Sidonia(Psari Forada) in Heraklio

It is hard to believe that a village with such an extensive beach and attractive setting has so far been entirely by-passed by all but the most inquisitive of explorers.

It is a sandy beach with thick dark sand and tamarisk trees, not affected by the winds blowing in the area. Quite remote and not organized, the beach does not offer facilities, only the crystal clear sea.

Situated on the shores of the Libyan Sea, where the climate is especially kind all year round, Psari Forada is perfect for true escapists to lose all traces of stress and relax in the virtual time warp of a small Cretan village.

Villagers regard their summer visitors with a friendly and na?ve curiosity, visitors soon adapt to the carefree way of life and despite the lack of a common language many new friendships are forged over a jug or two of the local wine. During the day the main dilemmas are exactly which part of the beach to settle on and whether to swim to the rocky islets protruding from the sea at the eastern end of the bay.

In the evening the major dilemma is posed by a visit to the kitchens of the local tavernas as each produces good home-cooking making use of the variety of locally grown produce, local livestock and freshly caught fish all cooked in the traditional way and liberally sprinkled with mountain herbs.

Most village life is enacted around the open square on the seafront, where the few general stores, cafes and tavernas can be found, as well as the local basketball court.

The tamarisk-shaded area by the shoreline provides a general meeting place. To reach Sidonia, you have to drive either from Heraklion through Vianos or Agios Nikolaos through Ierapetra and Mirtos Village.

Beaches in Heraklio

Agia Pelagia