Episkopi beach
The beach Episkopi is located 45km east of Chania and 14km west of Rethymnon, in a fertile valley with lowlands. It takes its name after the nearby village Episkopi, located 2km to the south. Almost no-one Greek knows this place, but everybody knows the family Vardinoyannis, originating from here; this is one of the richest business families in Greece.
The beach is bounded on the west by the river Mouselas and west by the river that runs in the gorge of Petres and the beaches of Petres. It is a long beach, 3.5km long, which is sandy, shallow and mostly wavy, like most beaches in North Crete. It is well organized, since there are many hotels, restaurants, taverns, bars and all the amenities one could need. In the western part of the beach you can find places with lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas, snack bars, water sports, etc. However, given its big length, you can certainly find a quiet spot, especially in the easternmost part, next to Petres bridge.
The main road that connects Rethymno and Chania runs just next to the beach, parallel to it. Thus access is very easy, either by car or by bus. There are frequent bus services to/from Chania and Rethymno cities. You can stay in the region or the village of Episkopi. Then you could visit the neighboring village of Argiroupolis, with its springs and lush vegetation. Moreover, Lake Kournas is also located in close proximity. In Greek language, Episkopi means Diocese; indeed, the village was the Diocese of the area during the Byzantine Period. The old Episcopal church of St. Nicholas is, unfortunately, destroyed.
