Katholiko beach, Chania: the hidden beauty of Crete (2024)

Katholiko beach, located on the Akrotiri Peninsula in Chania/Crete, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and secluded experience for visitors. With crystal clear water and unspoiled nature, this remote beach is a perfect destination for those looking for some quiet and relaxation away from the crowds of the more popular beaches.

However, keep in mind that it is a remote destination and to reach there, you need to be in good physical condition. Getting to the beach is an amazing experience, but it requires a bit of effort, so make sure you're ready for it.

The hike to the bay is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean sea and the surrounding hills.

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Katholiko beach is not only a place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, but it's also a place of historical and cultural significance. As you hike to the beach, you will pass by two beautiful monasteries, the Gouverneto Monastery and the Katholiko Monastery, which offer a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of Crete.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the beach, its accessibility, weather, safety, facilities and what to expect when visiting. We will also give tips and suggestions on how to make the most of your visit, and how to discover the hidden beauty of Crete.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Katholiko bay is a destination worth visiting.

What to expect at Katholiko beach

Katholiko beach is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Mediterranean sea, hills, and olive groves, that visitors can enjoy while exploring the area. The bay is surrounded by cliffs, which creates a protected area that is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The water is clear and calm, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the underwater world.

The bay is also home to diverse marine life, including fish and sea urchins, as well as other marine creatures such as octopuses, starfish, and sea anemones. Visitors can also see the geological features of the area such as small caves carved into the cliffs.

Katholiko beach is a remote and secluded destination, so visitors should not expect many facilities on the beach. There are no umbrellas, sun loungers or any kind of beach equipment available for rent. Also, there are no restrooms or showers on the beach.

It's important to come prepared with everything you need for a few hours of hiking, such as sunscreen,  a hat, and appropriate clothing and footwear. It's also a good idea to bring snacks and water, as there are no food vendors on the trail.

To reach the rocky beach, visitors can take a scenic hike that starts at the Monastery of Gouverneto, descending 260 meters from the parking lot to the bay.

1. The starting point of the hike

Katholiko beach is located on the west side of Crete in Greece, about 30 minutes by car from the city centre of Chania.  

The road is well-paved and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills. You will see signs for the Gouverneto Monastery and the Agia Triada Tzagaroli Monastery along the way. Once you reach the Agia Triada Monastery, you will be just 4 km away from the Gouverneto Monastery parking lot, which is the starting point of the hiking trail.

To get there by taxi from Chania town costs approximately 20 to 30 euros.

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Get a glimpse of the best hotels in Crete through this handy guide:

Budget: Cocoon City Hostel in Chania, Sofia Hotel in Heraklion, Michael Apartments in Rethymno, Victoria Hotel in Agios Nicolaos

Mid-range: Mosaic in Chania, 7Rizes Luxury Living in Heraklion, Archipelagos Hotel in Rethymno, Bellevue Suites in Agios Nicolaos

Luxury: The Tanneries Hotel & Spa in Chania, Legacy Gastro Suites in Heraklion, Nautilux Rethymno by Mage Hotels in Rethymno, Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas in Agios Nicolaos

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2. The amazing hike to Katholiko Monastery

Hiking to Katholiko Monastery in Crete is an amazing adventure! The hike starts at the Gouverneto Monastery parking lot which is located at the top of a rocky hill.

As you pass through the gate of the stone fence, you'll find yourself in a beautiful garden. There is a small entrance fee of 2 euros per person, and please note that only cash is accepted. As you walk through the garden, you'll pass the main entrance of the monastery and reach a wooden door. Once you open it, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama. From here, a rocky footpath leads the way down.

When you leave the Gouverneto Monastery and start your hike down to Katholiko bay, the first stop on the rocky path is the Arkoudiotissa Cave. The cave is located on the cliffs above the bay and offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.

As you approach Katholiko Monastery, you'll have to descend a few steep steps to reach it. Katholiko Monastery is one of the most remarkable monasteries in the Chania area. The ruined buildings and the surrounding area are completely deserted, as the Monastery is no longer inhabited by monks.

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Gouverneto Monastery

Located on the Akrotiri Peninsula in Crete, Gouverneto Monastery is a breathtaking Greek Orthodox Monastery with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. One of the most significant religious and historical sites in Crete, this Monastery is a must-see destination for those interested in history, culture and nature.

The architecture of the building is a unique blend of traditional Cretan and Venetian styles, making it a fascinating place to visit. The monastery is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the Mediterranean sea, hills, and olive groves, which visitors can take in while exploring it.

Mysterious Arkoudiotissa Cave

The Arkoudiotissa Cave is a unique and historic site located near Gouverneto Monastery. The cave is believed to have been used by ancient Cretans as a place of worship and is carved into the rock. Inside the cave, visitors can see frescoes and inscriptions from ancient times. According to legend, the cave is also said to be the place where the goddess Artemis took refuge during a hunt.

The cave is accessible by foot, and the hike to reach it is challenging but rewarding, as visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Mediterranean sea.

3. The path from the monastery to the Katholiko bay

After admiring the incredible Monastery that is partially carved into the rock, you'll descend into the gorge that leads to the beautiful Katholiko Bay. As you walk down the trail you will notice that the gorge is steep and rocky.

It's important to note that the hike down to the bay can be challenging and requires good physical condition, so if you're not up for it, you can still enjoy the Monastery and the beautiful surrounding nature without going down to the bay.

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If you decide to continue your journey down to the bay, you'll pass through an exceptional gorge that offers stunning views. The gorge is a narrow and steep-sided valley that was carved by water over time. The walls of the gorge are towering, making it an impressive sight.

The entire hike is a fantastic experience, it is one of our favourite hiking trails. Once you reach the rocky cove, it's beyond imagination. The natural beauty of the area is truly breathtaking.

Katholiko Monastery

Katholiko Monastery is a beautiful Greek Orthodox Monastery located on the Akrotiri Peninsula in Crete. The Monastery is situated at the mouth of a gorge that leads down to Katholiko Bay. The Monastery's history dates back to the 16th century, and it is believed to have been built by monks who were looking for a secluded location to live and worship.

The Monastery features a church, living quarters for the monks and a stunning bridge. Visitors can explore the Monastery's buildings and admire the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the gorge. The Monastery is also known for its secluded location and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place to visit for those seeking a break from the busy crowds of the more popular tourist destinations.

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Katholiko beach, Chania: the best time to visit

The best time to visit Katholiko beach in Chania depends on personal preferences and travel plans.

• Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit for mild temperatures, blooming flowers and green landscapes.
• Summer months (June to August) is the peak tourist season and the turquoise weather is hot, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Fall (September to November) offers mild temperatures, fewer crowds and beautiful colours

The way down there to Katholiko beach can be quite challenging, and in windy weather, it can be even more difficult.

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Things to keep in mind while visiting Katholiko beach, Chania

• Accessibility: Katholiko beach can only be reached by hiking from Gouverneto Monastery or by boat on the sea. Unlike many other beaches, the cove is rocky and there are no stairs leading to the beach.
• Weather:  Keep in mind that during the winter months, the beach can be closed due to weather conditions and it is best to check the weather forecast before visiting.
• Safety: The lovely hike to the beach can be challenging, so it is important to wear appropriate footwear (good shoes) and bring enough water. Also, be aware of the risks of swimming in the sea and follow safety guidelines.
• Facilities: There are no facilities on the beach, such as toilets, showers, or beach umbrellas, so make sure to bring everything you need for the day, like sunblock, towels, and food.
• Crowds: The beach is relatively secluded, so it is not crowded and visitors can enjoy the tranquillity and the natural beauty of the place.
• Conservation: The beach is surrounded by unspoiled nature, so it is important to take care of the environment and not leave any trash behind.
• Respect: The beach is located near the Katholiko Monastery and visitors should respect the religious and cultural significance of the place.
• Transportation: It is crucial to rent a car or hire a taxi to reach the area.

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Katholiko Bay in Google maps: