Aposelemis Dam Crete
A dramatic reservoir revealing a sunken village, offering stunning mountain views and a glimpse into Crete's water management.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light enhances views
Aposelemis Dam Crete
Best Time
Golden hour light enhances views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic reservoir revealing a sunken village, offering stunning mountain views and a glimpse into Crete's water management.
"Cool to see the village when the water level was low and see the little church still having candles lit inside was awesome."
🚗 Beware of Road Conditions
Avoid routes through Mochos village unless you have a 4x4. Stick to main roads for safer access.
💧 Check Water Levels
The visibility of the sunken village depends on the dam's water level. Recent rainfall is key!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunken Village of Sfendili
Aposelemis Dam Reservoir
Witness a rare sight as the village of Sfendili emerges from the water, a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the past.
Scenic Reservoir Views
Surrounding roads of Aposelemis Dam
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the artificial lake nestled amidst dramatic mountains, especially stunning at dawn and dusk.
The Dam Structure
Aposelemis Dam
An impressive feat of engineering, the dam serves as a vital water source for the region, though direct access is limited.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Water Levels & Village Views
Accessing the Dam
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beware of Road Conditions
Avoid routes through Mochos village unless you have a 4x4. Stick to main roads for safer access.
💧 Check Water Levels
The visibility of the sunken village depends on the dam's water level. Recent rainfall is key!
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
The reservoir is a drinking water source, so swimming is prohibited.
🚶♀️ Walk the Shoreline
Small roads around the lake offer pleasant walking paths with beautiful views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beware of Road Conditions
Avoid routes through Mochos village unless you have a 4x4. Stick to main roads for safer access.
💧 Check Water Levels
The visibility of the sunken village depends on the dam's water level. Recent rainfall is key!
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
The reservoir is a drinking water source, so swimming is prohibited.
🚶♀️ Walk the Shoreline
Small roads around the lake offer pleasant walking paths with beautiful views.
⛪ See the Church
When water levels are low, you can sometimes see the village church with candles still inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Aposelemis Dam a magnificent, interesting place with stunning views, especially when the sunken village of Sfendili is visible. However, access can be tricky, with some roads being difficult for standard vehicles, and much of the dam area is restricted.
"Magnificent small artificial lake among big mountains, there are small roads around the lake to walk near the shore. Beautiful during morning and evening. Very nice place just for a quick stop also.You cant go into the water for swimming its not aloud at the time."
Manos Kornarakis
"Cool to see the village when the water level was low and see the little church still having candles lit inside was awesome."
Paddy McNally
"View was okay, but most of the Dam is locked for the public"
Hendrik Ramsauer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aposelemis Dam is located in central Crete, accessible by car from Heraklion. While some TikToks show adventurous routes, it's generally recommended to use GPS and be cautious of road conditions. Avoid routes through villages like Mochos unless you have a 4x4 vehicle, as they can be very challenging.
Public transport to Aposelemis Dam is limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the dam and explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
Roads can be narrow and winding, especially those leading directly to the dam or through smaller villages. Some travelers have reported them being difficult for standard vehicles.
While you can drive to the vicinity of the dam, direct access to the dam structure itself is often restricted. Surrounding roads offer viewpoints.
Yes, several safari and tour operators in Crete offer excursions that include visits to Aposelemis Dam and the sunken village of Sfendili.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to visit the Aposelemis Dam area. Access to the dam structure itself is restricted, but the surrounding viewpoints and roads are generally open to the public.
Aposelemis Dam does not have set opening hours as it's an outdoor location. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and visibility, especially if you want to see the sunken village.
The Aposelemis Dam area is accessible year-round, but the visibility of the sunken village of Sfendili is dependent on the water levels, which fluctuate throughout the year.
No, swimming in Aposelemis Dam is strictly prohibited as it serves as a vital reservoir for drinking water for the region.
There is no separate entrance fee for the sunken village of Sfendili, as it is part of the Aposelemis Dam reservoir. Its visibility is determined by the water level.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the roads surrounding the dam, offering panoramic views of the reservoir and the exposed sunken village when water levels are low. Capture the dramatic mountain backdrop.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) provide the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the landscape and enhancing the atmosphere.
Yes, photographing the sunken village of Sfendili is a highlight. The best shots are often captured when the water recedes, revealing the structures of the old village.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive dam and mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on details of the sunken village.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected areas like reservoirs before flying.
🎫 💧 Water Levels & Conditions
The visibility of the sunken village of Sfendili is entirely dependent on the water level in the Aposelemis Dam. Recent rainfall and snowmelt significantly impact this. Checking local weather and recent visitor posts can give clues.
The village has been visible at different times, particularly after dry spells when water levels drop significantly. It's a rare phenomenon that draws attention when it occurs.
Water levels are influenced by rainfall, snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, and the dam's function as a reservoir for drinking water. Droughts can lead to very low levels.
Even without the sunken village fully exposed, the Aposelemis Dam offers stunning natural scenery, impressive engineering, and a sense of tranquility. The surrounding mountains provide a beautiful backdrop.
When the Aposelemis Dam is full, the village of Sfendili is completely submerged, leaving only the vast expanse of the reservoir visible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to talk about water conservation and the importance of reservoirs. Remember that swimming is not allowed, so focus on the views and the story of the submerged village. When planning your visit, prioritize safety. Stick to designated paths and viewpoints, and be extra cautious if exploring areas with uneven terrain. The drive to the dam can be scenic, but ensure your vehicle is suitable for the roads. Pack snacks and water, as amenities at the dam itself are limited. Consider a guided tour if you want a more structured and informative experience for the whole family.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
If you're aiming to see the sunken village of Sfendili, research recent water levels beforehand. This adds an element of discovery to your road trip, as the visibility of the village is a dynamic feature.
Even if the village isn't fully exposed, the sheer scale of the dam and the surrounding mountainous landscape provide a dramatic backdrop for any road trip. Consider combining your visit with other scenic drives in the region for a comprehensive exploration of central Crete. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sunken Village of Sfendili
This phenomenon is a stark reminder of the dam's importance and the impact of water availability in Crete. Visitors often describe the sight as 'hauntingly beautiful' and a 'rare phenomenon.'Seeing the village is a matter of luck and timing, as it depends entirely on the dam's water levels. A good winter with ample rainfall and snowmelt can fill the reservoir, submerging the village completely. Conversely, dry periods or increased water usage can reveal its structures.
While the village itself is the main draw when visible, its emergence also highlights the ongoing water management challenges in Crete, particularly during dry seasons.
Navigating the Roads to Aposelemis Dam
It's advisable to rely on GPS navigation but also to be aware of the terrain. Opting for the main, more established roads will generally provide a safer and smoother journey.
This ensures you can reach the dam and its viewpoints without risking damage to your vehicle or getting stranded.Despite the potential road challenges, the journey is often rewarded with stunning natural beauty. The drive itself offers glimpses of the Cretan landscape, and reaching the dam provides a unique perspective on the island's water resources and the dramatic scenery surrounding the reservoir.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit