Preveli Beach and Rethymno Old Town Tour

The Preveli Beach and Rethymno Old Town Tour offers an engaging full-day adventure starting from Heraklion, Greece. Priced at $71.84 per person, this tour spans approximately 9 to 10 hours, making it a substantial experience for those eager to explore the southern and northern highlights of Crete. The tour features scenic bus rides, a boat trip, and free time at three key locations: Kourtaliotiko Gorge, Damnoni Beach, and Preveli Beach with its famous palm forest. Plus, the visit to Rethymno Old Town provides a charming conclusion to the day, with its Venetian architecture and narrow streets.

While the tour offers plenty of stunning scenery and laid-back beach time, it involves a long bus ride, which is a notable consideration for comfort. The tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those interested in natural landscapes, historic sites, and relaxing seaside moments.

Key Points

• Price: $71.84 per person, with pickup included.
• Duration: About 9 to 10 hours, ideal for a full-day outing.
• Stops: Kourtaliotiko Gorge, Damnoni Beach, Preveli Palm Forest, and Rethymno Old Town.
• Activities: Scenic drives, a boat trip, and free time for swimming, lunch, and exploration.
• Highlights: Natural gorge scenery, palm grove views, and Venetian architecture.
• Limitations: Long bus rides (around 2 hours each way), which may be tiring for some.

Exploring Kourtaliotiko Gorge: Nature’s Artwork

The tour begins with a 30-minute stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, a site renowned for its stunning natural scenery. Surrounded by steep cliffs and lush vegetation, this gorge features unique rock formations that captivate visitors. It’s an ideal spot for photos and enjoying a peaceful walk in a picturesque setting. The free admission makes it accessible, and the steep cliffs provide a sense of adventure for those who enjoy hiking or simply appreciating nature’s beauty.

Relaxing at Damnoni Beach: Peaceful Coastal Escape

Next, the tour heads to Damnoni Beach, where you can spend around 2 hours relaxing on the scenic shoreline. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and hills, this beach offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for swimming or lounging on the soft sands. The rugged landscape creates a dramatic backdrop, making it a favorite spot for those seeking a calm and scenic seaside break. There are no entrance fees, and the area’s natural beauty is a major highlight.

Scenery and Serenity at Preveli Palm Forest

The highlight of the day is the visit to Preveli Beach, famous for its palm forest of Phoenix theophrasti trees. The scenic setting is complemented by a boat trip from Damnoni Beach to Preveli, which takes approximately 2 hours round-trip. During this journey, visitors enjoy views of the turquoise waters and the lush palm grove, creating a tropical-like environment uncommon on Mediterranean islands. After arriving, there’s time to explore, swim, and lunch at local taverns, adding to the leisurely vibe.

Discovering Rethymno Old Town’s Venetian Charm

The final stop is Rethymno Old Town, where a 1 hour and 30 minutes walk introduces visitors to its Venetian architecture. The narrow winding streets, colorful buildings, graceful arches, and stone carvings offer a glimpse of Crete’s historical blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. The area is ideal for strolling, shopping, or enjoying local cafes. Its well-preserved state makes it a delightful end to the day’s sightseeing.

The Logistics: Transfers and Group Size

The tour departs from Heraklion with pickup options from several designated hotel stops, including areas like Amudara, Karteros, Gouves, and Malia. The group size can be up to 150 travelers, which suggests a lively but manageable atmosphere. The bus rides are approximately 2 hours each way, which is a significant part of the experience and may be a consideration for those sensitive to long travel times. Pickup arrangements are coordinated after booking, so timely communication is recommended.

The Boat Trip: A Refreshing Highlight

A notable feature of this tour is the boat trip from Damnoni Beach to Preveli Beach. This journey adds an adventurous touch and offers a different perspective of the coastline. The natural palm grove at Preveli is a unique sight that sets this tour apart from more conventional land-based excursions. The free time after the boat ride allows for swimming or lunch, making for a flexible and relaxed experience.

Cultural and Historic Highlights in Rethymno

The old town walk reveals Venetian-style architecture, colorful facades, and ornate stonework. Visitors can appreciate the blend of architectural styles that reflect Rethymno’s diverse history. The narrow streets are ideal for photo opportunities and exploring at a leisurely pace. This part of the tour provides a cultural contrast to the natural scenery of the previous stops and offers insights into Crete’s historic urban fabric.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the bus rides are around 2 hours each way, travelers should be prepared for some long stretches on the bus. The long journey is highlighted in reviews as a disadvantage, but the scenic views and stops can help break up the ride. For those prone to seasickness, taking medication an hour before the boat trip is advised. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and history buffs who want a mix of scenic landscapes, relaxing beaches, and historic sights. The boat trip and free time at the beaches appeal to those looking for laid-back leisure, while the gorge and Old Town visits add an element of adventure and culture. Be prepared for long bus rides, which may not suit everyone, especially those seeking a faster-paced or less transport-heavy experience.

Final Thoughts on the Preveli Beach and Rethymno Old Town Tour

This full-day excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse of Crete’s natural beauty and historic charm. The scenic stops and beach days are among its main strengths, particularly the Preveli Palm Forest with its tropical scenery and the stunning gorge at Kourtaliotiko. However, the long bus rides are a key factor to consider, and some may find the pace a bit slow given the extensive travel time.

The tour provides a value-packed experience for those eager to see diverse aspects of Crete in one day. It suits active travelers and beach lovers who appreciate natural scenery and historic architecture, and are comfortable with a full schedule and long rides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $71.84 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Kourtaliotiko Gorge, Damnoni Beach, Preveli Palm Forest, and Rethymno Old Town.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup from hotel stops is included, and the tour uses large buses that can carry up to 150 travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking. Consider medication if prone to seasickness.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; no specific age restrictions are noted.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

Can I participate if I do not want to swim?
Yes, the itinerary allows for free time to relax and explore without swimming.

How does the boat trip work?
The boat departs from Damnoni Beach to Preveli Beach and back, lasting about 2 hours in total.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour requires good weather, so it’s best during the warmer months when coastal conditions are ideal.