Frangokastello Beach

Frangokastello beach is huge, with massive sand dunes, and shallow turquoise waters all beneath the towering walls of the Venetian fort. The fort and this beach are in a small plain southeast of the White Mountains to the south of Chania. Frangokastelo is well-known for its Venetian fortress that dates back to the 4th century which witnessed scenes of bloodshed during a battle in 1828 between the Cretan guerrilla leaders who had taken refuge here and the Turks. During this battle, the towers of the castle were destroyed. It is also known for a peculiar Cretan legend and can serve as a starting point for exploring the whole area of Sfakia. This legend is about the “Drosoulites”, a mirage phenomenon which multiple residents have claimed they have witnessed. The visions occur very early in the morning on calm days, in the second half of May; this is around the anniversary of the Battle of Frangokastello. The visions are shadows of horsemen, which the locals have named Drosoulites, meaning “morning dew silhouettes”.

The fort was built between 1371-1374 to protect and control the area from rebellious locals and from pirates. The stones were plundered, already cut and shaped, from the nearby ancient city of Nikita. Today it is restored and in good condition. The beach is organized, with umbrellas, sunbeds and showers, and it can get quite crowded during peak season. It is most suitable for families with young children due to its calm and shallow waters.

West of Frangokastello, on the road to Chora Sfakion, we meet Vatalos beach and quite a few nudist-friendly beaches close to the village of Vritomartis. To the east, following the coastal road, there are various other beaches and coastal settlements that are secluded and best suited for visitors wishing to escape the crowds. The region of Sfakia is also known as a hiking and nature enthusiasts paradise. The gorges in this area are challenging and diverse in their terrain and landscape, with beautiful vistas over the Libyan Sea.

To get to Frangokastello from the northern part of the island, near Chania, you will follow the road through Vrysses village and follow signs to Chora Sfakion.