From Rethymno: Kourtaliotiko, Preveli Palm Beach, & Damnoni

This full-day tour from Rethymno offers an exciting opportunity to experience some of Crete’s most iconic spots—without the hassle of planning individual excursions. For just $30 per person, you get a well-paced itinerary that combines breathtaking scenery, relaxing beach time, and a taste of the island’s rugged wilderness. The journey is led by knowledgeable guides, with reviews praising their friendliness and local insights, making it a popular choice for those looking to get a solid introduction to southern Crete.

What we really love about this trip is its balance: you’ll spend ample time relaxing on the beaches, enjoy a scenic boat ride, and get a taste of the wild beauty of Kourtaliotiko Gorge. The inclusion of free time at each stop means you can truly unwind or explore at your own pace. But a possible consideration is the lot of travel in a single day, which might feel rushed if you’re not used to long excursions.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic natural scenery, easy logistics, and a good value for money. It’s perfect for those who want to see a variety of Crete’s landscapes without the stress of detailed planning or multiple bookings. Families, adventure seekers, and beach lovers will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride to Preveli Beach offers stunning coastal views.
• Flexible itinerary with plenty of free time at beaches and natural sites.
• Expert guides provide insights in multiple languages and ensure smooth logistics.
• Affordable price combines transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary.
• Active elements like walking in Kourtaliotiko Gorge require some effort but are rewarding.
• Suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring Crete’s south coast.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins bright and early with hotel pickup in Rethymno, making transportation a breeze. The vehicles are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort as you settle in for the 10-hour adventure. The group size varies, but reviews indicate it often feels intimate, especially if you book private options or a smaller group, like the one Wendy experienced with a luxury minibus. The driver’s skill navigating the winding roads of Crete deserves praise, as many travelers mention how smoothly they get from one site to the next.

The First Stop: Damnoni Beach

The day kicks off with a scenic drive down the south coast, ending at Damnoni Beach. It’s a lovely spot—less commercialized than some other beaches, with a relaxed vibe that invites you to unwind. Here, you’ll have 2.5 hours of free time, which is enough to dip your toes, grab a meal at one of the nearby tavernas, or just lounge on the pebbly shore. Reviewers highlight that Damnoni is “lovely,” with “amazing beaches” and “great value for food,” often recommending the tavernas for a laid-back lunch.

The Boat Ride to Preveli Palm Beach

Next comes a short but scenic 20-minute boat trip from Damnoni to Preveli, a highlight that many travelers love. The boat’s route offers views of the cliffs and coastline, giving you a chance to appreciate the rugged beauty of Crete’s southern shoreline. Onboard, the chatter is lively, and the experience feels authentically local, not overly touristy. Reviewers mention that the boat ride is “scenic” and a fun way to start exploring Preveli.

Exploring Preveli Palm Beach

Once ashore, you get 2 hours of free time at Preveli, famous for its lush palm forest and river that feeds into the sea. The Palm Beach itself is distinctive—an oasis of greenery against the rocky landscape. Visitors often spend time exploring the palm grove, relaxing on the sand, or taking a swim in the clear waters. The reviews note that “Preveli is beautiful,” with some mentioning it feels like stepping into a different world.

The palm forest, combined with the river, offers opportunities for photography or just soaking in the tranquil environment. The review from Wendy describes the place as “little step back in time,” emphasizing its untouched feel. Be aware that the walk from the boat dock to the beach involves some uneven terrain, so athletic shoes are recommended.

Return to Damnoni and Leisure Time

After exploring Preveli, you’ll hop back on the boat to return to Damnoni—this round trip is about 20 minutes. Back at Damnoni, you’ll have 2.5 hours again to relax, swim, or enjoy lunch at one of the seaside taverna options. Many reviewers, like Michelle, highlight the quality of food available here, praising it as “gorgeous” and “highly recommended.”

This free time is ideal for those who want to snorkel, sunbathe, or just relax without a fixed schedule. It’s also a chance to sample local cuisine, with some guides recommending tasty tapas or fresh seafood.

The Final Stop: Kourtaliotiko Gorge

The last leg of the tour takes you to the stunning Kourtaliotiko Gorge, a natural marvel carved by rushing water through steep cliffs. You’ll spend about 40 minutes exploring the area, including the famous waterfalls and springs. The landscape is dramatic, with winding pathways and rocky steps. Reviewers often mention the “windy” walk down the steps and the coolness of the waterfalls, which are refreshing after a warm day.

Keep in mind, there’s a small entrance fee of €5 to access the gorge and springs, and some steps may be uneven and challenging. Wearing athletic shoes is advisable for this part. One guest noted that the walk involves rocky terrain, and climbing back up can be physically demanding, especially if you’re not used to hiking.

Return and Reflection

After visiting the gorge, the bus will start heading back to Rethymno in the early afternoon. The journey offers opportunities for photos and sharing impressions with fellow travelers. Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with Anastasia often singled out for her warm personality and multilingual skills, making everyone feel included and informed.

What You Get for Your Money

At $30, this tour provides excellent value considering the transportation, boat rides, and entry fees included. Although food and drinks are not included, the multiple free stops give you plenty of opportunity to purchase snacks or meals. The guides’ local insights and the convenience of hotel pickup remove much of the planning hassle, which many travelers appreciate.

What’s Not Included?

• Food and drinks (allow budget for lunch or snacks)
• Entry fees (€5 for gorge and springs)
• Boat ticket (€13)
• Extra pickups from locations like Panormo (additional €18 per booking)
• Personal expenses and souvenirs

Price vs. Experience

The price is a real bargain for a day filled with variety and natural beauty. Many reviewers feel they get their money’s worth in scenery, relaxed pace, and the friendly guidance. The inclusion of a boat ride and the flexibility to explore each site at your own pace makes it stand out among other organized tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a rundown of Crete’s southern coastline without the need for multiple bookings. It’s perfect if you enjoy beach time combined with light hiking and stunning vistas. Families, solo travelers, and small groups will find the pace manageable and the experience enriching.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility issues due to the walking involved, especially in Kourtaliotiko Gorge. The early start and long day might be a challenge for some, but most seem satisfied with the well-organized schedule.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Rethymno, making logistics easy.

How long is the overall trip?
The entire experience lasts around 10 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring anything specific?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunglasses, and cash are recommended. If you plan to walk in the gorge, athletic shoes are advised.

Are food and drinks included?
No, these are not included, but there are plenty of tavernas at Damnoni Beach and Preveli for dining.

What is the boat ride like?
It lasts about 20 minutes, offering scenic views of the coastline. Some reviewers mention getting wet feet during the ride.

How much does the entrance to Kourtaliotiko Gorge cost?
€5 per person, payable at the site.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Best suited for kids old enough to handle walking and short hikes; very young children or those with mobility issues may find the gorge challenging.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and German, with French available on Saturdays.

Can I extend my time at any location?
The itinerary is fixed, so extra time at each site isn’t possible unless you arrange private trips.

How is the overall value?
For the price, travelers often feel they receive a well-rounded, scenic, and relaxing day out, especially given the knowledgeable guides.

This tour offers an excellent way to experience some of Crete’s most captivating natural spots without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery, relaxed beach time, and some light walking in a well-organized setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes—beaches, gorges, and coastal views—while making the most of their day in Crete.

The combination of free time, scenic boat rides, and engaging guides makes it a solid choice for those seeking value and authentic experiences. If you’re after a day that balances adventure, relaxation, and stunning views—this tour might just be your perfect Crete escape.

While not suitable for pregnant women or those with limited mobility, the tour is praised for its friendly guides and beautiful locations. Many reviews highlight the guides’ efforts to provide local insights and keep everyone comfortable, which adds a personal touch to this already enjoyable experience.

So if you’re planning a day trip from Rethymno, this tour covers a lot of ground in a satisfying way, blending nature, culture, and leisure—all for a reasonable price.