Ever thought a beach could be a secret garden?
Let me introduce you to Ferma, where the sea meets the forest in a dance that’ll make you forget time exists.
Ferma is a little slice of heaven I stumbled upon in eastern Crete.
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It’s about 10km east of Ierapetra and 45km southeast of Agios Nikolaos.
This tiny seaside spot sits right next to some pretty steep shores.
It’s just 4km south of a village called Agios Ioannis.
What really caught my eye was all the green around.
There are pine trees everywhere, making it feel like an oasis.
✈️🌟Offerte di viaggio esclusive a Creta✨🌍
The rest of eastern Crete can be pretty dry, but not here.
Along the coast, you’ll find a bunch of small bays.
The biggest one is called Livadi beach, but most folks know it as Ferma beach.
Some people call it Xerokamara too.
This is where most of the hotels are.
The beach itself?
Absolutely beautiful.
We’re talking ciottoli fini and water so clear you can see your toes.
All around, there’s thick greenery and these massive smooth rocks.
The cliffs are pretty steep too, adding to the drama.
Ferma Beach Key Information
| Caratteristiche | Descrizione |
|---|---|
| Posizione | Prefettura di Lassithi, Creta orientale, Creta meridionale, zona di Ierapetra |
| Composizione della spiaggia | Fine pebbles, some sand |
| Acqua | Blue, crystal clear, deep |
| Caratteristiche della spiaggia | Surrounded by vegetation, steep cliffs, natural springs |
| Servizi | Basic, nearby hotels, food and water available in settlement |
| Famoso per | Natural beauty, clear waters, surrounding pine forests |
| Attività | Swimming, snorkeling, hiking, exploring nearby villages |
| Ruolo storico | Part of traditional agricultural area |
| Regione circostante | Pine forests, small bays, nearby traditional villages |
| Atmosfera | Calm, family-friendly, natural |
| Pranzo | Local tavernas in Ferma settlement, hotel restaurants |
| Accessibilità | Paved road, bus services available |
| Periodo di visita | May to October, peak season July-August |
| Dati demografici | Families, couples, nature lovers, quiet-seekers |
Ferma Beach Profile
Ferma beach, or Livadi as the locals call it, is a real stunner.
It’s got this mix of fine pebbles that feels great underfoot.
The water here is seriously crystal clear and gets deep pretty quick.
You’re surrounded by all this lush plant life, which is pretty rare for Crete.
There are these huge, smooth rocks that look like they’ve been there forever.
The cliffs around the beach are steep, giving it a kind of secluded feel.
It’s not your typical sandy stretch it’s got character.
The beach isn’t super long, but it’s wide enough to find your own spot.
You’ll see a bunch of Cretan Date Palms right in the middle of the beach.
It’s like nature decided to plant its own little oasis.
Servizi
Ferma beach keeps things pretty simple, which I actually loved. It’s not one of those over developed beaches with rows of sunbeds.
There are two paths with stairs leading down to the beach.
These start from the nearby hotels, about 80-100 meters away.
You’ll see signs on the main road pointing the way.
Once you’re on the beach, there aren’t many facilities.
It’s more of a bring your own stuff kind of place.
There are some natural freshwater springs right on the beach, which is cool.
The nearby settlement of Ferma has the basics you might need.
You can grab water or snacks there before heading to the beach.
Alloggi
If you’re planning to stay near Ferma beach, you’ve got options.
Most of the hotels in the area are clustered near Livadi beach.
These aren’t massive resorts, but smaller, more laid-back places.
Some offer great views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
You’ll find a mix of family run guesthouses and slightly larger hotels.
Many are within walking distance of the beach.
Some places might offer beach equipment for guests to use.
It’s worth checking if your accommodation has direct beach access.
For a more local experience, you might find rooms to rent in nearby villages.
Remember, this isn’t a big tourist hub, so book ahead in peak season.
Storia e significato
While Ferma itself isn’t ancient, the area around it is steeped in history.
The nearby village of Agios Ioannis has been around for centuries.
You can see this in its narrow alleys and old churches.
The region has been important for agriculture, thanks to its water sources.
Il springs at Psychro have been vital to the area for generations.
In the gorge of Milonas, you can find waterfalls that have shaped the landscape.
The mix of forest and sea has made this area unique in eastern Crete.
It’s been a refuge of greenery in an otherwise dry region.
The beach and surrounding area have remained relatively undeveloped.
This has helped preserve its natural beauty and ecological significance.
Attività
Ferma isn’t just about lounging on the beach, though that’s great too.
Nuoto in the clear, deep waters is a must do.
The calm sea is perfect for snorkeling bring your gear if you can.
Hiking in the surrounding pine forests is amazing.
You can take a walk to the nearby Pigadi beach.
It’s named after a small building that looks like a well.
For the adventurous, there’s a path to Giorgakis beach with iron stairs.
Exploring the village of Agios Ioannis is like stepping back in time.
Don’t miss the waterfalls in the Milonas gorge near Agios Ioannis.
Nature photographers will have a field day with the diverse landscapes.
Pranzo
The food scene around Ferma is all about authentic Cretan flavors.
You won’t find big chain restaurants here, and that’s a good thing. In the settlement of Ferma, there are a few small tavernas.
These places serve up delicious, home style Cretan dishes.
Fresh seafood is often on the menu, caught by local fishermen.
Don’t miss trying some of the local olive oil it’s amazing.
For quick bites or picnic supplies, there are mini markets in Ferma.
Some hotels in the area have their own restaurants.
These often offer a mix of Cretan and international dishes.
For a wider variety, you can head to nearby Ierapetra for more options.
Il meglio per i viaggiatori
Ferma is perfect for those seeking a quiet, natural beach experience.
It’s great for couples looking for a romantic, low-key getaway.
Families will appreciate the calm atmosphere and safe swimming.
Nature lovers will be in heaven with the mix of forest and sea.
It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid big, crowded resorts.
Photographers will love the diverse landscapes and lighting.
History buffs can explore nearby villages and ancient sites.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy hiking and exploring.
Ferma attracts a mix of Greek and international visitors.
It’s best for those who prefer a more authentic, less touristy experience.
Before planning your trip, it’s always a good idea to check the current travel requirements for Greece.
Il Lassithi municipality website can provide valuable local information.
For a broader overview of Crete, the official region of Crete website is an excellent resource.
Ferma Beach Map – Getting There
Getting to Ferma requires a bit of planning, but it’s not too difficult.
The nearest big town is Ierapetra, about 10km to the west.
If you’re renting a car, which I recommend, the drive is pretty straightforward.
From Heraklion airport, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive.
There are public buses that run from Agios Nikolaos to Ierapetra.
From Ierapetra, you can catch a local bus or taxi to Ferma.
The roads are well-maintained, but can be winding in parts.
If you’re coming from Agios Nikolaos, follow the coastal road south.
There are signs pointing to Ferma, but keep an eye out as they can be small.
Once in Ferma, the beach is easy to find – just follow the signs.
Distanze dalle principali città cretesi
- Chania: 230 km (143 miles), about 3 hours 30 minutes drive
- Rethymno: 180 km (112 miles), about 2 hours 45 minutes drive
- Heraklion: 130 km (81 miles), about 2 hours drive
- Hersonissos: 115 km (71 miles), about 1 hour 45 minutes drive
- Malia: 105 km (65 miles), about 1 hour 30 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: 60 km (37 miles), about 1 hour drive
- Ierapetra: 10 km (6 miles), about 15 minutes drive
The roads to Ferma are generally well-maintained but can be winding in parts, especially as you get closer to the coast.
Renting a car is the most convenient option, but there are also public buses connecting Agios Nikolaos to Ierapetra, with local services to smaller villages.
From Ierapetra, you can take a local bus or taxi to Ferma.
The journey offers beautiful coastal views, especially along the route from Agios Nikolaos.
For more stunning beaches in the Lassithi region, check out our guide to Spiagge di Lassithi. And for comprehensive information about all of Crete’s wonders, visit Cretorama.
Suggerimenti
Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to Ferma:
Portare water shoes – the pebbles can be tough on bare feet.
Pack a picnic and plenty of water, especially if you plan to stay all day.
The best times to visit are early morning o late afternoon for great light.
If you’re into photography, the sunrise here is spectacular.
Respect the environment – take all trash with you when you leave.
Portare snorkeling gear to explore the clear waters.
Consider renting a car to easily explore the surrounding area.
Visit the nearby village of Agios Ioannis for a taste of local life.
Try to learn a few Greek phrases – locals appreciate the effort.
Don’t forget sun protection – the Cretan sun can be intense.
Discoveries Around Ferma Beach
| Destinazione | Distanza |
|---|---|
| Giorgakis beach | 0.8 km (0.5 miles) |
| Kakia Skala beach | 1,5 km (0,93 miglia) |
| Agia Fotia beach at Ierapetra | 1,6 km (0,99 miglia) |
| Vothoni Roman Fish Tanks | 1.7 km (1.06 miles) |
| Galini beach | 2,4 km (1,49 miglia) |
| Christ Savior monastery in Psathi | 2.8 km (1.74 miles) |
| Milonas Waterfall and Gorge | 3.1 km (1.93 miles) |
| Ahlia Gorge | 3.1 km (1.93 miles) |
| Ahlia beach | 3.1 km (1.93 miles) |
| Koutsounari beach | 3,5 km (2,17 miglia) |
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