Nature

Here are some sandy bays away from prying eyes, while generally the rocky bottom is maybe the richest in the island, attracting many fishermen from all over Crete. It generally very windy and you will almost always see windsurfers. The west bay is called Tenda and is open to west winds and wavy, while the east is called Eligas and sea surface is usually flat.

Climbing on Giouchtas is very easy because there is a very nicely marked and visible trail that crosses the mountain from one side to the other. Giouchtas has amazing and unobstructed views towards all directions, although it is quite low (its highest peak reaches 811m altitude). The trail that crosses the mountain starts right next to very famous archaeological site of Anemospilia and ascends to the south having panoramic views across the north side of the city of Heraklion, the Cretan Sea.

Amari valley is formed between the Mountains Kedros and Psiloritis, at an altitude of 400-500m and is 25km long. It is the natural passage from the north to south Rethymno and Messara Plain. For its central location, it was the theater of several historical events, especially during the Ottoman rule.

On the way to Elafonisi from the road running along the west coast of Crete, there is the beautiful village of Cambos belonging to Kissamos province. From there a short dirt road heads to the west which heads to the lush canyon of Kambos, the westernmost gorge of Crete.

The beach has sand and fine pebbles, while in several places there are rocks, making it perfect for fishing and snorkeling. It is completely unorganized, so make sure that you have anything you need with you. There is a small taverna located in the neighboring Peristeres beach (3-5' minutes walking distance).

Panagia Bay is the most protected of all bays of Dia island. It is located 2km east of the port of St. George and is surrounded by high rocky hills, full with oregano and herbs. If you are lucky you will see hares jumping from the bushes.

The Gorge of Chochlakies or Karoumes is located in one of the most isolated areas of the island, near Kato Zakros. Easy hiking in the snakelike canyon with the sparse vegetation and the bare rocks, ends in the amazing beach of Karoumes, where being totally alone is the rule.

Karave beach has round pebbles and heads south to Korfos bay. It is not organized, but is the only choice for those who want to swim near the port. The water is crystal clear and quite deep. Karave is not very special about swimming, especially if you compare with the rest beaches of Gavdos.