I thought that during my visit in October 2008 the beach looked a lot wider (deeper) this year than the last couple particularly down at the Northern nudy end.
Some of the coastal path had given way over the course of the year but even where it had come down the beach was wider.
No wading to the nudy beach this year in particular.
This was true for 2 solid weeks so I doubt its a tidal effect and we caught the back end of low pressure before a high built that seems to be hanging in there even now.
I think though I have not only size envy of the nudy end (fnar fnar) The beach is lovely and sheltered down there and the water is significantly warmer in the shallows of the Northern end.
Its the best part of the beach dispite its lack of facilities.
I have one small complaint. I think some nudists forget that the Northern end is "clothing optional" not just soley for those who "dare to bare". There have been a couple of occasions when we have enjoyed a walk the length of the beach and come accross sunbathers being quite antisocial (trying to shock) in a clear display that we were not welcome because we had swimming costumes on.
Keep that up and I will campain to move you down to the southerly extreme of the beach and plant lots of Aloes down there!
Hi, Corfusoon. I agree the beach is there for all to use and everyone has the right to do so.
The part about you being made to feel unwelcome is the part I don`t understand. Most users of the north section are decent, likeable people.
However it is also true that the casual walker will go onto that section of beach just to have a nose.
If some nudists are `antisocial`, then I agree it is wrong-- we are not all like that!
Live and let live.
Paul D
The beach this year was magnificent. At the south end you could get all the way along without risking life and limb on the rocks, and at the north end you could get to the naturist part without even wading past the outcrop. As you all say it is for everyone and there are bound to be controversies. Life works like that.
But all I can say is that Jen amd me will be back on it next summer whatever happens.
Phil
Agree with that JustPhil. In May there was no need for wading to get to the North end.
I also agree with Paul D that the beach is for all whether wearing swim suits or not.
Sorry, Corfusoon, that you had some unfriendly behaviour just because you were in swimsuits. For several years I removed my trunks but my wife kept her costume on, so we were truly a clothes 'optional' pair. I must have converted her however because last year in Tingaki (Kos) she decided to join in and divested herself of her cossie. She has got used to the free and wonderful experience of bathing as nature intended and has insisted on returning to Arillas this year - hooray!
Best wishes to all North Beach fans.
PJ
Now lets not any of us get into a debat about this, lets remember that it is not officaly a nudist beach and if cause for corcern the police could come down on all of us.
As most of you know Pete and I love that end of the beach, it is our idea of freedom and surely everybody on holiday has the right to feel comfortable and free wether clothed or not. Arillas is known for it's relaxed atmosfear so let us all relax all along the beach.
I hear what people are saying but we do not feel that we can wander freely to either of the 'ends' of the beach when they are occupied. Rather, we wait for a rainy day or walk along in the late evening, when we are less likely to meet a nudie. Not that we are prudish - just don't want those that choose to bare all to think we are going for a nosy!!
Hi Folk
I see in another thread that Viv has heard the beach has suffered over the winter. She fears that the Northern Beach may only be accessible by swimming round the little headland.
Has anyone more information? Is the Northern beach accesible? (Have just realised I don't know how many ccc or sss to put in accessible).
Regards
Pat
That will be a great shame. It was fabulous last year, the best ever, really wide and easy to walk back and forth.
So agree Jo, it was wonderful last summer. Jen would find it very difficult to get to the North end otherwise. But hey-ho. Whatever happens we'll be there, textile or otherwise.
Phil
Looking at the webcam recently, it would appear that the beach has disappeared completely (possibly just my bad eye sight), does anyone have any info ?
The size of the sandy beach of Arillas is different almost every day. It all depends on the current of the sea and the direction of the wind which moves the waves.
Sand is a liquid element with specific dynamic.
The shape of the beach depends on whether or not the waves are constructive or destructive.
Constructive waves move sand up the beach while destructive waves move the sand down the beach.
If the wind is from the south then the waves move the sand towards the sea resulting to a decrease of the width of our beach.
When the wind blows from the north , then it moves the sand out of the water making the beach wider. Three days of north west wind ( Maistro ) can give us a width up to 2 metres a day.
This is why most of you who regularly return to Arillas are most of the times surprised by the shape of our beach .
The beach profile changes seasonally due to the change in wave energy experienced during summer and winter months. It is higher during the summer due to the gentle wave action during this season. Conversely, the beach profile is lower in the winter due to the increased wave energy associated with storms.
At the moment ( 30th April 2009) the beach is really narrow and since a few weeks seaweed has been washed out on the front of the beach the way to the far end to the beach to the north is not accessible ( until today) but the area under graziella and seabreeze taverna has now became Sandy as the sand has moved in to this direction.
We really need a long weekend of North West and strong wind which would bring the shape of our beach back to normal.
Tomorrow 1st of May we are expecting the first package holiday makers as well as the local Corfiots enjoining the first summer public holiday (one of many)
Best regards,
You are so knowledgable- that made interesting reading.
Thankyou.
Whatever the width of the beach it will be bliss to be there instead of rainy UK.
Karen
Please folks, don't be put off by what people wear or don't wear. We are 'wearers' but still spent many hours during July last year wandering up and down the full length of the beach north to south. Sometimes you don't want to lie in the sun or drink in a bar (not often) or swim, so a lovely stroll is simply delightful. I'd hate to think people thought we were sneaking peeks as we went. I believe that almost everyone who uses the beach is happy no matter how you dress, its part of what makes the place so special.
We too wandered up & down the beach a couple of times a day. my husband calls this 'Greek sunbathing' as they don't lie & bake in the sun like us Brits, they sit/lie in the shade of a brolley then occasionally wander up & down & still manage to get a lovely tan. It works too without the burn!
Karen
fab and interesting report boss...
and lets hope the visitors in may are in there many...yammas..c.u .in june
that was really interesting and fascinating to read. I remember one year whilst in Crete we did one of our regular trips to Elafonisi beach/lagoon and couldnt believe how much it changes each year. It gets really windy there and assume the beach changes because of the reason Dimitris has explained. It does make it exciting to see the changes though.
I cant believe the new season starts this week, all those fortunate people being the first to arrive in Arillas, wish I was one of them!
Hi Folk
Thanks, Dimitris, for the explanation of how the beach is constantly changing. Lets hope the north westerly wind does its stuff and gives us a nice wide beach.
With regard to sunbathing under a brolly - I think that at the height of summer you need the shade to avoid burning. Julia and I spend at least as much time under the brolly as out especially for the couple of hours around noon when the sun is highest.
Am looking forward to developing my tan in September.
Best wishes
Pat
Let's hope the beach recovers soon. I always give the unstable section of cliff a wide berth, and it looks like I'll be up to my neck in water if I do so this year lol
You could always take a rope and abseil down the cliffs at the far end. lol :)
riggers.....
It could be that the cliff path is out of bounds this year. :-(
When I was over at Easter I was told that the cliff path was blocked off as there had been a land slip.
I suppose I should have moved my butt and checked it out but somehow it was just sooo relaxing sitting outside the Creperie I didn't want to move!!!
Eileenxx
Ohhhhhhhhh Eileen, i don't blame you. Glad you had a relaxing time :) .
Maybe the May visitors can check it out and report back...:)
riggers....
Ah Eileen luvver, Jen and me so identify with that! Curiosity is one thing, but when you're enjoying life and at peace, why bother with it? You can always find out another way. How many times have we all ditched the plans and stayed put? I know we have, often. Our day at Dionysos taverna started out as a quick snack, and lasted all day. So what? Life is for living....
Phil
Agree totally Phil and Jen. We find it best to plan hour to hour not day to day. I have to do so much planning at work, Arillas time is a total contrast to that.
Yes, we find it best to make a provisional plan, then mull it over while enjoying a frappe, then have a bite to eat, then a Mythos, and finally a siesta. Later, if we can still remember the original plan, we may or may not follow it through ;-)
Ah Oregano,
That sounds like my idea of holiday planning! :D
LOL,
lynn xx
The only plan is working out where to have breakfast, in the appartment or maybe splash out and buy one, after that go where the mood takes you. Beach, Pool go for a walk or just sit on the balcony and relax. Gosh that sounds like hard work thinking that lot through. Better join oregano and enjoy a frappe. AND CHILL OUT !!
Seems like an overwhelming vote for 'planning by the hour'! Too right too!! Holidays are for freedom from all plans, timetables and obligations...apart from - where to eat breakfast - what to drink - and - what sun factor shall I put on plans!!!
Eileenxx
There is a 1-2 m break in the cliff path. Its passable with a bit of daring.
Its before the nudy headland where you could decend for sometime to the beach.
Keep your fingers crossed for the beach. Labour day yesterday seems to mean that the beach clearance has paused. Lots more places open today.
There were a lot more tourists around down there today. I think they can quite rightly be disappointed in the state of affairs.
Given that Easyjet have now been flying for a month I think better preparation could be made. The season seems to be finishing unofficially a couple weeks earlier over recent years so maybe the businesses and municipality could respond accordingly.
Hi Frank. Sorry we diverted the thread about the beach into avoiding plans and obligations and living the laid back, inclusive and friendly culture that is such a cornerstone of our Arillas. But that is what most of us do out there...
To be honest, if the beach is difficult this year, we will just divert our attentions to other parts of Arillas. We both adore the beach, and have been educated by Dimitris' posts explaining how it all works. Many of us spend most of our time there, but Arillas can provide much more.
Newbies just need to drop the guard and say hello to all and sundry. Arillas is about inclusion, about friendship and about joining in, in your own way. It is why so many are obsessed with it, including Jen and me.
Phil
Hi everyone
Just got back today sadly. I can confirm that there is no beach at the moment but given the weather of the last few weeks, it didn't really matter!! Hopefully it will pick up but the last forecast I saw was for thunder and lightning - again - on Monday. No worries......the people we love are still there, the food as good as ever and of course, the odd glass of retsina to be consumed.
Will post a fuller report later but I'm afraid Viv will have to update you on access to the northern beach after her visit- I couldn't begin to get near it.
But as Dimitris says.....it can all change....
Hi Sandy, great to have you back. Although not great for you.............. :)
Thanks for your immediate report and looking forward to your next... :)
yammas
riggers...
Welcome back to Blighty Sandy luvver. I won't say "home." Like Jen and me, you work here but live in Arillas.
We all had great fun looking at the pic of you and dad in Arillas (thanks for the pic Dimitris.) Yous both looked so young and content, happy and laid back. Jen and me still talk about it now...
We adore the beach and the naturist North end, but to revisit TerryW's thread, Arillas is too important to us for the beach thing to stop us being there.
As usual, I have so much more to say but don't want to bore yous all witless.
Welcome back Sandy luvver
Phil
Welcome back Sandy and thanks for the first hand report about the beach. No doubt there will be change depending on the direction of the wind and waves.
Pat
Blow, North-westerlies, Blow!!!
Any update on how its looking now?
See Dimitris pics under 'live web cam' thread.
nature is nature..all i know is my ar-e will be on that beach in 2 wks .yammas..........
Hi, Kevin. Couldn`t agree more- whatever the beach is like, we will be sunning ourselves anyway. Really looking forward to being there, after a difficult few weeks for Heather and myself. Some serious `r and r` wil be had by all.
Yammas Paul D
Beach is coming back everyday now.I will put photo of North beach up tommorrow that i took on Thursday 21st.
<h> thanks look forward to seeing in them..........paul ...chil and enjoy..look forward to meeting you,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,yammas
(//)
looks like i cannot insert an image of the beach will email to Dimitris and he will put them in for me.
Hi
Harold thank you for your efforts to show photos of the beach.
Just knowing it is coming back is music to the ears and I am sure that by the time I get there I will be able to just relax and get some green mud ))
Don't worry you can always have the beach if you really need it.
(http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/4521/sandbox.jpg)
LOL
They say size does not matter. So i am sure i can cope with what is there ))
Quote from: harold on May 23, 2009, 01:11:04 PM
looks like i cannot insert an image of the beach will email to Dimitris and he will put them in for me.
At long last i have been able to email the pictures i took last Thursday 21st May.I had to get into the loft and load them onto my old computer and use outlook express.
Thanks Dimitri for posting them for me.
Thats good.
Thank you Dimitris for showing the photos and Thank you Harold fot taking them. Have set one as my desktop background so i can see what i am looking forward to.
I have had a look at Mary's fantastic photos on Facebook and I hope she doesn't mind me posting this one. There isn't much beach to be seen :-(
(http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4613/35/55/1446540731/n1446540731_381304_3039594.jpg)
4x4 the one with Viv and Pete walking up the beach?
No.
I have started with the second one first and I intend to change it in a couple of days for the other.
It seems a long time but by the end of June I hope to have some photos of my own to post.
I just hope they are not all through the bottom of a beer glass.
( Its difficult to tell the difference between a camera and a glass sometimes ))
The Photo of the boat is very.....................
It will definitely make its way to my desktop in a few days.
Those pictures look promising Harold....thank you!
Loving this thread.
Couldn't get on Facebook tonight (no idea why) so Mary's pics will have to wait till I can. Sorry luvver - that's why no comments yet. (Oh NO! there will be comments then, I hear you all saying...)
Dimitris' and Harold's pics show how much it has improved. Thanks both for posting them.
Just can't wait another 5 weeks to be there........
Phil
I cant get on facebook either and I know Janice has posted some of Pete and I, I dont seem to be able to get involed in facebook anyway. Viv
Hya Terry
course I don't mind you posting one of my pics - I'll be posting them on here soon. Yes the beach gradually got wider and wider during the second week. If you check on my flickr.com/marysmemories they are all there and more - including the unexpected visitors on the 2nd week -
take care
Love
Mary
Well it was all looking very promising, but by Thursday (28th) a lot of the sand was washed away again :-( The sand is only about 6' wide and ends at the northernmost limit of the official sunbeds. To get any further means wading knee-deep around the little headlands. For most of last week there was a decent amount of sand at the beginning of the naturist section, but even that had shrunk by Thursday. Lets hope nature rectifies it soon!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2768783&id=580979808
Thanks for the update - your photos on facebook tell the story of the beach very clearly.
It looks as if St. George's has had the better deal so far with lots of sand on the beach there.
Best wishes
Pat
(http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k131/wino1605/015.jpg)
(http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k131/wino1605/003.jpg)
(http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k131/wino1605/017.jpg)
(http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k131/wino1605/016.jpg)
the beach was still fighting an uphill battle with the sea as i left. the sunbed men are so bored they drink in thalassa most of the day.and why not.
hope the beach gets a bit wider soon! 3 weeks to go
ger x
Any recent news on how the beach is coming along?
Thanks
Beach still narrow, but at least there is some to get on to!
Took an early walk at 7.00 a.m. this morning, and saw a couple of guys raking the stones back, to provide more sand for the sunbeds.
I believe the north end is available if you wade through the sea at two intervals. (According to Sandy, met her last night for first time, lovely lady!)
Am soon going to go and try for it ourselves!
lynn xx
Thanks for the on the spot report Lynn
Three weeks before we arrive so maybe we will have a bit more to stretch out on
Tried the north end of beach yesterday, had a fair bit of wading to do, at knee level.
Once reached, it was gorgeous as ever!
Suffice to say, I ENJOYED!! :D
lynn xx
Hi all,
Any update on size of beach??
Not due until 17thJuly but we are really looking forward to getting on the beach!
Pat and Annette
Hi all you lucky people in Arillas from murky London town,
Any news on the beach as some of the comments are frightening!
Anyone got an up to date photo by any chance?
Probably worrying about nothing.........but I do like my beach!!!!
Have a lovely Arillas day.
Pat and Annette.
Got back yesterday and I'm afraid the honest answer is "What beach?"....maybe it will improve a bit if the weather settles down again....
[flash=200,200]http://img510.imageshack.us/i/arillas2009153.jpg//flash]
This was taken on Monday (our last day) but as Sandy says it seems to be changing all the time..........
Oh well, back to the drawing board..............
You left before the storms started justlynn!
Well, there was one storm Sunday night, and this was taken the day after. But you are right - it's only showing how it was then!! And that's if it works this time....
(http://img510.imageshack.us/img510/4431/arillas2009153.jpg)
Well Lynn, when I saw your pic I was a little cheered, now following sandy's comment iIam back down in deepest depression!
Sorry Jo....it did improve a bit at times when I was there - but as soon as the wind got up or there was any rain, the beach was swallowed up again.....and it has been very wet and stormy at times this week....
Last week we were sitting on the beach by Gratzellas and Sea Breeze......The sea was sometimes lapping under our sun beds, which were as near to the wall as we could get them!!! We had to keep lifting our feet up!
We used to sit beyond where the Gratzella & Sea Breeze are but alas, all that is there now are big rocks.........Felt a bit sorry for Petros as his income from the beds and brollies has been reduced.
The beach seemed to change shape all the time.......but all the locals say it happens on a regular basis!
I'm going to upload some photos onto www.webshots.com but I'm running a bit behind with everything at the moment as I came home to a fried router box due to storms and lightning in Yokshire!
Hey Ho! Lovely British weather!!!!
Hmmm ....Fried Router Box.
Is that served with salad or veg ?
LOL !
Quote from: Baldy Barry on June 30, 2009, 07:54:54 PM
Hmmm ....Fried Router Box.
Is that served with salad or veg ?
LOL !
Served with roast potatoes & Retsina!!!!!
I love the beach but we didn't really venture down there much in May. Hopefully it'll be back to normal by the time we return in August
please accept sincre apologies.
because of limited access to the north beach we have been using other beaches
since early may ie. Almeros and even san steff.
however today we waded to north beach and rediscovered a little piece of heaven
once again sorry for straying from the path will make more effort in future.
as always it was magic a little less sand but who cares.
On behalf of Arillas beach and in particular 'beaver creek' I will accept your apologies! Dont let it happen again :-)
Just spent four weeks in Arillas and the beach varied between small and non-existent. The weather changes daily and just as the beach seems to be growing the wind changes and it disappears again. It is a huge problem for the local business community. I spoke to several taverna owners who are really struggling. The numbers of tourists are down due to the credit crunch and now the reduced beach has taken away much of the sunday"greek family day out" trade as they are choosing resorts with bigger beaches. I spoke to some people who said they would return whatever the beach was like but others said they would not. It seems those who know and love Arillas will be back but those who are first timers may be put off by the beach after expecting better. On a brighter note it seems more eastern europeans are now visiting and may provide a new customer base for the lovely people of Arillas
dai we have our fingers crossed too. Arillas is so deadly quiet for mid July. The locals are putting on a brave face, but the truth is we either use it or lose it. One example - we were the only customers at Efi's night before last. Lovely meal there.
But I have to say, Kostas on the Beach was very busy indeed last night. Just about every table occupied. And the food was as excellent as ever.
Phil
hi will be in Arillas begining of August. Is it possible to get to the North end yet? Can't wait to come back - 4th time!
IT is possible but you have to wade round the rocks in a couple of places.....unless you come down the cliff further on.
great, thanks....can't wait to get there again. it is such a relaxing and friendly place
Yes it is possible and some were there yesterday. It's just that after several Mythos and lots of forum members to chat to it is not advisable.... Justphil tried my best but gave up after I fell in. Justjen spent a very happy hour washing three tons of green mud out of my shorts.
lmao as usual
Phil
so which part is natural this year?
I walked to the South end a couple of days ago. there was an "au naturel" couple who give me quite a few years (yes dears, old) and at the far end a naturist family. I didn't go that far, out of respect for their privacy. I had a quick dip and was completely alone for ten minutes. Bliss
Phil
Phil alone NEVER
I went to the souh end several times this year but usually had to climb over a pile of seaweed to get into the sea so gave up in the end. There was very little sand up there in June.
Sandy luvver, I got clotheless and had a little dip in a very secluded bit of the South beach but it wasn't Sandy like you, it was Stony like me. The beach is what it is. I was very drunk when I fell over in the North end. At least 6 Mythos and another visit to doctors to get my wounds dressed.
It might only have been two tons of green mud Jen had to wash out of my shorts contrary to previous posts. (It will be one tomorrow....)
But in the distance I could see others were loving the seclusion and peace there at the North end. I so should have been part of that. Many should take heart, forget the Mythos and get their a***s up there.
For me? Maybe tomorrow, maybe next week. Avrio.
I can do Arillas with my clothes on....
Phil
justphil
Sorry to hear it is quiet in Arillas this year so far, guess its to be expected, beach or no beach. I doubt it will be any different in many places around Corfu and Greece. Hopefully the very worst is over and we will see a steady increase August and September and into 2010. We are so sad not to be there this year, but pulling out all the stops to make it back in 2010, even if it means flogging the odd spare organ. Anyone know a good website? :-) enjoy the rest of your stay.
GazCaz
Thanks gazcaz. we willenjoy it all, there is no doubt. Beach today for us was watch it from Graziella. Or was it called GazCaz??????????
And John, while I love to be alone sometimes I rarely am. There's usually a referee blowing a whistle in my ear to wake me up...
lol - you know I'm joking
Phil
Beach was good today lots of ROOM FOR ALL
jr&d
next year its going to be sooooooooooo wide ,,lol....enjoy its not just about the beach............yammas
Thanks, John the Ref & Dot, for the beach update. Our trip in September is getting closer and it seems the beach is getting better all the time.
As I sit here in Lincolnshire watching the rain (heavy all day) I keep dreaming of the blue sky, warm sea, and golden sand of Arillas.
Best wishes
PJ
Thrown it down here to all day too PJ, looking forward to October with no rain at home.........
riggers...
we're just home (sadly!) from 2 weeks in Arillas and are pleased to report that the beach doubled in size whilst we were there! The strong winds of last weekend seemed to bring the beach back and, by the time we left, it was a decent width, if not as big as last year. Last night the resort was still really busy at 6pm - lots of cars and locals on the beach so hopefully things will pick up for the local bars & tavernas. Will try and upload a photo or two later.
Just back after 12 days,weather was fine for September,probably not as hot as usual,but OK.Access to the nudist beach was dificult and only possible by wading through the surf,managed most days,and the beach was just about wide enough,the sea was lovely and warm. On the couple of days where access was impossible we went along past "Sea Breeze" and found a half decent stretch of sand with a few nudists in situ,so at least there is an option.We were both quite shocked and upset by how quiet the resort was,surely a result of the recession,bad Euro rates and a knock on from the demise of EXEL,let's hope that things pick up as the empty and boarded up businesses can leave the wrong impression on visitors (IMHO). On the plus side ,it would appear that the well run places are bucking the trend. Dimitis' original post is very informative and surely explains why the north beach disappears from time to time....only to re-appear to the south! Booked again for another go next year,although our Easyjet return experience to Manchester last friday night (where the incoming pilot refused to leave Manchester,because the runway at Corfu was wet and slippy! Honest!) could put normal non-Arillians off! Yamas!
Ssshh Crawsue.....don't tell everybody about that little bit of sand....that was my hideaway this summer. Sometimes had it to myself all day!
My wife and I missed not going to to the beach this year. Hopefully next year we'll have another restful time on it. May have to fill our suitcases with sand though?
Rgds James
Hi Folk
It must have been you two, Crawsue, that we saw on the South beach last week. Yes we found we couldn't access the north beach on several days unless prepared for cosiderable amount of wading while drenched with heavy spray as waves hit the cliffs.
Agree that the resort seemed quieter than usual, but the best places were still doing good business.
Must get booking for 2010!
Best wishes
Pat
Hi folks i just wondered how the beach was looking so far this year is there any increase in size as yet,not that it really matters as long as there is enough to get layed out on after a dip in the sea to cool off,roll on august ;-)
Tony, there isn't any beach at the moment, but I'm sure it will return by August! The sea is still very near to the road, but changes almost daily. Yesterday there was no sand on the beach, only stones. I've seen big changes through the winter. Last April there was no sand either, and by June it was fine, so, we'll see!
Next time I'm down at the sea, I'll do some pics.
Thanks, Maggie - we'd welcome some pics to keep us up to date on the state of the beach. I hope it's back by May, never mind August! May need to invest in some crocs if the stones persist...
Janis x
Thanks Maggie keep us all posted with any new updates on the beach and for anything else for that matter :-)
Tony
I took these pictures last week.
(http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/8466/dscn2009c.th.jpg) (http://img19.imageshack.us/i/dscn2009c.jpg/)
(http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/8844/dscn2006.th.jpg) (http://img696.imageshack.us/i/dscn2006.jpg/)
(http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/3816/dscn2007g.th.jpg) (http://img31.imageshack.us/i/dscn2007g.jpg/)
Maggie luvver, thanks for making so much effort to keep us in touch. Whilst they don't show Arillas off to its best, I justloved the rustic and honest images your photos gave me. We all read about the gargantuan efforts the villagers have to put in to prepare it all for us lot in the summer, but seeing it for real somehow brings it home.
There is a strange beauty in the way it is now. I for one would love to spend an hour wandering along that road, taking it all in, then heading off to Armourada for a wee dram and a lovely hot meal. Bliss.
Phil
Phil. There were some pictures on the forum a couple of weks ago showing the other side of the beach. By Ina's, can you remember the post they came under please? Not long now!!!
raff dearest, I am not sure, but think you mean Maggie's pics on this link in Arillas Today. When you get there, scroll down past all our Christmas waffle to Maggie's post.
http://www.arillas.com/page/option,com_smf/Itemid,165/topic,2312.3525/lang,en (http://www.arillas.com/page/option,com_smf/Itemid,165/topic,2312.3525/lang,en)
My advice if not, is to go Home, Arillas General Information, Arillas Today and work back through the posts.
I think the neglected South end past Graziella and Sea Breeze is due for a lot more visits next year. Let's wait and see
Phil
The beach (from Maggie's pics) doesn't look particularly inviting at the moment, but it soon will when we arrive!!
Looking forward to more
Thanks Maggie!
Janis x
thanks Maggie for the update if all goes well this year we may experiance the winte ourselves hope to see you thisyear
As always Maggie's photographs say more than a thousand words would convey.
Just hoping things take a turn for the better as the year goes on, and am looking forward to more photos and reports on the state of the beach.
All the best
Pat
We're all going to be positive about this, positivity works!!
It wouldn't stop us from coming in any case, but a good beach always helps...
Janis x
Looking good today :)
(http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e336/erkkapetaja/WebcamFeb.jpg)
It's looking wonderful Erja. Clear, bright n' sunny. How I long to be there...............
Sara
It's been a very nice sunny day today, but the wind is getting up now! We drove past the beach today, and the sea is quite far in, but there is lots of sand. We've been watching the sand coming in for a few days. If the sea was to calm down, and move out a bit, the beach would be lovely. I'll try for some pics soon.
Thanks for that Maggie - you are getting our hopes up. Am looking forward to seeing your photos in due course
Wonder if the beach will return to the happy state it was in in 2004 when the picture below was taken (somewhere around the Horizon I think)
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/patjmcn/Other%20Pics/PatrickatArillasforum.jpg.)
any arillites that could give a pic or update to the beach ...a big yammas
For the last week or so, it's been looking promising! The sand came back, but it's windy again, and when we passed yesterday, the beach was very stony again, and the sea was quite far in. The beach seems to change daily, and as far as I can tell, will continue to do so until the weather settles a bit. If I can do some pics I will, but I'm having difficulties with posting them!
You're a good 'un Maggie. Thanks for the update. It would be great to see more pics if you can manage to post them
Best wishes
Pat
Quote from: Maggie on February 27, 2010, 04:29:45 PM
For the last week or so, it's been looking promising! The sand came back, but it's windy again, and when we passed yesterday, the beach was very stony again, and the sea was quite far in. The beach seems to change daily, and as far as I can tell, will continue to do so until the weather settles a bit. If I can do some pics I will, but I'm having difficulties with posting them!
It won't be long until you're down their Maggie in your cossie making the most of it before us forum mob descend on it :-)
Thanks for the update.
Eileen.x
Maggie luvver, Dimitris needs to change your colour to bright Green like Eggy's as Roving Reporter. Thanks for the update - keeps us lot sane (?) to know what is happening there. Please post more when you have the time....
Phil
Please post more when you have the time....
Phil, I thought I would have loads of 'time' , but I don't know where it goes! I can't believe it's March tomorrow....
Last night we saw the most amazing moon ever! It was like it had rainbows all round it, a bit like a target.... Not sure if it's a good sign or not? Has anyone ever seen this before?
Unfortunately we didn't have a camera!!!!!
Maggie, I think I sort of knew that when I wrote it. I suspect it will be the same for Jen and me. But we will all appreciate what time you can find to post. The moon sounds so gorgeous. One of those sights you never forget. Wish I had seen it.....
Thanks luvver
Phil
Hi
Maggie - I think its rings of colour caused by ice chrystals in the upper atmosphere. Have seen it myself sometimes on clear cold nights. The sun will do it too sometimes but complete circles are rare, you often just get a few bits of the arc.
Where does the time go? Very good question. When I retired they said I'd have plenty of time, but I don't know how I ever found time to work now!
Thanks for the reports & pics. Please do your best to find odd moments to keep them coming.
Best wishes
Pat
Hi Maggi,
I've seen it once here in Denmark it was absolutely amazing.
Unfortunately my photos did not come out well.
Connie x
I found this photo on Panoramio and its a very intereting view of the beach. There seems to be lots of sand with a good sized beach. By the appearance of the buildings in the background, it must have been taken about 10 years ago.
(http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n179/terrylwarner/25676488.jpg)
Found here http://www.panoramio.com/photo/25676488
hi maggie look forward to a photo of the beach we still have snow
I like this one, Terry - from the same site:
(http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/1154070.jpg)
Hope our beach gets like this again!
Janis x
The beach doesn't look like that today! lol. Actually, the sea is quite calm today, and there is sand......
maggie
any pics please ....yammas
A lovely photo Janis. Thanks :-)
xxxx
Kevin, I'll try to get some pics this week, but I have difficulty with posting them. I may need some help!!!!!!!
maggs
me and technology are the same ,,,but terry.w is the boy for help ,im sure if you pm him he will give u step by step .instructions..yammas
I remember the beach like that.....I'm sure it will be back one day....
Janis, I have a photo very similar to that on my wall at work....just to remind me of happier times ahead!!
Those happier times will be with us soon, Sandy! x
just having the peace and quite and the laid back attitude will make up for no beach.last year was our first time in arillas and we did every trip going,this year we look forward to just getting to know more about this special place and its people.the food is to die for,everyone takes time out to enjoy what we all take for granted.arillas i agree is a big slice of heaven.
heather
you make it sound like there,s no beach at all, but the truth is due to wind & sea currants the beach has just reducuced in size ,as i can remember only a few yrs ago the sunbeds on the beach being 3 rows wide, hopefully it will be back this yr,but yes it is a woderful laid back resort ,and dont start me on the food....yammas
sorry kevin.g didnt mean it to sound like there was no beach at all,i just meant that it would not worry us in the least if there was none because arillas is such a special place.we have looked at all the photos from all you great people and have seen the beach with its sun beds,billy at kaloudos[sorry if thats spelt wrong] explained to us about the tides,we look forward to going back in may and spending another two fantastic weeks.
We have visited Arrillas numerous times over recent years and had fantastic relaxing holidays just the place to go to unwind. We were saddened on our last visit Sept \ Oct last year to watch alot of the beach disappear in front of our eyes during the storms that took place whilst we were there. We will be returning again this year and wondered if the beach had returned over the winter months. I too am one that enjoys a walk along the full length of the beach with my costume on and find the reaction of certain naturists difficult to understand!
NEIL
Take a look at "Arillas Today" post.The beach is fighting back which pleases locals and regular guests. Nature has a way of making his/her way felt and last year , maybe, was a gentle remnder of who's in charge. - I think this year will be better.
( I had a little stroll along various parts of it this morning - Tis looking good, so far )
Cheers
Negg
We had a stroll along the beach this afternoon, and very pleasant it was too!
What a shame we didn't meet on the beach today Maggie.
The beach was looking good to me...
(http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/9541/img2505f.jpg)
Sara
The beach does look good. I think today has been a new dawn, the first of April and lots of activity on the forum.
Also, great news for Eggy today, have a look at the new "Google Translate for Animals" and there is even a donkey talking as an example.
- I think we have lift off for 2010.
Yammas Everyone!!!!!!!!!!
Lol Terry...
Thanks for all all these pics Negg, Sara, Maggie..... Arillas is getting nearer. :D Yessssss
Here comes SUMMER......
Where do you find them all from Terry? Laughed myself silly. Don`t have far to go though.
Hi Sara,
What a lelief the beach is back.
There wasn't much left in September.
Enjoy your holidays and keep on posting photos, pleeeease!!
Connie x
Also, great news for Eggy today, have a look at the new "Google Translate for Animals" and there is even a donkey talking as an example
Very funny Terry,
But do they have a google translate for Eggy? - After 6/7 Ouzos that is.
( And it must have a slow down or pause key )
Negg
Is there much to thr right of the pier yet?
(ie: my private beach :-0)
Hi Jo, you must be a mind reader, that's just what i was thinking!!!
Wetty
Jo & Wetty .... not as much sand on the right [north], but sure with the better weather now, it will improve each day. I'll try & take some photos soon.
Sara...x
Thank you Sara, I'll be interested to see the North Beach pics too... :)
lynn xx
Thanks Sara for all your efforts. I'm someone else very interested in the North Beach - hope you don't have to wade there though. Have only been to Arillas once when wading wasn't needed, although Dimitris told me that when he was a teenager there was enough sand up there to race an old car up and down.
Easter good wishes
Pat
Pat matey, jen is busy learning how to knit speedos.... you sort of embody them on this forum. No point her making them for me - ask Sandy x when she gets back from Vietnam!
I wear what nature intended on the North beach, or anywhere else I can do so without upsetting anyone. And in 2008 the beach was much wider, and we got spoiled. Yes, even Jen could have run up and down it like an old car...... But 2010 will see the normal cycles of Ms Nature, and it will still be special. I justknow it.
Phil
phil
i think your so right ,,i feel the beach will back to its entirety this year <fingers crossed >......yammas
The North beach is somewhere I have yet to explore as
I've never been there. But as far as I've been told it's where
the green mud is, isn't it?
Connie x
It is, and once you have tried it, it will always be where we find you. love Viv
Thanks Phil for getting Jen knitting. Am old enough to have worn knitted wool swim trunks - dreadful things which dripped everywhere for ages after getting out of the water.
Yes I think you are right about the North beach - it is very special - and I shall try to blend in with what everyone else is (not) wearing when I get there.
Sunflower dear - am sure you'll look fabulous dressed in green mud. Lots of people wear nothing else -and am afraid most of them look like monsters from Dr Who - however am sure that won't apply in your case.
Have Julia & I got to wait till September? 'Fraid so, but then anticipation is great and am looking forward to all those wonderful on the spot reports from Arillas over the summer.
Am glad Phil that I embody something (shall take that as a compliment!)
Best wishes to all Forum Folk
Pat
Hi Pat,
Now, you've really made me giggle!!!
ME only dressed in green mud? No way!!
I would surely look like a monster from Doctor Who and scare everybody else away.
Mind you, I'm just a little old Lady, not seeking too much attention. Ha ha!!!
But I WILL try the green mud in June (properly and deasantly dressed in a swimsuit).
Connie x
Hi Connie
Just sorry I won't be there to witness it - be sure to have a camera handy so we can see how you look!
Best wishes
Pat
Hi Pat,
there's only one comment to this:
Ha haaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!
Connie x
Just one photo for now. I'll try & post more tomorrow. I will need to edit a couple so that I don't spoil Nikos' surprise!!!! My lips are sealed.
(http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/415/img2606hn.jpg)
Ah go on Sara, you know you want to!
Looks wonderful, Sara - looking forward to tomorrow's...
Thanks (in advance) for editing a couple - it's nice to get a surprise (I think!)
Janis x
Sara luvver, thank you for the pic. Arillas looks absoutely gorgeous to me. The beach looks so inviting. And getting your ankles wet to get to the far end won't stop me. Just can't wait to be back.
Phil
Snap Phil (ha ha!)
Janis x
Double snap, Phil and Janis! :D
lynn xx
treble snap,lynn ,janis,phil .........yammas
I reckon the beach will be back to its best this year. But if not, then no matter- can`t wait to be on it again.
Looking forward to meeting new faces who have never tried the `north` end. The people we have met, who have tried for the first time, all loved it - their enthusiasm is infectious!
Sara`s photo shows plenty of room for all- roll on September!
Yammas Paul
QuoteAh go on Sara, you know you want to!
I'm dying to tell you...Lol, but I can't. Nikos will reveal all when he's ready. All I'm saying is that it's going to be F.A.B.U.L.O.U.S.
A few more pic's of the beach which were taken on Saturday.......Looking good :)
(http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/9742/img2600f.jpg)
(http://img691.imageshack.us/img691/3990/img2602h.jpg)
(http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/5006/img2604u.jpg)
Thanks Sara - beach is very important to Arillas and to most of us on the Forum. Your pictures as usual say more than a thousand words.
Best wishes
Pat
Hi Sara
Thanks for the photos - please keep them coming - they just remind us of what a heavenly place Arillas really is.
Looking forward to seeing it again first hand in 4 weeks time.
Hi Sara,
Lovely to see the beach is back to it's usual wonderful self !!!
There wasn't much of it in September last year.
Connie x
FANTASTICO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Mission completed (almost - still need the sunlounger one :-))
Great pics of the beach Sara want we all wanna know is have you been in the sea for a swim yet,or is it too cold for you? lol
Tony ;-)
sara photos are lovely....cant wait to park my bum on the sand .....yammas
Looks good, how easy to get to nayurists section
Des
It's good to know the beach is recovering. Does anyone know if the road at the bottom of Kaloudis has been repaired yet for coaches to go up and down.
June
june
im sure our greek freinds will have the repairs done buy the time we get there ..yammas
Quote from: june on April 14, 2010, 05:24:53 PM
It's good to know the beach is recovering. Does anyone know if the road at the bottom of Kaloudis has been repaired yet for coaches to go up and down.
June
June there is an update on this thread,
http://www.arillas.com/page/option,com_smf/Itemid,165/topic,5761.msg82435/topicseen,topicseen/lang,en#msg82435
As far the size of the beach right now
there are some pictures that I took today that could tell the difference to last year
Wish I were walking along it right now....
in 5wks time the sand will be underfoot yammas
well looking at the pic of the day 6th june,,,looks like the sand is returning .thanks for the pic dimitris ........yammas
Kevin
Beach looking good - See todays "Arillas" posting.
Friday eh?
Negg
Returned in the early hours from fantastic two weeks in Arillas, the beach is fine and seems to be growing each day. The middle is the smallest now, the north is fine with easy access ( some wading, but on sand) and the south has more sand than it has had for the five years since I first visited. Also seems to be an increase in number of naturists at the end of the south beach. Can't belive this time yesterday we were in the sea which for us was the ideal temperature, cooling but not chilling. Looking forward to being back in Arrilas 11 weeks friday, not that we are counting.
Hello Dai,
Thanks for the report, sounds absolutely lovely on a rainy day in Denmark.
I will be there friday to see for myself !!!
Looking forward to see you Kevin, Kay, Barbara and everyone else.
Connie x
Connie - and everyone - have a wonderful time in Arillas!!
I'm sure you will....
Looking forward to your reports
Janis x
For all of yous worrying about the beach there is plenty for everyone. God (Dimitris for short...) has twisted the sea, and while there isn't a North End at all, I just spent a wonderful hour investigating the South. Really easy to walk, the locals have cleared the rocks. Even Phil, pissed from a wonderfully relaxing day at Graziella and Mirage can't complain. Jo, you'll have a beach but you might have to walk a few yards....
Arillas is still a beach destination. Magnificent. Beautiful. But believe me if you want to. I'm biased. And HERE.
Phil
Plenty of beach, Happy Days... Not long now
I am really sorry about my misleading post yesterday. I have just spent a good hour or two at the far end of the North beach. Jen was in Kaloudis, and I crawled in behind my rock, cooked in the baking sun and did what I do best. Just chilled and sunbathed au naturel with not a soul to bother me. The beach is norrower at the middle but there is everything for everyone. Get yer buckets and spades out, Arillas beach is as good as ever.
Phil
oooohhh!you have made my day Philip!!
Thanks Phil for your latest on the North beach. Your earlier report was very disappointing, but now you have allayed our fears. Looking forward to both Kaloudis and the North Beach in a few week's time.
Best wishes - enjoy the rest of your holidsy Phil&Jen
Pat
The beach seems to have disappeared today, hope it comes back quickly, it upsets me to see NO sand at all.
Val
On Wednesday, we walked on the beach, along past Gratsiellas. The sand disappeared, but we walked on the pebbles and rocks right round the corner, and back again. It took us 1 hour, so we covered a fair distance. I think we have never been able to go so far round that side.
Today when we passed, the beach had disappeared a bit, the sea is very rough today, and tthe jetty is soaked!
There is a lot of sand still tho, so hoping it stays for the summer.
Thanks Maggie for the reassuring report. Fingers crossed that the sand builds up during the Spring ready for all our Summer visits.
Best wishes
Pat
Thanks Maggie, in future I will rely on the feet that do the walking. :D
Val x
im sure the sand will come back in its glory this yr ,,if you look down from nikos bar on a calm day you can see all the sandbanks just sitting there wait for the tides to turn,,,yammas
Just a little update on the beach. The stretch of sand is much wider on both sides this year.
What I have noticed is the shift in the sand shelf as you enter the sea. Normally it's a gradual change shallow getting deeper but it's a strange thing this year it seems to be an undulating sandbank.
As you enter the shallows you then notice the sea gets deeper very suddenly and as you progress further the sand suddenly comes up to meet you and you find yourself in shallow water again. Ther must be a ridge of sand which is giving this effect
The water right by the jetty on both sides is quite deep now and then becomes shallow very quickly. It's as though it has been scooped out and deposited at the sides !! A little bit disconcerting and children need to be kept away from the sides of the jetty as there is a slight undertow and you can find yourself being pulled by it.
It will probably all change again within the next few weeks and months and when I come again in September it will be totally different.
Cheers Nan x
Many thanks for the update Nan, roll on the 30th when I can wet my tootsies.
Val x
Thanks for the update, Ann. Have you been snorkeling yet?
Terry
Hi
The beach was like that the year before last, keep the updates coming I love every bit of info ;-)
thanx ann
snorkel&mask ready to go................xx
It's been lovely to get in the sea and snorkle. Lots of little fish by the jetty but not as many as in the summer obviously.
Sea calm today and so warm even though a bit overcast. Some seaweed been washed up overnight.
The little hut has not been placed on the beach yet so it's a quick change and hope no one is offended if they get a peek of you whilst you juggle with your towel!
I need new swim shoes though they have rotted over the winter and my big toe is now peeping through. Never mind will get it sorted before September.
If you can get out here DO SO NOW there's only me in the sea !
Cheers Nan xx
Full of admiration Nan luvver. From where I sit I am guessing your thermostat works like Jen's - mine is quite different. I might have a snorkle in October, certainly lots of swims, but in May I doubt I'd get my ankles wet.... Its justme. My nickname at work is "StayWarmPhil."
We noticed the shelf thing in 2002. You wade out, nearly up to your chest in water then two more steps and back up to ankles or knees.
Good advice about kids near the jetty.
Have a great time meluvver
Phil
Hi,
Does anyone have an update on the condition of the beach, especially at the North end.
I'm really sorry to say, but we will be stopping in San Stefanos this year. But we will be making regular trips over the hill providing the path is still negotiable.
We were really disappointed with the lack of beach last year, although I understand it has improved this year. So any update would be appreciated.
Many thanks,
I've been back 2 weeks now and the beach was fantastic this year while I was there....best it has been for several years.
Anyone know how accessible the North Beach is this year. We did lots of wading last year.
PJ
Many thanks Sandy,
We first went to Arillas in 2008 and the beach that year was really good. In fact it was the beach that we first really fell in love with.
So you can imagine our disappointment when it all disappeared.
We fly out on Monday, so I'm hoping that not much has changed in the two weeks since you were there.
thanks again.
We were there 4 to 18 July and spent several days on the north beach. Each day there was a wade around the rock but nothing too taxing, except towards the end of our stay when the moon was full and therefore the tides were running higher. It still wasn't difficult though, you just got a bit wet!!!
Once on the beach it was the widest I've seen it for several years and during our two weeks stay you could see the sand being deposited day by day.
Hope it will still be good for you.
Steve
Thanks for that good detailed reply, Steve. Glad it was ok for you. Don't mind a bit of wading (just don't enjoy 400 yards of it).
Looking forward to September when Julia & I will be able to see that lovely stretch of sand for ourselves.
Best wishes
PJ
I am elated to say that the North end is just great. Very accessible just a little wading. Tip from the top, don't try to manouvre the waters edge with all the pebbles, wade in the sea a mere few feet(still only calf high) then its easy peesy lemon squeezy x
We were the same as DronnyDave. 2008 was our first visit and the beach was complete north to south. Kids were playing football on the wide expanses of the far south. I know everyone loves the north beach but the snorkelling off the far end of the south beach is fantastic.
2010 was such a shock to us as only our second visit. Where had it all gone??? This year by all accounts seems better so fingers crossed for 2012 and our third visit. only about 320 sleeps to go.
PS Has anyone ever come across octapus while snorkelling off Arillas? Seen them in Dassia, Kassiopi and Paxos, but not Arillas so far.....Maybe the sharks eat them all :-)
Thanks for the info and top tip Jo.
GazCaz: Have snorkelled quite a bit mainly round the jetty and most often near the headland between Arillas & San Stef. Never seen an octopus though. Will take my gear again in September and keep a special Octowatch!
(http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/2103/dscf0530gettingtheflipprc4l.jpg)
PJ
Thanks Jo,
It really does sound as if a trip over the hill will be worth it.
Please keep some sunshire in reserve for next week.
Regards
Dave
So, we are into 2012 and as usual an important question is how the beach is looking? I know it can all change with a sudden storm or change of wind or current, but the beach watch for 2012 starts here. This will be our 3rd visit, 2008 was a fantastic beach year, 2010 not so good, here is hoping 2012 is more like our first visit. Whatever the case, can't wait till June.
We've had a similar thing happen when we have stayed in Anaxos, Lesvos. Yes I hope its a big beach year for 2012 in Arillas !
gazcaz..
ditto ,,big beach ,small beach,,arillas has so much more ,the people ,the ambiance ,the food ,the pools ,the warm welcomes,,roll on june ..yammas.x
The beach looks bigger today:)
Only 5 weeks and I shall be seeing it for real:)
not much info on this thread how is the beach this year? not able to be there until September but hopefull there is lots of sand especially the area in front of the Kaloudis.
Yes, please may we have a beach size report, preferably including information about the north, central and south areas. I know it can change rapidly if there is a storm, but we beach lovers like to keep tabs on what the shifting sands are doing.
Regards to all Forum Folk
PJ