Rethymno: Preveli Beach Damnoni Beach Kourtaliotiko Day Trip

This full-day tour of Crete’s southern coast offers an engaging way to see some of the island’s most celebrated beaches and landscapes. Priced at $24.39 per person, the trip lasts between 9 to 11 hours and includes visits to Preveli Beach, Damnoni Beach, and Plakias, plus a scenic drive through Kourtaliotis Gorge. It’s designed for those eager to explore Crete’s natural beauty with a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and enough free time for swimming, walking, and photography.

The trip is particularly appealing for travelers seeking an affordable, well-organized excursion that features a mix of beach relaxation, scenic landscapes, and light hiking. While the tour emphasizes the stunning scenery and the unique mixture of beaches and gorges, it does involve some walking and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility. The tour also includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it easy to join without logistical hassle.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $24.39 includes a full day’s exploration of Crete’s southern beaches.
• Visits to Preveli Beach, Damnoni Beach, and Plakias, with free swimming and sunbathing time.
• Journey through Kourtaliotis Gorge, seeing waterfalls and springs on a scenic drive.
• Boat rides to and from Preveli Beach offer a unique perspective on the coastline.
• Guides in English and German provide insightful commentary, with hotel pick-ups included in several locations.
• The tour features a mix of relaxing beach time and scenic drives, with about 2-3 hours of free time at each major stop.

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Scenic Drive Through Kourtaliotis Gorge and Waterfalls

The tour begins with a scenic drive through Kourtaliotis Gorge, a highlight for lovers of nature and impressive landscapes. The gorge’s dramatic cliffs and rushing waterfalls make for fantastic photos and a memorable start to the day. A photo stop allows travelers to capture the view and walk down approximately 230 steps to the waterfall viewpoint. The guide provides relevant commentary, enhancing the experience.

Weather conditions at the gorge can vary, and some travelers may find it a little windy or cool, especially if unprepared. However, the experience of seeing the waterfalls and the river Preveli flowing within the gorge adds a sense of wild beauty to the journey.

Visiting Damnoni Beach: Relaxation and Convenience

The tour’s first beach stop is Damnoni Beach, a sandy stretch with clear waters that’s perfect for a short swim or sunbathing. Here, travelers have about 1.5 hours to relax, enjoy coffee or snacks, and explore the local shops. The proximity of a nearby taverna makes this a convenient spot for a quick refreshment.

A boat takes visitors from Damnoni Beach to Preveli Beach, offering a different perspective of the coastline. The boat ride lasts around 30 minutes and adds a touch of adventure to the day. It’s worth noting that boat tickets are not included in the price and cost an additional €10.

Exploring Preveli Beach and Its Unique Landscape

Preveli Beach is a standout feature of this trip, blending sandy shores with lush palm forests and a rocky backdrop. The river Preveli flows into the Libyan Sea at this location, creating a striking scene that combines greenery and turquoise waters.

Visitors enjoy about 2 hours at Preveli, giving enough time for swimming, relaxing, and walking through the palm forest. The walk along the river offers an opportunity to see the natural scenery up close, and the refreshing waters provide relief after some sunbathing. The guide recommends waiting to eat until the last stop at Plakias, where a local tavern offers delicious food options.

Free Time at Plakias for Lunch and Shopping

The final beach stop is the small resort town of Plakias, located in a natural bay. Here, travelers have roughly 80 minutes to have a meal, browse local shops, or go for a swim. The town provides a peaceful setting with options for lunch, relaxing walks, or quick shopping. The tour then takes a scenic route through Kotsifou Gorge on the way back to Rethymno, showcasing more of Crete’s rugged landscape.

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Comfort and Logistics of the Tour

The entire day is conducted aboard an air-conditioned, luxury bus, ensuring comfort during the long drive. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in various locations such as Rethymno, Platanias, Scaleta, and others, though remote hotels like Grand Rimondi are not included. The guides speak English and German, and are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

The itinerary is well-paced, with about an hour at Kourtaliotis Gorge, 1.5 hours at Damnoni, 2 hours at Preveli, and 80 minutes at Plakias. This provides enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. Physical activity involves some walking and stair climbing, such as the descent to the waterfall viewpoint and walking through the palm forest.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers bus transfers, a guide, and hotel transportation at designated pickup points. The boat rides to and from Preveli Beach are not included and cost €10 each way. Entrance fees for Kourtaliotis Gorge are €5, and boat tickets are an additional €10. Food and drinks are not included, but the stops at beaches and Plakias allow for easy meal options.

Best For and Practical Tips

This tour is ideal for those who want a cost-effective way to see Crete’s scenic south coast. Travelers should be prepared for some walking and outdoor activity, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Taking water shoes and sturdy footwear is recommended, especially for walking down to waterfalls and walking along river paths.

While the gorge and beaches can get crowded, the organized schedule and small group sizes help maintain a relaxed atmosphere. The scenic drives and viewpoints are especially praised by travelers for their breathtaking scenery and the expert guidance provided.

Final Thoughts on the Preveli Beach Day Trip

The Rethymno: Preveli Beach, Damnoni Beach, and Kourtaliotis Gorge tour offers a well-rounded experience combining natural beauty, beach relaxation, and scenic drives. The value for money is high, and the professional guides make the day informative and enjoyable.

This trip suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and beach time. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a more leisurely, less active experience or those with mobility challenges due to the walking involved. The crowd levels at Preveli can be high, but the stunning scenery compensates for the busy atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking and some stair climbing, so it’s best suited for children who are comfortable with outdoor activity and moderate walking.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the price. There are stops to buy snacks, meals, and beverages at the beaches and Plakias.

How long is the boat ride to Preveli Beach?
The boat ride lasts approximately 30 minutes each way. The boat ticket costs €10 and is paid separately.

What should I bring for the trip?
Travelers should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, water shoes, and sturdy footwear for walking. Money for additional boat tickets or meals is also recommended.

Is the trip accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the walking involved and uneven terrain at some stops.

What is the start time for the tour?
Starting times vary and should be checked for availability. Pickup is included from multiple locations, and detailed info will be sent via email.

Can I customize my experience at the beaches?
While free time is provided at each stop, the itinerary is fixed. You can choose how long to relax, swim, or walk at each location.

How is the guide’s expertise?
Guides are praised for being informative and friendly, often sharing relevant facts and stories about Crete’s landscapes and history.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip runs rain or shine. Some activities like swimming depend on weather conditions, and alternative plans or refunds are available if the weather prevents certain activities.

How long is the overall tour?
The tour lasts roughly 9 to 11 hours, with a mix of sightseeing, free time, and scenic drives, ensuring a full but manageable day out.

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