This particular route is considered one of the most impressive coastal hikes in southern Crete, combining mountainous scenery, steep coasts, gorges, beaches and traditional paths of Sfakia. The route follows historic cobblestones and sections of the E4, with continuous changes in view towards the Libyan Sea
Detailed route description
Agios Ioannis → Selouda → Agios Pavlos
The hike starts from the mountain village of Agios Ioannis Sfakia, at an altitude of approximately 780 meters, on the southern slopes of the White Mountains. The path descends south towards the impressive slopes of Selouda, offering panoramic views of the Libyan Sea.
This section is the most demanding of the route due to the long descent and several rocky points. The old cobblestone path is in fairly good condition.
At the end of the descent is the secluded beach and the Byzantine chapel of Agios Pavlos, built next to the sea. The area is associated with the tradition of the Apostle Paul’s passage through southern Crete.
Technical details of the section
Distance: ~5.5 km
Duration: 2–2.5 hours
Altitude difference: approximately -740 m
Difficulty level: Moderate
Agios Pavlos → Marmara Beach
From Agios Pavlos the path continues east over the sea, following a section of the E4. The route moves through a rocky coastal landscape, with continuous small changes in altitude.
Marmara Beach is located at the exit of the Aradena Gorge and is known for the white rocks and caves that form on the coastline.
Section technical details
Distance: ~3 km
Duration: 1 hour
Elevation changes: small (+/-100 m)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Marmara → Lykos → Loutro
The last section follows the coastline towards the small settlement of Lykos and then leads to the picturesque Loutro, one of the most characteristic seaside settlements of Crete, without road access.
The path is relatively passable, with excellent sea views throughout.
Section technical details
Distance: ~4–5 km
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Altitude difference: small fluctuations
Difficulty: Easy
Points of interest
Agios Pavlos
A small isolated bay with a 10th century Byzantine church, a pine forest and turquoise waters. Access is only by foot or boat.
Marmara Beach
Impressive beach with white limestone rocks and natural caves, at the exit of the Aradena Gorge.
Loutro
A traditional seaside settlement of Sfakia, known for its tranquility, white houses and access exclusively by boat or hike.
