Characteristics of Stavros

The small village of Stavros lies at the very end of the Akrotiri peninsula, which is characterised by its massive rock massifs and its almost desert-like character. The village is situated on its northern coast, about 16 km northeast of the city of Chania. In terms of the administrative division of the island, it falls under the prefecture of Chania.

However, the fishing village of Stavros is relatively young, with the first buildings going up with the development of tourism on the island (since the 1970s). Thus, the tourist facilities of the resort consist more of small hotels and guesthouses, shops with various goods and cozy taverns that prepare meals from fresh sea catches supplied by local fishermen. The old buildings with small houses and narrow streets, characteristic of most Cretan villages, are absent. The uniqueness of this place is instead due to the surrounding rocks and rugged nature.

Stavros resort and beaches

The resort of Stavros is surrounded by beautiful and wide sandy beaches, with various nooks and crannies and small lagoons that provide visitors with plenty of peace and privacy. The sea in this area is crystal clear and rather shallow, so you will often see families with smaller children.

The main beach of the resort, Stavros Beach, is on the north-eastern side of the village, next to the local harbour. The beach is located in a small cove with a stunning view of the rocky hill of Vardies. The unusualness of this place was noticed by the creators of the famous film Zorba the Greek and some of its scenes were filmed here. Thanks to its location, the beach is well protected from strong northerly winds.

There is a second beach to the north of the village and another along the coast further west. These beaches are already prone to bigger waves and are also much less organized than the famous "Zorbas Beach". The north coast of the resort is also much more rugged, and you will also find low and interestingly shaped rocks right on the beach.

The beaches are partially organised, with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire in some places, and there are also tasty tavernas, beach bars and shops nearby. However, a large area of the beaches is left natural. There are no water adventure activities on any of the beaches.

Nearby attractions

Even the rocky terrain of the Akrotiri peninsula hides several interesting and historical monuments. There are three important religious buildings - the Gouvernetto Monastery, the Agia Triada Monastery and the Katholiko Chapel. The Agia Triada is one of the largest monasteries in Crete and today forms part of a larger group specialising in the production of organic wine and organic olive oil. The shop selling local products is located in the monastery.

Who is the centre suitable for?

Stavros is a very peaceful resort located in a remote part of Crete, on the very edge of the Akrotiri peninsula. There are regular bus services to the village, some of which take you right to the beautiful and famous Stavros Beach (Zorbas Beach). But don't expect a lot of tourism here, as the village still retains its pleasant and personal atmosphere. For entertainment, tourists head to the nearby town of Chania.

More touristic destinations of Crete

Close resorts: Kalathas

Most favourite resorts of Crete: Adelianos Kampos, Agia Marina, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion (Iraklion), Hersonissos, Chania, Ierapetra, Kalamaki (Matala), Malia, Platanias (Chania), Rethymno, Stalis

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