From Rethymno: Exotic Preveli Palms, Damnioni & Plakia Beach

Exploring Crete’s southern coast can feel like stepping into a postcard. This guided tour from Rethymno takes you to some of the island’s most picture-perfect spots: the lush Preveli Palm Forest, tranquil beaches like Damnoni and Plakias, and scenic stops like Kourtaliotis Gorge. It’s an all-in-one experience designed to give you a taste of Crete’s natural beauty, with plenty of time to relax and soak up the sun.

What we love most about this trip is how it combines different landscapes—craggy gorges, tropical palms, sparkling waters—into a seamless day. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Greek lunch in Plakias means you get a cultural touch alongside the scenery. The main downside? Since it’s a packed nine-hour itinerary, some might find the timing tight, especially at the more popular spots like Preveli Beach.

This tour suits visitors craving a full day of scenic highlights with relaxed pace, excellent value, and knowledgeable guides. If you want a combination of nature, culture, and beach time without worrying about logistics, this experience could be just right.

Key Points

• Natural Diversity: From lush palm forests to rugged gorges, the landscape of southern Crete is on full display.
• Authentic Beaches: Enjoy pristine, less commercialized beaches with options for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
• Cultural & Culinary Experience: A relaxed seaside lunch in Plakias offers a taste of local cuisine and laid-back village life.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are experienced, often enthusiastic, and provide useful tips, with some reviews highlighting their knowledge.
• Value for Money: At $19, this tour offers a lot of scenic exposure, transport, and guided commentary, making it a worthwhile investment.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickups, drop-offs, and skip-the-line access mean less hassle and more enjoying.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickups & Scenic Drive

The journey begins with a pickup from one of three locations—Skaleta, Adelianos Kampos, or Rethymno—offering flexibility for travelers staying in those areas. The bus ride, lasting about 80 minutes, sets a relaxed tone, giving you a chance to get a glimpse of the landscape and settle in before the day’s adventures.

Damnoni Beach: First Stop for Sun & Sea

Your first destination is Damnoni Beach, a relatively quiet stretch of sand with rental umbrellas and sunbeds available, making it easy to settle in comfortably. The review from Lena highlights how Damnoni provides good facilities, including Greek tavernas and vendors selling snacks like gyros and hot dogs—perfect for a quick bite or refreshing drink.

Here, you’ll spend about 20 minutes on a boat cruise across the crystal-clear waters to reach Preveli Beach. This boat ride not only offers a chance to see the shoreline from the water but also keeps the day lively and scenic.

Preveli Palm Forest: The Tropical Oasis

The highlight for many visitors is Preveli Beach, famous for its impressive palm forest that creates a tropical vibe in the Mediterranean. Surrounded by rocky cliffs, the beach combines sandy shores with lush greenery — a rarity in this part of Europe. You’ll have around 2 hours here to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the soft sands while enjoying the incredible scenery.

According to reviews, the timing is well-managed; arriving early helps avoid the crowds as the beach gets busier later in the day. One traveler mentioned that the tour went smoothly even in windy conditions, which can sometimes affect boat trips.

Return to Damnoni & Relaxation

After your time at Preveli, the boat takes you back to Damnoni Beach for another two hours of leisure. This is your chance to soak up more sun or take a dip in the Libyan Sea. Being able to revisit a favorite spot or explore independently makes this part of the day flexible and enjoyable.

Lunch & Village Vibe in Plakias

Next, the tour heads to Plakias, a charming seaside village that offers a laid-back atmosphere and scenic views. The roughly 75-minute stop here is perfect for a relaxed lunch at one of the tavernas, many of which serve traditional Greek dishes.

One reviewer, Lena, appreciated the opportunity to sample local specialties in a shady restaurant by the sea — “A great way to refuel after a busy morning.” The village is also ideal for a gentle stroll, browsing shops, or just unwinding with a cold drink.

Kourtaliotis Gorge & Scenic Drive Home

As the tour winds down, you’ll drive through the stunning Kourtaliotis Gorge. The brief 10-minute stop offers a chance to snap photos of the dramatic landscape, with reviewers noting the impressive views and natural beauty. The scenery on the return journey is equally captivating, with the bus route providing picturesque vistas along the coast.

The trip concludes with a comfortable 50-minute bus ride back to Rethymno, leaving you with plenty of memories and photos from a day well spent.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This experience is all about balancing relaxation and scenery, with a focus on natural landscapes rather than crowded tourist spots. The boat rides are a major highlight, allowing you to enjoy the coast from a different perspective, and the guide’s local knowledge helps in understanding the history and geography of each site.

The inclusion of lunch in Plakias adds value, giving you a taste of genuine Cretan cuisine in a lovely setting. The time allocated at each stop is generally sufficient—although some reviews suggest that the time at Preveli Beach could be longer, considering how stunning it is.

Transport & Logistics

Transportation is comfortable, air-conditioned, and shared with a small group, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable. Pickup and drop-off from Rethymno simplify planning, especially if you’re not keen on arranging separate transport. The overall duration—around 9 hours—fits well for a full day out but may be a long haul if you prefer more leisurely mornings or evening plans.

Cost & Value

At $19 per person, the price is very attractive. When you consider the included transport, guide, and multiple scenic stops, it offers solid value. The boat cruise costs an additional $13 for adults, which is reasonable for the experience, and it’s optional for children.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Tips

Based on reviews, guides like Klaus are praised for being knowledgeable and helpful, often sharing interesting facts about each site. If you’re a planner who appreciates insight into local geology, flora, or history, you’ll likely find this added value worthwhile.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues due to the terrain and boat rides, it’s perfect for travelers who enjoy being outdoors and exploring natural landscapes.

Remember to bring sun protection, water, and snacks if you prefer to avoid higher-priced items at some sites. Preveli Beach offers showers but no sunbeds, so packing a towel and some shade options might make your time more comfortable.

The Sum Up

This tour from Rethymno offers a comprehensive, scenic introduction to South Crete’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full-day experience that combines beaches, gorges, and quaint villages, all with an expert guide and good value. The boat rides are a standout feature, giving a memorable perspective of the coastline, while the stops at Preveli and Plakias provide a perfect balance of activity and relaxation.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see some of Crete’s most iconic natural sites without the stress of planning each step, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and local flavor—all in one fulfilling day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children between 4 and 10 years old can join at a reduced rate, and the tour generally suits families looking for a scenic day out. Keep in mind the boat rides and walking involved, which might be tiring for very young or mobility-restricted children.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise to Preveli Beach lasts approximately 20 minutes each way, providing a scenic change of pace during the day.

Are there facilities at Preveli Beach?
Yes, Preveli Beach has showers and natural shade, but no rental umbrellas or sunbeds. It’s advisable to bring your own shade or umbrella if you prefer more cover.

Can I bring my own snacks?
Yes, bringing snacks and water is recommended, especially since some of the sites have limited or higher-priced options. The tour includes a stop in Plakias for a meal, but you can bring extras if desired.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
Guides are experienced and often provide interesting commentary about each location. They help keep the group organized and ensure that timing at each stop is managed well.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain and boat restrictions.

This trip from Rethymno offers an excellent mix of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and relaxing beaches, all at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re after Instagram-worthy views, a taste of local life, or just a day to unwind by the sea, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to explore Crete’s southern side.