Beach description
Located roughly 71 km south of Chania city on Crete Island, Loutro is a quaint seaside village at the edge of Cape Mouri. This charming village is steeped in history, once being the site of the ancient city of Phoenix and the port of ancient Anopolis. It later served as a winter port for Chora Sfakion, its naturally formed harbour providing safe anchorage for ships even amidst harsh weather conditions.
Loutro makes for an excellent base for exploring the neighbouring beaches, accessible by taxi boat, canoe, or on foot. A small ferry can whisk you away to the stunning Glyka Nera beach to the village’s east. Alternatively, you can opt for a canoe ride or a hike along the E4 trail to the secluded pebbly beaches of Timios Stavros and Pervolaki, with your journey continuing to Glyka Nera. If you prefer to stay within Loutro, the village’s own beach and the extended Keramos beach to the east offer a serene retreat, especially during strong southern winds. These well-maintained pebbly beaches boast calm, crystal-clear waters in shades of deep blue and green. Nearby beaches of Likos, Finikas, and Marmara are also within easy reach by boat or on foot.
Loutro is a haven for those seeking a unique experience away from the bustle of mass tourism. This picturesque fishing village in southwest Crete is devoid of large hotels and swimming pools, crowded streets, restaurants, and beaches, and even cars! The only means of access is by boat or a 1.5-2 hour trek from Chora Sfakion. Daily ferry services operate to and from Chora Sfakion, Sougia, Gavdos island, Paleochora, and Agia Roumeli.
Things to do in Loutro
While in Loutro, you can revel in nature’s beauty by exploring the scenic mountain landscape, valleys, and gorges. Start with a visit to the Koules fort situated above Loutro, then head to the small port of Finikas. The village brims with historic sites, including the Old School, which served as the Chancellor of Sfakia’s seat in 1821, and the ancient Church of Panagia nestled next to it. Marvel at the tall Cretan date palm trees and the ruins of the Castella fort, part of the ancient town Phoenix, and the temple of Apollo just south of the village.
For the more adventurous, a climb to the idyllic village and plateau of Anopolis awaits. This entails a two-hour ascent on a 2000-year-old mule track, culminating in a selection of inviting taverns at the top. You can also explore the Aradena gorge or snorkel in the local waters, home to frequent sea turtle visitors.
Loutro, which translates to “bath” in Greek, was named after the baths discovered in the area, their waters once directed towards nearby Anopolis.
Beach details
Most frequent asked questions
What is Loutro beach?
Loutro beach is a small, secluded beach located in the village of Loutro on the south coast of Crete, Greece.
Is Loutro beach suitable for swimming?
Yes, Loutro beach is suitable for swimming. The water is clear and calm, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Are there any restaurants or cafes near Loutro beach?
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located near Loutro beach. Visitors can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine and drinks while taking in the beautiful views of the Loutro and surrounding area.
Is Loutro beach crowded?
Loutro beach is not usually crowded, as it is a small and secluded beach. However, it can get busier during peak tourist season.
What activities can be done at Loutro beach?
Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and relaxing on the Loutro. There are also hiking trails and boat tours available in the surrounding area.
Is Loutro beach family-friendly?
Yes, Loutro beach is family-friendly. The calm waters and small size of the Loutro make it a great spot for families with children.
What is the best time to visit Loutro beach?
The best time to visit Loutro beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy the Loutro during the spring and fall months when the weather is cooler and less crowded.
What is the water colour of the Loutro?
The water colour of the Loutro is deep blue and green.
What type of sand is found on the Loutro?
The Loutro has pebbles and fine pebbles.
How deep is the water at the Loutro?
The water at the Loutro is deep.
What is the surface of the sea like at the Loutro?
The surface of the sea at the Loutro is usually calm.
What is the crowd like at the Loutro?
The Loutro has normal crowds.
What facilities are available at the Loutro?
The Loutro has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, and showers.
What are the ways to access the Loutro?
The Loutro can be accessed by boat or walking.
What other information should I know about the Loutro?
The Loutro is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Review stats
Loutro has received 0 reviews with an average rating of out of 5
User reviews
Other beaches in the area
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Things to do near Loutro
Stays near Loutro
- 8.9 / 10
- Loutro
Daskalogiannis Hotel is situated on the beachfront in Loutro, 80 metres from Loutro Beach and 300 metres from Akroyiali Beach. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a shared lounge and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Rooms include a balcony with mountain views.
At the hotel the rooms include air conditioning, a desk, a terrace with a sea view, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, bed linen and towels. All rooms will provide guests with a fridge.
The daily breakfast offers continental, Full English/Irish or American options.
Guests at Daskalogiannis Hotel will be able to enjoy activities in and around Loutro, like hiking.
Finikas Beach is 1.1 km from the accommodation, while Lycos Beach is 2.9 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 83 km from Daskalogiannis Hotel.
- 170 m
- 8.9 / 10
- Taverna Akrogiali, Lykos, Crete
Offering a sun terrace and a public beach nearby, Taverna Akrogiali is situated in Lykos in the Crete Region. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant.
Every room includes a private bathroom equipped with a bath or shower.
There is a shared lounge at the property. Guests can enjoy various activities in the surroundings, including snorkelling, fishing and canoeing.
The property is arranging free transfer from and to Loutro. Chania International Airport is 100 km from the property.
from
€55
/night
- 1.0 km
- 9.3 / 10
- Λιβανιανά Σφακίων περιοχή Λύκος
Located in Livanianá, 600 metres from Lycos Beach, Georgoshouse Lykos beach Sfakia provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar. Less than 1 km from Marmara Beach and a 13-minute walk from Finikas Beach, the hotel features a private beach area. The accommodation offers room service and free WiFi throughout the property.
At the hotel, every room includes a patio with a garden view. Each room is fitted with a shared bathroom with a shower, while selected rooms come with a terrace and others also offer sea views. At Georgoshouse Lykos beach Sfakia all rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels.
The daily breakfast offers continental, vegetarian or vegan options.
Guests at the accommodation will be able to enjoy activities in and around Livanianá, like hiking and snorkelling.
Fortress of Frangokastello is 38 km from Georgoshouse Lykos beach Sfakia. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 100 km from the hotel.
from
€45
/night
- 1.2 km
- 9.6 / 10
- Ανώπολη Σφακίων , Χανιά Κρήτης
Located in Anopoli Sfakion and only 25 km from Fortress of Frangokastello, Madares Apartments Anopolis provides accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This apartment offers air-conditioned accommodation with a patio.
The apartment comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a terrace with sea views.
If you would like to discover the area, cycling is possible in the surroundings.
The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 87 km from the apartment.
- 2.4 km
- 9.6 / 10
- Sfakia, Hora Sfakion
Located in Khóra Sfakíon, within 100 metres of Vrissi Beach and less than 1 km of Ilingas Beach, The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel provides accommodation with a garden and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive. Featuring luggage storage space, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The property is allergy-free and is set 1.4 km from Ammoudi Beach.
At the hotel every room is equipped with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, bathrobes and slippers. Rooms include a kettle, while selected rooms have a patio and others also provide guests with garden views. At The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel all rooms come with bed linen and towels.
The nearest airport is Chania International, 76.5Km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
No breakfast on-site, instead, we offer a 10% discount in the local traditional bakery every morning during your stay.
Our property is not suitable for people with any walking issues, or mobility difficulties.
from
€115
/night
- 5.2 km
- 8.7 / 10
- Χώρα Σφακίων
Boasting inner courtyard views, Braos Villa features accommodation with a balcony and a kettle, around 100 metres from Vrissi Beach. With quiet street views, this accommodation provides a patio.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a hot tub and an a bath or shower. A flat-screen TV with streaming services is available.
Ilingas Beach is 1.1 km from the apartment, while Ammoudi Beach is 1.9 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 77 km from Braos Villa.
- 5.2 km
