Katarti beach

Katarti is a tiny beach that is formed in the exit of a small gorge, 73km south of Heraklion city, at the base of Oxa Cape. This secluded beach is located amidst the wild and majestic landscape of Asterousia Mountains, southwest of the summit of Kofinas. There is one rough dirtroad leading near the beach from Salamias bay. The beach however can be accessed primarily by boat or after hiking from Salamias or the beach of Tripiti, which is located 2.5km on west.

The surrounding area is ideal for fishing, since fish still abounds in the rocky bottom. Katarti has white pebbles and clear deep sea, while the rocky shores around are awesome. The two sides of the beach are protected by high cliffs, which are the extension of the walls of the gorge in the sea. These rocks offer protection from wind and shade throughout the day.

In Katarti you will mainly meet locals that fish or “stroll” with their boat around the remote coasts of Central Asterousia. Katarti is also favored by nudists, who have discovered the rough dirt track from Salamia. The beach name means Mast in Greek and is taken after a nearby high boulder in the sea. Some call it Arkouda (bear), as they say that the rocks reminds of a bear!

Leprias beach

Just 400m west of Katarti, you'll find the beach of Leprias, named after the Greek word for leper. The beach is formed in front of a steep dirt slope, which crumbles and collapses like the leper's skin! It is accessible only on boat, as walking down the slope is extremely dangerous. Between Leprias and Tripiti, you'll meet the several beaches of Kalokambos, with rocky bottom, preferred by local fishermen.

Katarti

Leprias

If you cannot see the photos, click here to see Katarti and Leprias.