Koutsounari doesn’t need loud beach bars to impress.
Just east of Ierapetra, this long, quiet stretch of coastline offers stillness, clear water, and the kind of beach day that actually recharges you.
It’s over a kilometer of fine pebbles, cicadas in the background, and barely any tourists, even in high season. A real gem if you want peace, not plastic.
And then, tucked into a corner of the beach… @pelagos_seaside_restaurant
A family-run spot doing something rare:
✅ rooted in Cretan tradition
✅ creative twists on local recipes
✅ and food that’s both beautiful and nourishing
We tried a smoky eggplant dip, an upgraded dakos, and a twist on moussaka I’ll be thinking about for a while.
This place stays with you.
And if you’re visiting this part of East Crete, it’s worth the stop.
Part 8 of my Grounded series, follow if you want to explore more hidden beaches, slow hikes, and mindful food across Lasithi.
#crete #lasithi #eastcrete #koutsounari #ierapetra #pelagosrestaurant #cretanfood #realfoodtravel #mediterraneanlife #slowtravel #groundedtravel #hiddenbeaches #cretetips #travelgreece
Did you know some of Creed’s best beaches aren’t in guide books? Utsunari has clear water, space to breathe. It’s one of those places you remember. I’m sharing places across East Creit to help you form your own grounded itinerary. Beaches, hikes, real food, hidden history, so give me a follow if you want to see more. Ksunari Beach sits just outside Petra. Over a kilometer long, mostly pebbles and often calm, even when the coast gets windy. I came here for a quiet swim and found a restaurant that really left an impression. Belago is more than just a beach ta. I got told that they switched things up every season. This year staying close to creaton roots but adding a creative twist the regulars expect. We had smoked eggplant dacos the best musaka I had this trip and way more. All prepared with local ingredients. It’s a must visit if you’re in the area. See you tomorrow when I show you Kita Gorge.
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