kato Zakros, Crete

Choosing Kato Zakros for your holidays is the right decision, whatever you are looking for. Tranquility or adventure, relaxation or activity you can find both in this unspoiled and calm corner of Crete.

Kato Zakros does not expect nor attract many tourists but deserves much more than a passing glance. Kato Zakros was a major port in Minoan times maintaining trade links with Anatolia, Egypt, Syria and other countries. The ruins of the fourth Minoan palace are next to the beach and attract the interest of people all over the world.
As well as the Minoan palace you can visit the ancient cities of Itanos and Elia as well as the famous monastery of Toplou.
Deads’ gorge, a canyon given its name because of the cave tombs dotted along the cliffs, can give you the chance of an enjoyable and not too demanding 8 km walk from the village of Zakros to the beach of Kato Zakros
There are also numerous other hikes departing from Kato Zakros the most popular of which is the one to the cave of Pelekita .
As for climbing you will find at the end of the Deads’ Gorge a lot of climbing routes at various levels of difficulty.
The beautiful little seaside of Kato Zakros is one of the most tranquil and friendly places to hang out on vacations in Crete.
Staying in Kato Zakros you can enjoy also the nearby seaside of Vai with its famous palm forest, the beaches of Palekastro, Agathias, Kuremenos, Maridati, Hiona and of course the beaches of Xerocambos, a quiet unassuming agricultural settlement 8 km away from the village of Zakros.
You can enjoy also the solitary beach of Karumes if you are determined enough to walk two and a half hours from Kato Zakros or one hour from the village Hohlakies through the homonymous gorge.
In the taverns of Kato Zakros you will find fresh fish , local meat and delicacies as well as a wide range of Cretan staples and rarities such as rabbit, pheasant and partridge for reasonable prices.
Kato Zakros weather is the most stable in Crete with only few rains during the winter time.
In the region of Kato Zakros you will find some of the most beautiful beaches of Crete, the unique unspoiled environment, and the spontaneous hospitality and friendly smile of the local residents.