Distance from Heraklion: 134 km
Distance from Chania: 80 km
Activities: Water sports, visit to the castle
Best time to visit: Summer, early morning to see the Drosoulites [dew shadows].
Information: Shallow waters, ideal for fishing and snorkeling
Amenities: Accommodation, water, organized beach
Fragokastelo is located on the south coast of Crete, about 12 km east of Chora Sfakion, in the prefecture of Chania. Its name comes from the Italian “Franco” which means free and “Castello” which means castle, while it is often referred to as the castle of the Franks. The castle is one of the most famous sights in the area and is renowned for the phenomenon known as Drosoulites, that is visions that consist of a group of human-like shadows dressed in black, walking or riding horses at dawn, at the beginning of each summer. They are armed with weapons, moving from the monastery of Agios Charalambos and advancing towards the old fort, Fragokastelo, where they disappear into the sea. The phenomenon usually lasts about 10 minutes, when there are no winds and the atmosphere is moist. According to Venetian records, the castle was built between 1371-74 by the Venetians, and its aim was to protect them from pirates and the frequent rebellions of the people of Sfakia.
The main beach of Fragokastelo is truly enchanting with shallow waters, ideal for families with children, quite organized, with the sole problem being the frequent strong winds. To the west of the castle lies another beach with pebbles and a rocky seabed, suitable for snorkeling.
Either way, this place exudes something eerie and is definitely worth a visit. After your swim, don’t miss taking a walk to the nearby monastery of Agios Charalambos, climb the castle, and try the excellent local cuisine in some of the traditional taverns of the area.
