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Kato Zakros Village and Beaches

Kato Zakros by East Med Wanderer



The village of Kato Zakros...Κάτω Ζάκρος is located on the south-east coast of Crete in Greece, 42 kms from the town of Sitia in Lasithi provence.





The small hamlet, whose name is meaning ‘lower Zakros’, sits by the beach. Inland is the beautiful and rugged Zakros George also known as The Gorge of the Dead - Faragi ton Nekron - Φαράγγι των Νεκρών , which leads to Zakros village, a farming community 7 kms to the north.

The ancient Minoan site of Zakros Palace, dating from 1900 BC, is nestled behind the village and contributes to its protected status, keeping new development minimal. Important artefacts from this site include the beautiful rock crystal vase and bull's head rhyton displayed at the archeological museum in Heraklion.

A hideaway from the hustle and bustle, this village embodies the relaxed Greek seaside village character. White washed buildings with blue trims line the shorefront, a string of tavernas lines the bay; tranquility reigns.

Kato Zakros taverna by Ilias Pagianidis

Kato Zakros taverna by the beach - by East Med Wanderer

The clear crisp waters of the Mediterranean beckon, calling us in for a swim, but not before we have tried some local seafood; etheriná tiny crunchy whitebait with fresh lemon juice, washed down with some dopio crassi...local wine.

A few more dishes; octopus, calamari, grilled local fish and olives, fresh salads and bright red hand-picked tomatoes finish us off; we need a sleep on the beach under the pines. We enjoy the pebble beach, a slight breeze and the peace.

Minos Apartments Kato Zakros by Ilias Pagianidis



Rooms and apartments are available right on the water’s edge. A little way back amongst some shade are the beautiful Stella's Traditional Apartments (see above). Exuding traditional charm and run with marvellous hospitality by Elias and Stella, travellers will find a warm welcome here. We mention this inn because it is crafted with traditional architecture of stone and wood.

Extended walks around Kato Zakros and visits to nearby villages, beaches or a fascinating cave make a visit an adventure. Don't forget to look around and you may see honey buzzards, martins or falcons.

Walkers and hikers may find themselves plunging into the fresh waters after a long walk along the E4 Hiking Trail, which runs all along Kriti and finishes at this beach. A just reward.

Above all, breathing comes easy in this beautiful village.

Kato Zakros boats by Ilias




See more about Zakros Gorge...

See more about the town of Sitia...

More about the nearby village of Palekastro

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