Ornios Beach ( Pahia Ammos )

Okay, beach lovers, I’m about to let you in on a Cretan secret that’ll blow your flip flops off.

Picture this: a stunning stretch of fine sand, completely isolated, surrounded by the largest carob wood in Europe.

Welcome to Pahia Ammos, a beach so amazing it feels like it should be illegal.

Tucked behind a big hill west of Tris Ekklisies settlement, this beach is where Mother Nature really showed off.

As I stood there, taking in the view, I couldn’t help but feel I’d stumbled upon a little slice of paradise.

Pahia Ammos isn’t just a pretty face, though.

It’s got some serious natural cred, forming at the exit of Agia Paraskevi Gorge.

This gorge houses a whopping 105m high waterfall (though it’s only active in winter, so time your visit right!).

Getting here is part of the adventure.

There’s a short dirt track from the village, but trust me, the bumpy ride is worth it.

Now, here’s a cool fact: this beach is a favorite spot for sea turtles (Caretta caretta) to nest.

How awesome is that? You might be sharing your sunbathing spot with some prehistoric pals!

But wait, there’s more!

West of Pahia Ammos, at a spot called Ornios, you’ll find several caves near the coast.

The water here is so vivid, it looks like someone cranked up the saturation on reality.

There are even some primitive cottages with 2-3 small coves around perfect for pretending you’re a castaway (but with snacks).

If you’re up for more exploring, follow the dirt road west.

You’ll soon hit the long bay of Glykys Kolimbos at Platanias bay.

“Glykys” means “sweet” in Greek, named after the fresh water spring nearby.

The area is surrounded by imposing cliffs with bird of prey nesting caves it’s like a natural IMAX theatre!

Fair warning: it’s tricky to reach this beach on foot.

But the rocky seabed is a fisher’s dream, and snorkeling from Ornios is your best bet to explore.

For more amazing beaches in this area, check out our guide to Heraklion Beaches.

And for all things Crete, Cretorama has got you covered.
 

Ornios Beach Key Information

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Ornios Beach Profile

Ornios Beach is a beach lover’s dream come true.

The sand here is fine and golden, perfect for long walks or building epic sandcastles.

The water is that classic Mediterranean blue that looks like it’s been photoshopped.

Thanks to its location, the sea is usually calm like a giant, salty swimming pool.

The beach is spacious, giving you plenty of room to spread out and claim your spot.

And let’s not forget the backdrop that enormous carob wood gives the whole place a ‘lost world’ vibe.
 

Amenities

Let’s be real Pahia Ammos is all about natural beauty, not fancy facilities.

There’s food and water nearby, but don’t expect beach bars or lounger rentals.

The carob trees provide some natural shade, which is a godsend on hot days.

This is a place to embrace your inner Robinson Crusoe (but maybe with a cooler full of snacks).

For the most up to date information on facilities in the area, check the Heraklion Municipality website.
 

Accommodations

Pahia Ammos isn’t a resort style beach, so don’t expect hotels on the sand.

There are some primitive cottages near the small coves, if you’re up for a rustic experience.

For more conventional accommodation, look to the nearby village of Tris Ekklisies.

Camping is another option, but always check local regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles.
 

History and Significance

While Pahia Ammos itself doesn’t have a long recorded history, the surrounding area is steeped in natural wonders.

The Agia Paraskevi Gorge with its impressive waterfall has been sculpting this landscape for millennia.

The beach’s role as a nesting site for sea turtles gives it ecological importance.

And let’s not forget the carob wood the largest in Europe, it’s a living piece of botanical history.
 

Activities

Swimming is obviously top of the list here. The calm, clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Snorkeling is fantastic, especially around the caves near Ornios. Bring your own gear and explore the underwater world.

Fishing is popular, particularly in the rocky areas of Glykys Kolimbos.

Birdwatching can be amazing, with the cliffs providing homes for various birds of prey.

Photography enthusiasts will love capturing the vivid colors and unique landscapes.
 

Dining

Pahia Ammos keeps things simple in the food department.

There’s food and water available nearby, but don’t expect gourmet restaurants on the sand.

Your best bet is to pack a picnic and enjoy it with a side of stunning views.

For more dining options, head to the village of Tris Ekklisies, where you can find traditional tavernas serving up authentic Cretan cuisine.
 

Best For Travelers

Ornios Beach is perfect for:

– Nature lovers who appreciate unspoiled beaches and unique ecosystems

– Adventure seekers looking to explore off-the-radar beaches and caves

– Photography enthusiasts who want to capture stunning landscapes

– Snorkelers and fishing fans who’ll love the clear waters and rocky seabeds

– Eco-tourists interested in turtle nesting sites and unique flora

It’s less suitable for those seeking lots of amenities or a bustling beach scene.
 

Ornios Beach Map – Getting There

To reach Pahia Ammos:

Head to the settlement of Tris Ekklisies.

Look for the dirt track leading west behind the big hill.

Follow this track to reach Pahia Ammos beach.

There’s no public transport directly to the beach, so you’ll need a car (preferably one that can handle rough roads).
 

Distances and driving times from major Cretan cities to Ornios Beach:

• Chania: Approximately 230 km (143 miles), 4 hours drive
• Rethymnon: About 170 km (106 miles), 3 hours drive
• Heraklion: Around 110 km (68 miles), 2 hours 15 minutes drive
• Hersonissos: Roughly 125 km (78 miles), 2 hours 30 minutes drive
• Malia: About 135 km (84 miles), 2 hours 45 minutes drive
• Agios Nikolaos: Approximately 165 km (103 miles), 3 hours 15 minutes drive
• Ierapetra: Around 145 km (90 miles), 3 hours drive

Note: These are approximate times for driving.

The last part of the journey involves a dirt track, which may increase travel time.

There’s no public transport to the beach, so renting a car is necessary.

A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the dirt track.

For the most current road conditions, you can check the Greek National Tourism Organization website.

For the most up to date information on road conditions in Crete, check the official website of the Region of Crete.
 

Tips

1. Bring supplies: Pack plenty of water, food, and sunscreen. There aren’t many facilities here.

2. Respect wildlife: Remember, this is a turtle nesting site. Don’t disturb any nests you might see.

3. Plan your visit: The waterfall in Agia Paraskevi Gorge only flows in winter. Time your trip accordingly if you want to see it.

4. Be prepared for isolation: This is a remote beach. Make sure your phone is charged and someone knows where you’re going.

5. Bring good shoes: If you want to explore the caves or nearby areas, sturdy footwear is a must.

6. Leave no trace: Help keep this beautiful place pristine. Take all your trash with you when you leave.

For more beautiful photos of Cretan beaches, follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.

For more information about traveling in Greece, including entry requirements and tourist rights, visit the Greek National Tourism Organization website.
 

Discoveries Around Ornios Beach

Ornios Beach Weather

Ornios Beach FAQ

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