Hotels near Frangokastello Fortress

Frangokastello is a 1374 Venetian fortress built to control southern Sfakia and now stands almost intact on a flat coastal plain just metres from a long shallow beach. The square fort with four corner towers became famous for the 1828 Battle of Frangokastello where 600 Greek fighters under Hatzimichalis Dalianis held off Ottoman forces. Locals say at dawn each May the ghosts of the fallen, called Drosoulites, march across the plain - a real meteorological mirage caused by warm coastal air. Entry is free, the site is unfenced. The shallow beach in front is excellent for small children with no waves and water that warms quickly.

Pro Tip: Stay in nearby Patsianos for one night to see the fortress at sunrise, when the light hits the south-east tower first.