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Louros, nestled between the settlements of Agios Georgios and Agios Pavlos, is characterized by its rocky terrain and a collection of small, pebbly beaches. A scenic coastal road provides stunning views of the two Paximadia islets. Heading west from Agios Georgios, travelers will encounter the quaint beaches of Armenopetra, named after a solitary boulder found in the sea. These beaches offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Two kilometers before reaching Agios Pavlos, another beach, either known as Agios Markos or Ligiolakos, is found across from the rock known locally as Prasonisi. The waters here are typically tranquil, making it a favorite spot for local families from Melambes. The seabed is also a great place for snorkeling and spearfishing. Further east of Prasonisi, more similar beaches can be found, usually accessed on foot.
The next beach, Aniforas or Vigdolidi, is difficult to reach due to private property blocking the path. The beach is situated near a striking rocky cape, and while the beach itself is unremarkable, the towering rock formation provides excellent photo opportunities.
The final beach, located 500m east of Agios Pavlos, is positioned at the mouth of a stream. Ancient Cretan date palm trees, known as Theophrastus, line the banks of the stream, giving the pebbly beach its name – Finikidia.
Get directions to Louros beaches
The Louros beaches are a group of beaches located in the Louros region of Greece.
There are several beaches in the Louros region, including Ammoudia, Alonaki, and Vrachos.
The water temperature at Louros beaches varies depending on the time of year, but it is generally warm and pleasant during the summer months.
Yes, there are several water sports available at Louros beaches, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, and jet skiing.
The nightlife in the Louros region is relatively quiet, with a few bars and restaurants open late into the night.
Yes, there are several hiking trails in the Louros region, including the Louros Gorge Trail and the Ammoudia Beach Trail.
The best time of year to visit Louros beaches is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the water is perfect for swimming and water sports.
The water colour of the Louros beaches is blue.
The Louros beaches has pebbles and rocks in some places.
The water depth of the Louros beaches is normal.
The surface of the sea at the Louros beaches is usually calm.
The Louros beaches is usually quiet.
There are no facilities available at the Louros beaches.
The Louros beaches can be accessed via a paved road or dirt track.
Yes, the Louros beaches is nudism friendly.
The Louros beaches is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Find below list of things to do near Louros beaches:
This is the trip to the treasure of the South Coast. In the morning, our bus will pick you up and drive you to a small bay from where a boat will carry us to the beautiful beach of Preveli in the Libyan Sea. At the beach, you will see a natural palm forest,
falls and a riverside. Everything around you makes you feel that you are on a tropical island. on the way back, we will pass the Kourtaliotiko Gorge with the pretty little churches built into the cliff.
Discover Preveli on this Land Rover safari from Rethymno. Admire the beautiful scenery, taste locally-produced raki, take a swim, and explore the palm forest at Preveli before returning to Rethymno.
Benefit from pickup at your hotel. Start by taking in a breathtaking view of the Prasses Gorge. Look for resident wildlife, including the impressive vultures that live in the gorge. Continue to the Potamon Dam and admire the small church built by the lake as a reminder of the importance of religion on the island.
Pass through typical villages, such as Karines and Spili and learn about the local customs and habits. Savor an authentic raki produced in the village along with other specialties at a traditional tavern overlooking the Libyan Sea. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Preveli and explore the palm forest.
Feel the wind in your hair as you get back to nature in the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. End with a panoramic view of Rethymno before drop off at your hotel.
On this unforgettable beach tour we visit the south of Crete and the beautiful beach Preveli . Our route starts around 08:00 in the morning from Heraklion areas, pick up service near the hotel.
Preveli is an idyllic and incredibly beautiful beach, where we have free time to enjoy a splendid swim in the crystal clear water of the Libyan Sea, to sunbathe and relax as well as to undertake an adventurous walk through the tropical palm tree forest or have a coffee.
Preveli is located about 35km south of Rethymno and 10km east of Plakias. Beach of Preveli, also known as Lake Preveli or Phoenix, is located at the exit of the imposing Kourtaliotikos Gorge, where the Grand River (Megalos Potamos) flows.
About 20:00 we will be back at Heraklion.
There are 3 options from which you can choose:
-Preveli Palm Beach
-Preveli Palm Beach & Rethymno City
-Preveli Palm Beach – Damnoni Beach & Rethymno City
Enjoy a full-day excursion from Heraklion to Preveli Beach on a bus trip with a local guide. Discover South Crete’s Grand River, Kourtaliotikos Gorge, and a colony of Theophrastus palm trees.
Sunbathe on the sandy beaches, swim in the turquoise waters, watch for wildlife, or hike regional trails.
Begin your tour with a bus ride from the north coast to Preveli Beach, where you can swim in the turquoise Mediterranean water or stroll the sandy beaches.
Look for a rock shaped like a heart, known as The Stone of Lovers, and marvel at the steep cliffs and misty hilltops of nearby Kourtaliotikos Gorge.
Continue your tour by hiking along the banks of the Grand River to discover the Forest full of Theophrastus palm trees. Hike further up the river trail to a canyon and beach where you can further swim, hike, or sunbathe, before heading back down the path to the bus and returning to Heraklion.
Preveli is a famous beach on the south side of Crete Island. The local legend says that the mythological king Odysseus stopped in Preveli on the way to his homeland, Ithaka. What makes Preveli beach so famous is the palm forest surrounding the river, which comes from a gorge and ends up in the sea. The exotic beauty of nature attracted in the 60s and 70s hippies from around the globe who used to live here and make huts under the palm trees. Due to the sensitivity of nature around Preveli Beach, the area is protected by the Natura 2000, and it is a natural reserve.
Kourtaliotiko gorge is believed to have been used as a natural fortress by the ancient Minoans, who lived on the island of Crete more than 4,000 years ago. In the Middle Ages, the gorge was used as a route for transporting goods between the towns of Plakias and Koxare.In modern times, Kourtaliotiko gorge has become a popular tourist destination, with visitors from all over the world coming to explore its rugged landscape and take in the stunning views. The gorge is also a
popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and photography. Despite its popularity, the gorge remains an important part of the local culture and traditions, and efforts are being made to preserve its natural beauty and cultural significance for future generations.
Damnoni beach in an idyllic bay just a few kilometres from the more famous resort of Plakias. It is about 35 km south of the city of Rethymno, on the southern coast of the island, on the southern coast of the island. The beach of Damnoni is backed by mountains and closed in by splendid rock formations, with white sand and turquoise waters.Another advantage of visiting Damnoni is that it is relatively uncrowded for most of the year.
Get off the road and out into the wilderness of southwest Crete on this 8-hour Land Rover safari of stunning mountains and remote beaches. A professional driver will navigate the difficult terrain, taking you to places inaccessible to other vehicles, while teaching you about Cretan culture.
The day starts with a drive through the wilderness, up to high altitudes, where you will get aerial views of the magnificent gorges. Look out for vultures and eagles high above. Pass through small traditional villages full of character, and make a brief stop for coffee at one of the remote mountain villages.
Back in the vehicle, drive through the mountains to the village of Spili, famous for its spring water. Located under the shadow of Mount Vorizi, the village has a Venetian fountain with a row of more than 25 lion heads supplying cold mountain water all year round. Stroll around the small shops selling handmade souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.
Continue along dirt tracks and bumpy roads through more villages, where time has virtually stood still. Passing Kerame, guests will see panoramic views of the southern Cretan coast and the Libyan Sea.
Stop for a swim at Preveli Beach to wash off the dirt and dust. Fringed with tall palm trees and boasting crystal clear water, Preveli is one of the most beautiful beaches on Crete, and was chosen by Bacardi as an ideal location for its TV adverts. It is also the only beach in Crete where you can swim in cold mountain water or ocean water in the same place!
Working up an appetite, walk back from the beach and stop for a traditional Cretan meal with unlimited wine. After lunch, drive back into the mountains for more dramatic scenery, and more photos as you climb through the stunning Gorge of Kroustaliotico.
As you head back towards the end of the tour, look at a magnificent panorama of the entire city of Rethymno from the top of a mountain that can only be reached by Land Rover.
Find below the list of hotels near Louros beaches:
Boasting mountain views, Seafront elegant villa, with infinity pool & devine views! features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 1.3 km from Prasonisi Beach. This villa has a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa has 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The villa offers a picnic area. A kids pool is also available for guests at Seafront elegant villa, with infinity pool & devine views!.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 30 km from the accommodation, while Phaistos is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 86 km from Seafront elegant villa, with infinity pool & devine views!, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€48
/night
Featuring mountain views, Seafront luxury villa with infinity pool & devine views! provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 1.3 km from Prasonisi Beach. This villa has a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 3 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
The villa offers a picnic area. A kids pool is also available for guests at Seafront luxury villa with infinity pool & devine views!.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 30 km from the accommodation, while Phaistos is 32 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 86 km from Seafront luxury villa with infinity pool & devine views!, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€48
/night
Boasting a year-round outdoor pool, Muar Suites in Agios Pavlos features accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking for guests who drive.
All units come with a terrace with sea views, a kitchenette with a toaster and a fridge, and a private bathroom with shower. A stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
A continental breakfast is available each morning at the apartment.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Muar Suites.
Prasonisi Beach is 1.8 km from the accommodation, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 31 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 86 km from Muar Suites, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€212
/night
Kumo Villas has mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Agios Pavlos, 2.1 km from Prasonisi Beach.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Kumo Villas offers a seasonal outdoor pool.
If you would like to discover the area, cycling is possible in the surroundings and the accommodation can arrange a car rental service.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 31 km from Kumo Villas, while Phaistos is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 87 km from the villa.
Located 2.5 km from Prasonisi Beach, Domus Mare Villas offers a private beach area, pool with a view and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, cable flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with hot tub and a hair dryer. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also provided, as well as a kettle.
Domus Mare Villas offers a hot tub.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the accommodation, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 50 km from Domus Mare Villas, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 38 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 94 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€495
/night
Situated less than 1 km from Agios Pavlos Sand Dunes Beach and a 12-minute walk from Alatsogkremnos-Agios Pavlos Beach, Varkotopi Villas in Agios Pavlos features air-conditioned accommodation with views of the sea and free WiFi.
Each unit comes with a sofa, a seating area, a TV with satellite channels, a well-fitted kitchenette with a dining area, and a private bathroom with a hair dryer. A dishwasher, an oven and microwave are also available, as well as a kettle.
The villa offers a sun terrace.
Varkotopi Villas conveniently has a year-round outdoor pool.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 50 km from the accommodation, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 38 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 94 km from Varkotopi Villas.
from
€183
/night
Find below list of beaches near Louros beaches:
Agios Pavlos, a quaint seaside village, lies 58km south of Rethymnon city and to the west of Agia Galini, situated conveniently close to the extremity of Cape Melissa. The village, mainly owned by locals from nearby Sachtouria, can be accessed via a scenic drive from there. This hidden gem nestled in a shielded bay is perfect for serene family getaways.
A breathtakingly beautiful beach with emerald deep waters and an impressive rocky seabed characterizes the bay. Several accommodations and taverns dot the area near the beach, offering various amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and pedal boats. An intriguing point of interest here is the quaint church of Saint Paul perched above the beach. Legend has it that Saint Paul resided here during his voyage to Rome – a folklore shared by other regions in Crete such as Kali Limenes and Selouda.
The village’s beach is certainly picturesque, yet some visitors choose to lodge and dine in Agios Pavlos, preferring to swim in the nearby stunning beach known for its enormous sandhills. This beach, referred to as Akoumiani Gialia or Melissa, lies beyond the western rim of the Agios Pavlos bay. Although it’s often wavy, it’s considered one of Rethymno prefecture’s finest beaches, accessible via a pathway originating from Agios Pavlos.
The vibrantly coloured geological rock folds at the Apoplystra location, situated between Agios Pavlos village and Melissa’s Sandhills, are incredibly striking and have been recommended for inclusion in Greece’s Natural Monuments list.
Among the premier beaches in central Crete, the Melissa Cape Sandhills shine bright. Situated near Agios Pavlos, at the southern tip of the expansive Akoumiani Gialia coastline, this stunning location is approximately 55km south of Rethymno city. It’s framed by the beautiful Cape Melissa to the south, the Akoumianos river, and the Triopetra beach to the north. The deep sea here beckons swimmers, and the area’s secluded nature often leads to a variety of beachwear or a lack thereof. Locally, the beach is also known as Alatsogremi or “salt cliffs”.
The Melissa Cape Sandhills, arguably the most scenic beach in the Rethymnon prefecture, boast massive sand dunes nestled amidst a majestic, untouched landscape. A few scattered umbrellas offer shade, although natural refuge can be found in the rocky caves mid-beach. Despite its generous expanse, the beach rarely feels crowded, even allowing for nude bathing during peak season. A rich seabed makes it a snorkelling hotspot, although visitors should be aware of the frequent large waves due to western winds. The water temperature remains warm year-round, hardly dropping below 15 degrees Celsius, perfect for winter swims.
The area is famed for its breathtaking sunsets, providing a serene backdrop for a thriving yoga and Tai Chi club that boasts world-class trainers. The best view of the sunset can be found atop Thronos peak, overlooking the beach from towering cliffs. To reach it, follow the dirt track next to the junction of Agios Pavlos – Sactouria and Triopetra-Agios Pavlos roads, then hike to the cliff edge. This vantage point offers sweeping views of Paximadia islets, Gavdos Island, and the White Mountains.
Access to the Sandhills is straightforward. Head west from Triopetra harbour (Stomio) for about 500m until you reach the beach on your right, with the Akoumianos river below. Park your vehicle here and make your way down to the beach through the valley near the river. Alternatively, you can park in Agios Pavlos and take the short 5 to 10-minute trail behind the western edge of the Agios Pavlos beach, which descends down a steep sandy slope.
Triopetra beach, nestled at the base of Mount Siderotas and 52km south of Rethymno, can be reached via paved roads leading from either Akoumia or Sachtouria. Part of the extensive Akoumiani Gialia beachfront, Triopetra got its name as a historical winter refuge for the inhabitants of Akoumia, who built small huts near their olive groves. Presently, most land and hotels in the area are owned by descendants of these Akoumia residents.
Triopetra boasts two distinct beaches, separated by a petite peninsula. The peninsula’s defining feature is the three spectacular rocks jutting out from the sea, giving Triopetra its name, which translates to “Three Rocks”.
The first beach, Small Triopetra or Koumado, resides in an enclosed bay lined with sand and rock to the south of the three rocks. Here, the Akoumianos river meanders into the sea, forming a natural boundary between Triopetra and the enchanting Agios Pavlos Sandhills at Cape Melissa. Small Triopetra hosts a handful of taverns and rooms, with umbrellas available for sun-seekers. Additionally, the southeast edge of the beach is home to a small harbour, known as Stomio or “mouth”, named after the river’s mouth meeting the sea. Just 1km northeast of the beach, the awe-inspiring chapel of Prophet Elias stands on a high hill, commanding an impressive view over Akoumiani Gialia.
Situated 3km west of Agia Galini, 69km southwest of Heraklion, and 60km south of Rethymno, you’ll find the tranquil valley of Agios Georgios. This spot is home to two small bays, each boasting beautiful pebbly beaches separated by a rocky shore. The weather is often mild, making these beaches perfect for year-round swimming.
The area remains relatively undeveloped, but on the eastern beach, known as Lichnistis, you’ll find a handful of rooms, a tavern, and some umbrellas for shade. A visit to Agios Georgios offers the chance to explore the rugged Cretan countryside and take a stroll to the historic Monastery of St. George, located 500m to the north. The church’s sloping walls show signs of age and soil sedimentation, and inside, you’ll find ancient frescoes.
For those seeking solitude, the western beach, Kolimbistiri, or “swimming area”, is the ideal location. Here, you can swim in peace, and the seabed offers excellent snorkelling opportunities. To reach Agios Georgios’ beaches, take the asphalt-paved road from Agia Galini to Agios Pavlos, or hop on a boat from Agia Galini.
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