Elafonisi, the pink beach
from €30
Preveli – an exotic paradise
Pricefrom €38 / person
Durationapprox. 12 hours
DeparturesMondays
Boatfrom Damnoni
About the tour
Discover the extraordinary beauty of Preveli beach on our special trip.
Is there a place in Greece that combines a majestic gorge, a winding river, an azure lagoon, a sandy beach and a dense palm forest? Yes – Preveli, the pearl of Crete's south coast. Set at the mouth of the impressive Kourtaliotis Gorge, where the river flows straight into the Libyan Sea, it's one of the most unique landscapes in Europe.
Behind the sandy shore lies the second-largest palm forest on the island (40 hectares), home to the endemic Theophrastus palm. Although nature was put to the test in 2010, today the forest – protected by the Natura 2000 network – has fully regained its pristine beauty. The river forms a 500-metre lake and hidden pools for a refreshing swim in the shade of lush greenery. A heart-shaped rock rising from the sea has become the symbol of the place.
Preveli remains untamed – with no commercial sun loungers or umbrellas, you can really connect with nature (there's just a small canteen). It's ideal for adventurers and nature lovers. Book your seat today and head to the most exotic corner of Crete!
Approximate schedule
- Pick-up from the agreed meeting point.
- Arrival in Asomatos – time for a Greek-style coffee.
- Drive to Damnoni and board the boat.
- Cruise along the scenic coast to Preveli beach.
- Arrival at Preveli beach – free time to relax, swim and explore.
- Boat back to Damnoni.
- Coach to the charming town of Plakias.
- Departure from Plakias towards the mountains.
- Visit to the spectacular Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
- Start of the journey back.
- Return to Chania.
*The schedule may change – please check with your guide on the day of the tour!
Highlights
- The most famous beach on Crete's south coast: feel the magic of a legendary place.
- A walk through the palm forest: discover the second-largest palm forest on the island.
- Crystal-clear water: swim in the salty sea or the fresh, cool river.
- A walk along the riverbed: wander among palms and exotic plants.
Price includes
- Air-conditioned coach
- Tour leader/guide
Not included
- Boat ticket: adults €13, children (under 12) €6.50
- Kourtaliotiko Gorge entrance (optional): €5
- Food and drinks
Practical information
Duration: full day (approx. 12 hours, 08:00 – 20:00).
Language: English.
What to bring: comfortable clothes and shoes, beach gear (towels, swimwear, snorkel mask), sun protection (cap, sunscreen) and a camera.
Booking
After booking you'll receive an email with a voucher (needed to board) and details about payment and the exact pick-up location.
Note: on Mondays we offer free pick-up from Kalyves and Almyrida.
Prefer to drive?
The “Preveli, Rethymno and Lake Kournas” route is in the e-book and the Crete Guide app.
See the guide
