Courage is required to drive to Seitan Limania Beach
Seitan Limania (“Ports of Satan”) is a remote sandy beach nestled in a canyon leading out to the sea, located on the island of Crete, in Greece. It’s one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world.
Where is Seitan Limania Beach?
The beach is located on the northeast side of the Akrotiri peninsula, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Chania, on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete. Due to its remote location and lack of tourist facilities, Seitan Limania has maintained its natural beauty and pristine environment. Surrounded by rock formations, the beach is crowded in during peak season. If possible, try to avoid weekends and any dates at the peak of the tourist season. Unfortunately the beach is so small that it will very rapidly feel too crowded. There is a snack bar along the road before you drop down to Seitan Limania. It can deliver to the beach. The word “Seitan” is Turkish and it has remained from the period of the Turkish conquest in Crete. It is translated as “satanic”, so Seitan Limania means the “Ports of Satan”.
How to get to Seitan Limani Beach?
The road to this well-hidden beach, also known as Stefanou Beach, is surrounded by rock formations. Starting at Akropoli, the winding road is 2.7 km (1.67 miles) long. Over this distance the elevation gain is 198 meters. The average gradient is 7.33%.
Is the road to Seitan Limani Beach challenging?
This road tests the skill, and courage, of any driver. If in doubt, take a boat. The curvy road to the breathtaking beach is a bit steep, but if you have driven mountain roads before you should be fine. Placed between rocky cliffs, the road to this beach has a series of narrow switchbacks with little room for error.
Is the road to Seitan Limani Beach paved?
The road to the exotic beach was recently paved. During the drive to this hidden jewel of wild beauty, you will have the privilege of admiring the grandeur of Crete's nature. The asphalt road descends abruptly, ending at a parking area that serves the beach. Make sure to put the hand break on when you park the car on the parking. You can also put some stones in front of the tires just in case. There is a narrow steep path - that is a little exposed in places- starting from the parking place and leading to the beach, so make sure you wear sneakers. The walk takes around 15 minutes.
Pic: Hao Li