Armenopetra is located 73 kilometers southeast of Heraklion and 5 kilometers east of the coastal village of Keratokampos. The beach extends east of the village of Kapsali (or Kapsalis) and is considered one of the most beautiful in the area. It is bordered on the east by the Skoutaris (or Skloutaris) River and on the west by the settlement of Monobouka. The beach gets its name from a striking rock formation in the middle, which resembles a sailing ship. Its shore consists of fine pebbles mixed with sand, while the shallow waters are crystal clear.
The surrounding area remains largely untouched by tourism, with only a few greenhouses growing bananas and vegetables. Those seeking solitude will easily find a quiet spot to enjoy nature undisturbed.
To the west of Armenopetra, the large sand dunes of Pacheia Ammos can be found. Unfortunately, in recent years, these dunes have significantly diminished due to irrigation pipes left running for extended periods, leading to soil hardening. These dunes form a rare and unique ecosystem in Crete, home to distinctive plant and animal species. If you’re lucky, you may spot the beautiful white Knossos lilies, which bloom at the end of summer, marking the seasonal transition.
Peristerionas Cape serves as the natural boundary between Arvi and Keratokampos, located roughly at the midpoint between the two. On its western side, a vast and secluded beach stretches out, devoid of natural shade and almost always empty. The sand is fine and golden, with only a few scattered rocks. Access to the cape is possible via a dirt road leading through the Xerokampos settlement to the top of the headland.
