Now away from the sunbeds, this is where you start to think you’re on a tropical desert island and can let your worries float away as you look out across the turquoise clear water or look up to admire the cedar trees. See below for more information. To get to Chrissi island you must take the boat from Ierapetra and Chrissi Island boat terminal next to the police station. If you are in Heraklio, follow the road that leads to Agios Nikolaos. Elafonisi Beach: heaven on earth, that’s it, no more words to describe it. The easiest way to get here is to take a day tour from your hotel in Heraklion or any where east of Heraklion on the island of Crete. How to get on Chrissi island . The main departure point for Chrissi Island is from the South Eastern town of Ierapetra with a variety of boats departing daily between 10.00-12.00 during the tourist season at a cost of €20.00-€25.0 each. On landing, sunbathe on long stretches of sand, or go for a swim in the shimmering turquoise waters. Named Chrissi (Χρυσή) for its golden beaches, the island also has another name – Gaidouronisi. Autres expériences à Crète. 14.00: Departure from Chrissi island to an isolated bay. The boats going back to Ierapetra usually depart Chrissi Island at 16.30 or 17.30 with a journey time of just under 1 hour each way though booking a private speedboat can cut the journey time down to as little as 20minutes each way in good conditions – Great if you’re short on time but desperate to visit Chrissi Island. Nearby, you can discover some of the history of the island by visiting the nearby lighthouse, the picturesque chapel of St. Nicholas, the old salt lake with the only 20th century house on the island, and the (scant) Minoan settlement before reaching Avlaki Beach at the Western end. Arrive back at the fishing port in Ierapetra. The Island of Chrissi has been included in the European initiative NATURA 2000, known for its exotic waters in all the shades of blue and green, the golden beaches, and the protected forest with the cedar trees, which are over 200 years old. Bought tickets to ferry in on of streets of Ierapetra, 40 euros for 2 people. Chrissi island This (Golden or the Isle of Donkeys) is some 5 km long by 1 wide: its highest point (Kefala) is but 31 m above sea-level. Vom Westen der Insel Chrissi Island … Read on to discover if a day trip to Chrissi Island could be one of the many highlights of your trip to Crete. You can go snorkeling around the island of Chrissi and the small rocky island called Mikronisi. Boats depart from Ierapetra in the morning at 10.30, 11.00, 11.30 and 12.00. Boats depart from Ierapetra in the morning at 10.30, 11.00, 11.30 and 12.00. the trip takes about 45-55 minutes to reach the island. Below are just a few of the beaches that you can explore and enjoy…. This route is certainly longer, but it is more scenic and it will give you the opportunity to see many beautiful villages in the south of the prefectures of Irakleio and Lasithi. Some complaints from others that there aren't enough facilities - those people are stupid. The beach is connected to Elafonisi Island (Elafi=deer, nisi=island) where you can walk too (except in very high tide days). Arrive at Chrissi Island. This route is certainly longer, but it is more scenic and it will give you the opportunity to see many beautiful villages in the south of the prefectures of Irakleio and Lasithi. Take a good book if it’s too hot to walk and you find it hard to do nothing for that length of time! Chrissi is a protected natural reserve and features spectacular pristine scenery. Situated 15km off of Ierapetra on the South coast of Crete, the natural beauty spot of Chrissi (Chrysi) island with its protected ecosystem can be found. Tickets can be purchased in advance or directly on the boat. GO TO GALLERY . FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR INQUIRES, CONTACT US +30 28420 20008 . As you approach Chrissi, take in the beauty of its shoreline and get a few photos of the island from the water. About 700 m east of Chrissi is a small rocky island " Mikronisi". Alternatively, take a walk through the cedar forest. Book your tickets online for Chrissi Island, Ierapetra: See 2,465 reviews, articles, and 2,613 photos of Chrissi Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 23 attractions in Ierapetra. Had a great trip to Chrissi Island on the Nautilos. Chrissi Island Whatever you have dreamed heard or imagined is not enough to describe the beauty and magic of Chrissi Island.Situated a few miles south of Ierapetra the only way to visit this real paradise is rent a car Crete drive to Ierapetra and then by boat.. 18.00. Chrissi is now a protected site, recognized as a natural park. If the thought of all of those people on the famous Golden Sand beach fills you with horror, make your way to the large isolated Vages Beach on the Southeast side which is often quieter but for a reason – The Southern beaches get more wind and Vages Beach has rocks underfoot at the seashore so beach/swim shoes are a must unless you want to be one of those people hobbling around with a cut foot. The journey takes between 40 minutes (speedboat) and 1.5 hours (normal ferry), depending on the boat. The island has been active since the Minoan era until the Byzantine times, after which it was abandoned. A number of tour companies offer excursions to the uninhabited and picturesque Chrissi Island. Follow the boardwalk as you set off on a stroll around this picturesque island, water bottle in hand, to admire Mother Nature. Chrissi is great, plenty of beach and terrain to explore. Would definitely recommend their semi-private experience. It’s an organized beach with sunbeds and a beach bar though there’s space to lay your towel down on the golden sand that’s tinged with pink made from thousands of shells. Now’s the time to let your worries wash away as you sink your toes into the sand and sprinkle the teeny tiny shells through your fingertips as you listen to the lull of the sea meeting the shore – Ahh, bliss! Would definitely recommend their semi-private experience. The island of Chrissi (golden in Greek) is an island located 12km south of Ierapetra. Chrissi island – tour excursion in Crete. Would definitely recommend their semi-private experience. Some complaints from others that there aren't enough facilities - those people are stupid. The goal is to create a tour guide app which presents relevant information to a user who’s visiting the Island. How to get to Chrissi island. 2 466 avis. A 3 -day trip is a must i think. Would definitely recommend their semi-private experience. Built on the site of an older temple, the remains of stone walls, a water well, and graves dating back to the Roman Empire can also be seen close by. Sitting 31 m (101 ft) above sea level, this spot provides excellent views of the island. From there it is a 1.5-2 hours drive to Ierapetra where you will catch the boat to the island. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a96beee1414680462a5577b872773e2b" );document.getElementById("adbdfd9b5b").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. At Chrissi Island, boats moor at the small pier at Vougiou Mati on the sheltered south side, where there is a taverna and services such as toilets and showers. Boats also depart from Makrigialos and Myrtos which, though more expensive due to the boats usually being faster and smaller, can offer a more comfortable journey versus being crammed on the tourist ferry! Leaving the sunbeds of tourism in your wake, breathe in the aroma as you pass the weather beaten cedar trees with their old twisted branches, cross the white sand dunes full of shells, and meander past the church and lighthouse. The island was formed from solidified lava and 49 species of fossils (made up of shells, corals, barnacles, and urchins) have been discovered, these being trapped by the lava between 350,000-70,000 years ago when the island was still underwater. A number of tour companies offer excursions to the uninhabited and picturesque Chrissi Island. Though no longer a secret location, Chrissi island rather resembles paradise with its white sand beaches and African Cedar woods not to mention the crystal clear blue water perfect for snorkelling. An informative review video about Chrissi Island, a tiny satellite-island in the South of Crete Island in Greece. Expériences proches. Spend an unforgettable day full of swimming, sunbathing and relaxation on an uninhabited island of Chrissi!. A place to dream, swim and go walking. Chrissi Island Day Trip. Chrissi Island: Go to Chrissi Island, and go with Nautilos Cruises - See 2,454 traveler reviews, 2,567 candid photos, and great deals for Ierapetra, Greece, at Tripadvisor. Once your boat arrives, you can get orientated by heading to the highest point of the island, Kefala. Îles. Belegrina / Golden Sand aka Chrissi Ammos. The whole island is a nature reserve of breathtaking beauty. Its beaches of golden sand and shells, crystal clear waters, cedar and juniper forest make this island a real paradise on earth. It costs nothing extra to you but helps keep my site running. Back to the practical side. See below for more information. Book your tickets online for Chrissi Island, Ierapetra: See 2,466 reviews, articles, and 2,613 photos of Chrissi Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 23 attractions in Ierapetra. Chrissi is a protected natural reserve and features spectacular pristine scenery. It’s not necessary to pre-book as you’ll be asked by numerous sales people if you want to go to Chrissi Island as you walk along the seafront of Ierepetra thought for peace of mind in August, and if travelling a distance especially for Chrissi island, you may wish to pre-book. When you get too hot make a splash into the turquoise-blue sea and stick your head below the water to watch the fish swim by, just watch out for the sea urchins. Book your tickets online for Chrissi Island, Ierapetra: See 2,465 reviews, articles, and 2,613 photos of Chrissi Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 23 attractions in Ierapetra. Chrissi island. Departures 10/10.30am at the Venetian fort in the old fisherman’s port of Ierapetra. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Chrissi Island – All you need to know to reach Golden Beach [ferry, tour, map and weather] Crete has many amazing beaches, however, Chrissi Island has one of the best beaches in Europe, Golden Beach. Chrissi Island. An unforgettable cruise to Chrissi island, one of the southern points in Europe, also known as Donkey Island or Golden Island. Chrissi island – tour excursion in Crete. How to get to Chrissi island. Small boats depart from the ports of Ierapetra and Makrigialos on a daily basis. How to Get to Chrissi island The best time to visit Chrissi island is somewhere between mid-May and October. Chrissi Island. CONTACT. Look for yellow-legged gulls and dolphins as you cross the water. Inhabited by pirates (ruins of pirate merchant ships lay on the bottom of the seabed) and hermits in recent history Chrissi island has a 13th century church and graves from the Roman Empire. flora; fauna; history; prices; photos; our ships; contact us; thank you for the lovely moments we shared this summer. Thus, you will have the chance to take a closer look at the octopuses, small corals, nudibranchs, parrotfish and many more. For the well-preserved rare ecosystem and its beauty, Chrissi is … Discover the intense beauty of its pristine beaches, and see shell fossils in the volcanic rocks. Now add to that the experience of a tiny island of aquamarine water and colourful shells and the scent of cedar trees wafting through the air. It has a unique cedar forest, pure white sand dunes, golden shallow sand beaches and a sea with unbelievable tropical colors. 14.30: Lunch will be prepared and served on board. The view and water was worth every euro we paid! Boat trip to Chrissi island. The app contain all the best known secrets that only locals know. Chrissi Island: Go to Chrissi Island, and go with Nautilos Cruises - See 2,454 traveler reviews, 2,567 candid photos, and great deals for Ierapetra, Greece, at Tripadvisor. If you take a day trip here, you’re in for a treat. Gramvousa Balos; ... Alternatively, you can go from Irakleio to Ano Viannos, Mirtos and then Ierapetra. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. The crossing from Ierapetretra takes 30mins-1hr. Note that you’ll be required to pay a visitor’s tax of €1.00 on the boat, this is not included in the ticket. A small bar offers drinks and refreshments on the north beach (‘Golden Beach’). Multi-screen Android app to share your knowledge about an island I visited recently. Uninhabited, it is very lovely with beaches appropriate to Paradise. This translates as ‘the island of the donkeys’ as locals from Ierapetra used to take their beloved old donkeys across to Chrissi so that they (the donkeys) could spend their last days enjoying the pristine beauty of the place. This is the most wild and rugged as well as the most Western beach on Chrissi island. Around the two islands, the water is quite shallow with maximum depth at 5 metres. Day Trip To Crete Island: Chrissi Or Gramvousa (13 Hours) You will leave Crete and spend a day on one of the smaller islands dotted around Crete’s coastline. On Mikronisi hundreds of herring seagulls make their nests. How to get to Chrissi Island. Tickets for the cruise to Chrissi Island here... To get here more independently, fly from Athens to Heraklion, hire a car and drive for about 3 hours to Ierapetra, then take a boat cruise to the island for the day. It was sold to us by Orange Travel as 'like the Maldives', 'isolated', 'idyllic' and 'uninhabited' and we paid €53 each, to include food (undercooked roast chicken and roast potatoes in 40 degree heat, plus a 'Greek … Chrissi is great, plenty of beach and terrain to explore. The 50 minute journey is quite breathtaking. Once your boat arrives, you can get orientated by heading to the highest point of the island, Kefala. Had a great trip to Chrissi Island on the Nautilos. Visit early May or mid October and you’re likely to have the island almost to yourself but expect crowds in peak Summer months. The ferry left around 11 a.m. and we it took us about 1 hour to reach Chrissi. It is a tiny island which is almost completely undeveloped. All of the tourist boats dock on the South side of the island at the only port (think pier) called Vougious Mati so occasionally boats do have to queue to let passengers disembark. Et en plus des Alleman… Book your tickets online for Chrissi Island, Ierapetra: See 2,465 reviews, articles, and 2,613 photos of Chrissi Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 23 attractions in Ierapetra. La petite île au sud de la Crète a une superficie de moins de 5 km² et est néanmoins l'une des destinations d'excursion les plus populaires des vacanciers crétois. Nautilos Cruises: The Only Way to go to Chrissi Island - See 243 traveller reviews, 292 candid photos, and great deals for Ierapetra, Greece, at Tripadvisor. chrissi island. A fast service on a luxury motor yacht (journey time only 25 minutes) is offered by Nautilos Cruises. Chrissi is great, plenty of beach and terrain to explore. Chrissi-Island. This secluded beach is split into 2 by a strip of rocky ground but enjoys shallow water perfect for snorkelling. Located on the south side, this is where the boats come in and where you’ll find a taverna but to the West of the pier you’ll discover a pretty bay with small caves to explore. Pack plenty of sun cream, and take water with you to save buying it on the boat or on the beach where prices are inflated – Expect to pay €3.00 for a beer and more for cocktails. Sitting 31 m (101 ft) above sea level, this spot provides excellent views of the island. The main sources of wealth were fishing, salt export, and the trading of porfira (Tyrian purple), a red dye made from shells. Ierapetra is in the south of Lasithi prefecture and you can get there by car or by bus from Heraklio or Agios Nikolaos. Depart Heraklion for the uninhabited island of Chrissi, setting sail from Ierapetra on the southern coast of Crete. On landing, sunbathe on long stretches of sand, or go for a swim in the shimmering turquoise waters. Chrissi Island. Alternatively, lay your towel down on the East side of the pier, this is a rocky beach but usually has calm water on the days that Belegrina beach water is choppy. Then, drop anchor upon arrival at Chrissi, and get back to nature in the wildlife refuge area. Les familles avec enfants aiment venir ici autant que les couples ou les célibataires. Airport Accommodation If you prefer to rest before exploring, you're about to strike it rich. Some complaints from others that there aren't enough facilities - those people are stupid. The beach faces the small island of Mikronisi, located East of Chrissi island which is a shelter to thousands of birds so pack your binoculars as you may be able to enjoy a day of twitching whilst digging your toes into that fine golden-white sand. An important ecosystem, it is the natural habitat of snakes (non-poisonous), lizards, worms, and rabbits with Caretta-Caretta sea turtles and the Monk Seal Monachus-Monachus also visiting the island. Walk the path running through the island and the cedar forest to the otherworldly beach of Chrissi Ammos. Nos circuits et activités les plus populaires. © 2020 Travel Passionate. You will stay in Chrissi Island 4-5 hours enough time to get away from the hustle and bustle of the civilization, even for a single day. Larger boats operate at peak season, with a journey time of an hour. Chrissi’s two organised beaches have umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and beach bars with food and drinks. However, recent archaeology discoveries show that humans have been visiting Chrissi Island as far back as Minoan times. Book your tickets online for Chrissi Island, Ierapetra: See 2,465 reviews, articles, and 2,613 photos of Chrissi Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 23 attractions in Ierapetra. If you are not in the city of Ierapetra already, you can buy a full day trip from all over Crete that will include a guide, bus ride to Ierapetra and round-trip tickets to Chrissi. It has a unique cedar forest, pure white sand dunes, golden shallow sand beaches and a sea with unbelievable tropical colors. The majority of trees have an average age of 200 years and average height of up to 7 metres, some of the trees are up to 300 years old and 10 metres tall. Especially in summer, the island attracts many tourists. I believe the best way is to take one of the ferries, departing from Ierapetra, the southernmost town of Crete island. Nº 2 sur 23 choses à voir/à faire à Crète. Chrissi Island: 2020 Top Things to Do in Ierapetra. check. As camping is forbidden on the island, only day trips are possible. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. There’s no question. As you approach Chrissi, take in the beauty of its shoreline and get a few photos of the island from the water. Ierapetra is in the south of Lasithi prefecture and you can get there by car or by bus from Chania, Rethimno, Heraklio or Agios Nikolaos. Chrissi looks like the last paradise on Earth. Day trips from May to October from Ierapetra harbour are offered by several boat companies. Chrissi island is located nine miles from Ierapetra. Nautilos Cruises will pick you up exactly where we left you. The island hosts the largest naturally formed Lebanon cedar forest in Europe. Chrissi Island is a place worth traveling to were yo can take the boat from Ierapetra to the island at the boat habrour. Chrissi Island is the southernmost natural park in Europe (though not the most southerly point of Europe which is at another island just off of Crete; Gavdos) and is sure to make you think for a moment that you’ve landed up in Bali or somewhere in the Caribbean rather than a stones throw away from the Greek island of Crete! Whatever you have dreamed heard or imagined is not enough to describe the beauty and magic of Chrissi Island.Situated a few miles south of Ierapetra the only way to visit this real paradise is rent a car Crete drive to Ierapetra and then by boat. Sail across the Libyan Sea from Ierapetra; once on the island you can explore one of the largest naturally-formed Lebanon cedar forests in Europe, go swimming, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy nature. Via Car How to get from Heraklio to Ierapetra. You’ll essentially be stranded on the island for 3-5 hours so be prepared to swim and sunbath the day away. To get to Chrissi island you must take the boat from Ierapetra and Chrissi Island boat terminal next to the police station. Today it’s the tourists who enjoy the natural beauty of this idyllic islet though it does have amenities to make the lives of visitors a little more comfortable with 2 organized beaches with sunbeds, basic portaloo’s, and a beach bar on each where you can get drinks and lunch if you haven’t stocked up on the boat or packed a picnic. It’s very rocky, better for hiking and exploring rock pools than swimming or sunbathing and is often windy with little shade so if you walk here, after visiting the lighthouse and church en-route, be prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats/clothing to cover up as needed. Îles. Around the two islands, the water is quite shallow with maximum depth at 5 metres. Despite needing to stick to the designated paths, you soon leave the crowds behind with breathtaking views of blue/turquoise sea meeting the blue of the sky or the white of the sand everywhere you look. Chrissi Island from Heraklion: The CretanSpirit Tour has a bus that will pick you up from the station or the hotel (based on where you stay). Chrissi Island is a place worth traveling to were yo can take the boat from Ierapetra to the island at the boat habrour. If you enjoy water sports such as paddle-boarding or kitesurfing, bring your own equipment as there is none available to hire on the island. Chrissi is great, plenty of beach and terrain to explore. Pendant toute la saison, les bateaux partent de Ierapetra plusieurs fois par jour vers l'île, qui se trouve à un peu moins de 9 km, et déposent de nombreux touristes dans ce paradis naturel. The only way to get here is using the Ierapetra to Chrissi island ferry from Crete. Chrissi island is located nine miles from Ierapetra. The cruise last about 30 minutes. Depart Chrissi Island for Ierapetra. Some complaints from others that there aren't enough facilities - those people are stupid. Golden by name, golden by nature. The North side of the island is more rugged and picturesque, reached by passing through the cedar forest, but this is the windy side of the island so the South side can become a haven for those seeking to keep the sand out of their eyes! A fast service on a luxury motor yacht (journey time only 25 minutes) is offered by Nautilos Cruises. We organize boat trips to Chrissi island and Koufonisi island from Ierapetra Venetian harbour on a daily basis from May to October from Ierapetra Venetian port. Covering an area of 4,743 sq km (7km in length and 2km wide), Chrissi Island is a protected nature reserve covered by the European initiative; Natura 2000. Check out updated best hotels & restaurants near Chrissi Island. The trip takes about 45-55 minutes to reach the island. Chrissi Island. It’s a no worries experience, including the pickup from the pier on the way back. Walking shoes and shoes you can swim in are a must due to the hot pebbles and sharp rocks on the seabed. Click here to book a day trip to Chrissi island from Ierapetra. If you want a more personalised experience, bring shade and find your own spot on the beach. I am a Tourism Management Graduate with a passion for traveling. Crete Tourism; Crete Hotels; Crete Bed and Breakfast; Crete Vacation Packages; Flights to Crete; Crete Restaurants We travelled to Chrissi island with rented car from Hersonissos (about 1,5 hour ride). Visitors can also see the small solar powered lighthouse, the scant remains of a Minoan settlement, and a 20th century house, the only one on the island. Chairs and Sunbeds cost 10-15 euro and are first come first serve so pack extra towels and consider buying a beach umbrella before you get on the boat. Not all do this though, some go to the islands to stay over the night, or even more. Nautilos Cruises: www.nautiloscruises.com or call Michalis Stamatakis on 00 30 69 72 89 42 79 (email: info@nautiloscruises.com). 11.30: Arrive at Chrissi Island. Excursions last 5-8 hours, depending on which boat or package you choose. Visit the Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas; Swim and snorkel in turquoise waters; Full description. The kiosk does sell antiseptic cream and plasters if you do cut your feet, or any other part of your body, on the sharp rocks. 17.30. view video. Hunt for seashells, check out the rockier coast of the island, or make the trek to the island’s lighthouse. This quiet beach, located West of Belegrina, enjoys the shade of the cedar trees and despite being rocky, has calm waters. Here you will find destination guides and travel advice to make your next trip unforgettable. Thus, you will have the chance to take a closer look at the octopuses, small corals, nudibranchs, parrotfish and many more. My name is Chrissy, The cedar forest extends to the center of Chrissi, covering an area of 350,000 square meters. It was very quiet though so if you do decide to go, ... Had a great trip to Chrissi Island on the Nautilos. Throughout the entire season, boats leave Ierapetra several times a day to the island, barely 9 km away, and many tourists depart for the natural paradise.