From Rethymno: Preveli Palm Forest, Damnoni and Plakias Tour

Exploring Crete’s southern coast offers an enticing mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxing beaches. This full-day excursion from Rethymno takes you through some of the island’s most iconic sights — from the famous Preveli beach with its palm-fringed lagoon to the breathtaking Kourtaliotis Gorge. What makes this tour stand out? Its carefully curated stops that combine scenic walks, boat trips, and time for relaxation, all packed into about eight hours.

One of the best parts? The boat trip to Palm Beach provides a unique perspective of the coastline, making for some memorable photo opportunities. However, the tour does involve a fair amount of moving around — with multiple transfers by bus and boat — so it’s better suited to those who enjoy a full, active day rather than a laid-back lounging experience. If you’re after authentic Crete scenery, a mix of adventure and leisure, and don’t mind a packed schedule, this tour could be just right.

The one thing to keep in mind — and it’s worth noting — is that food and drinks aren’t included, so budget for lunch and snacks. Also, the boat ticket is an extra cost. This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see a variety of Crete’s natural highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at Preveli’s lagoon and palm forest, perfect for photos and relaxation
• Scenic transfers including comfortable, air-conditioned buses and boat rides
• Diverse stops from waterfalls and gorges to idyllic beaches and mountain viewpoints
• Active yet balanced itinerary with enough free time for swimming, exploring, and enjoying local food
• Authentic experience with professional guides and local insights
• Cost-effective for those wanting a comprehensive day tour with multiple highlights

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is structured around visiting three major beaches and the surrounding natural attractions, making it a well-rounded way to experience Crete’s southern coastline. The day starts with an early pickup from a selection of 12 convenient locations around Rethymno — including popular spots like Panormos, Platanias, and Rethymno town — which makes it easy to join without a long journey beforehand.

After about an hour on the bus, you’ll switch to a water taxi for 30 minutes. This initial boat ride sets the tone for the day — a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views as you approach the first stop: Preveli Beach. Known for its magnificent lagoon and palm trees, this spot is a highlight that draws in many visitors. Here, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to explore, swim, or simply relax while taking in the natural beauty.

Exploring Preveli Beach and the Palm Forest

Preveli’s beach isn’t just pretty; it’s a vivid display of nature’s contrasts. The sandy coast is backed by a lush forest of palm trees, creating an atmosphere that feels almost tropical amidst the Mediterranean surroundings. The lagoon, fed by the Preveli River, offers calm waters perfect for a swim. Travelers who have visited note how unforgettable the scenery is — the combination of rocky cliffs and the fringing palms makes it a photographer’s paradise.

One reviewer mentioned, “We took the boat to Palm Beach, loved the views, and enjoyed a swim in the clear waters,” highlighting how accessible and scenic this part of the trip is. Another pointed out that the scenic views from a nearby viewpoint are worth the short walk and offer a perfect photo-op.

The Water Taxi to Damnoni and Free Time

After spending quality time at Preveli, another boat ride returns you to Damnoni, where you get a couple of hours to relax again. Damnoni offers a quieter environment compared to Preveli but still provides opportunities to swim and soak up the sun.

Reviews indicate that this part of the day is appreciated for its relaxed pace. “We took the bus through the mountains to the first bay, then a boat to the second bay, the palm forest, and back again,” one traveler shared, emphasizing how varied the scenery is on this trip. The moderate free time allows you to explore, take photos, or simply unwind.

Lunch in Plakias

Next up is the charming town of Plakias, where you’ll have about two hours to enjoy lunch, shop, or dip into the sea. The town boasts a selection of tavernas and shops, making it a good chance to sample local cuisine or pick up souvenirs. The reviews praise the opportunity for a laid-back break, with some noting the quality of the local snacks and the friendly atmosphere.

Exploring Kourtaliotis Gorge

The tour’s final natural highlight is the Kourtaliotis Gorge, a dramatic canyon with waterfalls and rushing streams. The scenic drive there offers excellent photo opportunities, and the brief stop (around 10 minutes) allows for a quick look at its rugged beauty. It’s a fitting end to a day packed with diverse landscapes.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

After this, a roughly 50-minute bus ride takes you back to Rethymno, passing through more scenic mountain views and gorges. Drop-off points are numerous, including Panormos, Perivolia, and other central locations, making it convenient for most travelers.

Transport, Guides, and Overall Value

This tour is well-organized, with modern, air-conditioned buses and a professional driver. The guide speaks fluent English (and possibly other languages like French or German), offering insights along the way — although some reviews suggest more detailed commentary could enhance the experience.

The inclusion of all taxes and comprehensive liability insurance makes this a worry-free option. The boat trips, which are a central part of the experience, cost extra (€13) if purchased separately, so it’s good to factor that in when considering the overall value.

While the tour seems to run smoothly overall, some travelers have noted that pickup could vary by about 30 minutes for hotels outside Rethymno, so it’s wise to confirm your pickup time in advance.

Pricing and Value

For roughly 8 hours of exploration, the tour offers a lot of highlights at a reasonable price. The cost covers transportation, guide, and insurance, but food and individual expenses are extra. Considering the diversity and scenic quality of the stops, many find it offers good value — especially for those eager to tick off multiple must-see spots in a single day.

Authentic Experiences and What You’ll Remember

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views — from the lush palms at Preveli to the panoramic mountain vistas on the drive through Kotsifou Gorge. The boat trip to Palm Beach adds a sense of adventure, giving you a different perspective of Crete’s coastline.

The relaxing time at beaches is a real highlight. One visitor shared, “We loved the way the tour combined scenic walks with free time for swimming and relaxing. It felt like a good balance.” While some wished for more insider tips from the guides, overall, the knowledgeable and friendly drivers and guides left a positive impression.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day of natural beauty without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a full schedule and multiple transfers. If you’re after breathtaking scenery, varied landscapes, and a taste of Crete’s lush southern coast, this tour delivers.

It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the highlights, especially if you’re interested in water-based scenery and outdoor adventures. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those seeking a completely relaxed, slow-paced day — there’s a lot of moving around and some walking involved.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Rethymno and craving a diverse and scenic day trip, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Crete’s southern coast. The combination of stunning beaches, lush forests, and dramatic gorges makes for a memorable experience, especially paired with the adventure of boat rides and scenic viewpoints.

The value lies in the variety — you’ll see multiple landscapes, enjoy free time for swimming or shopping, and experience some of Crete’s most iconic natural sights — all with the convenience of organized transport and guided commentary. While it’s not the perfect trip for those seeking total relaxation, it’s an excellent option for travelers wanting to tick off key sites efficiently and enjoy some authentic Crete scenery.

If you love nature, scenic drives, and a touch of adventure, this tour is likely to meet your expectations — just bring your camera and a sense of curiosity.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour? No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring cash for lunch, snacks, and drinks at Plakias and other stops.

How long is each stop? You typically get around 2.5 hours at Preveli Beach, 2 hours at Damnoni, and 2 hours in Plakias, with short breaks for scenic viewpoints and the gorge.

Do I need to pay for the boat tickets? Yes, the boat ticket costs about €13 and is paid separately. It’s worth budgeting for this extra expense.

What language is the guide speaking? The guide speaks fluent English, with possible options in French or German, depending on the group.

Is this tour suitable for children or families? While the itinerary is active and involves some walking, it is generally suitable for families with children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Are there any restrictions on food or drinks? Yes, food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, so plan to consume your purchases at designated stops.

What should I bring? Bring cash for boat tickets and personal expenses, sunscreen, swimwear, water shoes, a hat, and a camera.

Can I join from hotels outside Rethymno? Pickup is available from many locations, though those outside Rethymno might experience a 30-minute delay in pickup time.

This tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of Crete’s most beautiful natural sites, making it a worthwhile option for those eager to combine sightseeing with a touch of outdoor adventure.