Xerokambos beach

Located 500m east of Xerokambos, you will discover one of the most unique landscapes in Eastern Crete. A vast dried salt lake lies adjacent to the sea during the summer months, which may not seem particularly striking. However, visiting in the spring or winter months will reveal its true significance. During these seasons, the lake, known as Alatsolimni, or Salt Lake, fills with water and transforms into a miniature lagoon. This environment fosters the growth of thousands of microorganisms and serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds waiting for calmer winds. You may spot a variety of bird species such as herons, hawks, and flamingos.

A beautiful sandy beach with shallow waters extends in front of the lagoon, providing an ideal spot for solitude. The most opportune time to visit is early spring, when the lake is still flooded and the surrounding area is adorned with vibrant blossoms. Locals refer to this area as Alykes, which translates to saltpans, a name derived from the form of the shallow waters.

Opposite the bay, the islets of Kavali provide a suitable habitat for the Falco eleonorael. Other species in the area include the Falco peregrines, Aquila chrysaetos, and Hieraaetus fasciatus. During migration, the area is also frequented by the vulture Neoprhon percknopterus.

A 500-meter journey west from the Xerokambos settlement will lead you to the area’s initial hotels and the expansive beach of Mazida Ammos, the longest in Xerokambos. This stunning beach boasts white sands and crystal-clear shallow turquoise waters. To the east, it’s well shielded by Cape Trachilos, at whose tip you’ll find a sea cave named Fokiospilio. Across from Mazida Ammos, you’ll spot the minor islets known as Kavali.

Alona beach, also known as Krinakia, is located near the exit of the Katsounaki Gorge, to the east of the Xirokambos settlement. A torrent from the gorge flows onto the Potamos beach during winter, situated adjacent to the stunning sandy beach of Alona. The beach is dotted with sand dunes, which are blanketed by white sea daffodils in the fall season. Trekking through the canyon is fairly effortless, highlighting a wild landscape with imposing walls; a trek from the top to the bottom of Alona is possible.

To the west of Alona lies another beach, Potamos, accessible by car. It’s located at the mouth of the Katsounaki river, characterized by large round pebbles. One can reach it by driving along the river towards the sea. While it may not be particularly remarkable, it offers a serene and secluded atmosphere. This beach is also referred to as Italika, named after Italian houses located on the beach.

The first beach you encounter when heading west in Xerokambos is Amatos harbour. It’s a naturally encompassed harbour featuring tranquil water. The beach, although remote, is pebbly and offers an ideal environment for spearfishing. Few tamarisk trees dot the landscape and there’s a ramp to facilitate boat launching. An accessible dirt road connects the harbour to the Xerokambos settlement, from which the path to Agia Irini beach starts.

Heading from the harbour to the Xerokambos settlement, after about 100 metres, you stumble upon a hidden bay. It’s filled with fine grey pebbles and has a smaller cove nearby. This area, known as Ligias Lakkos, can be reached via a stone path that winds through the towering cliffs that surround it. The landscape is breathtaking; rugged mountains tower behind you, a peaceful harbour is on your right, and the Kavalli islands are to your left.