Preveli Beach & Palm Forest :Full-Day Tour with Lunch Box

Experience Crete’s Natural Wonders: Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Tour Review

Our review of the full-day Preveli Beach and Palm Forest tour aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this popular Crete excursion. Priced at around $59.22 per person, this experience offers more than just a beach day — it’s a chance to walk through lush palm groves, marvel at dramatic gorge views, and enjoy a leisurely swim in crystal-clear waters. Led by Orange Travel, the tour promises a balanced mix of activity, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

What we truly appreciate about this tour is how it combines a manageable travel time with enough exploration to feel worthwhile — about 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and time to relax. The included lunch box is a definite bonus, providing a convenient and tasty way to fuel your adventure without extra hassle. One thing to consider is the physical demand involved, especially at the Palm Forest, which involves some stair climbing and walking.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, want to see some of Crete’s most picturesque spots without the stress of driving, and enjoy a mix of gentle hikes, swimming, and sightseeing. It’s ideal for those with moderate fitness levels, but not recommended for travelers with significant mobility issues or high blood pressure.

Key Points

• Natural beauty at its best: Combines lush palm forests, waterfalls, and stunning coastline views.
• All-in-one experience: Includes transportation, a scenic drive, guided walk, and a picnic-style lunch.
• Active but accessible: Involves some walking, stair climbing, and a bit of hiking—wear comfortable shoes.
• Value for money: The price covers transportation, entrance fees, and a quality lunch, making it a convenient option.
• Authentic scenery: The stop at Kourtaliotis Gorge offers impressive waterfall views and photo opportunities.
• A small group vibe: Typically limited to 50 travelers, which allows for more personal attention.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins bright and early at the Traditional Seafood Market in Heraklion. The tour kicks off at 8:00 am, and after a roughly 2-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the first stop — the parking area near Preveli. Expect comfortable transport with a friendly guide who will share snippets of Crete’s history and geography along the way. The scenic drive itself is an enjoyable part of the experience, offering glimpses of rural Crete and the rugged south coast.

Kourtaliotis Gorge and Waterfalls

As the bus winds through the landscape, you’ll stop at Kourtaliotis Gorge — a highlight for many. Here, the towering cliffs and flowing waterfalls create a dramatic backdrop perfect for photos. This stop isn’t just pretty; it offers an understanding of how the river carves through the landscape, feeding into the palm forest and the nearby beach. You’ll have a chance to stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy the wild scenery.

The Walk to Preveli Palm Forest

Next, the adventure really begins with a roughly 20-minute walk that involves ascending steps to reach the Palm Forest area. Reviewers note that while the climb can be challenging — especially with a lot of gear or if mobility is limited — it’s entirely doable for most with moderate fitness. Comfortable, stable shoes are a must, as the steps can be uneven.

This part of the tour offers a glimpse into a unique ecosystem: towering palm trees, lush greenery, and the sound of flowing water from the river. The visit to the River of Preveli and the tropical palm grove is like stumbling onto a hidden paradise. One reviewer even described it as “the most romantic beach of Crete,” which captures the mood perfectly.

Relaxing at Preveli Beach

Once at the beach, you’ll have about three hours to relax, swim, and soak up the scenery. The crystal-clear waters invite you in for a refreshing dip, while the soft sands are perfect for sunbathing. Many guests appreciated the opportunity to unwind after the walk, especially since the beach is situated right next to the exotic palm trees and the river.

A couple of reviews mentioned the long descent back from the forest, with one noting, “It’s a long way down and a hard climb back but doable.” This is an important consideration for those with mobility concerns or less fitness, but most find the experience rewarding enough to brave the climb.

Return Journey

After a relaxed afternoon, the tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Heraklion, taking roughly 2 hours. The guide often shares local stories or recommends places to explore further, leaving you with a sense of having truly experienced some of Crete’s best natural spots.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a lunch box featuring a bottle of water, orange juice, a praline croissant, and a square toast with cheese and turkey. Vegetarian options are available upon request — a considerate touch for dietary needs. Considering the overall price, this is a solid value, especially since entrance fees to the forest are included, and it takes the hassle out of packing your own food.

On the downside, coffee or tea is not included, so if you’re a caffeine lover, you might want to bring your own. The tour is also a mobile ticket with pickup offered from a central location, making it convenient for most travelers.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Pros:
– The scenic beauty of the palm forest and waterfalls is hard to beat.
– The lunch box adds value and convenience, especially for a full-day trip.
– The small group size typically allows for a more personalized experience.
– The tour is well-organized, with clear timing and a knowledgeable guide.

Cons:
– The climb back from the forest can be tiring or tricky for some guests, with reports of a “long way down and a hard climb back.”
– Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or high blood pressure.
– The walk involves steps, so wearing the right shoes is essential.
– The trip involves a fair amount of driving (about 2 hours each way), which might be tiring for some.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers and those who appreciate scenic hikes and waterfalls. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a full immersion into Crete’s lush landscapes without the hassle of organizing transportation or entrance fees themselves. Active travelers or those with moderate fitness levels will enjoy the walk, but it’s not recommended for seniors over 80 or anyone with mobility challenges.

If you’re comfortable with some physical activity, enjoy scenic drives, and want to escape the busy beaches for a day, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. Plus, the combination of stunning landscapes and a delicious, hassle-free lunch makes it a rewarding value for the price.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour provides a genuine taste of Crete’s natural charm, packed into a manageable day trip with all logistics handled for you. The highlight is unquestionably the Preveli Palm Forest and Beach, which offers a picture-perfect setting that’s both tranquil and photogenic. The scenic stops at Kourtaliotis Gorge and waterfalls add depth to the experience, making it more than just a beach day.

The included lunch box simplifies planning and ensures you’re fueled for the walk and swim. The small group size and knowledgeable guide help make the experience more personalized, and the relaxed pace means you can enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

For those who love nature, want a break from typical beach days, and are prepared for some light hiking, this trip is tough to beat. It’s an excellent balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic scenery — perfect for making meaningful memories in Crete.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start and end?
  The tour begins at 8:00 am and typically returns after around 7.5 hours, including transport and sightseeing time.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, pick-up is offered, and transportation is provided from a central meeting point.

• What should I wear?
  Wear comfortable, stable shoes suitable for walking and climbing stairs. Bring swimwear, a towel, and sun protection.

• Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
  It’s suitable for most with moderate fitness but not recommended for those with mobility issues or high blood pressure.

• How long is the walk to the Palm Forest?
  About 20 minutes of walking on steps, so plan accordingly.

• Can I get vegetarian lunch options?
  Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request when booking.

• Does the tour include entrance fees?
  Yes, the entrance fee to Preveli’s Palm Forest is included.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• How physically demanding is the walk?
  Moderate; involves some stair climbing and walking on uneven terrain.

• Is there free cancellation?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

In summary, if you’re seeking a day filled with striking scenery, a bit of adventure, and a relaxing swim, this Preveli Beach & Palm Forest tour offers fantastic value and authentic experiences. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Crete’s natural side with minimal hassle and maximum scenic impact.