Raches, located at Drepano Beach in the Malian Gulf, is considered one of the best kitesurfing spots on the Greek mainland. Just 2 hours from Athens and 35 minutes from Volos Airport, it offers easy access via the A1 highway. The traditional fishing village of Raches lies along the Malia Bay, offering tavernas, accommodations, and a peaceful summer atmosphere. The kitesurfing area is situated 2 km outside the village, where visitors can find everything they need for a comfortable stay.
The wind at Raches typically blows from the east to northeast, offering consistent riding conditions throughout the summer. Winds ranging between 15 and 25 knots, with the best season running from June to September. From late July to early August, the strong thermal wind known as the Meltemi arrives, often pushing wind speeds above 20 knots daily. This makes Raches one of the most reliable kite spots on mainland Greece during the peak season.
The shoreline extends into the sea and creates two distinct riding areas: one with offshore wind and butter-flat water, perfect for freestyle, and another with onshore wind and choppy to small wave conditions depending on the strength of the wind.
The beach consists of coarse sand mixed with rocks. The freestyle zone features large rocky plates near the shore, while the onshore side has big boulders close to the waterline. Water depth increases quickly after a few meters, making the entry less suitable for beginners. Although it's not an ideal spot for first-time kiters due to challenging access and wind direction, two local kite schools operate here and offer instruction tailored to the specific conditions of the area.
This spot has a lot of pros and a few (big) cons. It’s great for families if you have a camper or caravan. That is a must because you stay on a paid parking place right at the spot next to the main street. No grass on the ground though. There is a village nearby where you can go for dinner, buy stuff in the supermarket or even visit a local glamping with a lot to do for your young kids. Also you must wear a helmet and a vest because the local police visit the place practically every day and if you get caught then it’s pretty expensive (up to a few hundreds euros). But usually this is caused by kiters who do the tricks right next to the swimmers or even among them. Which is just stupid and of course this cannot be tolerated. But on the other hand the stuff here is friendly, you can buy nice meal, beer, pizza, hamburger, frappe etc. in the local bar and there is another bar/restaurant next to it. Wind is usually great and steady thermic around 18 knots. On one side it’s choppy but you don’t have to worry about others because you can just go upwind and have a huge space just for you. If you want to do some freestyle be prepared for very crowded spot during the high season. You must be on the water as the first one or the last one to really enjoy it. But in general I like this spot mainly in June or September when it’s not that crowded and the wind is already perfect.
One of my favourite spots. Hard for beginners because you must ride immediately upwind. But when you manage it and get used to the spot it will reward you with great conditions and perfect sessions.
Karel
January 9, 2022 at 4:55 pmThis spot has a lot of pros and a few (big) cons. It’s great for families if you have a camper or caravan. That is a must because you stay on a paid parking place right at the spot next to the main street. No grass on the ground though. There is a village nearby where you can go for dinner, buy stuff in the supermarket or even visit a local glamping with a lot to do for your young kids. Also you must wear a helmet and a vest because the local police visit the place practically every day and if you get caught then it’s pretty expensive (up to a few hundreds euros). But usually this is caused by kiters who do the tricks right next to the swimmers or even among them. Which is just stupid and of course this cannot be tolerated. But on the other hand the stuff here is friendly, you can buy nice meal, beer, pizza, hamburger, frappe etc. in the local bar and there is another bar/restaurant next to it. Wind is usually great and steady thermic around 18 knots. On one side it’s choppy but you don’t have to worry about others because you can just go upwind and have a huge space just for you. If you want to do some freestyle be prepared for very crowded spot during the high season. You must be on the water as the first one or the last one to really enjoy it. But in general I like this spot mainly in June or September when it’s not that crowded and the wind is already perfect.
Veronika
August 27, 2021 at 10:26 pmOne of my favourite spots. Hard for beginners because you must ride immediately upwind. But when you manage it and get used to the spot it will reward you with great conditions and perfect sessions.