Glyka Nera Beach Crete

The magnificent Glyka Nera Beach, we find it in the southwestern part of the Crete Island about 43 kilometers from Chora Sfakion and about eighty from the town of Chania.

A pebble coast bathed by clean and transparent waters that never move, a sea with a color that varies from turquoise to emerald green to sparkling blue towards the open sea, cliffs up to 500 meters high that are part of the Lefkà Ori so called the mountain range in the southwestern part of Crete that embrace it protecting it from the winds and tamarisk trees that surround it, giving moments of respite during the hottest hours, here's what awaits you in this beautiful beach.

Its name in Greek means “fresh water (glyka-sweet, black-water) and it owes it to a strange and particular phenomenon. In the subsoil, fresh drinking water flows that gushes from the source between the rocks and if you try to make a hole in the earth among the pebbles, you will see that as if by magic you will find water.

The Glyka Nera beach is so beautiful that in 2003 it was included among the best beaches in Europe and we can say that this recognition deserves it all. The scenario you will encounter is amazing with its cliffs that rise above the sea in a context that is still extremely primitive and intact.

It is much loved by campers and naturism since reaching it is not so easy and therefore you can enjoy a blissful peace. It is equipped with a few sun beds and umbrellas but does not detract from the fact that if you want a completely "Spartan" day you can spread out your towel in the free areas. Regarding drinks and food, no problem, despite its remote location, there is a bizarre tavern built right above a rock in the middle of the sea, connected by a pier to the beach where you can satisfy your taste with traditional local dishes. based on the freshest products.

It should be emphasized that the sea water tends to always be a bit chilly even in August when temperatures soar considerably due to the natural underground springs but nothing impossible, you will have that thrill for a few seconds that will turn in no time at all. in a pleasant refreshment.

Lovers of extreme sports can delight in driving through a dirt road and then leave the car at a certain point and continue on foot through the mountain path.

There are two ways to reach Glyka Nera beach, either by sea or on foot.

Let's start with the solution by sea. From the port of Sfakia or from the wonderful village of Loutro the boats depart that lead directly to the beach so all in all unless there is a bit of sea a comfortable and simple journey.

For those who love trekking and walking, a spectacular route that always from Chora Sfakia rather than from Loutro will make you discover this little corner of paradise. Let's say that you need to be trained and a little used to walking in the mountains even if the path is still safe as it is well cared for by the local authorities. So first of all you have to take the coastal path E4 which connects Sfakia to Loutro via Glika Nera. From Sfakia head towards Anopolis where after a steep bend you will find a sign above a rock that indicates the start of the path. We warn you that most of the walk will be on the edge of a cliff so 'if you suffer from vertigo, opt for a much better boat! It must be said, however, that on foot you can see unique views that will repay the effort. We are talking about a walk of over an hour more difficult certainly on the way back as it is mostly uphill so remember not only to have suitable clothing, but also to bring plenty of water to hydrate yourself as you will be perpetually under the scorching sun.

What else can we add? Put it among the things to see in Crete it will once again be a pleasant discovery.