The event will take place on the beach of Sarakiniko, in Gavdos.

There is no airport in Gavdos. The island is only accessible by ferry from Crete, departing from the small harbors of Paleochora and Chora Sfakion.

To get to the festival from the mainland, your first mission is to get to Crete, then you make your way to Paleochora or Chora Sfakion, then finally there’s the ferry to cross to Gavdos where we will be waiting for you. Have in mind that during our festival it is a public holiday in Greece so the sooner you book your trip and accommodation, the better.

1. Getting to Crete

If you are travelling from abroad, we recommend you arrive by plane to Chania.

By plane

There are two international airports on Crete: Heraklion Airport (HER) and Chania Airport (CHQ). We recommend you arrive in Chania, since Heraklion is on the other (east) side of the island. You can also fly to Athens and take a ferry/plane from there to Chania.  Check the website “Skyscanner.com”  (or similar) to compare prices and book your tickets.

By ferry 

There are daily direct ferries from Piraeus (the port of Athens) to Chania. The ferry trip from Piraeus to Chania (Souda) lasts 6-8 hours, depending on the boat. There are both day and overnight ferries to Crete. You can check options and book your ferry tickets on the site https://www.ferryhopper.com/#/

2. Getting from Chania to Paleochora or Chora Sfakion

From Chania, you can take a bus or drive to either Paleochora (approx. 1h 50 mins) or Chora Sfakion (approx. 1.40 mins). Both routes take a similar amount of time. Since the bus routes are not aligned with the ferry timetable, we recommend that you check the bus and ferries section in order to decide. It makes sense to spend a night either in Palaiochora or Chora Sfakion since the ferries leave in the morning. Alternatively you can spend the previous night at Chania and make your way to either of the two harbors very early in the morning. We recommend taking the ferry from Chora Sfakion since the ferry to Gavdos leaves later in the morning (check the section below for more details). 

By car 

If you are arriving by plane to Chania, there are car rental companies directly in the airport. Alternatively you can use Rentalcars.com. We also encourage carpooling and invite you to state available seats in your car on the group we have constructed for this reason in our Whatsapp community.

By taxi

Chania transfer

CHANIA-CHORA SFAKION: 102€ for up to 4 people

CHANIA-PALEOCHORA.107€ for up to 4 people

By bus

We will try to inquire a charter bus from Chania to Chora Sfakion but this is tbd and please do not rely on that.

To check bus schedules and book your seat (recommended), visit KTEL’s website or call them at +30 28210 93306 (KTEL Chania) 

Chania <–> Palaiochora (8.3€, 1h 50mins per direction)

Chania -> Palaiochora (Bus stop: Konstantinoupoleos 17-1, Chania 731 36 or see roadmap)

Mon-Sat 8:45, 12:45, 16:00

Sun 8:45, 16:00

Palaiochora -> Chania  (Bus stop see roadmap)

Mon-Sat 7:30, 11:00, 18:15

Sun 11:00, 18:15

Chania <–> Chora Sfakion (8.3€, 1h 40mins per direction)

Chania -> Chora Sfakion (Bus stop: Konstantinoupoleos 17-1, Chania 731 36 or see roadmap)

Mon-Sat 14:00

Palaiochora -> Chora Sfakion  (Bus stop see roadmap)

Mon-Sat 7:00

3. Crossing to Gavdos

The ferry company is called Anendyk and it is the only company that serves this route. The ferry to Gavdos departs from the ports of Paleochora and Chora Sfakion, several times a week. The schedules are so that you will need to arrive the night before in either Paleochora or Chora Sfakion to catch the ferry. The ferry from Chora Sfakion leaves later in the morning, so there is more time to wake up and have a proper local breakfast (Sfakianopita with honey is amazing, and cafe freddo) next to the sea while waiting to board. As we will mainly stay on one beach, we recommend that you don’t bring a car (costs more and we will not move much from that beach)

Gavdos <–> Palaiochora (28€, 2.5h per direction)

Palaiochora -> Gavdos 

Mon&Tue 8:30

Wed 8:00

Gavdos -> Palaiochora 

Mon&Tue 14:30

Wed 11:45

Gavdos <–> Chora Sfakion (8.3€, 1h 40mins per direction)

Chora Sfakion -> Gavdos

Thur-Sun 10:30

Gavdos -> Chora Sfakion 

Thur-Sun 14:30

It is not possible to book tickets for trips to Gavdos online. If you are travelling on foot, you can purchase your ticket up to 1 hour before the departure time at the ticket office directly at the port area. 

In collaboration with the ferry company, we will reserve your ferry tickets in advance as part of the festival ticket price, and you can pick them up directly at the counter (details tbd). We have been asked to do this by the company so that ticket issuing does not delay the ferry’s departure. 

If you wish to bring your car or motorbike, please contact the Anendyk’s office to reserve a space at least 2 weeks in advance at +30 28210 95511 or at +30 28210 95530 or by email to booking@anendyk.gr. It’s first come, first served, and the ferry can get quite full.

Important: there are often strong winds on the sea passage between Crete and Gavdos, so it can happen that the ferry is not allowed to travel. You should always check a few weather apps in advance. The final decision as to whether the ferry will go or not is usually made in the morning shortly before departure (approx. 1 hour). Decisions are announced via the Anendyk website (https://anendyk.gr/) or on the Anendyk social media channels (Instagram and Facebook). Normally the ferry leaves once the wind goes down and we will inform you once we arrive to the island (estimated Sunday before the gathering starts)

There will be a dedicated group in our Whatsapp community to communicate with other people.

The ferry arrives in the port of Karave, about 25 minutes walking distance from the festival site, at Sarakiniko beach. There is a public bus that is waiting by the port and will leave you directly at the beach so we would recommend you choose this option 

Furthermore, some hotel / room owners offer a transport service to/from Karave. You can also use the services of Big Taxi Transfer (+30 698 639 9646). The transfer from the port to the beach costs 10€ for up to 4 people. Please mind that there are only 2 taxis on the island.

Further information will be provided through the dedicated Whatsapp groups closer to the date.

It really depends on you but we recommend that you arrive till latest Thursday 5th of June in Gavdos. In that way you have time to settle, go into the sea and slowly transition into the island’s energy. There will be a welcoming evening that we plan to have on Thursday evening.

No. All the activities will take place on a unique site, on the beach of Sarakiniko, where you can also find accommodations and tavernas. It means you won’t have to go far to have your basic needs covered. The organisation team will bring their cars, so they can also be used in case of an emergency.

You can also use the services of Big Taxi Transfer (+30 698 639 9646) – see the price list here.

Please note that there is no gas station on Gavdos, so if you decide to bring your vehicle, your tank should be filled up beforehand. There is a gas station in Chora Sfakion as well as in Paleochora.

Currently there is no service foreseen to take you back from one of the harbors to Chania (or Heraklion, or wherever), and we can examine adding one on Sunday/Monday depending on popular demand. In the meantime, please rely on your lived experience to retrace your steps.

This guide and the people you meet can be of help. 

That’s right! A running race will take place on the same dates. For the sporty ones, this is a good opportunity to join the race, and rave!
In a spirit of mutual respect, we will limit the hours of loud music depending on the exact date of the race.
If we really wish to party hard until the morning, we can also spontaneously move the generator and speakers on a more remote part of the island.

You have received an invitation to participate and access this site. Please do not share it further without consulting with the organizers first.

Of course! Please let the organizers know and we will forward the invitation to your friend(s).

TBD, but expect sth around 150 euros (we will let you know asap)

This gathering is based on communal effort, there is a relevant section in the RSVP where you can choose where and how you can participate to make these days wonderful!!!!

While at the festival, you can either stay in your tent or book a room in one of the local family-run hostels. 

The beach of Sarakiniko is a great option for camping: the sand is perfect for sleeping and there are trees to provide shade. There are also taverns, cafes and mini markets as well as toilets and showers.

But if you prefer the comfort of a bed and your own bathroom, here are a few room options around Sarakiniko beach:

There is a shower and toilet at the cantina that can be used by people that are camping on the beach.

There will be charging station at the cantina that can be used for charging your electronic devices. We will try to keep you away from electronic devices as much as possible so let’s use the electricity in a sensible manner.

Overall, yes. Gavdos has its own radio tower so you’re pretty well connected and the Internet is working. But you might have to look for a good spot: you get a very good connection within the villages. On the beaches or outside the villages however, the connection may be poorer or even non-existent. Most tavernas and apartments offer Wi-Fi. For the most part, the speed can be described as decent. It always depends on how many people are currently connected to the Wi-Fi. The same applies to the free public hotspot “WIFI4EU” which can be received in Sarakiniko. That being said, the reception on Gavdos is very good (4G) in all but a few places, so you could also use your smartphone as a hotspot.

There is a mini market right on the beach that you can buy food, water and drinks (nixteridas). Please avoid drinking water from the tap, although water could be ok the cost for 0.5 liter is less than a euro.

We will try to create communal lunch/dinner, but there are also a few tavernas directly on the beach that you can choose from. We would appreciate it if you can order from the venue so we can support it.

There is a relevant question in the RSVP, where you can state your dietary preferences/food intolerances.

You can bring your own alcohol, but we would like to support the cantina bar that will host the event. We would appreciate that you can order from the venue so we can support it. 

Yes, there are several mini-markets in Sarakiniko:

• Kiki Gavdos houses a café and mini market. It is open from early morning until late at night, serving coffee, breakfast, snacks, and providing all the necessary food items, beach supplies, and essential clothing items you may need.

Note that the island has only two ATMs (near the port and in Sarakiniko).

It will be warm and hippy. You can bring a jacket just in case but otherwise you can rely on your summer clothes. Nudity is allowed on the island so you can also go around naked if you feel like it.

When packing, remember that anything you bring could be lost, damaged, or misplaced. Theft is rare but not impossible, and even the most valuable possessions can simply be misplaced, moved and disappear. Keep essentials like ID, money, and phones secure, and avoid bringing anything irreplaceable. If conflicts arise—whether with friends or strangers—keep in mind that heat and heightened emotions can make people act out of character. Try not to take things personally and offer support to those who seem overwhelmed – there are numerous calm spots to cool down. Lastly, be mindful of waste—remove excess packaging before you arrive, carry with you all your rubbish, and if you see abandoned trash, do your part by picking it up. Respecting the space and those around you ensures that the festival remains a positive and welcoming environment for everyone.

Documents

• Festival Ticket
• Identification Card (ID)
• Health Insurance Card & Credit/Debit Cards

Health & Personal Care

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ and Face SPF50)
• After sun (you’ll probably get burned), Moisturiser, Aloe Vera Gel
• Lip Balm (SPF 15+)
• Medical Kit
• Bug Repellent
• Hand Sanitiser
• Tissues/Wet Wipes
• Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap /shampoo, deodorant, etc.
• Menstrual Products 
• Ear Plugs
• Eye Drops
• Throat Lozenges
• Condoms & Lubricant
• Electrolytes/Vitamins

Clothing & Accessories

• Sunglasses
• Lightweight, Breathable Clothing – Shorts, t-shirts, loose shirts, dresses for daytime.
• Warm Layer for Night – hoodie, leggings
• Comfortable Shoes/Sandals/Flip-Flops/Water Shoes
• Hat/Cap
• Bandana/Scarf
• Festival Costumes & Accessories – nothing that causes trash.
• Swimsuit
• Towel (Quick-Dry)

Camping & Sleeping Gear (if you plan to sleep under the stars)

• Tent
• Sleeping bag and pillow (compact or inflatable)
• Sleeping pad or air attress
• Shade Structure or Tarp – there is little natural shade, and having an extra structure can make a big difference 
• Folding Beach Chairs
• Trash Bags

Food & Hydration

• Reusable Water Bottle 
• Electrolyte Drinks or Tablets
• Non-Perishable Snacks – Dried fruits, nuts, energy bars, crackers.
• Food is available at the nearby shops and taverns

Gadgets & Miscellaneous

• Small Backpack or Waist Bag
• Headlamp/Flashlight
• Music Instrument – there will be jams.
• Power Bank
• Notebook & Pen
• Personal Ashtray (if you smoke)

Do Not Bring Drugs. We strongly recommend that you are totally legal since penalties are quite heavy if caught by local authorities.

No, please do not expect or plan for fires. There are often fire bans across crete due to warm, windy and dry weather – the perfect combination for an out-of-control fire. 

Workshops/activities on the beach during the day, music during the night. There is/will be a schedule for activities from around midday (12pm to approx. 4pm) and music from sunset onwards.

Absolutely. You are strongly encouraged to bring your own ideas. If you are planning on creating an art installation please contact the organisers first. There is a relevant question in the RSVP

Yes, we strongly encourage that. There is a relevant question in the RSVP

It will be loud enough, and please do not hesitate to offer your equipment for the gathering.

Gavdos is the southernmost point of Greece and Europe. It lies between the Cretan and Libyan Seas. It is believed to be the island of Calypso, Ogygia, where Odysseus/Ulysses was held captive for 7 years. It is also noteworthy that it was inhabited since the Neolithic era, had a presence of the Roman Empire, and in the 1930s became a place of exile for communists, with more than 250 people sent there, including Markos Vafeiadis and Aris Velouchiotis, prominent figures of the Communist Party. Sarakiniko, in particular, has its own little history as it took its name from the Saracen pirates who used the island as their base.

• Respect the Environment  – “Leave No Trace”
• Stay Hydrated & Rested – The heat can be intense; pace yourself.
• Be Open & Friendly – This is a great place to meet new people.

Everyone who comes to Gavdos has a responsibility. The nature of the island is unique and must be preserved in itsbeauty. So let’s all ensure that the island’s nature is protected and respected. This means clean up after yourself and even pick up little trash if you can.

Yes

The penalties if caught by authorities are quite severe, and there can be a lot of control in ports. We don’t encourage people to bring illegal substances and whoever does it will be at her/his own risk

You can be naked all around Sarakiniko and in general Gavdos

Gavdos has a medical centre, located in Kastri, here. 

You can reach them at: +30 28230 42195.

Other Important phone numbers include:

• Sfakia Port Authority: +30 28250 91292
• Paleochora Port Authority: +30 28230 41214
• Gavdos Police Station: +30 28230 41019

• Bring a mosquito repellent, it is absolutely necessary.

  Gavdos is generally safe, while there have been reported sightings of the european cat snake, which is venomous, but not very effective against humans. Spiders and small scorpions, can also be present, such as Tube-dwelling Spider, whose sting is very painful. You will probably find hornets (just leave them alone). 

  In the sea, if you encounter the Indian Lionfish, stay clear. The fin spines are highly venomous and have caused death to humans in some reported cases, even though a sting from this species is rarely fatal. There is also the lagopsaro / silver-cheeked toadfish, which is extremely poisonous if eaten.

  For a full list of species, see here,

You are more than welcome to stay with us on Gavdos after the festival for a few days of decompression and laid back holidays. There is full moon on Wednesday 11th of June, and we plan to enjoy it.

In any case, after the festival, allow yourself at least a few days before resuming any major responsibilities. The transition back to everyday life can be disorienting, both physically and mentally. 

Take the time to rest and reflect on the experience. You may find yourself feeling exhausted or simply needing solitude before reconnecting with routine. 

If possible, share your experiences with friends who understand the atmosphere, as this can help process the emotions and energy shifts.