Agios Georgios
On the south of Crete, just a little further from Agia Galini, there is the beach of Agios Georgios. It is a place away from the hustle and bustle of city life, with crystal clear blue waters and a pristine beach. The perfect spot for a relaxing vacation.
While getting to Agios Georgios, you will find many paths that will take you to small chapels or tiny, quiet pebble beaches.
Nikos Place
Sights
Monastery of Preveli
The monastery was founded in the 16th or 17th century and has a long history. It is located in a lush and verdant landscape.
Today the monastery is deserted, but there is a museum of ecclesiastical documents, vestments, etc.
After leaving the monastery, the visitor can reach on foot the beautiful beach of Preveli.
Agia Triada - Archaeological site
The Royal Villa or the small Minoan Palace of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) as was named by the archaeologists who excavated the area during the early 20th century. Was built in 1,600 BC over a hill near Phaistos and is one of the greatest monuments of Minoan architecture with important findings.
Matala beach
The beach of Matala has been occupied since ancient times. The settlers back then carved a set of caves in the soft rock of the mountain. During a period these same caves were inhabited by hippies who made them famous worldwide. The beach provides umbrellas and sunbeds. In the village there are tourist shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Kommos beach
The ancient port of Phaistos has one of the longest beaches in Crete. In front of the antiquities there is a part of the beach with sunbeds and umbrellas. There is a tavern a little further.
Sacred Monastery of Odigitria
Considered one of the oldest monasteries in Crete, this humble monastery still stands as a guard for Orthodoxy.
Apart from Agios Antonios, Agiofarango and Panagia in Martsalo, in the area of the monastery there are a series of chapels and hermitages.
The mill and the bakery at the monastery are operated as a museum.
Red Sand beach
This beach (Red Sand) aka Kokkini Ammos is a secluded beach which can be reached only by foot – with the reddish sand that bestows on it its name, and turquoise waters.
It is open to the strong south winds, and not very organized – just a few umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as a small café-canteen, built roughly out of stone. It is sensible, if you visit, to take all you need with you as the canteen is not always open, and there are no tavernas or shops nearby.
Kokkini Ammos and surrounding area has been included in the EC ecological network of Natura 2000: a protected refuge of the Mediterranean Monk seal, the loggerhead turtles (Kareta kareta) and other animals.
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