it was named like this due to its remote location.
It is a pebble beach with rock formations. It is the only official nudist beach on the island. Thanks to the only nudist hotel in Crete in the immediate vicinity, you will meet many like-minded people.
The beach is not wild– Filaki has a well-developed infrastructure: it has a parking lot, water closets, bars, sling chairs, and umbrellas. A more friendly nudist beach cannot be found in Crete.
Crete’s southern treasures offer a diverse range of experiences, catering to a variety of interests.
Historical and Religious Sites: For those fascinated by religious history, the stunning Chrisoskalitissa Monastery is a must-visit. Perched atop a colossal rock, this holy sanctuary offers striking views and a rich historical narrative.
Nature Exploration: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking immersion in nature, the Sfakiano Gorge is an absolute treat. Offering tranquil trails for serene walks, Sfakiano is an oasis of peace and scenic beauty on this idyllic island.
Beach-side Activities: For beach lovers, Filaki Beach holds its own unique charm. It’s not just the azure waters that captivate; the beach also hosts licensed naturist taverns serving delectable local cuisine. Moreover, adrenaline-pumping activities like snorkelling and spearfishing are readily available for thrill-seekers.
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