Chania Glyka Nera beach

General information

Glyka Nera is one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Crete. Hidden among the mountains of Sfakia, it got its name from the freshwater springs welling up near and inside the sea (Glyka Nera means ‘Fresh Water’ in Greek).

This pebbled beach boasts pristine azure waters that are always freezing, even on the hottest summer days, as a result of the freshwater springs. The landscape is awe-inspiring, as rugged rocks rise up along the coast; some of them reach an impressive height of 500 meters above sea level! It is partly organized with umbrellas and sunbeds, and there is a canteen selling food and refreshments. Glyka Nera is often frequented by nudists.

This secluded beach is located close to Sfakia, on the southern coast of the island. It can be reached by boat from Chora Sfakion, but, if you feel up to it, you can get there via a track road from Sfakia or Loutro. If you are afraid of heights, though, do not attempt to reach it on foot, as a long stretch of the trail straddles the edge of the cliff.