Kiesstrände

Koutsounari Beach

Ierapetra, Lasithi · Free

Route

Highlights & amenities

Entry: Free

Organised

Teilweise organisiert

Characteristics

Kiesel

Good for

Familienfreundlich

Facilities

About

A 5 km long pebble and sand beach east of Ierapetra that never feels crowded.

Koutsounari (Long Beach of Agios Ioannis) stretches for about 5 km. Pebbles and sand, clear water and plenty of space.

Parts are organised with sunbeds and tavernas. The village of Koutsounari, in the hills above, has a traditional character. It's a good choice for families and anyone who wants space.

Ierapetra is the southernmost town in Europe, and the area around it is known for its greenhouses, which produce vegetables for all of Greece. The coast stretches east to Makrigialos and west to Myrtos, with long beaches, small coves and a warm climate that allows swimming from April to November. Boats leave Ierapetra for Chrissi island, with its cedar forest and white sand. Inland, the Sarakina and Ha gorges and the Selakano forest offer cool escapes.

Around Ierapetra

South coast, on the Libyan Sea
Nearest town: Ierapetra, about 9 km by road
Nearest airport: Sitia airport (JSH), about 45 km by road

Lasithi, the eastern end of Crete, is quieter and greener than you might expect. Agios Nikolaos wraps around a small lake and a lively harbour, with cafés on the water and beaches within walking distance. Just north, Elounda and Plaka look across to the fortress island of Spinalonga, one of the most moving places on the island. More about Lasithi