Falasarna

Falasarna

  • Location 60 km west of Chania, Crete
  • Beaches Award-winning Pachia Ammos, other smaller beaches to the north and south
  • Activities Windsurfing, water sports
  • Archaeology Ancient city of Falasarna
  • Toponymy Derived from the mythical nymph Falasarni
  • Events Annual beach parties, especially in August

Falasarna, with its award-winning beach, is located 60 km west of Chania, on the Gramvousa Peninsula. The area is protected by the Natura 2000 network due to its rare flora and fauna. Falasarna also hosts the ancient city of the same name, one of the most significant in western Crete. The modern settlement, nestled between beaches and locals' greenhouses, offers tavernas and rental rooms for a peaceful vacation.

Pachia Ammos, the main beach, boasts white sand, organized facilities, and sports activities, and is ranked as the best beach in Crete and one of the top 10 in Europe. North of Pachia Ammos, a long beach stretches for 800 meters, separated by a sand dune. Even further north, a small cove with pebbles and rocky seabed lies in front of the archaeological site, offering quieter spots for swimming. South of Pachia Ammos, two more beaches—one sandy with rocky seabeds and one with pebbles—sit next to a small harbor. Strong winds make the area popular with windsurfing enthusiasts.

The name Falasarna is derived from the mythical nymph Falasarni, who lent her name to the ancient city. Every summer, the beaches come alive with annual beach parties, the biggest of which takes place on the first or second Saturday of August, attracting visitors from around the world.