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Skotini beach

About Skotini beach

The beach Skotini is located 32km northwest of Agios Nikolaos, north of the village Finokalias. It is formed at the exit of the gorge Skotini, which crosses one of the most remote and wild places of Crete. Indeed, in this solitary place, a sampling station of the University of Crete was established for the study of aerosols. Such a station could be constructed only in such a remote area, away from the polluted cities and from human activity.

To reach the beach you can walk into the small canyon until you meet the sea. From Finokalias follow the short path that leads northwards, until you see the bed of the gorge. While walking along this, you will cross one beautiful and wild landscape with bare rocks, low vegetation and numerous spices and herbs. In the gorge, you will see 2-3 wells with water, while the tall walls of the gorge host many caves. Indeed, one of the locals says that an eerie woman called Datserolenia lived. The cave has a stone wall that still protects its entrance. A few yards away, you’ll meet the small beach of Skotini.

Alternatively, from Finokalias you can follow the dirt road leading to the pine-forested monastery of St. Andrew, based in Cape Drepani. A part of the church is built on the rock of the mountain, with an inscription that reminds us that it was repaired at the expense of Spinalonga patients. In order to approach the beach from there, you need to walk eastwards, along the shore. Indeed, at some point, you will see an old fountain still flowing with water.

The beach is pebbly and has many rocks in places. The rocky seabed in conjunction with the frequently wavy sea makes swimming difficult and sometimes dangerous. However, if you reach the beach on a windless day, it is sure that you’ll enjoy your bath in the cool waters of Skotini, possibly all alone. 

The name Skotini means Dark in Greek and it probably derives from the fact that the walls of the canyon in some places are very high and come very close together. This fact, combined with the shade of the trees hanging over the edges, reduces the intensity of light and the gorge is “dark”. Another version says that it comes after the many caves of the canyon.

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FAQ

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 beach?

The water colour of the beach is blue.

What type of sand is found on the beach?

The beach has pebbles and rocks in some places.

How deep is the water at the beach?

The water at the beach is deep.

What is the surface of the sea like at the beach?

The sea surface at the beach is usually very wavy.

What is the crowd like at the beach?

The beach is usually quiet.

What facilities are available at the beach?

There are no facilities available at the beach.

How can the beach be accessed?

The beach can be accessed by walking.

Is the beach nudism friendly?

Yes, the beach is nudism friendly.

Is there any shade available on the beach?

Yes, there is rock shade available on the beach.

Beach facilities

Crowds

  • Quiet

Water depths

  • Deep

Beach sand type

  • Pebbles
  • Rocks in places

Sea surface

  • Usually very wavy

Water colour

  • Blue

Accessibility

  • Walking

Other information

  • Nudism friendly
  • Rock shade

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