Leska beach

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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.

Leska beach Map

Get directions to Leska beach 

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Beach details

  • Pebbles
  • Rocks in places
  • Deep blue
  • Hiking
  • Ideal for snorkeling

Most frequent asked questions

What activities can I do at Leska beach?

At Leska beach, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and beach soccer.

Is Leska beach suitable for families with children?

Yes, Leska beach is suitable for families with children as it has a shallow and calm water area, making it safe for children to swim.

Are there any restaurants or cafes near Leska beach?

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Leska beach where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks.

Is there any parking available at Leska beach?

Yes, there is a parking area available near Leska beach where you can park your car.

Is Leska beach accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, Leska beach is accessible for people with disabilities as it has a wheelchair ramp and accessible toilets.

What is the best time to visit Leska beach?

The best time to visit Leska beach is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny.

Is there any entrance fee to access Leska beach?

No, there is no entrance fee to access Leska beach.

What is the water colour of the Leska beach?

The water colour of the Leska beach is deep blue.

What type of sand can be found on the Leska beach?

The Leska beach has pebbles and rocks in some places.

What is the water depth of the Leska beach?

The water depth of the Leska beach is normal.

What is the surface of the Leska beach usually like?

The surface of the Leska beach is usually calm.

What is the crowd like at the Leska beach?

The Leska beach is usually quiet.

What facilities are available at the Leska beach?

There are no facilities available at the Leska beach.

How can the Leska beach be accessed?

The Leska beach can be accessed by walking.

What other information is available about the Leska beach?

The Leska beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.

Things to do near Leska beach

Find below list of things to do near Leska beach:

  • Sfakia

Drive along the coastline to Chania, then travel up to the Omalos plateau in the White Mountains. From there, embark on a trek into the Samaria Gorge, which is 18 km long, 3-150 meters wide, and up to 700 meters deep. The Samaria National Park is a significant natural reserve that showcases a range of natural wonders, including wildflowers, century-old trees, rock formations, and crystal-clear springs.

The hike begins at an altitude of 1200 m on the Omalos plateau and takes around 4-6 hours. You’ll pass through the longest gorge in Europe, which features breathtaking beauty and diverse scenery. The narrowest part of the gorge is only 3 meters wide, and the rock walls soar steeply by 350 meters at this point. Please note that the path through the gorge is rugged, rocky, and uneven, making it unsuitable for unfit individuals or clients with heart problems, high blood pressure, or pregnancy.

Throughout the journey, there are numerous rest stops where you can find restrooms and drinking water. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at the charming fishing village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea, where you can relax in the taverns or swim in the crystal-clear, turquoise sea after the hike. Later in the day, you’ll take a one-hour boat ride from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion, passing the magnificent rocks of the southern coast of Crete, where our bus will be waiting to transport you back home.

  • Sfakia

We will set a meeting point in the heart of modern Chania town and we will start our experience in the Cretan taste. As a first stop we will try the famous traditional Bougatsa which combines the light salty taste of fresh cheese with sugar in an extremely crispy thin layer of dough. Of course, a Greek traditional coffee could not be missing of this typical Chania breakfast.
Then we will find ourselves in the paradise of herbs and not only… A local expert of herbs will introduce us to the many different varieties of herbs from the mountains of Crete that are known for their healing and soothing nature. Malotira, Fliskouni, Diktamo, Sage, cinnamon, honey, oil and legumes, all organically produced and only from the island of Crete.
Next stop will be in the mayor’s house, not for us to meet him but because there we will visit a local, family running, traditional “kaltsounadiko”. The word means the preparation room of the traditional dish called “kaltsouni” which is a kind of small pie with traditional sheet, filled with cheese or greens or a mixture of these two and baked in the oven or fried. Sweet and savory dishes will excite our taste buds…
And now the time has come to try all the types of cheeses produced in Crete. The traditional and the contemporary, marry to give us the ultimate taste!!! Next stop the Cretan cheese world. This small shop is the branch of a cheese factory, well known to the locals, that presents its flavors to us. We will try different types of cheese that are made in in modern facilities but preserving the tradition.
At this point a break is necessary and so we will follow the way to the old port of Chania having a walk next to the sea giving us the opportunity to share with you some of the history of the city.
Following, we will be welcomed under the shade of the Plane trees with a different dish from the southern region of Chania, the Sfakia area, with their homonymous pie and the famous Dakos dish.

Through the most picturesque alleys and after a short walking we will enjoy Gyros and beer. You should not leave Greece without trying the traditional souvlaki!!!
And if you thought we were done you were wrong…Have you ever heard about Loukoumades??
If yes then we have a surprise for you, if not then get ready for an explosion of flavors in your mouth that will last for a long time and you will remember it forever. Golden balls of dough filled with chocolate, deep fried and covered by honey and sesame… Of course, our gustatory journey could not miss the ice cream that will accompany this wonderful treat.

  • Sfakia

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Rethymno to Samaria Gorge, where adventure and natural splendor await. Board our comfortable bus accompanied by an experienced guide who will enrich your experience with insights into the region’s history and geology.

Upon arrival, we make a brief stop at a tavern in Omalos for a rest or optional breakfast, before heading to the entrance of the gorge. Here, we begin our trek with our knowledgeable guide. The hike typically takes around 5-6 hours, but the duration may vary depending on individual fitness levels and walking pace.

After completing the trek, we’ll have free time in the charming seaside village of Agia Roumeli. Relax by the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea or explore the village’s quaint streets and traditional tavernas.

Finally, we’ll take a boat back to Sfakia, where our bus awaits to transport us back to the hotels, concluding our adventure through Samaria Gorge.

  • Sfakia

We start the private transfer from the place that you have indicated to us or from the point that we have designated for you. After a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, we arrive at the entrance of the Samaria Gorge. The entrance ticket to Samaria costs 5€ and you pay upon arrival at the entrance. The hike in the gorge starts from Xyloskalos, Omalos (at an altitude of 1,200 meters). The Samaria Gorge is 18 kilometers long and the duration of the hike is between 5-6 hours depending on the physical condition and pace of the hike.
Walking in the Samaria Gorge, one discovers a varied landscape, with water springs, impressive large rocks stretching out into the stream, oak trees rooted in the rocks, scents of herbs, and the Cretan wild
goat (kri-kri) climbing a steep slope (for those lucky enough to see it).
You will also feel the sensation of wild nature enjoying the narrowest point of the gorge (3-4 meters), known as the Iron Gates.
At the end of the hike, you reach Agia Roumeli where you can enjoy swimming in the cold waters of the river or the waters of the Libyan Sea. You can still have lunch and buy the tickets for the boat to Chora Sfakion (the boat leaves at 17:30). After a short trip of about 45 minutes you will arrive at Chora Sfakion where the driver will be waiting for you to return to the original meeting point, driving for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

  • Imbros Gorge

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.

  • Imbros Gorge

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.

Stays near Leska beach

Find below the list of hotels near Leska beach:

  • 9.9 / 10
  • Countryside

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

    • 1.8 km
    • 10 / 10
    • Fraggokastelo

    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

      • 2.7 km
        • Chora Sfakion, Crete, Greece

        Vritomartis Naturist Resort operates as a licensed naturist hotel near Chora Sfakion on Crete island’s southern coast. The resort overlooks the Libyan Sea with the White Mountains behind and lies about 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Chania Airport. The Vritomartis nudist resort has 161 beds in 85 beautifully decorated rooms, of which 42 are located on two floors in the main building and 43 in 8 separate bungalows. All with balconies or terraces, air conditioning, free WiFi, and sea or mountain views. The resort follows International Naturist Federation standards: nudity is required at the pool and private naturist beach, while clothing is expected indoors.

        Facilities feature a large swimming pool, children’s pool, tennis court, mini-golf, playground, pool bar, and taverna. Guests use the private pebble beach, 700 meters (0.4 miles) away, with shuttle service, bar, loungers, and showers. Dining options include a buffet restaurant serving Mediterranean and Cretan cuisine, with vegetarian and other dietary needs accommodated. A mini-market, parking, car rentals, massage services, and organised excursions are available.

        Additional activities include naturist boat trips, coastal hikes, and visits to nearby villages.

        from

        €95

        /night

          • 2.8 km
          • 9.6 / 10
          • Frangokastello

          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.

            • 3.2 km
            • 9.1 / 10
            • Frangokastello

            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

              • 3.2 km
              • 9.5 / 10
              • Φραγκοκαστέλου

              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

                • 3.3 km

                Beaches near Leska beach

                Find below list of beaches near Leska beach:

                • 990 m
                Koutelos beach is located 1.0 km away.

                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.

                • Koutelos beach
                • Pebbles, Rocks in places
                • Normal
                • Deep blue
                • 2.0 km
                Filaki caves at Plakaki is located 2.0 km away.

                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 caves at Plakaki
                • Pebbles
                • Deep
                • Deep blue
                • 2.1 km
                Filaki beach is located 2.1 km away.

                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.

                Things to do near Filaki Beach

                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.

                • Filaki beach
                • Pebbles
                • Deep
                • Deep blue
                • 3.1 km
                Ammoudi beach, Sfakia is located 3.1 km away.

                The beach Amoudi is located about 1.5km east of Chora Sfakion and 75km south of Chania, in an area with several adjacent pebbly beaches and very close to the nudists’ hotel Vritomartis. It is one of the many unknown beaches around Chora Sfakion, and one of the nicest. The area, due to conglomerate rocks, is full of small pebbly beaches, such as Agios Charalambos, Filaki and Plakakia.

                A rough dirt road, which in the last section becomes quite bad, leads to the beach. Despite its name (ammoudi means sandy beach),  Amoudi beach is not sandy but pebbly with crystal clear waters, the cleanest of all the beaches of the area. The seabed is quite remarkable with beautiful formations. Left and right of the beach, the rocks rise forming caves in conglomerate grounds, decorated with caper plants. Caves offer shade on hot summer days.

                On the west side above the beach, there is a shrine which overlooks the sea from where the view at Amoudi bay is unique. The most impressive of all, however, is the geological formation called Fokia (Seal). It is a cave on the west edge of the beach, which at its deepest point creates a small beach and has a second outlet to the sea. Because of the two outputs and the easy possibility of escape this cave was used as a nest for sea seals that are still in the area.

                On the east side of the beach, there is a path through the rocks leading after five minutes to the cavernous church of Saint Charalambos honoured highly by Sfakians. Next to the chapel, there is the slightly organized beach of Agios Charalambos, not organised. Saint Charalambos was the saint who protected people from the plague, so they used to build chapels dedicated to the Saint at the entrances of villages. But in Sfakia, where the dominant communication with the outside world was based on the sea, they built the temple on the shores. The coves and the nearby beach of Filaki are mainly occupied by nudists, actually being the only “official” nudism-friendly beaches on Crete (due to the nudists’ hotel).

                • Ammoudi beach, Sfakia
                • Pebbles, Rocks in places
                • Deep
                • Deep blue

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