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Info about Chora Sfakion

Chora Sfakion is a small, authentic coastal town located on the southern part of Crete and serves as the "capital" of the Sfakia area, one of the most mountainous regions on Crete's southern coast, and perhaps also one of the most traditional.

Chora Sfakion is renowned for its wild, untouched nature, steep cliffs, and the deep blue Libyan Sea. While the town has been adapted for tourism with hotels, tavernas, and bars, it still retains its traditional charm and feels far removed from mass tourism. It is a quiet and peaceful place, as many visitors are hikers who spend most of the day exploring the excellent walking trails starting from the town.

Chora Sfakion is situated on the south coast, near the spot where the impressive Imbros Gorge opens to the sea. The town is a great destination for day trips from the northern side of Crete, either by bus or rental car. It is worth staying overnight to experience the town’s cozy atmosphere. From here, you can take a ferry to Loutro, which is just a 20-minute boat ride away. When the ferries bringing tourists from the Samaria Gorge arrive, the town may briefly feel crowded, but it quickly returns to its peaceful state once the buses have departed back north.

In the town’s small harbor, which is the heart of Chora Sfakion, you will find fishing boats, small ferries, and charming tavernas serving local dishes such as fresh fish, lamb, and the famous "Sfakian pie", a type of cheese pie served with honey.

Chora Sfakion is not known for large sandy beaches, but there are small, tranquil beaches nearby, such as Glyka Nera (Sweetwater and Iliggas Beach, both with crystal-clear waters.

Chora Sfakion has always played a significant role in historical wars and uprisings, with a proud and long history. It is particularly known for its inhabitants’ involvement in the many revolts against the Ottoman Turks. The people of the Sfakia region are famously strong, independent, and proud. During World War II, the town served as a key gathering point for resistance fighters and was instrumental in helping many British and Australian soldiers evacuate the area after the Battle of Crete.

The road from the northern side of Crete to Chora Sfakion passes through stunning landscapes on the edge of the Lefka Ori (White Mountains). The final stretch before reaching the southern coast follows the Imbros Gorge, which offers an excellent alternative to the Samaria Gorge for those who might find the latter too challenging.