Vathi is a spectacular beach located 79km and 17km southwest of Heraklion and the village Sivas, respectively. Situated very close to the southernmost point of Crete, Cape Lithino, and far away from urban centres, Vathi is an ideal destination for anyone seeking the ultimate relaxation. The beach is shaped at the exit of a small gorge, surrounded by long cliffs. The circular bight of the bay conceals it from the open sea, making Vathy a natural hideout; the legend says that pirates used it as their anchorage. The well-protected beach has almost always calm waters, although the surrounding beaches can be very wavy. The only wind that causes a storm in the area is from the southwest direction.
The walls along the gorge of the area are full of wonderful natural cavities, caused by the erosion of the white limestone by the wind and salt. Nearby, you will only see several makeshift huts, old campervans and primitive homes, built by the locals who come mainly from the village Gergeri. Their ancestors used to bring their flocks to this warm place in winter; their heirs now spend their summers in this tranquil place.
The beach is mainly sandy, with stones in places. The water is not very deep and the beach is surrounded by several tamarisk trees, where you can find shade. Nudism is not allowed here because it is considered offensive to the religious history of the area (due to Odigitria Monastery).
To access Vathi by car, follow the paved road from Sivas village to the monastery of Odigitria. From there, you should follow the first dirt track on your right hand, heading west, to Kefali Peak and ascending the wild Cape Lithino. Keep driving for about 15km on the rugged-gravel road, following the signs to Vathi. If you don’t have a car or you care about it (!), why not catch an excursion boat running to Vathi from Matala, Kokkinos Pirgos or Agia Galini?