Malavra is located 26km east of Agios Nikolaos, 4km north of the village of Kavousi in Ierapetra, and about 2km east of Tholos Beach. It is known for its abundant freshwater springs, which cloud the sea and, according to one version, gave Tholos its name (tholos is blur and clouded).
The area is surrounded by imposing vertical cliffs that inspire awe. Access to the beach is usually by boat, and the spot is often exposed to northern winds, which bring waves. The shoreline itself is mostly rocky.
Until recently, it was possible to walk down from the old spring exploitation plant of Malavra, located right next to the coast. The plant can be reached by a dirt road leading east from Tholos, but its gate is now usually locked for safety reasons (landslides). Even so, the view from that point toward the cliffs and the islet of Psira is truly breathtaking.
Additional Info
- Sea water color: Blue
- Sand type: Pebbles
- Location: Lassithi Prefecture, East Crete, North Crete, Ierapetra area
- Depth: Deep
- Sea surface: Usually wavy
- Crowds: Quiet
- Accessibility: Dirt track