On the northwest flank of the Akrotiri peninsular is Stavros (the Cross) – a sheltered bay with sand and turquoise waters. It is organized – umbrellas, sunbeds, showers and a lifeguard, and plenty of chances for water-sports.
It was here that Michaili Kakoiannis filmed ‘Zorba’, based on the book by Kazantzakis, which took three Oscars in 1964. The film is particularly remembered for the closing scene where Anthony Quin (Zorba) teaches Alan Bates (Basil) to dance the syrtaki.
Stavros is quite popular, and attracts its fair share of tourists in the summer. Nearby there is quite a large number – albeit smallish in size – of hotels, apartments and rooms to rent, many eating places, banks and shops.
Next to the beach is a small harbour that serves the area, whilst a short distance away to the east is another beach with sand and rocks alike. Quieter and less organized, it is open to the north winds that blow, Even so, you should go there, even if only to watch the magnificent sunset!
Though unknown to most, the beach Seitan Limania is rather beautiful
