Sougia, Crete South coast
Sougia is a very quiet place in contrast to Paleochora, probably due to the long approach road and the pebble beach. The location is popular with back packers, hikers and day-trippers from the North coast. Many hikers come here from the Samaria Gorge by boat. Buses stand ready to take them back to their hotels. The accommodation is simple but appealing to those seeking simplicity.
The beach tavernas are very cosy and the beach often empty. Experienced walkers can undertake a day hike to Paleochora. Those with enough time should take a bus or taxi to the start of the Agia-Irini Gorge and walk along it, if possible to the next village. The Gorge is just as amazing as the Samaria but normally empty of people.
