Isolated beach: The World’s Best Secluded Beaches

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March 22, 2023
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The World’s Best Secluded Beaches

The World’s Best Secluded Beaches | ShermansTravel

Everybody loves a day at the beach; the problem is the “everybody” that comes with it. We’ve compiled a list of places where entrance fees (other than to preserve the pristine surroundings), peddlers, and—most importantly—crowds are nonexistent. Though so are conveniences, so go prepared.

Everybody loves a day at the beach; the problem is the “everybody” that comes with it. We’ve compiled a list of places where entrance fees (other than to preserve the pristine surroundings) and — most importantly — crowds are nonexistent. Though so are conveniences, so go prepared.

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Baía de Sancho

Thanks to its UNESCO status, Baía de Sancho is protected from commercial development and mass tourism. Located in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, off Brazil’s northeastern coast, the few visitors who do make it are thinned out even further by the precarious approach—a cliff-side descent down a series of ladders. The water thrives with marine life, from live coral to manta rays to dolphins.

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Costa de la Luz

This 50-mile stretch of shoreline from Huelva to Tarifa in Southern Spain sees 300-plus days of suns per year. The pinewood tree- and dune-lined beaches are free of crowds and high-rise developments. Its relative remoteness (the closest city, Seville, is three hours by car) and forceful coastal winds detract the masses, save for avid windsurfers who consider the area to be a sporting mecca.

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Long Bay

Located on Tortola, the largest of BVI’s 60-plus islands, Long Bay is accessible by the steep, rugged road past Nail Bay or via anchored boat off the coast. This isolated inlet is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Aside from the occasional sailboat—and the blue herons and pelicans who call Long Bay home—you’ll enjoy this stretch of paradise in near solitude.

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Palmetto Point Beach

Barbuda, some 25 miles to the northeast of Antigua, is a rarity in the Caribbean—miles of white- and pink-hued beaches largely remain untouched, with only a handful of full-service resorts to share them. Even the island’s finest stretch, a 7-mile expanse from Palmetto Point to Coco Point, is typically so deserted that you can expect to share your day with seashells instead of people.

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Tonsai Beach

To reach Thailand’s Tonsai Beach, you have to take two longtail boats: one from Krabi or Ao Nang, and a second a from Railay Beach. The tiny stretch of white sand is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and warm emerald water. Kick back, or go rock climbing, kayaking, or snorkeling—you’ll find an abundance of colorful coral reefs and cartoon-like fishes.

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Shipwreck Beach

Thanks to the sheer cliffs that surround Shipwreck Beach, the milky-white crescent of sand on the Greek island of Zakynthos remains stunning and secluded. Accessible only by boat—cruises depart from the villages of Volimes or Porto Vromi—the famous shore gets its name from a marooned vessel, dating back to 1983, that remains half-emerged in the sand.

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Trou d’Argent

Trou d’Argent translates to “Money Hole,” a reference to the treasure that is rumored to be buried here; but we’d argue that the treasure may be the beach itself. Located on the eastern coast of Mauritius’s Rodrigues Island, the horseshoe-shaped, cliff-hugging cove touts striking views of the Indian Ocean. Access it from St. Francois, via 45-minute rocky cliff-top path shaded by filao trees.

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Uoleva Island

Uoleva’s far-flung locale—within the South Pacific archipelago of Tonga’s Ha’apai Group—ensures that visitors who make the trek will be rewarded with pristine, nearly deserted beaches. Swim, fish, or snorkel among the western shores, which are peppered with vibrant coral reef. There are no more permanent island inhabitants than you count on your fingers, so distractions are few and far between.

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Whitehaven Beach

Tucked away on Australia’s idyllic Whitsunday Island, this 4-mile beach owes its silky, talcum-powder sand to 99. 8-percent pure silica grains. Backed by lush acacia forest and a shore that fades into crystal cerulean waters, the setting both recalls and transcends island clichés. Strict visitation limits enforced by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority ensure it stays that way.

Tucked away on Australia’s idyllic Whitsunday Island, this 4-mile beach owes its silky, talcum-powder sand to 99.8-percent pure silica grains. Backed by lush acacia forest and a shore that fades into crystal cerulean waters, the setting both recalls and transcends island clichés. Strict visitation limits enforced by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority ensure it stays that way.

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24 Secluded Beach Paradises Around the World

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June 21, 2021

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Sun, Sand, Surf, and Solitude

After months of self-quarantine, you may be ready for that beach trip, but still not equipped to cope with crowds. Luckily, there are plenty of secluded stretches of sand to be found around the world, places that don’t require staying at an exclusive private resort to gain access. While these off-the-beaten-path destinations may not necessarily be easy to reach — and might just for daydreaming at the moment — the reward is a peaceful and pristine beach experience, far from the crowds.

Related: 50 of the Most Beautiful Beaches in America

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La Playuela (Also Known As Playa Sucia), Puerto Rico

A half-moon shaped beach that’s described as a haven for nature lovers, La Playuela can be found in the family and budget-friendly town of Cabo Rojo. It’s about a 2½-hour drive from San Juan to reach this beach, but the reward is an opportunity to explore hidden caves, private beach coves and dramatic limestone cliffs. There’s also bird watching and scenic hiking trails.

Related: 30 Things You Didn’t Know About Puerto Rico

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Point Sal State Beach, California

The central California coast is home to some of the state’s most beautiful beaches, but one of the most scenic and least-visited is Point Sal. The state park that makes up Point Sal includes about 80 acres and just over 1½ miles of ocean frontage. The coastline views here will take your breath away. And just offshore is Lion Rock, an important bird-roosting site that’s also frequented by sea lions.

Related: The 20 Best Beaches on the West Coast

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Batibou Beach, Dominica

If your definition of beach paradise includes crystal clear waters, golden sand and palm trees lining the shore, look no further than Dominica’s Batibou Beach. Picturesque and untouched, visitors can access the beach by driving or hiking through a private coconut palm farm.

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Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Australia

Having visited more than 73 countries, Jeff Miller and his wife, Kristen, creators of the site Our Passion for Travel, particularly love coming across hidden beaches. Among their favorites on the planet is Australia’s Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, a place known for brilliant white silica sand that’s among the purest in the world. The island is accessible by boat, seaplane, or helicopter from nearby Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island. “Anyone visiting this region of Australia, famed for its endless sunshine, would do well to jump on a day trip or cruise to see this narrow strip of sand and enjoy playing in the azure colored waters,” Jeff Miller said.

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Sunset Beach, Brunswick Islands, North Carolina

You don’t need to fly halfway around the world to find an unspoiled stretch of sand. The remote Sunset Beach is the southernmost barrier island beach on North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands. It offers sweeping views and plenty of space to reconnect with nature. Another stunning attraction here is the Bird Island Reserve, which features pristine sandy white beaches, high natural dunes, and more than 1,200 acres of beautiful salt marsh and tidal creeks.

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Duck, North Carolina

Another North Carolina gem, this off-the-beaten-path paradise can be found in the Outer Banks between Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. An unspoiled beach destination, Duck offers adventure and relaxation. Visitors will find clean waters and beaches, maritime forests, wetlands, and dunescapes.

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Playa Caracas, Vieques, Puerto Rico

An island located off the east coast of Puerto Rico, Vieques, is an exquisite paradise featuring crystal blue water and the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. The beach Playa Caracas is a favorite among locals. The sand is a soft, white coral, and its waters are known for gentle waves, making the place a good choice for children. The dramatic cliffs in the distance add to the charm of this picturesque beach that has even been visited by Victoria’s Secret models for a photo shoot.

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Kabira Bay, Ishigaki Island, Japan

While Japan may not necessarily spring to mind when thinking about the planet’s top beach destinations, the Okinawa region of the country is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The region has more than 100 islands. Perhaps one of the most secluded, remote, and breathtaking options here can be found on Ishigaki Island. Located along the Ishigaki’s northern coast, Kabira Bay is known for turquoise waters, white sand, and lush greenery. With its coral reefs, Kabira Bay is also a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers.

Related: 20 Under-the-Radar Beaches Below the Equator

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Maguana, Baracoa, Cuba

Located in a coffee- and cacao-producing region of Cuba, Baracoa is a city and municipality at the eastern tip of the island that’s home to dozens of small, solitary beaches, says Boaz Sobrado, who runs the site Why Not Cuba. His personal favorite is Maguana, an extremely secluded white-sand beach visited by only the most dedicated of travelers.

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Placencia, Belize

An emerald peninsula in southern Belize with 16 miles of sandy beach, Placencia is the definition of remote tropical paradise. “It’s a small community that is not well known, and people who visit like it that way,” said David Keener, a Belize vacation expert and owner of a private island, adding that the entire peninsula can be navigated on a beach-cruiser bike. And don’t miss the Placencia Lagoon, which is home to manatees.

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Hyams Beach, New South Wales, Australia

Located on the south coast of New South Wales on Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach is credited with having the world’s whitest sand, says Jeff Miller, creator of the site Our Passion for Travel. “This beach is tucked away in a small coastal town with nearby rock pools, a gentle surf and clear water,” said Miller.

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Koh Thmei, Cambodia

Most beachgoers in Cambodia head straight to Sihanoukville peninsula and its surrounding islands. To avoid mobs of “flashpackers” (upscale backpackers) and the inevitable “foreigner tax” added to every purchase, head to Koh Thmei in Ream National Park. The pristine island, home to a few local families and a small shrimp fishery, is about 3½ hours from Phnom Penh and can be reached by boat. It’s about a one-hour boat ride from Koh Kchhang Fishing Village.

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Rawa Island, Malaysia

This tiny beach paradise is owned by the Sultanate of Johor. “Secluded,” “remote,” and “idyllic” are some of the words repeated by visitors and travel writers when describing Rawa Island. Ten miles off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, Rawa draws mostly Singaporeans looking for a weekend getaway. No shopping or tourist traps here; just white sand, excellent snorkeling, and a nightly buffet of fresh-caught seafood.

Related: 12 Affordable Boat Adventures in Asia

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Nabule, Myanmar

In a country that is already well off the tourist trail, Nabule Beach is a remote beach getaway in the vein of Robinson Crusoe. Getting here won’t be easy. The beach is located 12 miles off Maungmagan Beach in southeastern Myanmar. Those who make the trek will find a golden stupa, or Buddhist shrine, sitting atop a huge rock overlooking the deep blue water and a beach dotted with smaller boulders beckoning to be climbed. Boat tours, jet skis, fruit stands, and backpacker hostels are conspicuously absent. There’s really no one trying to sell or buy anything at Nabule — just the sound of the waves and the sand between your toes.

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Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Sprinkled in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are some of the most remote places on the planet — and certainly the least visited on this list. Officially part of India, the islands are closer geographically to Thailand and Myanmar. Most of the hundreds of islands are uninhabited. The least visited is Rutland Island, on the southern end of the archipelago. Your feet may be the first to imprint the sand on any given day, and it’s easy to see the sun set without having talked to another soul. Head to Baratang or Havelock Islands for a beach with slightly more amenities.

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Koh Rong Island, Cambodia

An accessible and affordable beach paradise, Koh Rong is described as nothing short of magical by Alex Waltner, creator of the popular travel blog Swedishnomad. “It has the finest white sand and turquoise water,” Waltner said. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, there are four small villages on the island and more than one dozen guesthouses and bungalows.

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1000 Steps Beach, Bonaire

Bonaire is an island that’s been overlooked for far too long, says Yasmin Parsloe, who runs the website Beach. A destination of understated charm, Bonaire is home to about 22 mostly secluded beaches, according to Parsloe. “My favorite is 1000 Steps. You have to climb carefully down a limestone staircase to get to the sand, but the scenery is well worth it,” Parsloe said. Those who make the trek down will find white sand, bleached chunks of coral and a cove ringed by limestone cliffs. The beach is also a good place for diving and snorkeling as turtles can often be spotted in the shallow turquoise waters.

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Cala Fonda (Aka Waikiki Beach), Tarragona, Spain

A beach that comes highly recommended from the operators of Barcelona Eat Local Food Tours, Cala Fonda is locally known as Waikiki Beach, says company co-founder Marina Manasyan. “It’s one of the best-preserved beaches in Spain, totally unspoiled, accessible only by foot through Platja Llarga following a signposted path, crossing a pine forest,” Manasyan said.

Related: 13 Budget European Vacations for Avoiding the Crowds

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Vathy, Sifnos

One of Greece’s less well-known islands (at least among tourists), Sifnos is fringed by sandy beaches. But to get even further off the grid, make the drive to the tiny little harbor town of Vathy. To protect this little slice of paradise, there are no roads inside Vathy, you’ll have to park in a lot at the edge of town. The beach here stretches for about 1 mile and the water is shallow.

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Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

Tucked away on the remote southeast coast of Sri Lanka is a curve of golden sand known as Arugam Bay. A humble fishing village with a population of just a few hundred, it’s basically one road running along the beach, dotted with small restaurants and guesthouses. This little village on the Indian Ocean is known as the best surf spot in Sri Lanka, attracting an eclectic mix of travelers who mingle with local surfers. “Best” doesn’t mean big waves, though; it’s ideal for beginners.

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Houhai Beach, Hainan, China

China’s southernmost point is called “the Hawaii of China,” but it’s much cheaper and draws fewer visitors. Hainan is an island about the size of Belgium in the South China Sea where development has started only within the past 30 years. To get away from the crowds on Sanjay Beach, head to the beach towns along the east coast. Houhai Beach is a charming stretch of sand with a few small restaurants and fruit stands.

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Gili Meno, Indonesia

Just next door to overdeveloped, highly touristed Bali is a secret of the Java Sea: the three Gilis. Enchanting Gili Meno is tiny, and visitors can make their way around the entire island in about 90 minutes by foot on the coastal path. The local culture is an eclectic blend of Islam, aboriginal Sasak, and bohemian flair. The island is not easy to access, typically requiring a combination of bus rides, boat trips, and short flights (not to mention a ride on a horse-drawn cart once you reach the island), which is one reason most tourists skip it. But the journey is worth the chance to relax in a seaside hammock while gazing across the waves at rice terraces carved into the sides of the volcano of Lombok.

Related: 14 Cheap Islands to Explore

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Isla Caja De Muertos, Puerto Rico

One of Puerto Rico’s best-kept secrets, Isla Caja de Muertos is a designated nature reserve run by Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural and Environmental Resources. It’s located off the south coast of Puerto Rico, and perfect for a day trip. The best way to get to this little piece of paradise is by catching a ferry boat that runs from Ponce.

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Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia

One last option is another beach that proves you don’t have to travel the world to find sun-drenched solitude. Driftwood Beach on Georgia’s Jekyll Island has been repeatedly voted one of America’s “Ten Most Romantic Beaches.” Nestled between cool blue waters and majestic life oaks, visitors will find a swath of sand dotted with pieces of ancient driftwood, making the entire place resemble a hauntingly gorgeous tree graveyard.

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The world’s best secret beaches for a secluded getaway

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Anse Source d’Argent Beach, Seychelles

Anse Source d’Argent is the most photogenic beach in the Seychelles. It belongs to the paid park of the island of La Digue. In addition to white sand, bright green palm trees and breathtaking turquoise waters, the hidden beach of Anse Source d’Argens has an attraction – streamlined cliffs. They seem to be from another planet – huge and smooth. From strong waves and turbulent currents, the coast is hidden by a coral reef of extraordinary beauty.

With every ebb and flow, with every sunrise and sunset, the local scenery looks different. The photogenicity of the beach is recognized by many filmmakers. He became famous for the scenery for world-famous films: Emmanuelle, Crusoe, Cast Away and the commercial for Bacardi.

Baia do Sancho Beach, Brazil

Baia do Sancho is part of a National Marine Park Fernando de Noronha and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Several steep pedestrian stairs lead to this piece of paradise, which is probably why it is difficult to meet people on it.

This is not only a paradise for those who like to soak up the sun. Its marine flora and fauna amaze with their colors and diversity. To admire the underwater world, you can choose a mask or scuba gear – no matter how deep you dive, you are guaranteed the most vivid emotions in the most beautiful place on the planet.

Totaranui Beach, New Zealand

Totaranui Beach is another secluded place, the nature of which is protected by the authorities. To enjoy the beauty of this crescent-shaped sandy shore, you should visit the Abel Tasman National Park, where the best secluded beach in New Zealand is located. It is surrounded by many trees of local species, and fine golden sand and crystal clear water seem to be created for the perfect relaxation on the shore.

Although the Totaranui beach is not crowded, there is a campsite not far from it. Therefore, you can safely stay in these heavenly places for several days to go fishing, kayaking, enjoy the untouched nature of the park and get to know its inhabitants.

Cirali Beach, Turkey

Cirali Beach is a godsend for those who are tired of the bustle of tourist centers and a huge number of vacationers. From Antalya to Cirali beach is about an hour drive. Its clean shore strewn with small pebbles is located between the waves of the Mediterranean Sea and hills covered with dense greenery. Here you can always find a place in the shade or near the water to enjoy the classic beach relaxation.

This is one of the few beaches in Turkey where there is no infrastructure and entertainment nearby – here you can listen to the sound of the surf, and not the loud music of your neighbors on the sun lounger. Sunsets and sunrises on Cirali are enchanting. Therefore, stay until evening and see for yourself that the starry sky and the moonlit path on the smooth surface of the Mediterranean waters are something special.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

From above, Whitehaven Beach looks like floating clouds or a blue desert. Some believe that here is the cleanest sand in the world. Go check it out on a sightseeing boat that brings tourists to the beach. The territory is under the protection of the national park, so the number of visitors here is strictly controlled.

Sand must be mentioned separately. Due to its unusual structure, it is not only dazzling white and incredibly velvety, but also does not heat up in the sun, while creating the feeling that you are walking on clouds.

From Whitehaven Beach you can walk through the rainforest. And also – to swim and dive with a mask or scuba gear in the very center of the Great Barrier Reef.

Playa del Amor Beach, Mexico City, Mexico

Playa del Amor is one of the most famous beaches not only in Mexico, but and the whole world. It has become so popular because of the natural landscape, which hides it even from the “eyes” of quadcopters.

Despite its fame, Love Beach is uninhabited, as is Marieta Island, on which it is located. The hinged cave that hides the beach resembles a volcano crater. This formation is the result of military tests, and not of natural origin. But this did not prevent nature from using the brightest colors here.

Crystal clear water in all shades of blue tempts you to swim. And the untouched underwater world, protected by the Parque Nacional Islas Marietas National Park, is simply magnificent – you can admire it from a kayak or snorkeling.

Triopetra beach, Crete, Greece

Crete’s many beaches are usually full of tourists, except for the secretive Triopetra beach. It is located in the south of the island, in the region of Rethymno. Its wide shore is covered with multi-colored pebbles – in calm weather it is an ideal location for relaxing with the whole family.

The main local attraction is three adjacent rocks rising above the waves. This isolated beach is named after them. In windy weather, when it is not possible to swim in this part of the island, people come here for photo shoots against the backdrop of a deserted golden coast, azure waves and bizarre rocks recognizable by many.

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Vathi Beach is an unexplored and isolated gem in Lassithi and Agios Nikolaos

January 7, 2022

Vathi Beach is a magnificent beach located in a small bay in the prefecture Lassithi near the town Agios Nikolaos . Vathi Beach is beautiful and luxurious. This one of the “new” beaches in Crete was created in 2010. Silky sands and blue waters, however, are timeless.

Vathi Beach serves the luxury hotel Daios Cove providing the best service and infrastructure. It is the ideal place for a full-service holiday with cultural activities and adventure within easy reach.

Where is Vathi Beach located?

Vathi Beach is located just 10 km from the charming port town of Agios Nikolaos. It faces east towards Mirabello Bay and is located near the small village Vathi , from which this beach takes its name.

Sometimes on the maps you can find this beach under the name Daios Cove . (There is another beach with the same name Vathy , it is located on the south coast of Crete and is difficult to reach by car. If you prefer a secluded beach holiday, then visit Listis beach).

How to get to Vathi Beach

It is very easy to get to Vathi Beach by car. The trip will be absolutely unforgettable. If you arrive in Crete at Heraklion International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis, you can rent a car directly at Heraklion Airport.

From the airport you can easily enter the national road that runs along the northern coast of Crete, the trip will take about an hour.

If you are arriving at the port, you can book a car in advance and it will be waiting for you as soon as you disembark. In any case, you can easily reach Vathi beach immediately after arriving in Crete.

If you prefer to travel by public transport, then in the center of Heraklion you will find the KTEL bus station, from where buses depart every day to Agios Nikolaos . There are also many other routes to the northeast of the island. Bus timetables can be found here.

The history of Vathi Beach

The history of Vathi Beach is short but interesting. This magnificent bay has always been here, but it was rocky and unsuitable for swimming. The bay has been turned into a magnificent beach due to the construction of Hotel Daios Cove . Developers covered the area with fine coarse-grained white sand. The effect that white sand has on the color intensity of the water is amazing.

What to see and do on Vathi Beach

The area of Mirabello Bay is an absolutely fantastic destination, whatever your interests. With easy access to Wathy Beach , you will find historical and cultural attractions, charming authentic villages, breathtaking walking paths and exciting trips by car or boat.

Beaches close to Vathi beach

If you are coming to Crete with a beach holiday in mind, this is the place to be. The fabulous Mirabello Bay is home to the most beautiful beaches of Crete. Much of the bay’s coastline faces east, protecting the beaches from strong winds.

Here are some beautiful beaches nearby that are also great options for a beach holiday:

Ammoudara – a small beach closer to Agios Nikolaos and north of Vathi beach is always lively and full of holidaymakers, with great opportunities for water sports.

Istron – A few minutes drive south of Vathy Beach is the famous Istron Beach, which consists of two luxurious and picturesque beaches. One beach – sandy – with sun loungers and umbrellas for those seeking full-service comfort, and another – pebbly – often quieter for those seeking privacy.

Pachia Ammos – another 15 minutes drive and you will reach the beach Pachia Ammos , which means dense sand. This beautiful sandy beach is in a sheltered bay and has a charming fishing harbour.

Vai Beach – If you continue along the main road that took you to the beaches Istron and Pachia Ammos , you will be rewarded for your efforts in about an hour. Vai beach in the northeast of Crete is simply amazing. This is not only an excellent beach destination, but also a natural wonder with Europe’s largest unique date palm forest.

Things to do around Vathi Beach

In addition to visiting the fantastic beaches in the east of Crete, Lassithi prefecture has many other attractions. Nature lovers will have an unforgettable experience at the UNESCO Geopark in Sitia . Covering an area of 500 square kilometers, this amazing reserve contains several unique ecosystems and a wide variety of landscapes.

There are over 170 caves, gorges, waterfalls and other places to explore. This is a paradise for serious speleologists and for tourists – hikes of different skill levels are held here.

South Coast Crete is an amazing destination. The coastline of the Libyan Sea is impressive and beautiful. In addition, it is a much less visited region of Crete, which gives your explorations an extra sense of adventure. It is particularly easy to get to as the narrowest part of the island is close to Vathi Beach .

The city of Ierapetra is only 30 minutes drive through picturesque landscapes.

Ierapetra is a fantastic destination. The coastline of this area is home to many Blue Flag beaches. The most popular of them are Makrigialos, Agia Fotia and Koutsounari .

Ierapetra itself is a charming place to visit. Walk through the Kales Fortress built by the Venetians and enjoy the charm of the old town by visiting the Ottoman Fountain, the Mosque and the Churches St. John and St. George . Look into the house Napoleon – yes, yes, that same Napoleon; he stayed here briefly in 1798, campaigning against the Mamluks of Egypt to protect the French trade routes. And if you want to try traditional Greek cuisine (like homemade moussaka), then visit the restaurant that bears his name – this is a local favorite.

There is one more important place in Ierapetra that you can’t miss – the marina. From here you can take a boat and go to an incredible uninhabited paradise on the island of Chrissi with rare Lebanese cypresses and silky white sand. This is a great place to swim in the crystal clear sea of Crete.

Cultural excursions around Vathi beach

East Crete is rich in historical and cultural heritage. Whatever you’re looking for, Lassithi Prefecture has it all.

Returning to Bronze Age , you can touch the advanced and sophisticated Minoan civilization. Spend a day visiting one of the four most popular palaces on the island (after Knossos, Phaestos , and Malia) – Zakros – gorge of the dead . This magnificent place, despite its sinister name, radiates positive energy. Travelers and historians alike will enjoy exploring this unique archaeological site and hiking through the gorge where the Minoans buried their dead in caves high up along the gorge walls.

Another exciting destination is the island of Spinalonga, located in Mirabello Bay . First of all you must see ruins ancient Olous on the bottom of the sea near the island Spinalonga . Spinalonga originally served to protect the ancient city of Olus . Due to pirate raids, this beautiful area was eventually abandoned. But then, in the 15th century, the Venetians revived it, first by building large salt pans.

They superbly fortified the island Spinalonga and now it is one of the most important and impressive fortresses in the entire Mediterranean basin. Spinalonga also played an important role in later history. The island became a leper colony at the beginning of the 20th century, and its touching history can be found in the museum on the island, among the ruins.

True connoisseurs of wine and traditional cuisine, as well as religion and culture, must visit Toplou Monastery . Located near the unique palm forest of Vai, this 15th century monastery houses a unique collection of Byzantine icons. You can end your visit with a wine tasting – the monks are expert winemakers of organic wines from special local Cretan grape varieties such as liatico . This is the perfect place to sample the pure and bold spirit of Crete, tsikoudia, and taste delicious local produce such as honey and extra virgin olive oil.