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Platani, situated 7km to the west of Sitia and 60km east of Agios Nikolaos on Crete island, can be reached by taking the road to Faneromeni Monastery, which starts near the village of Skopi. Around 2km after Skopi, just before reaching the monastery, you’ll discover two adjacent small pebbly beaches with crystal clear waters.
The first beach, known as Agii Pantes, is nestled at the exit of the verdant Agii Pantes gorge, which can be accessed easily by a hiking trail. Limestone formations near the beach, resembling Pleurotus mushrooms, are a sight to behold. The gorge houses two freshwater springs, Koutsounari and Hosto Nero, the latter located inside a cave. During winter, Agii Pantes beach floods and transforms into a significant wetland.
The second beach, Platani, is formed at the exit of another lush canyon that runs parallel to Agii Pantes. The canyon starts from Faneromeni Monastery. The beach is named Platani, which translates to platan tree in Greek, after the platan trees that line the beach. A spring with fresh water is located next to the beach. This undeveloped area is perfect for peaceful solitude and calm swimming. To the west of Cape Trahilos lies Papadiokambos, a spot renowned for windsurfing.
While you’re in the area, it’s worth paying a visit to the Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni, located adjacent to the Platani gorge. The monastery, likely built in the 14th century and renovated in 1624, houses paintings dated to 1455. These were blackened by the destructive raids of the pirate Barbarossa in 1538 and by the Turks in 1829. The monastery’s name, Faneromeni, which means ‘Revealed’, is derived from the image of the Virgin Mary that reportedly “appeared” in a small cave next to the church. Today, the monastery is uninhabited.
There are various activities you can do at Platani beach such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and snorkeling.
Yes, Platani beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm, and there are lifeguards on duty during the day.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Platani beach where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.
Yes, you can rent beach equipment such as umbrellas, sun loungers, and beach towels at Platani beach.
Yes, there is a parking area near Platani beach where you can park your car for a fee.
Yes, there are several water sports activities available at Platani beach such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
No, pets are not allowed at Platani beach for hygiene and safety reasons.
The water colour of the Platani beach is blue.
The Platani beach has pebbles as its sand type.
The water at the Platani beach is deep.
The sea surface at the Platani beach is usually wavy.
The Platani beach is usually quiet.
There are no facilities available at the Platani beach.
The Platani beach can be accessed through a paved road.
The Platani beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing, and there is tree shade available.