Two beaches in one -Domata, the secluded beach of southwest Crete
It seems strange, but even if you find yourself on Domata beach at the height of the Greek summer, you may be one of the few visitors. Despite its undeniable beauty – of which there is general consensus among those who have seen it in person – it remains a pristine spot.
Of course, there is a reason for this, since Domata beach is naturally isolated and not easily accessible: to get there you must be prepared and willing to embark on a little adventure in Sfakia, in the southern part of the regional unit of Hania (you may find more detailed instructions below).
This heavenly beach is located 58 kilometers south of Hania, in an area known to the locals as “Tseses”. The nearest seaside village is Sougia, 7 kilometres to the east. “Domata” in Cretan vernacular is the name given to the roofs. This peculiar name stems from the fact that, due to years of water and wind erosion, a very special landscape has formed around the beach, with terraces, ravines and vertical rocks made of stones shaped to resemble roofs.
Apart from this scenery, coming to Domata, you will find an amazing beach, with fine pebbles in tones of grey and wonderful waters in various shades of blue. And if you happen to find the waters a bit murkier, don’t worry: the phenomenon, when it happens, is due to the mixing of seawater with fresh water from the springs that run underground and underwater in the area. In addition, the landscape is dotted with pine trees, which provide wonderful natural shade, as well as opportunities for rough camping. The pines are, of course, located above and not on the beach.
In Domata, moreover, it won’t take you long to realize that there are actually two beaches separated by a cluster of rocks. The western one tends to be considered the main one (it is, after all, the largest), but many visitors believe that the smaller eastern one is more beautiful. However, you can only get there by swimming a few metres, as there is no land access from the aforementioned rocks.
How to get there
Domata beach is accessible both by land and by sea, but the simplest way is the latter. Again, however, it still requires proper equipment and supplies, as you’ll need to take a boat from Sfakia to Agia Roumeli, where you’ll have to seek out a local boatman who will not only take you to the beach, but also bring you back. Of course, you won’t need any of this if you arrive here on your own boat.
There are two ways to reach Domata beach from land, both of which require considerable hiking experience. Besides, in addition to the journey, you have to factor in the return trip. Unless you plan to camp on the beach for the night, in which case you should make sure you have all the essentials with you.
One way requires you to reach Agia Roumeli – or the village of Sougia, alternatively – and from there to follow the European Path E4. Keep in mind, however, that this is an strenuous and times very dangerous route, since for most of the time you will find yourself walking on the edge (literally) of a cliff, at an altitude of up to 700 metres. The second way is by crossing the Klados gorge, which reaches Domata beach. However, it is quite rough and you have to be particularly careful not to get lost.
Source: travel.gr
