Kritama (Παραλία Κρίταμα)
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While spending time on Orthi Ammos beach, contributors who visited in October 2016 were intrigued by walkers that occasionally ventured over the rocks at the eastern end of the beach. Most returned within minutes, at first leading them to believe the rocks were impassable. However, on one occasion, a couple walking their dog and obviously having some local knowledge didn’t return. Curious as to what lay beyond they later walked the dirt track on the cliffs above and saw there were two further sandy beaches.
Although deserted and seemingly inaccessible, footprints were clearly visible so they decided to explore.
The climb over the rocks from Orthi Ammos was moderately difficult and they had to wade through some parts but it was well worth the effort.
Beach 1 See on Google Maps
Beach 2 See on Google Maps
These two isolated beaches are absolutely fabulous and the view west to Frangokastello is breath-taking.
16°C
As the dog walkers did not return it suggests to our contributors that there must be access from the easternmost end. They say it would also entail climbing over rocks but with sunset fast approaching and no obvious eastern exit they didn’t have time to venture that far.
The cliffs are of soft stone which is being eroded by springs that wash sediments down to the beaches making the climb a little slippery in places. No doubt the springs are what are referred to above as a “waterfall” where “clay stones” can be used for body painting. However, in October 2016 it was more of a trickle rather than a waterfall! Also a piece of pipe has been crudely erected to divert the flow from part way up the cliff. A rather ugly Heath-Robinson affair which perhaps is intended to reduce the erosion! The beaches are a little further on.
The sand slopes gently into the sea and is amazingly soft. Beyond the waterline the seabed is also sandy, gently shelving and with no noticeable currents is absolutely perfect for swimming. The sand on the beach seemed to be slightly damp… perhaps because of the springs but maybe just because it was a little overcast on the day our contributor visited.
The action of the springs and cracks at the top of the cliff may indicate that the cliffs are not stable but our contributors who visited in October 2016 reported no signs of any recent land slip but do suggest some caution would be prudent.
2019 September: My wife and I adopted a positive attitude. Armed with a beach tent, towels, lunch, water and sturdy beach shoes we traversed the rocks and were rewarded by a whole day alone (and naked) on our own beach. Lovely swimming, great view. However, the traverse is not easy. Some parts are very slippy - a bamboo cane was a great help. A few small cuts sustained … but it was worth it. Don't this attempt this naked .. for, hopefully, obvious reasons.
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