● Live
Temp
Wind
Sea
Water
UV
Sunset
Beach Score
Temp
Wind
Sea
Water
UV
Sunset
Beach Score
Village Guide  ·  Sfakia

Anopolis

Ανώπολη
The high plateau village above Loutro, gateway to Aradena Gorge

Anopolis sits on a high plateau above the south coast of Sfakia, accessible by a dramatic mountain road from Hora Sfakion. The village is the gateway to the Aradena gorge walk, the abandoned village of Aradena, and the famous bungee bridge. The plateau itself is a landscape of extraordinary severity — flat land ringed by vertical limestone walls.

3/5
Family
📷
Photo Spots
🌵
Walks
🍺
Tavernas

Why Visit

The gateway to Aradena Gorge — one of the finest gorge walks in western Crete.The abandoned village of Aradena (10 min from Anopolis) is eerie and historically significant.The plateau landscape has a geological drama unlike anything on the coast.The Sfakian tavernas serve the most authentic mountain food in the region.

Tavernas & Kafeneion

Anopolis taverna (Sfakian lamb, raki)Aradena village area (basic seasonal)

Walking Routes

Aradena Gorge (3-4 hours to Marmara beach)Anopolis plateau circuit (2 hours)

Nearest Beaches

Loutro (by water taxi from Marmara after gorge walk)Glyka Nera (boat)
🔝 Hidden Places Nearby
Glyka NeraAradena GorgeMilia Village

Discover all hidden places →

🔎 Local Tip

Drive to Aradena bridge and walk the gorge to Marmara beach. Pre-arrange a water taxi from Sfakia to pick you up at Marmara.

Half-Day Itinerary

Arrive
Coffee at the village kafeneion
Order ellinikos kafes and sit until you feel settled
Morning
The gateway to Aradena Gorge — one of the finest gorge walks in western Crete.
Take your time — this is the point
Midday
Lunch at Anopolis taverna (Sfakian lamb, raki)
Ask what is cooked today

Full-Day Itinerary

Arrive
Coffee at the village kafeneion
Order ellinikos kafes and sit until you feel settled
Morning
The gateway to Aradena Gorge — one of the finest gorge walks in western Crete.
Take your time — this is the point
Midday
Lunch at Anopolis taverna (Sfakian lamb, raki)
Ask what is cooked today
Afternoon
Walk — Aradena Gorge (3-4 hours to Marmara beach)
Aradena Gorge (3-4 hours to Marmara beach)
Late afternoon
Drive to Loutro (by water taxi from Marmara after gorge walk)
Swimming before the evening

Location

🗺
Anopolis · Sfakia
Open in Google Maps →

Photo Gallery

Have photos of Anopolis? Share them with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Anopolis?
By car from Chania — most villages are 20-60 minutes. Check for bus connections if not driving.
Is there accommodation in Anopolis?
Most smaller villages have limited accommodation. Check Vamos or nearby coastal towns for full options.
What can I eat in Anopolis?
Anopolis taverna (Sfakian lamb, raki), Aradena village area (basic seasonal)
When is the best time to visit Anopolis?
April-June and September-November for gorge walking.

Continue Exploring

More of Chania

Contact xania.gr
Questions, suggestions or partnership enquiries — we read every message.