Glaros beaches
Charakas is a area located about 36km east of Rethymno and 44km west of Heraklion, close to Bali. Half a kilometer east of the Church of Panagia Charakiani, a small peninsula is formed on the side of which there are the small beaches of Glaros and Katevati. The highway connecting Heraklion and Rethymno passes nearby.
Katevati beach
At the western part of this peninsula you’ll find the small beach of Katevati that has large pebbles. It has wonderful views to the wild Talean Mountains on the south. The rocky bottom is ideal for fishing and snorkeling. It is unorganized, so if you ever come here, make sure that you have your essentials with you (umbrella, food, water). Moreover, the beach has eastern orientation, thus it is protected by the commonly blowing north winds. On the hill north of the beach, ruins of an ancient settlement have been found.
Glaros beach
A few steps north of the first beach, which can be accessed through a trail starting north of the highway, there is the three stunning beaches of Glaros (also known as Glaria or Peristeri) facing west. They is named after the small greenish islet of Glaros, which is separated from the beach by a very narrow canal (less than 2m). The shore is sandy, but the bottom is rocky. It is ideal for seclusion and snorkeling. The northmost beach is the most beautiful and can be accessed by crossing the hill where a Minoan settlement has been found.
Charakiani beach
Below the church of Panagia Charakiani there is a beach with large round pebbles that is preferred by snorkelers and spearfishermen. The beach is easily accessed by following the trail starting from the church. You can locate that easily as there is a small islet just opposite the beach.
