Rethymno/Chania: Preveli Beach and Kourtaliotiko Gorge Tour

Planning a day on Crete that combines breathtaking scenery, a splash of adventure, and some well-earned relaxation? Then this guided tour to Preveli Beach and Kourtaliotiko Gorge might just be your ideal escape. With a solid 4.3 out of 5 stars from hundreds of travelers, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty, packed into a 10-hour adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to cruise the Libyan Sea by boat, second, the diverse landscapes—from lush palm forests to rugged cliffs—and third, the opportunity for a swim in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make sure you’re in good hands, sharing tidbits about the local terrain and history. One potential hiccup? It’s a full day, so it’s best suited for travelers ready for a somewhat active, sightseeing-packed itinerary. If you’re after a seamless way to see some of Crete’s most stunning spots without the hassle of planning, this tour is a strong contender.

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Who is this tour suited for?

Adventure lovers, beach enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore Crete’s south coast in a relaxed, organized setting will find this trip appealing. It’s particularly good for those who want to see iconic locations like Preveli with minimal stress and enjoy a boat ride included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Scenic boat cruise across the Libyan Sea offers a different perspective on Crete’s coast.
Multiple stops combine beach relaxation with impressive gorge walks, catering to diverse interests.
Guided experience ensures you get local insights and safety during hikes and swims.
Good value for the price, including round-trip transportation, hotel pickup, and an experienced guide.
Flexible free time allows for exploring or relaxing at each location, with options to swim or walk.
Not included: entrance fees and boat tickets, which are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

Looking for more options in Crete? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins with pickup from one of 53 designated locations in Rethymno or Chania, depending on your accommodation. The tour uses modern, comfortable buses, and reviews praise the quality of the transport — “the best and most modern bus from all 4 trips I’ve done” — which makes for a smooth start to a long day.

Once onboard, the driver and guide will set the tone for the day, sharing tidbits about Crete’s history and landscape, keeping you informed and entertained. The drive from your hotel to the first scenic stop usually takes about an hour and a half, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the views.

Scenic Drive and Short Stops

The route takes you past some of the island’s picturesque landscapes, including a brief pass by Plakias, where you’ll get a glimpse of the rugged coastline. While there isn’t a stop here, travelers noted the drive itself offers excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the island’s varied terrain.

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Damnoni Beach and Boat Ride

The first notable pause is at Damnoni Beach, a lovely stretch of sand where your boat driver awaits. The boat ride across the Libyan Sea takes about 30 minutes—a highlight for many, as it offers a refreshing perspective on Crete’s coastline. As one reviewer put it, “The boat journey to Preveli was gorgeous,” and the boat ride is a chance to relax and take photos of the rocky cliffs and azure waters.

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Preveli Beach: Sun, Sand, and Serenity

Arriving at Preveli Beach, you’ll find yourself swept away by its natural charm — a crescent-shaped sandy beach fringed with palm trees and dramatic cliffs. The water’s transparency invites you in for a swim, and the combination of lush vegetation and rugged terrain creates an otherworldly atmosphere.

You’ll likely have around 2 hours here, plenty of time to splash around, explore, or simply lounge with a snack. Reviewers consistently mention the “beautiful” scenery, with some noting it’s the most stunning place they’ve seen in Crete. There’s also an option to walk around the area, exploring the springs and waterfalls connected to the beach, which flow into the gorge.

Kourtaliotiko Gorge: Nature’s Drama

Next, the tour takes you to the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, a rugged canyon where steep cliffs soar overhead. The gorge walk offers a mix of stunning scenery and a bit of light adventure. Many travelers appreciate the diverse terrain — from sandy beaches to forested areas and rocky gorges, making it a varied experience.

While the gorge is primarily admired for its scenery, some reviews mention the windy conditions and sharp stones, suggesting good shoes are advisable. The area also offers opportunities for swimming and relaxing amid nature, with about an hour or so for free exploration.

Waterfalls and Springs

Connected to Preveli Beach are springs and waterfalls, which some tour options include visiting. These natural features add a tranquil element and provide excellent photo opportunities. You might find yourself stopping briefly to admire or snap pictures of these lush spots.

Return Journey

Your journey back to Rethymno or Chania takes a scenic route through the gorge, allowing you to take in the landscape one last time. The total tour duration is around 10 hours, which means plenty of time to rest on the bus and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Spiro and Elenia are much appreciated for their friendliness and local insights. They often share stories about Crete’s traditions and culture, enriching your visit beyond just sightseeing. Many guests mention their guides’ helpfulness—”Spiro was born and raised in Crete and shared fascinating stories.”

Swimwear and comfortable shoes are essential, especially since you’ll be in and out of water and walking on uneven ground. Bring cash for boat tickets and sun loungers, which are not included in the tour price. Also, consider packing snacks or drinks, as some locations, like Preveli, only have limited facilities.

One common theme among reviewers is the value for money. The tour’s price covers transportation, a guide, and boat rides, making it a convenient way to see several iconic sites without the hassle of driving or planning multiple tickets.

What Could Be Better?

A few reviews note that the cost of extras, such as boat tickets and sun loungers, can add up. Also, depending on the weather, parts of the trip—like the gorge or boat ride—might be windier or cooler than expected. If you’re sensitive to wind or cold water, packing layers and a windbreaker is wise.

Some guests felt the timing at certain stops could be more balanced—more time at Preveli might be preferable for those wanting a thorough swim or exploration. Still, most agree the overall experience offers fantastic value.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a rich mix of Crete’s most photogenic landscapes, from the stunning palms and beaches of Preveli to the towering cliffs of Kourtaliotiko Gorge. The inclusion of a boat ride, comfortable transport, and knowledgeable guides makes it a hassle-free way to see the island’s south coast. It suits travelers eager for active outdoor experiences, scenic photography, and a taste of local nature.

If you’re looking for an organized day that promises natural beauty, a bit of adventure, and plenty of relaxation, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for a full day—you’ll leave with great memories and plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Rethymno or Chania, depending on your booking option.

Do I need to bring my own boat ticket? No, but the boat fare (around €13) is paid separately on the day, so bringing cash is recommended.

How much free time do I get at each stop? Expect around 2 hours at Preveli Beach and approximately one hour at Kourtaliotiko Gorge for swimming, walking, or relaxing.

What should I wear? Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking and water activities like swimwear. Light clothing, hats, and sunscreen are also wise.

Are there any additional costs? Entrance fees for the monastery and boat tickets are not included in the tour price. Sun loungers cost extra, usually around €10-€15 per set.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most likely, but consider the walking involved and the boat ride. Always check with the tour provider if unsure about age restrictions.

Will I get enough time to explore? The tour provides a good balance of sightseeing and free time, with reviews suggesting you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy each location at your own pace.

This experience is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic day in Crete—combining beaches, gorges, and boat rides with the expertise of local guides.