Hike to Viena Beach

Lake of Krios or Viena beach is located on the west side of Cape Krios and it is the most remote beach of the coastline in the Palaiochora area (the closest city from the beach). The beach is mainly rocky, with sand in some places. It is protected by a large wall of rocks, that forms a small enclosed bay resembling a lake. The beach is situated in the exact location of the ancient Hellenistic or Roman city of Viena (hence the name of the beach). Not many remains of the ancient settlement have been preserved, however there are still visible the rectangular base of the ancient sanctuary of the city and the scattered pieces of columns. The remains of the ancient city make also snorkeling a fascinating experience as one may witness broken columns and ancient tombs under the sea.

The overall landscape is equally extraordinary and the most interesting thing is that the beach is not easily accessible and therefore this make it quite secluded and quiet. Very few people visit it and most probably you will be able to enjoy it by yourself.

The beach is accessible from the nearby Krios beach, which is marked as the starting point of the trail. You can park your car at the right most edge of the beach and either follow the trail or a dirt road that starts from this point. You will be following the E4 European hiking trail to Elafonisi until the last part that turns left and deviates from the main trail. This will take you through an easy trail to the beach.

Overall the distance is approximately 2.5km and since it is an easy trail you wont need more than 20 to 30min to get to Viena beach from Krios. Although the trail is easy, you will need hiking shoes and proper protection from the sun during summer as there is no shade at all. You will return from the same path.

The beach in Viena has absolutely no facilities, so you need to carry enough water and snacks/food. However, at Krios beach you will find beach bars. Krios beach is about 12km away from Palaiochora and you can either come by car or you can cycle.