Skotini beach
Skotini Beach is situated 32 kilometers northwest of Agios Nikolaos, north of Finokalias village. It is found at the exit point of Skotini gorge, one of the most secluded and untamed areas of Crete island. This isolated location houses a University of Crete research station for aerosol studies, established here due to the clean, unpolluted air and lack of human interference.
To get to the beach, one can follow a small canyon from Finokalias village until it meets the sea. A short path leading northwards will take you to the gorge bed. As you walk, you’ll encounter a stunning, undomesticated landscape dotted with bare rocks, sparse vegetation, and a plethora of herbs and spices. The gorge houses 2-3 water wells and numerous caves within its towering walls. According to local folklore, a mysterious woman named Datserolenia once lived in one of these caves, its entrance still guarded by a stone wall. A little further along the path, you’ll stumble upon the secluded Skotini beach.
Alternatively, from Finokalias, you could take the dirt road to St. Andrew’s monastery nestled amidst a pine forest on Cape Drepani. Part of the church is built into the mountain rock, with an inscription indicating it was restored using funds from Spinalonga patients. To get to the beach from the monastery, walk eastwards along the coastline. Eventually, you’ll come across an old fountain that still gushes fresh water.
The beach itself is characterized by pebbles and patches of rocks. The rocky seabed, coupled with frequent waves, makes swimming a challenge and occasionally hazardous. However, on a calm day, you’re likely to enjoy a refreshing, solitary dip in Skotini’s cool waters.
The name “Skotini” translates to “Dark” in Greek, likely a reference to the high and closely spaced walls of the canyon that block out the sun. This, along with the tree canopies overhanging the edges, creates a “dark” environment within the gorge. Another theory suggests the name comes from the numerous caves found within the gorge.
Beach details
- Pebbles
- Rocks in places
- Blue
- Deep
- Usually very wavy
- Tranquil
- Hiking
- Nudism friendly
- Rock shade
Location
Skotini beach is located at Skotini beach, in the Lassithi region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Skotini beach?
Skotini beach is a beautiful beach located in Greece.
Is Skotini beach suitable for swimming?
Yes, Skotini beach is suitable for swimming.
Are there any water sports available at Skotini beach?
There are no water sports available at Skotini beach.
Is Skotini beach crowded?
It depends on the time of year. During peak season, Skotini beach can be crowded.
Is there any shade available at Skotini beach?
There is limited shade available at Skotini beach.
Is there any parking available at Skotini beach?
There is limited parking available at Skotini beach.
Is Skotini beach accessible for people with disabilities?
Skotini beach is not accessible for people with disabilities.
Is there any accommodation available near Skotini beach?
There is limited accommodation available near Skotini beach.
Is there any restaurant or cafe available at Skotini beach?
There are no restaurants or cafes available at Skotini beach.
What is the water colour of the Skotini beach?
The water colour of the Skotini beach is blue.
What type of sand is found on the Skotini beach?
The Skotini beach has pebbles and rocks in some places.
How deep is the water at the Skotini beach?
The water at the Skotini beach is deep.
What is the surface of the sea like at the Skotini beach?
The sea surface at the Skotini beach is usually very wavy.
What is the crowd like at the Skotini beach?
The Skotini beach is usually quiet.
What facilities are available at the Skotini beach?
There are no facilities available at the Skotini beach.
How can the Skotini beach be accessed?
The Skotini beach can be accessed by walking.
Is the Skotini beach nudism friendly?
Yes, the Skotini beach is nudism friendly.
Is there any shade available on the Skotini beach?
Yes, there is rock shade available on the Skotini beach.
