Private Tour: Botanic Garden – Spili – Preveli – Plakias

This private tour across Crete offers a beautifully curated experience that showcases the island’s stunning flora, picturesque villages, and crystal-clear waters. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve taken this journey and combined them with the details to help you understand exactly what makes this trip special—and whether it’s right for you.

What we love about this experience: the intimate guided tours, the chance to see Crete’s endemic plants up close, and the opportunity to relax at Preveli’s breathtaking palm beach.
One consideration: the pace can be quite full, especially with multiple photo stops and walking. If you prefer a leisurely day, this might feel a bit hectic.
Ideal for: nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete: Visit a well-curated botanical garden showcasing endemic and medicinal plants.
• Stunning scenery: Capture iconic views at Kourtaliotis Gorge and enjoy exploring charming villages.
• Relaxing beach time: Swim and unwind at Preveli, one of Crete’s most stunning beaches.
• Private comfort: Enjoy a personalized experience with a private group and expert guide.
• Full-day flexibility: Ample time at each stop ensures you don’t feel rushed.
• Practical details: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and free access to Preveli Palm beach.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Transfer

The journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Rethymno from several locations, including Panormos, Skaleta, and Adelianos Kampos. We appreciate this flexibility, making it easier to start your day without the hassle of organizing transport.

The drive takes around an hour, giving you time to settle in and get excited for what’s ahead. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which helps keep everyone comfortable, especially on warmer days.

Maravel Garden: A Botanical Treasure

The first stop is the Maravel Garden, a sprawling four-acre botanical park dedicated to Crete’s native and medicinal plants. As many reviews highlight, this is a true highlight—a guided tour introduces you to a wealth of plants, from herbs used in traditional medicine to endemic species found only here.

One reviewer noted, “The guide was extremely knowledgeable, sharing fascinating stories about each plant. It felt like a walk through a living pharmacy.” The free, hour-long tour offers a chance to learn about herbal remedies and see the lush greenery firsthand, making it both educational and relaxing.

Spili: Picturesque Village and Refreshing Water Source

Next, the bus takes you to Spili, a charming mountain village known for its 25 lion-head fountains. Here, you’ll have a brief 10-minute photo stop, where the stone lion sculptures—each with a stream of fresh mountain water—make for captivating photos.

Travelers often mention the village’s authentic feel and the cool mountain water as a refreshing break. One noted, “It’s a lovely spot for a quick stroll and a photo, plus I loved seeing how the water is still flowing from these historic lion heads.”

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Kourtaliotis Gorge: Breath-Taking Views

Before reaching Preveli Beach, there’s a short 10-minute stop at Kourtaliotis Gorge. The panoramic views of the gorge are breathtaking, and many visitors appreciate the chance to snap a few photos of the dramatic cliffs and river below.

It’s a quick stop, but one that offers a real sense of Crete’s rugged natural beauty. The reviews confirm that this is a must-see for anyone who loves dramatic landscapes.

Preveli Palm Beach: The Main Attraction

The highlight for many is Preveli Beach, famous for its lush palm forest and crystal-clear lagoon. To reach the beach, you’ll walk 25 minutes along a scenic trail, which many find worth the effort. The walk is generally manageable, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Once there, you have around 2.5 hours to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the stunning surroundings. Travelers have raved about the unique experience of swimming in the lagoon, surrounded by towering palm trees and rocky cliffs. “It’s like stepping into a postcard,” said one reviewer.

Access to the beach is included—no boat ticket needed—which adds great value to this experience. Reviewers appreciated the ample free time, noting that they could relax at their own pace without feeling hurried.

Plakias: Relaxed Village at the Bay

After leaving Preveli, the tour makes a final stop at Plakias, a peaceful village on the Libyan Sea. It’s a perfect spot for a short exploration, some shopping, or just unwinding before heading back. Many travelers comment on its laid-back vibe and charming streets.

Return to Rethymno

The return journey takes about an hour, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights. The entire tour wraps up with hotel drop-offs, making it a seamless experience.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

Transportation and Group Size

This is a private tour with a dedicated guide, which means you’ll enjoy personalized attention and flexibility. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long drives comfortable. The tour typically lasts around 8 hours, with starting times depending on your booking.

Inclusion and Value

The tour price covers pickup and drop-off, transportation, and access to Preveli Palm beach without an additional boat fee. You’ll also benefit from a live English-speaking guide—crucial for understanding the significance of each site.

What to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes for walking, a hat for sun protection, swimwear for the beach, and sunscreen. The tour’s itinerary suggests a full day outdoors, so packing smart is key.

Cancellation and Flexibility

With a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers peace of mind. The pay later option allows you to reserve your spot without immediate payment, adding flexibility to your planning.

Accessibility & Group Size

Being a private tour, it’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking an intimate experience. The tailored pace and personalized guide are especially appreciated by those who prefer a more relaxed, customized day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This full-day outing hits a winning note for those eager to see authentic Crete beyond the typical tourist spots. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, offering stories and insights that deepen your understanding of the island’s flora and history.

The visit to the botanical garden is particularly noteworthy—it’s not just a stroll but a chance to learn about remedies and endemic plants. The scenic stops at Spili and Kourtaliotis Gorge allow for fantastic photos and a true feel for rural Crete, while the free time at Preveli provides an unbeatable blend of natural beauty and serenity.

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views and the relaxed, friendly guides as major highlights. The pace is well-balanced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed, although some might find the day somewhat packed if they prefer a more leisurely experience.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want a comprehensive look at Crete’s natural landscapes. It’s also perfect for travelers seeking a private, guided experience that offers both education and relaxation.

Those who appreciate authentic villages, scenic views, and beach time will find this tour rewarding. It suits travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking and want the convenience of an all-in-one day trip with minimal planning.

If you’re after a more relaxed or flexible schedule, or prefer to explore smaller areas at your own pace, this might feel a little full-on, but for most, it strikes a well-balanced chord.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable walking a bit, especially the 25-minute walk to Preveli beach. It’s a full-day tour, so consider your group’s stamina.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, and sunscreen. Swimwear is recommended if you plan to swim at Preveli, and a towel might be handy.

Will I need a boat ticket?
No, access to Preveli Palm beach is included without the need for a boat ticket, which is a great value.

How long is the drive between stops?
Most drives are around an hour or less, with the exception of the return trip, making the day manageable without long bus journeys.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private experience, guides may accommodate specific interests or needs, but the core itinerary remains fixed.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickups are available from several locations in Rethymno, making the start convenient.

What is included in the price?
Pickup, drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided tours, and free access to Preveli beach.

How flexible are the timings?
Check availability for start times, but generally, it’s an 8-hour day with a set schedule to maximize your experience.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The walk to Preveli is about 25 minutes and involves some uneven terrain, so consider mobility needs before booking.

Final Thoughts

For travelers looking to combine natural beauty, cultural charm, and a touch of adventure, this private tour offers a compelling way to explore Crete’s outdoors. The guides’ expertise and the variety of stops ensure that you experience both the scenic and authentic sides of the island.

While the schedule is packed, it’s well-paced enough to enjoy each site without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of scenic photo stops, a lush botanical garden, and time for swimming makes it a well-rounded day.

If you want a personalized, insightful journey that highlights Crete’s endemic plants, stunning gorges, and palm-fringed beaches, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those eager to see Crete’s natural side in comfort and style, with the added bonus of expert guidance along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: