Ierapetra is one of the most popular destinations for visitors who prefer quiet and alternative holidays. As well as the beaches in the city of Ierapetra and west of it, there are many beaches of unique natural beauty in the east, as far as Makri Gialos.
Koutsounari is located 10 km east of Ierapetra. The long beach is 5 km long. It is known for its fine, grayish pebbles and crystal-clear waters and is awarded with the Blue Flag every year. Along the beach, in places, it is organized with mini markets and hotel. There is, also, a well-organized campsite.
The area around Ferma, the next beach, is overgrown with pine forest and dense vegetation. Along the coast, between the high rocks, several small bays are formed. Livadi is the most famous beach, beautiful, with pebbles and crystal-clear deep waters. To get here, two paths with steps lead down to the beach. The gorge of Mylonas with its waterfalls is very close and a favorite destination for families who want to enjoy nature.
Agia Fotia is located 12 km east of Ierapetra, it got its name from the picturesque church of Agia Foteini, 200 meters from the beach. It is a favorite destination for locals. The beach is a small bay, formed at the mouth of a stream and is hidden between high mountains and rocks. There are many plane trees and tamarisks. The blue of the sea and the green of the trees impress the visitor. There is a spring in the rock with fresh water at the eastern end of the beach.
Achlia is located 15 km east of Ierapetra. The calm, organized beach is relatively protected from the winds that blow in the area and is suitable for family holidays. It is a small bay with small gravel and blue waters. The church of Saints Anargyroi is located above the beach.
Mavros Kolymbos is located 16 km east of Ierapetra. It is a quiet, beautiful beach with fine, gray pebbles, crystal clear waters and tamarisk trees. The bottom is rocky and ideal for snorkelling. The small church of Agios Panteleimon dominates the beach. The beach is organized with rooms to let and small taverns.
The beach of Koutsouras is located 22 km from Ierapetra, it has dark, gray pebbles, calm waters and it is, also, constantly awarded with a blue flag. The pine forest next to the beach of Apigianas is known, not only for the summer cultural events, but, also, because the famous gorge of the Red Butterflies ends there. In late summer, several migratory birds, similar to storks, stop here before continuing their journey.
The beaches, east of Ierapetra, are beautiful and unique, and their clear waters and the nature around make them worth visiting.
(more articles about Crete on www.gomega.gr)
