The small harbour town of Tris Ekklisies with its beautiful sandy beach was until recently well hidden from the eyes of the growing tourism on the island of Crete. The original gravel driveway was asphalted in 2017, making the town more accessible to the general tourist. However, you still need to be wary as the road is still one of the more dangerous ones - it winds along the ridges of the surrounding steep cliffs and drops sharply down to the coast. If you have the chance, stop at the top of the cliffs here, which form part of the Asterousia mountain range, and enjoy the breathtaking view from above.

The name of the town, Tris Ekklisies, translates as 'Three Churches' and refers to the three beautiful churches here, dedicated to Transfiguration, St George and Annunciation. The town of Tris Ekklisies is very picturesque, but also mysterious and unique due to its surrounding environment, as it is located at the mouth of the Ambas Gorge, whose walls have become home to the largest colony of vultures in Greece and southern Europe.

However, the coastline around the village is much more gentle. The beach of Tris Ekklisies is covered with sand, sometimes coarser sand or pebbles, and its shores are washed by a crystal clear and deep sea. It's a very pleasant place, suitable for sunbathing and, for more experienced swimmers, for swimming. Although the beach itself is not very touristy, there are several tavernas, bars and rooms for rent in the adjacent town.

More touristic destinations of Crete

Most favourite beaches of Crete: Amoudara Beach (Heraklion), Balos Beach, Elafonisi Beach, Falassarna Beach, Glyka Nera Beach (Sweet Water), Matala Beach, Platanias Beach, Preveli Beach, Stalis Beach, Stavros Beach, Vai Beach, Voulisma Beach, Xerokampos Beach

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Crete.