- Region
- Sitia, east Crete
- Distance
- About 40 km from Sitia
- Beach
- Fine pebbles, some rocks
- Facilities
- Tavernas, rooms, umbrellas, showers
The beach
The bay is sheltered and the water usually calm, with a rocky sea bed that is good for snorkelling. Tamarisks give shade, and umbrellas and showers are set out in summer.
The palace of Zakros
Zakros was the fourth-largest Minoan palace after Knossos, Phaistos and Malia. Built around 1900 BC and destroyed around 1450 BC, it is the only palace found with its treasury unlooted; the finds are in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
The Gorge of the Dead
The Zakros gorge, called the Gorge of the Dead after Minoan burials in caves in its walls, runs from Ano Zakros down to the palace. The walk takes about two hours; finish with a swim and lunch at Kato Zakros. The big Pelekita cave is about 3 km north along the coast.
Questions before you go
How far is Kato Zakros from Sitia?
About 40 km, roughly 50 minutes by car; buses also run from Sitia.
Can you walk from Zakros to the beach?
Yes, through the Gorge of the Dead from Ano Zakros, about two hours.
Is there food at Kato Zakros?
Yes, a row of tavernas behind the beach.
