General Information of the Municipal Unit of Sfakia

The Municipal Unit of Sfakion is located in the south and east of the prefecture of Chania. It is a coastal and mountainous D. unit, the northern part of which is located at the foot of the White Mountains. According to the 2001 census, the D. unit has a total of 2,446 inhabitants and an area of 467,589 acres. The D. section includes 9 municipal districts: Chora Sfakion, Agios Roumelis, Agios Ioannou, Anopoleos, Askifou, Asfendou, Imbros, Patsaniou, Skalotis.

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Geography

Sights

Sfakia, will say country of the gorges… However, some claim that the name came from the oleanders, which are locally called Sfakia, while there is also the version that originally the name was Sfikia until it became Sfakia. In any case, Sfakia is the homeland of the Sfakians, who did not allow any Turkish or German conqueror to invade this rocky and imposing place. The islands that stand out in the background when the atmosphere is clear, are Gavdos and Gavdopoula, the southernmost islands of Europe. The most beautiful way to approach Sfakia is to cross the famous gorge of Samaria. At a distance of 42 km from Chania and 3 km from Omalos, in Xyloskalo, the descent to the gorge begins. After a 5 or 6 hour hike, as we leave behind the gorge, we meet the village of Agia Roumeli which is bathed by the Libyan Sea. From there small boats transport the hikers to Chora of Sfakion, after a short stop in the picturesque village of Loutro. Another way to approach Sfakion is through Vrisi which is 33 km away from Chania. Heading south and following the uphill route that leads us to the valley of Krapi and then to the plateau of Askifos, we meet the village of Kallikratis which is located at an altitude of 750 meters from the sea. We return to the main road to Chora Sfakion and after 3 km we enter the gorge of Imvros. Just before we reach Chora we can bypass left for Komitades, Vouva, Nomikiana, Patsiano, Kapsodasos and Skaloti, as the area is rich in gorges. Especially outside the Imvriotikos gorge, those of Agios Nektarios and Kallikrates, which are located near the homonymous villages, are of interest. In addition, at a very short distance from Patsianos is the famous Frangokastelo, built in 1371 by the Venetians and is one of the most mythical places in Crete. Anyone who visits it at dawn on the 17th to the 18th of May can see on the walls of the castle the famous “Drosoulites”, according to popular tradition, but also enjoy the wonderful beaches of Frangokastelo and Orthi Ammos. Finally, arriving in Chora ton Sfakion, it is worth visiting the coastal caves, emphasizing that of Daskalogiannis that was used in the Revolution of 1770 as a mint but also to ascend to Anopolis with the wonderful view, to head to Aradena with the beautiful homonymous gorge or go to Agios Ioannis at the foot of the White Mountains. Chora Sfakion Historic village, 74 km SE of Chania, with 351 inhabitants, is built in a rocky, barren area, inaccessible by land and sea. Unique trees, a few pines at the entrance of the village and tamarisk trees. Except for the small port in front of the settlement and two beaches to the west, all the coasts are rocky and steep. The village has a few shops, while refueling can be done in the city. There are ATMs, gas station, post office and OTE office, from where international calls can be made. The village has a pharmacy, but it does not have a doctor or a dentist. There are no port authorities in the port, but there is a police station. Several hotels and rooms to let and taverns are located in the village, while in terms of transportation, taxis and a daily bus to Chania are available. A mooring for small boats is located next to the pier in the new port. The old port is only suitable for small boats and is usually full. Additional boats leave Chora Sfakion for Loutro, Paliochora and Gavdos. In summer there are many itineraries daily, but in winter it is much rarer. Inside the small port there is a beach, but you better prefer the west beach at the exit of Chora Sfakion. Another option is the beach of Ilinga, about 1 km west of Sfakia. There are rooms for rent and a tavern, while on the coast you will discover many sea caves. In the village are preserved many elements of traditional architecture, single-storey or two-storey houses with small doors and windows, closed courtyards with wells and ovens, narrow cobbled streets. During the summer months, it is always crowded, because most tourists pass through here, returning from the Samaria Gorge. About 14 km A from Chora is Frangokastello, in a flat, dry area. Its castle is impressive and its beaches are among the best in Crete. West of Chora, another tourist settlement, Loutro (access only from the sea 20 ‘by boat).

Agia Roumeli

Agia Roumeli is located in the area of ​​Sfakia on the south coast of the Prefecture of Chania, between Chora Sfakion and Paliochora. Agia Roumeli became famous, because here ends the path from the gorge of Samaria. The thousands of visitors who pass Samaria every summer, end up here to take the ferry that will take them to Loutro and Chora Sfakion (east) or to Sougia and Paliochora (west). The White Mountains with their high peaks and deep gorges keep Agia Roumeli isolated in their arms. The village is small, no road reaches here and all transport is carried out by boats. It is worth mentioning that the first photovoltaic station installed in Greece, operated from 1982 to 1989, in Agia Roumeli. How to get to Agia Roumeli 1. Walk through the gorge of Samaria. If you have the opportunity to stay in Agia Roumeli, then enter the gorge at noon and you will have the opportunity to walk it almost alone, since all the groups arrive early in the morning. You will reach Agia Roumeli after about 6 hours, the time when the last hikers will leave. 2. By boat from Chora Sfakion, which makes several itineraries daily in summer. 3. By boat from Paliochora and Sougia, which arrives in the morning and returns in the afternoon, giving you the opportunity for a beautiful day trip to Agia Roumeli and the lower part of the gorge of Samaria. You should know that in Agia Roumeli there is no safe port, but only a small pier, which makes it difficult to moor the ships of the line. The result is that the itineraries are interrupted when the weather is bad in the area, so there is a case to be excluded in Agia Roumeli for 1-2 days.

Agia Roumeli today

The name Agia Roumeli – Agia Roumeli in history Agia Roumeli today lives from tourism, and specifically from the 350,000 visitors who pass the gorge of Samaria. It is a great relief for the one who has walked for a few hours in the gorge of Samaria, to cross the last 2 kilometers after leaving the national park and to see the first houses of Agia Roumeli. A few meters below you will find several taverns chanting their delicious food, greek salad and frozen orange juice. Agia Roumeli has little charm for the visitor at these moments. Everyone is in a hurry to get on the boat and return to their home or hotel. The first stop is the ticket purchase for Loutro and Chora Sfakion to the east, or Sougia and Paliochora to the west. To reiterate at this point, that the most convenient option to cross Samaria is to stay in Sougia, take the morning bus that will take you to Omalos, walk Samaria and take the afternoon boat to Sougia. This way, your hassle will be minimal. Once you have secured the return ticket, and you have enough time until the boat arrives, then you can enjoy the food in one of the many taverns, cool off with a juice, coffee, soft drink or an ice cold beer, or dive in the crystal clear waters. on the beach of Agia Roumeli.

Accommodation in Agia Roumeli

But if you are not in a hurry to return to your home or hotel, it is a good idea to stay at least one night in Agia Roumeli and enjoy the beauty of the place, when the noise from the crowds of tourists will be gone with the last ferry. It will be late in the afternoon, the colors of the sunset will color the sky, and you will enjoy the serenity and beauty of the large pebble beach. Later, at night, you will enjoy delicious Sfakian recipes, good wine and if you are lucky, the company of the Sfakian black-clad restaurant, who will travel you to the secrets of his place through his stories. The people of Agia Roumeli are proud and talkative, but the love for their place, its gorges and mountains, Madares as they call the White Mountains, makes their eyes shine when they talk about it. If after the meal you are not tired of the day, go for a short walk on the pier or on the beach, sit down and turn your eyes to the sky. If it is a moonless night, thousands of stars will shine in the firmament and the galaxy will look like a bright cloud, a bright boulevard crossing the black void. The magic of the night sky on the south coast of Crete is something you have to experience to feel it.

What to do in Agia Roumeli

The next morning, Agia Roumeli unfolds even more options in front of you, like another Circe trying to enchant you with her beauty and keep you close to her.
* Enjoy a rich breakfast with Sfakian cheese and thyme honey, from the White Mountains.
* Enjoy the blue waters on the beach. The beach will be almost empty until noon when the first hikers will start arriving from the gorge of Samaria
* Climb the hill above Agia Roumeli to reach the ruined Turkish castle and see from above the exit of the gorge, the houses of Agia Roumeli, the beaches east and west, and of course the endless blue of the Libyan Sea that is interrupted only by the islands of Gavdos and Gavdopoula, the southernmost borders of Europe. The course will take half an hour, and the trail does not present any particular difficulty.
* An hour and a half after the Turkish castle, there are the ruins of a second castle. The path is constantly uphill and the castle is not preserved in good condition.
* Walk east to the pine beach and the Byzantine church of Agios Pavlos. It was so named in memory of the visit of the Apostle Paul. The route is 3.5 km. There is no water on the route, so take as much as you need with you. The beach will probably be empty and early in the morning the aroma of pine trees, fills the atmosphere.
* If you continue on the coastal path, 3 km below is Marmara beach, where there is a tavern. Another three kilometers below is the unique and beautiful Bath. The path continues for another 6 km, to Glyka Nera beach and Chora Sfakion. Those who want to have an idea of ​​the time they will need, let’s calculate 4 hours to Marmara, 5 hours to Loutro and 7 hours to Chora Sfakion, always starting from Agia Roumeli.
* For the good hikers who are not afraid of heights and have tried their hand at long marches, there is the coastal path from Agia Roumeli to Sougia. The journey takes 10 hours, maybe longer, and damage to the trail from winter rains is common, making it difficult for most. If you ask the locals, they will give you information about other routes in the area.

Beaches in Agia Roumeli

* The pebble beach west of Agia Roumeli
* The beach of Agios Pavlos east of Agia Roumeli
* For those who have a boat, the options are much more and they can enjoy beaches, both east of Agia Roumeli (Marmara, Loutro, Glyka Nera), but also west of it (Tripiti, Rooms and other smaller ones).

Sights in Agia Roumeli

* At the exit of the gorge of Samaria, you can see the ruins of the temple of Taraios Apollo.
* The church of Panagia, with beautiful mosaics of 1,500 is located on the eastern edge of the settlement of Agia Roumeli and is built on the ruins of the temple of Apollo and Artemis.
* The Byzantine church on the beach of Agios Pavlos, where according to tradition the Apostle Paul baptized Christians.
* The two Turkish castles above Agia Roumeli. Especially the first one will not have much difficulty to visit most to admire Agia Roumeli from above.

Askifou and Askifou plateau

You will find yourself on the Askifou plateau if you go to Chora Sfakion, Loutro or Frangokastello, from the road that starts from the village of Vryses. Vrises is located on the northern road axis and from here the road to Askifou is uphill, relatively narrow and with many turns. Askifou = Skyfos = Cup Askifou is about 50 km away from Chania, is located at an altitude of 730 meters and is part of the area, which we call Sfakia. The plateau is surrounded by the White Mountains and looks like a giant cup, which in ancient Greek is called skyfos (skyfos -> Askifou). It is possible that many thousands of years ago, the Askifou plateau was a large lake. Here, in 1821, a great battle took place between the Turks and the Sfakians, which ended in a victory for the locals. Unfortunately, 2 years later, in 1823, Askifou was burned down by Hussein Bey. Remnant of that time, is the small fortress that survives at the top of the hill to the northeast of the plateau. Routes from Askifou The peaks of the White Mountains that you face reaching Askifou from the north are Kastro, in the west (2,218 m.), Trypali in the east (1,493 m.) And Agathi (1,511 m.) In the south.
* From the opening on the south side of the plateau, the road to Chora Sfakion and Frangokastello continues. Here is also the beginning of the gorge of Imvros. It is a beautiful gorge, easy to walk in 2 hours to the village of Komitades.
* To the east of the plateau there is a road that goes up to the abandoned village of Asfendos and the plateau of Kallikrates. Continuing from Kallikratis you can go either to Frangokastello or Asi Gonia and from there to the green Springs of Argyroupoli and Rethymno.
* To the west of the plateau begins a road, but also a path, which goes up to the plateau of Niatos and the mountain refuge of Taurus. From here begins one of the mountaineering routes in the White Mountains, the ascent to the top of Kastro (2218 meters). What to do in Askifou
* In Askifou in the settlement of Kare, you can visit the War Museum of Georgios Hatzidakis, who was born in 1931 and from the age of 14 collects ammunition found in his area since World War II, but also from earlier times. Every space inside the museum and outside in the courtyard is suffocatingly full of rifles, revolvers, pistols, swords, mortars, missiles, binoculars, military uniforms, even the propeller of an airplane shot down in the battle of Crete. The oldest exhibit of the war museum is a small cannon from the armament of the ships of the time of Daskalogiannis (1770), while the largest exhibit in size is a German bomb.
* Also in Askifou, you will find rooms to stay and taverns to enjoy the traditional cuisine of this area, and especially the Sfakian pies (thin pies with cheese), accompanied by honey.
* Finally, those who have hunting as a hobby, in Askifou will find the hunter’s paradise, in an organized space. Here you can stay in traditional apartments and enjoy various activities such as horse riding, mountain biking, hiking, field trips and diving on the south coast. There is also a shooting range for those who want to practice shooting, while hunters can hunt various prey in a privately controlled area. If they do not have the necessary equipment, they can rent what they need, even hunting dogs.

Agios Ioannis

The community of Agios Ioannis, west of Chora Sfakion, is located at a high altitude overlooking the Libyan Sea. It officially has 53 inhabitants, of whom only about ten live in the village. The community is known for the churches of Agios Ioannis and Panagia, in which there are magnificent frescoes. Towards the sea there is the church of Agios Pavlos where, according to tradition, during his trip to Crete the Apostle Paul baptized the pagans at a nearby spring. There are also large caves in the area.

Anopolis

The community of Anopolis is located 10 km. northwest of Chora Sfakion at an altitude of 650 meters and on a fertile plateau at the southern foot of the Kastro peak. It is built near the homonymous ancient city, as well as in the ancient Aradena (Aradin or Heradin), where there is a Byzantine temple of Taxiarch Michael. The animal thieves used to swear at him. From the village square a path leads to the church of Agia Aikaterini in the settlement of Riza, where Pelasgian cyclopean walls are preserved. Anopolis was famous in Hellenistic times and mainly during the Roman and Byzantine periods. During the first centuries of Venetian rule, it became a center of resistance, but after the suppression of the Kallerga revolution in 1365, it was destroyed and deserted. It was resettled at the beginning of the Turkish occupation, to be completely destroyed again during the uprising of 1770 under the leadership of Ioannis Vlachos, known as Daskalogiannis.

Asfendou

To the east of Askifos at a distance of 8km. perched at an altitude of 770m., is the village of Asfendou of the homonymous community. To the east of the village there is a small cave with frescoes and the Falangari cave, with an underground lake at great depth.

Imbros

Built at an altitude of 780m. on the homonymous plateau, the village of Imbros (or Nimbros) is 16 km from Chora Sfakion. and is inhabited only from April to November. During the remaining months, its inhabitants spend the winter further south, in other villages of the province. Birthplace of many fighters, Imbros was destroyed several times in the years 1770, 1821, 1824 and 1827. The main products of the village are livestock products, nuts, honey, wine and tsikoudia.

Loutro

At a distance of 5km. west of Chora Sfakion is the fishing village of Loutro, at the end of the Mouros peninsula. Access is possible by walking about an hour from Anopolis and two hours from Chora Sfakion, or by small boats that connect it with Agia Roumeli, Paleochora, Sougia and Chora Sfakion. A natural harbor protected from the winds, it is believed that Loutro was the ancient Phoenician mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles. Its name comes from the baths found in the area. On the Mouros peninsula, there are the ruins of a Turkish castle. (The image we all have of paradise is not the same. Many imagine it as the serene and beautiful Bath, with the one and only bar, where the tables are right by the sea, the wonderful music and the gaze is lost on the rocky surface of water at a time when the full moon has painted the whole bay, silver.However there are those whose Bath drowns with its calmness and isolation (not that it is not crowded, there are simply no roads that lead to it or far Imagine for a second you were transposed into the karmic driven world of Earl. very much in love with your partner, so that you have something to do during the hours when you feel lost in the tranquility of the landscape. Just keep in mind that going back to everyday life is a very traumatic experience).

Frangokastello, in general

Frangokastello is located in the area of ​​Sfakia, on the south coast of western Crete, 13 kilometers east of Chora Sfakion and west of Plakias. Frangokastello is a small seaside settlement with a few houses and several rooms and apartments for tourists. It is known for the homonymous Venetian castle that survives in very good condition, its beautiful beaches and the Drosoulites, the ghosts that appear in Frangokastello at dawn every May. However, over the centuries the area has produced great monuments, few of which survive today. Many were destroyed in the wars and revolutions that took place in the area and the stones from their ruins were used to build the castle. Frangokastello is located in an unexpectedly flat small plain, behind which rise the eastern White Mountains with the gorge and the plateau of Kallikrates. This area is also one of the many surprises that the nature of Crete offers to the traveler. Frangokastello, useful information In Frangokastello you will find several rooms and apartments for your holidays. You will also find several taverns with delicious food and fresh fish. Do not forget to try the traditional recipes of the area, such as tsigariasto, bureki and Sfakian pies. In Frangokastello you will also find a mini-market, but if you need money you should go to Chora Sfakion, where there is an ATM. There is also the rural doctor’s office of the area. For your nightly entertainment, there is a nice bar in Frangokastello.

The castle Frangokastello What survives today from the castle Frangokastello is not far from its original form of 1371 AD, but in fact most of it was rebuilt in the 19th AD. century by Mustafa Nailis Pasha, the same one who had destroyed it earlier when he defeated the fighters of Hatzis Michalis Dalianis. Frangokastello was built according to the principles of fortification architecture before the appearance of gunpowder and the subsequent prevalence of the “bastion system”. It was never modernized, because the area was of secondary importance to the Venetians. It consists of four square towers which are connected to each other by straight vertical walls forming a rectangular building, which ends in jagged loopholes. A small arched fortress entrance is located to the east, while the main entrance is to the south and is adorned by wall sculptures of coats of arms of prominent families. Just above dominates a relief with the winged lion of St. Mark, symbol of the Republic of Venice. The Southwest tower is larger in size than the other three, and therefore more important because a) it has a larger capacity b) a larger field of view c) it was the last defense in case of occupation and d) it protected the south main gate. Internally, parallel to the walls, there were rectangular spaces, which are not preserved in excellent condition, for barracks, stables, warehouses, kitchens, ovens, etc.

The beaches in Frangokastello

Right in front of the castle is a beautiful sandy beach with very shallow waters, suitable for small children. West of the castle begins another beach with pebbles and rocky bottom, suitable for exploring with the mask. On this side of the settlement there are most apartments and rooms. East of the castle, about 300 meters, begins one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, the beach “Orthi Ammos”. It is so called from the sand dunes that are formed and that you have to go down to reach the water. The waters are crystal clear and the seabed goes very smoothly. A little secret about Frangokastello, is that to enjoy it, you must visit it when there is no strong north wind in Crete. Then the sea will be calm and the sand will not whip you mercilessly. Unfortunately, the high mountains of the area and the plain with the few trees, strengthen the north winds, as is the case in most areas of southern Crete.

How to get to Frangokastello

  • From the westLeaving Chania to reach Frangokastello, you will ascend to the plateau of Askifos and then descend to Chora Sfakion, leading next to the imposing cliff of the gorge of Imbros. Just below you will see for the first time the endless blue of the Libyan Sea. Drive slowly and carefully in closed turns and remember that when you get off, there may be a tour bus that will need the entire width of the road to turn. Just before Chora Sfakion you will turn left (east) and follow the signs to Frangokastello. In total, the journey from Chania takes about 1.5 hours.

    From the east

    If you come from the east you will leave Rethymno and drive in the direction of Plakia. Before Plakias you will follow the signs for Peach, Frangokastello and Chora Sfakion. The route is easier and shorter than the previous one and lasts about 1 hour from Rethymnon.

Monastery of Agios Charalambos

Near the Castle of Frangokastello and south of the early Christian basilica of Agios Nikitas, is built the small monastery of Agios Charalambos. At this point was the small church of Agios Charalambos, where shortly before 1821, the monk Gregory and the nun Magdalene settled here. Thanks to their efforts, this small church was soon expanded and the Monastery of Agios Charalambos was founded. For the construction of the facade of the church, marble architectural members from the ruined basilica of Astratigos were used. The Katholikon is surrounded by a wall with loopholes. To the west is the two-storey residential complex of monks, a typical example of local architecture. The wood-carved iconostasis and the icons of the Katholikon are interesting. This skilled craftsman who worked in Agios Charalambos has been conventionally named “Painter of Frangokastello”. We also find his works in the Preveli Monastery. Unfortunately, some of the icons of the Monastery of Agios Charalambos have been stolen.

Agios Astratigos and Agios Nikitas

In Frangokastello there are also the ruins of the early Christian basilicas of Agios Astratigos and Agios Nikitas.

Geography

Geography

Sights

Sights

Sfakia, will say country of the gorges… However, some claim that the name came from the oleanders, which are locally called Sfakia, while there is also the version that originally the name was Sfikia until it became Sfakia. In any case, Sfakia is the homeland of the Sfakians, who did not allow any Turkish or German conqueror to invade this rocky and imposing place. The islands that stand out in the background when the atmosphere is clear, are Gavdos and Gavdopoula, the southernmost islands of Europe. The most beautiful way to approach Sfakia is to cross the famous gorge of Samaria. At a distance of 42 km from Chania and 3 km from Omalos, in Xyloskalo, the descent to the gorge begins. After a 5 or 6 hour hike, as we leave behind the gorge, we meet the village of Agia Roumeli which is bathed by the Libyan Sea. From there small boats transport the hikers to Chora of Sfakion, after a short stop in the picturesque village of Loutro. Another way to approach Sfakion is through Vrisi which is 33 km away from Chania. Heading south and following the uphill route that leads us to the valley of Krapi and then to the plateau of Askifos, we meet the village of Kallikratis which is located at an altitude of 750 meters from the sea. We return to the main road to Chora Sfakion and after 3 km we enter the gorge of Imvros. Just before we reach Chora we can bypass left for Komitades, Vouva, Nomikiana, Patsiano, Kapsodasos and Skaloti, as the area is rich in gorges. Especially outside the Imvriotikos gorge, those of Agios Nektarios and Kallikrates, which are located near the homonymous villages, are of interest. In addition, at a very short distance from Patsianos is the famous Frangokastelo, built in 1371 by the Venetians and is one of the most mythical places in Crete. Anyone who visits it at dawn on the 17th to the 18th of May can see on the walls of the castle the famous “Drosoulites”, according to popular tradition, but also enjoy the wonderful beaches of Frangokastelo and Orthi Ammos. Finally, arriving in Chora ton Sfakion, it is worth visiting the coastal caves, emphasizing that of Daskalogiannis that was used in the Revolution of 1770 as a mint but also to ascend to Anopolis with the wonderful view, to head to Aradena with the beautiful homonymous gorge or go to Agios Ioannis at the foot of the White Mountains. Chora Sfakion Historic village, 74 km SE of Chania, with 351 inhabitants, is built in a rocky, barren area, inaccessible by land and sea. Unique trees, a few pines at the entrance of the village and tamarisk trees. Except for the small port in front of the settlement and two beaches to the west, all the coasts are rocky and steep. The village has a few shops, while refueling can be done in the city. There are ATMs, gas station, post office and OTE office, from where international calls can be made. The village has a pharmacy, but it does not have a doctor or a dentist. There are no port authorities in the port, but there is a police station. Several hotels and rooms to let and taverns are located in the village, while in terms of transportation, taxis and a daily bus to Chania are available. A mooring for small boats is located next to the pier in the new port. The old port is only suitable for small boats and is usually full. Additional boats leave Chora Sfakion for Loutro, Paliochora and Gavdos. In summer there are many itineraries daily, but in winter it is much rarer. Inside the small port there is a beach, but you better prefer the west beach at the exit of Chora Sfakion. Another option is the beach of Ilinga, about 1 km west of Sfakia. There are rooms for rent and a tavern, while on the coast you will discover many sea caves. In the village are preserved many elements of traditional architecture, single-storey or two-storey houses with small doors and windows, closed courtyards with wells and ovens, narrow cobbled streets. During the summer months, it is always crowded, because most tourists pass through here, returning from the Samaria Gorge. About 14 km A from Chora is Frangokastello, in a flat, dry area. Its castle is impressive and its beaches are among the best in Crete. West of Chora, another tourist settlement, Loutro (access only from the sea 20 ‘by boat).

Agia Roumeli

Agia Roumeli is located in the area of ​​Sfakia on the south coast of the Prefecture of Chania, between Chora Sfakion and Paliochora. Agia Roumeli became famous, because here ends the path from the gorge of Samaria. The thousands of visitors who pass Samaria every summer, end up here to take the ferry that will take them to Loutro and Chora Sfakion (east) or to Sougia and Paliochora (west). The White Mountains with their high peaks and deep gorges keep Agia Roumeli isolated in their arms. The village is small, no road reaches here and all transport is carried out by boats. It is worth mentioning that the first photovoltaic station installed in Greece, operated from 1982 to 1989, in Agia Roumeli. How to get to Agia Roumeli 1. Walk through the gorge of Samaria. If you have the opportunity to stay in Agia Roumeli, then enter the gorge at noon and you will have the opportunity to walk it almost alone, since all the groups arrive early in the morning. You will reach Agia Roumeli after about 6 hours, the time when the last hikers will leave. 2. By boat from Chora Sfakion, which makes several itineraries daily in summer. 3. By boat from Paliochora and Sougia, which arrives in the morning and returns in the afternoon, giving you the opportunity for a beautiful day trip to Agia Roumeli and the lower part of the gorge of Samaria. You should know that in Agia Roumeli there is no safe port, but only a small pier, which makes it difficult to moor the ships of the line. The result is that the itineraries are interrupted when the weather is bad in the area, so there is a case to be excluded in Agia Roumeli for 1-2 days.

Agia Roumeli today

The name Agia Roumeli – Agia Roumeli in history Agia Roumeli today lives from tourism, and specifically from the 350,000 visitors who pass the gorge of Samaria. It is a great relief for the one who has walked for a few hours in the gorge of Samaria, to cross the last 2 kilometers after leaving the national park and to see the first houses of Agia Roumeli. A few meters below you will find several taverns chanting their delicious food, greek salad and frozen orange juice. Agia Roumeli has little charm for the visitor at these moments. Everyone is in a hurry to get on the boat and return to their home or hotel. The first stop is the ticket purchase for Loutro and Chora Sfakion to the east, or Sougia and Paliochora to the west. To reiterate at this point, that the most convenient option to cross Samaria is to stay in Sougia, take the morning bus that will take you to Omalos, walk Samaria and take the afternoon boat to Sougia. This way, your hassle will be minimal. Once you have secured the return ticket, and you have enough time until the boat arrives, then you can enjoy the food in one of the many taverns, cool off with a juice, coffee, soft drink or an ice cold beer, or dive in the crystal clear waters. on the beach of Agia Roumeli.

Accommodation in Agia Roumeli

But if you are not in a hurry to return to your home or hotel, it is a good idea to stay at least one night in Agia Roumeli and enjoy the beauty of the place, when the noise from the crowds of tourists will be gone with the last ferry. It will be late in the afternoon, the colors of the sunset will color the sky, and you will enjoy the serenity and beauty of the large pebble beach. Later, at night, you will enjoy delicious Sfakian recipes, good wine and if you are lucky, the company of the Sfakian black-clad restaurant, who will travel you to the secrets of his place through his stories. The people of Agia Roumeli are proud and talkative, but the love for their place, its gorges and mountains, Madares as they call the White Mountains, makes their eyes shine when they talk about it. If after the meal you are not tired of the day, go for a short walk on the pier or on the beach, sit down and turn your eyes to the sky. If it is a moonless night, thousands of stars will shine in the firmament and the galaxy will look like a bright cloud, a bright boulevard crossing the black void. The magic of the night sky on the south coast of Crete is something you have to experience to feel it.

What to do in Agia Roumeli

The next morning, Agia Roumeli unfolds even more options in front of you, like another Circe trying to enchant you with her beauty and keep you close to her.
* Enjoy a rich breakfast with Sfakian cheese and thyme honey, from the White Mountains.
* Enjoy the blue waters on the beach. The beach will be almost empty until noon when the first hikers will start arriving from the gorge of Samaria
* Climb the hill above Agia Roumeli to reach the ruined Turkish castle and see from above the exit of the gorge, the houses of Agia Roumeli, the beaches east and west, and of course the endless blue of the Libyan Sea that is interrupted only by the islands of Gavdos and Gavdopoula, the southernmost borders of Europe. The course will take half an hour, and the trail does not present any particular difficulty.
* An hour and a half after the Turkish castle, there are the ruins of a second castle. The path is constantly uphill and the castle is not preserved in good condition.
* Walk east to the pine beach and the Byzantine church of Agios Pavlos. It was so named in memory of the visit of the Apostle Paul. The route is 3.5 km. There is no water on the route, so take as much as you need with you. The beach will probably be empty and early in the morning the aroma of pine trees, fills the atmosphere.
* If you continue on the coastal path, 3 km below is Marmara beach, where there is a tavern. Another three kilometers below is the unique and beautiful Bath. The path continues for another 6 km, to Glyka Nera beach and Chora Sfakion. Those who want to have an idea of ​​the time they will need, let’s calculate 4 hours to Marmara, 5 hours to Loutro and 7 hours to Chora Sfakion, always starting from Agia Roumeli.
* For the good hikers who are not afraid of heights and have tried their hand at long marches, there is the coastal path from Agia Roumeli to Sougia. The journey takes 10 hours, maybe longer, and damage to the trail from winter rains is common, making it difficult for most. If you ask the locals, they will give you information about other routes in the area.

Beaches in Agia Roumeli

* The pebble beach west of Agia Roumeli
* The beach of Agios Pavlos east of Agia Roumeli
* For those who have a boat, the options are much more and they can enjoy beaches, both east of Agia Roumeli (Marmara, Loutro, Glyka Nera), but also west of it (Tripiti, Rooms and other smaller ones).

Sights in Agia Roumeli

* At the exit of the gorge of Samaria, you can see the ruins of the temple of Taraios Apollo.
* The church of Panagia, with beautiful mosaics of 1,500 is located on the eastern edge of the settlement of Agia Roumeli and is built on the ruins of the temple of Apollo and Artemis.
* The Byzantine church on the beach of Agios Pavlos, where according to tradition the Apostle Paul baptized Christians.
* The two Turkish castles above Agia Roumeli. Especially the first one will not have much difficulty to visit most to admire Agia Roumeli from above.

Askifou and Askifou plateau

You will find yourself on the Askifou plateau if you go to Chora Sfakion, Loutro or Frangokastello, from the road that starts from the village of Vryses. Vrises is located on the northern road axis and from here the road to Askifou is uphill, relatively narrow and with many turns. Askifou = Skyfos = Cup Askifou is about 50 km away from Chania, is located at an altitude of 730 meters and is part of the area, which we call Sfakia. The plateau is surrounded by the White Mountains and looks like a giant cup, which in ancient Greek is called skyfos (skyfos -> Askifou). It is possible that many thousands of years ago, the Askifou plateau was a large lake. Here, in 1821, a great battle took place between the Turks and the Sfakians, which ended in a victory for the locals. Unfortunately, 2 years later, in 1823, Askifou was burned down by Hussein Bey. Remnant of that time, is the small fortress that survives at the top of the hill to the northeast of the plateau. Routes from Askifou The peaks of the White Mountains that you face reaching Askifou from the north are Kastro, in the west (2,218 m.), Trypali in the east (1,493 m.) And Agathi (1,511 m.) In the south.
* From the opening on the south side of the plateau, the road to Chora Sfakion and Frangokastello continues. Here is also the beginning of the gorge of Imvros. It is a beautiful gorge, easy to walk in 2 hours to the village of Komitades.
* To the east of the plateau there is a road that goes up to the abandoned village of Asfendos and the plateau of Kallikrates. Continuing from Kallikratis you can go either to Frangokastello or Asi Gonia and from there to the green Springs of Argyroupoli and Rethymno.
* To the west of the plateau begins a road, but also a path, which goes up to the plateau of Niatos and the mountain refuge of Taurus. From here begins one of the mountaineering routes in the White Mountains, the ascent to the top of Kastro (2218 meters). What to do in Askifou
* In Askifou in the settlement of Kare, you can visit the War Museum of Georgios Hatzidakis, who was born in 1931 and from the age of 14 collects ammunition found in his area since World War II, but also from earlier times. Every space inside the museum and outside in the courtyard is suffocatingly full of rifles, revolvers, pistols, swords, mortars, missiles, binoculars, military uniforms, even the propeller of an airplane shot down in the battle of Crete. The oldest exhibit of the war museum is a small cannon from the armament of the ships of the time of Daskalogiannis (1770), while the largest exhibit in size is a German bomb.
* Also in Askifou, you will find rooms to stay and taverns to enjoy the traditional cuisine of this area, and especially the Sfakian pies (thin pies with cheese), accompanied by honey.
* Finally, those who have hunting as a hobby, in Askifou will find the hunter’s paradise, in an organized space. Here you can stay in traditional apartments and enjoy various activities such as horse riding, mountain biking, hiking, field trips and diving on the south coast. There is also a shooting range for those who want to practice shooting, while hunters can hunt various prey in a privately controlled area. If they do not have the necessary equipment, they can rent what they need, even hunting dogs.

Agios Ioannis

The community of Agios Ioannis, west of Chora Sfakion, is located at a high altitude overlooking the Libyan Sea. It officially has 53 inhabitants, of whom only about ten live in the village. The community is known for the churches of Agios Ioannis and Panagia, in which there are magnificent frescoes. Towards the sea there is the church of Agios Pavlos where, according to tradition, during his trip to Crete the Apostle Paul baptized the pagans at a nearby spring. There are also large caves in the area.

Anopolis

The community of Anopolis is located 10 km. northwest of Chora Sfakion at an altitude of 650 meters and on a fertile plateau at the southern foot of the Kastro peak. It is built near the homonymous ancient city, as well as in the ancient Aradena (Aradin or Heradin), where there is a Byzantine temple of Taxiarch Michael. The animal thieves used to swear at him. From the village square a path leads to the church of Agia Aikaterini in the settlement of Riza, where Pelasgian cyclopean walls are preserved. Anopolis was famous in Hellenistic times and mainly during the Roman and Byzantine periods. During the first centuries of Venetian rule, it became a center of resistance, but after the suppression of the Kallerga revolution in 1365, it was destroyed and deserted. It was resettled at the beginning of the Turkish occupation, to be completely destroyed again during the uprising of 1770 under the leadership of Ioannis Vlachos, known as Daskalogiannis.

Asfendou

To the east of Askifos at a distance of 8km. perched at an altitude of 770m., is the village of Asfendou of the homonymous community. To the east of the village there is a small cave with frescoes and the Falangari cave, with an underground lake at great depth.

Imbros

Built at an altitude of 780m. on the homonymous plateau, the village of Imbros (or Nimbros) is 16 km from Chora Sfakion. and is inhabited only from April to November. During the remaining months, its inhabitants spend the winter further south, in other villages of the province. Birthplace of many fighters, Imbros was destroyed several times in the years 1770, 1821, 1824 and 1827. The main products of the village are livestock products, nuts, honey, wine and tsikoudia.

Loutro

At a distance of 5km. west of Chora Sfakion is the fishing village of Loutro, at the end of the Mouros peninsula. Access is possible by walking about an hour from Anopolis and two hours from Chora Sfakion, or by small boats that connect it with Agia Roumeli, Paleochora, Sougia and Chora Sfakion. A natural harbor protected from the winds, it is believed that Loutro was the ancient Phoenician mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles. Its name comes from the baths found in the area. On the Mouros peninsula, there are the ruins of a Turkish castle. (The image we all have of paradise is not the same. Many imagine it as the serene and beautiful Bath, with the one and only bar, where the tables are right by the sea, the wonderful music and the gaze is lost on the rocky surface of water at a time when the full moon has painted the whole bay, silver.However there are those whose Bath drowns with its calmness and isolation (not that it is not crowded, there are simply no roads that lead to it or far Imagine for a second you were transposed into the karmic driven world of Earl. very much in love with your partner, so that you have something to do during the hours when you feel lost in the tranquility of the landscape. Just keep in mind that going back to everyday life is a very traumatic experience).

Frangokastello, in general

Frangokastello is located in the area of ​​Sfakia, on the south coast of western Crete, 13 kilometers east of Chora Sfakion and west of Plakias. Frangokastello is a small seaside settlement with a few houses and several rooms and apartments for tourists. It is known for the homonymous Venetian castle that survives in very good condition, its beautiful beaches and the Drosoulites, the ghosts that appear in Frangokastello at dawn every May. However, over the centuries the area has produced great monuments, few of which survive today. Many were destroyed in the wars and revolutions that took place in the area and the stones from their ruins were used to build the castle. Frangokastello is located in an unexpectedly flat small plain, behind which rise the eastern White Mountains with the gorge and the plateau of Kallikrates. This area is also one of the many surprises that the nature of Crete offers to the traveler. Frangokastello, useful information In Frangokastello you will find several rooms and apartments for your holidays. You will also find several taverns with delicious food and fresh fish. Do not forget to try the traditional recipes of the area, such as tsigariasto, bureki and Sfakian pies. In Frangokastello you will also find a mini-market, but if you need money you should go to Chora Sfakion, where there is an ATM. There is also the rural doctor’s office of the area. For your nightly entertainment, there is a nice bar in Frangokastello.

The castle Frangokastello What survives today from the castle Frangokastello is not far from its original form of 1371 AD, but in fact most of it was rebuilt in the 19th AD. century by Mustafa Nailis Pasha, the same one who had destroyed it earlier when he defeated the fighters of Hatzis Michalis Dalianis. Frangokastello was built according to the principles of fortification architecture before the appearance of gunpowder and the subsequent prevalence of the “bastion system”. It was never modernized, because the area was of secondary importance to the Venetians. It consists of four square towers which are connected to each other by straight vertical walls forming a rectangular building, which ends in jagged loopholes. A small arched fortress entrance is located to the east, while the main entrance is to the south and is adorned by wall sculptures of coats of arms of prominent families. Just above dominates a relief with the winged lion of St. Mark, symbol of the Republic of Venice. The Southwest tower is larger in size than the other three, and therefore more important because a) it has a larger capacity b) a larger field of view c) it was the last defense in case of occupation and d) it protected the south main gate. Internally, parallel to the walls, there were rectangular spaces, which are not preserved in excellent condition, for barracks, stables, warehouses, kitchens, ovens, etc.

The beaches in Frangokastello

Right in front of the castle is a beautiful sandy beach with very shallow waters, suitable for small children. West of the castle begins another beach with pebbles and rocky bottom, suitable for exploring with the mask. On this side of the settlement there are most apartments and rooms. East of the castle, about 300 meters, begins one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, the beach “Orthi Ammos”. It is so called from the sand dunes that are formed and that you have to go down to reach the water. The waters are crystal clear and the seabed goes very smoothly. A little secret about Frangokastello, is that to enjoy it, you must visit it when there is no strong north wind in Crete. Then the sea will be calm and the sand will not whip you mercilessly. Unfortunately, the high mountains of the area and the plain with the few trees, strengthen the north winds, as is the case in most areas of southern Crete.

How to get to Frangokastello

  • From the westLeaving Chania to reach Frangokastello, you will ascend to the plateau of Askifos and then descend to Chora Sfakion, leading next to the imposing cliff of the gorge of Imbros. Just below you will see for the first time the endless blue of the Libyan Sea. Drive slowly and carefully in closed turns and remember that when you get off, there may be a tour bus that will need the entire width of the road to turn. Just before Chora Sfakion you will turn left (east) and follow the signs to Frangokastello. In total, the journey from Chania takes about 1.5 hours.

    From the east

    If you come from the east you will leave Rethymno and drive in the direction of Plakia. Before Plakias you will follow the signs for Peach, Frangokastello and Chora Sfakion. The route is easier and shorter than the previous one and lasts about 1 hour from Rethymnon.

Monastery of Agios Charalambos

Near the Castle of Frangokastello and south of the early Christian basilica of Agios Nikitas, is built the small monastery of Agios Charalambos. At this point was the small church of Agios Charalambos, where shortly before 1821, the monk Gregory and the nun Magdalene settled here. Thanks to their efforts, this small church was soon expanded and the Monastery of Agios Charalambos was founded. For the construction of the facade of the church, marble architectural members from the ruined basilica of Astratigos were used. The Katholikon is surrounded by a wall with loopholes. To the west is the two-storey residential complex of monks, a typical example of local architecture. The wood-carved iconostasis and the icons of the Katholikon are interesting. This skilled craftsman who worked in Agios Charalambos has been conventionally named “Painter of Frangokastello”. We also find his works in the Preveli Monastery. Unfortunately, some of the icons of the Monastery of Agios Charalambos have been stolen.

Agios Astratigos and Agios Nikitas

In Frangokastello there are also the ruins of the early Christian basilicas of Agios Astratigos and Agios Nikitas.