Plizio Visual Lab

Perivolakia

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
City
—°4
Perivolakia (Greece)
ℹ️

Practical info — Perivolakia

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Hike the gorge descending from Perivolakia village to Kapsa Monastery for an easier route.
  • Observe the dress code (covered knees and shoulders) when visiting the historic Kapsa Monastery.
  • Start your hike before 9 AM, as the gorge provides very little shade against the Cretan sun.
  • Look up to the high cliff walls to spot Griffon vultures nesting in the rocks.
  • Bring plenty of drinking water, as there are no freshwater springs along the gorge path.

🍽 Food

🍽
Cretan Dakos

Classic Cretan barley rusk topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and local Mizithra cheese.

🍽
Kalitsounia

Small pastries filled with cheese or herbs, often served drizzled with local honey.

🍽
Lamb with mountain herbs

Try this slow-cooked dish in the traditional tavernas of Perivolakia village.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Thyme Honey

The region is famous for its intense honey; buy it directly from the beekeepers in the village.

🛍
Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Look for locally pressed oil, known for its low acidity and exceptional quality.

🛍
Dried mountain herbs

Hand-picked oregano and sage from the surrounding mountains make for great gifts.

🧘
Kapsa Beach

An unorganized pebble beach right at the exit of the gorge, great for absolute peace.

🧘
St. Joseph's Cave

A short, steep path behind the monastery leads to this peaceful hermitage in the rocks.

The secluded village of Perivolakia in the southeast of the island of Crete is a true paradise for nature lovers and travelers wanting to escape mass tourism. The region is characterized by wild, rugged Cretan landscapes, dramatic mountains, and an impressive gorge that leads down to the deep blue Libyan Sea, offering excellent hiking opportunities. The beaches around Perivolakia are among the most peaceful and untouched on the island. Botzalaki beach captivates with its crystal-clear waters and quiet atmosphere, far off the beaten track. Kalami beach is a beautiful pebble beach that is well-suited for snorkeling in the rocky bay, while the tiny Atherina beach gives an intimate swimming experience in a truly easy on the eye setting. Those who visit Perivolakia will find traditional Cretan hospitality in its purest form. The small local tavernas serve authentic dishes prepared with local olive oil, fresh herbs, and daily caught fish. The historic architecture of the small village and the absolute tranquility make every stay an unforgettable and deeply relaxing experience.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141415172024262725221916
Rain mm877238291752317445491

Geography

Population
584
Coordinates
35.04516, 26.05955

Facts

  • Southeast Crete
  • Perivolakia gorge
  • Secluded bays
  • Libyan Sea
  • Pebble beaches
  • Snorkeling
  • Hiking paradise
  • Absolute tranquility

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Perivolakia (4)

Kalami beach

Kalami beach is a sandy beach on the coast of Perivolakia, suitable for swimming.

Kapsa's Monastery

Kapsa's Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox monastery on the island of Crete.

Joana beach

Joana beach is a beach near Perivolakia, with pebbles and clear water.

Atherina beach

Atherina beach is a coastal stretch close to Perivolakia, in a quiet setting.

Frequently asked questions

Perivolakia: where is it located?
Perivolakia is located in Greece.
Perivolakia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kalami beach, Kapsa's Monastery, Joana beach.
Perivolakia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Perivolakia: why is it worth visiting?
The secluded village of Perivolakia in the southeast of the island of Crete is a true paradise for nature lovers and travelers wanting to escape mass tourism.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Greece →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks