Pachia Ammos Beach Crete

The Pachia Ammos Beach, we find it in the region of Lassithi in the north east of the incredible Crete Island. About twenty kilometers from the picturesque and lively tourist resort of Agios Nikolaos.

In the southern part of the Mirabello Gulf, the beach of Pachia Ammos extends for about five hundred meters and is made up of sand mixed with pebbles with blue waters and seabed that descend slowly. We specify that only part of the beach of Pachia Ammos is ideal for a day at sea and precisely the west part as given its position, the east side is often subject to winds which create waves that are not exactly pleasant for a swim. On the contrary, it is very popular with lovers of water sports such as windsurfing, surfing or kitesurfing. The coast to the east is of large pebbles with a rocky bottom, not organized and in the hottest hours you can find relief under the tamarisk trees that surround the beach. In this part there is also the stream that feeds the imposing Cha gorge during the winter period.

The western part is sandy and for the purity of its waters is awarded the Blue Flag. It is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, showers, water sports, a lifeguard who watches over and ensures safety for bathers, and all possible comforts. Protected from the winds thanks to the breakwater of the port, it is perfect for families as the seabed is shallow and descends slowly.

Given its size, Pachia Ammos beach is never so crowded (apart from the very high season when you will not be one on top of the other) making it very pleasant for a beautiful day at the beach. The edge of the coast is very popular with lovers of naturism so it won't be difficult to find someone like mom did.

A few steps from Pachia Ammos, several cafes and typical taverns where you can taste the dishes of the local cuisine and the Greek tradition.

Let's spend a few words about the homonymous village, which can be interesting for an alternative for a few hours away from the sun. First of all the meaning of its name which derives from the characteristic sand of its beach which in Greek means “thick sand” (pachia - thick, soft sand). Built on the north side in the narrowest part of the island of Crete just outside a green valley covered with olive trees, it was once a key port for merchant ship routes between Europe and North Africa.

From the archaeological point of view, the area of Pachia Ammos has revealed a human presence since ancient times as evidenced by the findings of an old Minoan cemetery and the remains of the city of Gournia where you can admire some cisterns, an aqueduct and a former cellar probably belonged to a merchant of the Roman era.

Do not miss the Church of Agia Fotini perched on the coast below the port, with a cross shape and which preserves a beautiful colored icon dedicated to the saint depicting the Samaritans in the well with a jug in one hand and the other raised as a sign of blessing.

If you like to explore the area, then be sure to also visit the Vasiliki village about five kilometers south on the road to Ierapetra where you can admire ancient clay pots from the early Minoan period.

And finally, for lovers of nature and trekking, the Cha Gorge, also five kilometers to the east, offers wild and arid landscapes. A path will take you inside the canyon full of spectacular views and twenty-seven waterfalls of crystal clear waters. It is a very challenging route and suitable only for canyoning experts. It lasts about four hours and requires considerable experience and suitable equipment.

Head north east, follow the signs for Agios Nikolaos and then take the road that connects it to Sitia and Ierapetra and you will arrive safely.

Another beautiful destination to mark among the things to see in Crete to combine a pleasant day at the beach with a bit of history and nature, what else can you ask for?