Elafonisi (Deer Island) – Inachori, Greece - Atlas Obscura

Elafonisi (Deer Island)

Inachori, Greece

A small island with shimmering pink sands, home to loggerhead turtles and rare plants.  

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Elafonissi is a nature reserve on the southwest coast of Crete, in the Chania region.

The sand shimmers a beautiful pink color thanks to millions of crushed shells, coral, and other pigmented microorganisms. The waters are shallow enough to wade out to the other islands and explore. There are a few tavernas and beach umbrellas near the car park, but there is plenty of space to wander off and be secluded. Also on the island is a plaque found at its highest point. The plaque honors the women & children massacred by Ottoman soldiers during the Greek War of Independence. 

Know Before You Go

Quite a trek to get to but certainly worth it! 

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August 15, 2019

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