Heraklion Areas : Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Full-Day Tour

If you’re craving a break from the busy streets of Crete’s towns, this Preveli Beach & Palm Forest tour promises a full-day escape into some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, plenty of travelers have praised its blend of natural beauty, scenic walks, and relaxing swimming spots.

What’s particularly appealing about this experience are the stunning views of the palm-lined lake, the chance to walk along the river surrounded by lush greenery, and the hike through the impressive Kourtaliotis Gorge. Plus, of course, there’s the reward of swimming in crystal-clear waters next to a tropical forest. Still, keep in mind that the journey to the palm forest involves descending steps, which might not suit everyone with mobility concerns.

This tour is best suited to travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a day of natural beauty combined with gentle activity—without feeling rushed—this could be a lovely addition to your Crete itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Preveli’s palm beach, river, and gorge.
• Walk along a river lined with palms, ideal for nature lovers.
• Hike through Kourtaliotis Gorge with impressive cliffs and scenic views.
• Swim in the clear waters of the Libyan Sea next to a tropical forest.
• Pre-arranged pick-up and drop-off make planning simple.
• Accessible info about the walking difficulty and recommended gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Tour

This full-day adventure is designed to showcase one of Crete’s most enchanting natural spots, located roughly 35 km south of Rethymno city. The area has been protected as a Natura site since 2000, which speaks to its ecological importance and preserved beauty. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel or designated location, you’ll be whisked away into a landscape straight out of a postcard.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Coach Ride

Getting started involves a convenient pickup from a choice of over 70 locations, ranging from resort hotels to main roads and bus stops. This wide selection makes it easy to find a pickup point near your accommodation, adding to the trip’s convenience.

The coach ride itself takes around 105 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy views of the Crete countryside. Expect to be on a comfortable bus with a professional driver and a multilingual guide, who will provide insights and answer questions along the way.

First Stop: Photo Opportunity of the Springs

Before heading into the main attraction, your guide will suggest a brief stop to admire the springs and take photos of the surrounding landscape. This quick detour is worth it — the scenery here is striking with the vertical cliffs framing the lush green water of the river. Many reviews comment on how this spot feels almost surreal and offers perfect photo moments.

Scenic Drive & Walk to Preveli Palm Forest

Next, you’ll settle into a 20-minute walk that involves descending steps toward the beach and forest area. This descent is straightforward but requires comfortable, sturdy footwear. Reviewers mention that the walk down the steps provides a memorable prelude to the natural beauty awaiting you.

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Exploring Preveli Palm Beach & Lake

The main highlight is the lake of Preveli, where the mega river empties into the sea. This scene is truly a marvel — a tropical-looking palm forest framing a tranquil lake that flows into the Libyan Sea. Travelers note that the combination of the lush palms, the green water, and the cliffs creates a dramatic and romantic atmosphere.

The walk through the palm forest is guided but leaves plenty of time for you to wander freely. You can stroll through the canopy, take photos, or simply relax in the shade. Many mention that friends and couples find this spot ideal for a peaceful escape and memorable photos.

Swimming & Relaxing at the Beach

After exploring, you’ll have the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, just a short walk from the forest. The water here is praised for its clarity and temperature, perfect for cooling off after the hike. The nearby beach area offers sunbathing spots and a serene environment, ideal for unwinding.

The Return Journey & Scenic Views

Post-lunch, you’ll board the bus again for a roughly 105-minute drive back, passing scenic landscapes and impressive cliffs. The return leg is a good time to reflect on the day and share impressions with fellow travelers.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Natural beauty and variety are what set this tour apart. From the impressive vertical cliffs of Kourtaliotis Gorge to the tropical palms and calm sea, each stage offers something memorable. Many reviews mention how the views are truly breathtaking, with one traveler noting that “the scenery was so impressive, I kept taking photos.”

The guided aspect adds value, with knowledgeable guides offering insights into the area’s geology and ecology, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. The inclusion of a lunch box with water, juice, croissants, and sandwiches makes it easy to stay energized without needing to seek out food during the day.

Convenience and ease of planning are other highlights. The pickup and drop-off service from numerous locations and the option to cancel up to 24 hours before make this tour accessible and flexible.

Considerations & Practical Tips

While most reviews highlight the tour’s positives, some travelers point out that the walk down to the beach involves steps, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or anyone with mobility impairments.

You should wear comfortable, stable shoes and bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Pack swimwear, a towel, and a camera to capture the views. It’s also wise to bring a garbage bag for your waste since preserving the environment is part of the experience.

Since the tour involves walking and outdoor activities, plan for warm weather, and note that sandals or flip-flops are discouraged for walking down the steps. The tour provider emphasizes respecting the environment and safety, so follow their guidelines.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Considering the roughly 8-hour duration, the variety of sights, and the natural beauty on display, this tour offers solid value. The included transportation, guide, and lunch make it a convenient way to explore a less accessible part of Crete without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple activities.

The fact that reviewers describe the scenery as “magical” and “romantic” speaks volumes about what travelers experience. However, this trip does require some walking and physical effort, so it’s best suited to active travelers or those comfortable with moderate hikes.

This tour strikes a nice balance between adventure, relaxation, and scenic exploration, making it a compelling choice for nature lovers and those eager to see Crete’s lush side.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic walks, and swimming in pristine waters. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind walking down steps and appreciate natural landscapes that feel untouched by mass tourism.

It’s perfect for couples, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots for a day of tranquility and spectacular views. However, it’s not recommended for anyone with mobility limitations or health issues that could make walking or steep descents difficult.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day immersed in Crete’s lush environment, this tour delivers a memorable experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way.

FAQ about the Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Tour

Is the pickup from my hotel or location included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from multiple main roads, hotels, and designated points across the region, making it very convenient.

How long is the coach ride?
The coach journey to the site takes about 105 minutes, providing a relaxed start to the day.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking, sun protection, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and some water. Packing light and prepared will make the experience more enjoyable.

Is the walk down to the beach difficult?
It involves descending steps, approximately 20 minutes, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended. The walk offers great photo opportunities but may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

What can I expect at the lake and forest?
You’ll see a lush palm forest surrounding a tranquil lake that connects to the sea. It’s an enchanting scene, perfect for photos and relaxing walks.

Can I swim in the sea?
Yes, the waters are clear and warm, and many guests enjoy swimming in the Libyan Sea by the forest.

What about lunch?
A pre-packed lunch box is provided, which includes drinks, croissants, and sandwiches. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Are there any restrictions or suitability concerns?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility or health issues, babies under 1 year, or those with certain medical conditions. It emphasizes physical activity, so plan accordingly.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering peace of mind in your planning.

Is this tour good value for money?
Given the transportation, guide, and included lunch, many find it offers excellent value—especially considering the personalized, scenic experience it provides.

To sum it up, the Preveli Beach & Palm Forest tour offers a well-rounded day filled with eye-catching scenery, peaceful walks, and relaxing swimming opportunities. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to see a pristine corner of Crete without the hassle of organizing separate activities. If natural beauty is your priority, this trip is likely to leave you with lasting memories of Crete’s more untouched, romantic side.

You can check availability for your dates here: