From Chania: Day Trip to Preveli Beach & Damnoni Beach

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.