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.