Santorini‘s popularity has soared in recent years, attracting an estimated two million visitors every year, despite only being home to 15,000 residents. The village of Oia, on the northern part of the Caldera, is arguably one of the busiest spots on the island, where tourists flock to wander the winding, cobbled laneways and take in the incredible sunsets.
But as tourism figures surge further, many holidaymakers are looking to experience similar surroundings from a more off-the-beaten-path option.
Around a two-hour ferry ride away, on the larger island of Crete, sits a quaint village dotted with the whitewashed villages you would expect in a postcard-worthy scene of Greek life.
Loutro is tucked away on the southwestern corner of Crete, looking out to sparkling turquoise waters so clear swimmers can see the rocks passing by below.
The hilltop village offers sunset vistas just as stunning as Oia, set to a unique backdrop. Incredible Rocky Mountains rise up behind the seaside village, making it a great spot for adventure-seekers keen to go hiking.
The small village is renowned for being peaceful, though is busier in the summer when it attracts its highest number of visitors. However, the village can only be reached via ferries and boats.
Bus connections run from Chania to Chora Sfakion where to can hop onto a boat connection.
However, its location is part of what makes Loutro such a special destination. There are no crowds, no large hotels and no cars.
Swimming is at its best between April and November, with a handful of beaches within walking distance including Glyka Nera Beach, which means sweet water, and Marmara Beach.
With a number of small, family-owned tavernas dotted along the water, it’s the perfect place to savour a typical Cretan lunch.
The village itself is a network of quaint cobbled streets and beautiful houses. Experts from TUI describe Loutro as “the hidden jewel of southern Crete, a magical place of unbelievable blue, light blue, almost green crystal-clear water – and with no sign of cars or traffic.”