From Rethymno: Day Trip to Preveli Palm Beach-Kourtaliotiko

Nestled along Crete’s southern coast, the Preveli Palm Beach and Kourtaliotiko Gorge beckon nature enthusiasts seeking a captivating day trip from Rethymno. This guided excursion promises an unforgettable experience, whisking visitors through picturesque landscapes and offering opportunities to swim, explore, and indulge in local cuisine. The journey, however, holds a few surprises that may leave you eager to uncover more about this enchanting destination.

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Key Points

This guided day trip from Rethymno to Preveli Palm Beach and Kourtaliotiko Gorge costs from $28.40 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned bus, boat ticket to Preveli Beach, and entrance fee to the monastery.
Highlights include a scenic photo stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, free time for walking and swimming at Preveli Palm Forest, and a final stop at Damnoni.
Prohibited items on the tour include large bags, pets (except service animals), alcohol, and drugs.
Customer reviews praise the tour guide’s excellent organization, comfortable transportation, and good value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The guided day trip from Rethymno to Preveli Palm Beach and Kourtaliotiko Gorge costs from $28.40 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned luxury bus, a boat ticket to Preveli Beach, and the entrance fee to the monastery.

Large bags, pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring beachwear, as well as snacks and drinks for the first stop at the gorge.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from the hotel reception in Rethymno, followed by a 1-hour bus ride to the first stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

The tour begins with pickup from the hotel reception in Rethymno, followed by a 1-hour bus ride to the first stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

Guests will have a break and take photos during this scenic stop.

Next, the group travels to the famous Preveli Palm Forest, where they’ll enjoy free time for walking and swimming.

The final stop is Damnoni, offering opportunities for coffee, lunch, and shopping.

After a full day, the bus takes the group back to Rethymno, arriving approximately 10 hours after the initial pickup.

The itinerary highlights:

Kourtaliotiko Gorge photo stop
Free time at Preveli Palm Forest
Damnoni for food and shopping

Tour Features

This day trip includes several key features to enhance the overall experience.

Guests will be picked up and dropped off at their hotel in Rethymno, ensuring convenient transportation. The air-conditioned luxury bus provides a comfortable ride to the two main destinations.

Admission to the Preveli Monastery is included, allowing visitors to explore this historic site.

However, certain items aren’t permitted, such as large bags, pets (except service animals), alcohol, and drugs, to maintain the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

The tour provides ample opportunities for activities, meals, and shopping during the 10-hour excursion.

What to Bring

To make the most of the day trip, visitors should pack comfortable shoes suitable for walking and beachwear for swimming at Preveli Palm Beach.

Comfortable shoes and beachwear are essential for enjoying Preveli Palm Beach on a day trip.

Plus, it’s a good idea to bring:

Snacks and drinks for the first stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, as there may not be opportunities to purchase refreshments.
Sun protection, such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, to stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.
A small backpack or lightweight bag to carry personal items, leaving large luggage behind as it’s not allowed on the tour.

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Customer Reviews

Travelers seem to have overwhelmingly positive experiences with this day trip, as evident from the overall 4.2/5 rating based on 52 reviews. Guests particularly praised the tour guide Brenda for her excellent organization and care for the group. The transportation rating of 4.5/5 suggests a comfortable and efficient bus ride, while the 4.4/5 value for money rating indicates the tour delivers on its promises. The table below provides a more detailed breakdown of the customer feedback:

| Rating Category | Score |

| ————— | —– |

| Transportation | 4.5/5 |

| Value for Money | 4.4/5 |

| Overall | 4.2/5 |

Travelers also highlighted the ample time at each stop and the helpful recommendations for snacks and drinks during the gorge visit.

There's plenty more to explore in Rethymno

Exploring the Kourtaliotiko Gorge

As the bus winds along the scenic coastal road, the Kourtaliotiko Gorge comes into view, a natural wonder carved by the Kourtaliotis River over centuries.

The group pauses for a break and photo opportunity, taking in the steep limestone cliffs and lush vegetation that line the dramatic canyon.

The gorge is renowned for its:

Renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, serene atmosphere, and impressive geological formations.

Diverse flora and fauna
Serene atmosphere
Impressive geological formations

After a brief respite, the tour continues, leaving the tranquil gorge behind as the journey to Preveli Palm Beach awaits.

Discovering the Preveli Palm Forest

The bus rolls up to the lush Preveli Palm Forest, a breathtaking oasis nestled along the southern coast of Crete. Guests disembark and are immediately captivated by the towering palm trees, serene pools, and sandy beach. Time is allotted for exploring the forest and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

| Activity | Duration | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Forest Walk | 30 mins | Admire the lush vegetation and natural scenery. |

| Swimming | 60 mins | Refresh in the inviting waters of Preveli Beach. |

| Free Time | 30 mins | Relax, take photos, or purchase local souvenirs. |

With ample time to fully experience the beauty of Preveli, travelers leave with lasting memories of this natural wonder.

Dining and Shopping in Damnoni

After a refreshing swim and time exploring the lush Preveli Palm Forest, the bus carries the group to the nearby town of Damnoni.

This coastal village offers a delightful array of options for dining and shopping. Visitors can:

Indulge in authentic Greek cuisine at the seaside cafes and tavernas.
Browse the quaint shops for locally crafted souvenirs and artisanal products.
Sip on refreshing beverages while taking in the stunning ocean views.

With ample time allotted, travelers can savor the local flavors and discover unique treasures to commemorate their day’s adventure.

Things To Know

Can I Bring a Drone on the Tour?

According to the tour information, drones are not allowed on the tour. The policy specifically states that "Not Allowed: Luggage or large bags, pets (except assistance dogs), alcohol, and drugs."

What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour doesn’t explicitly address special dietary requirements. However, the lunch stop in Damnoni offers opportunities to find suitable food options. It’s best to notify the tour operator in advance about any specific dietary needs.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Transportation?

There is no specific mention of an option to upgrade the transportation. However, travelers with special dietary requirements should consult the tour provider in advance to see if any accommodations can be made.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour operator offers private tour options for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience. Prices may vary based on group size and additional services requested.

How Accessible Is the Preveli Palm Beach for Persons With Disabilities?

The Preveli Palm Beach is moderately accessible for those with disabilities. The beach has wheelchair-friendly access ramps, but the terrain can be challenging. Visitors should check with the tour operator for specific accommodations and ensure their needs can be met.

Sum Up

This day trip from Rethymno to Preveli Palm Beach and Kourtaliotiko Gorge offers a fantastic opportunity to take in Crete’s natural beauty. Guests can enjoy swimming, hiking, and dining while gaining insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage. With convenient transportation and professional guidance, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.