Blue Horizon Anatoli

    • 8.7
    • (138)

    Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, mountain view and a patio, Blue Horizon Anatoli is situated in Triopetra. It features a garden, pool views and free WiFithroughout the property.

    The villa with a terrace and sea views has 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a shower.

    Triopetra Beach is 2.9 km from the villa, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 41 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 99 km from Blue Horizon Anatoli.

    Property Details

    • 1 room

    Place Amenities

    • Air conditioning
    • BBQ facilities
    • Parking
    • Sun loungers or beach chairs
    • Sun umbrellas
    • Swimming pool
    • WiFi

    Property Type

    • Villas

    Location

    Triopetra

    User reviews

    Other stays near Blue Horizon Anatoli

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      • 9.5
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      • €197
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      • 490 m
        • 9.8
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        • €182
        • per night

        Things to do near Blue Horizon Anatoli

        Find below list of things to do near Blue Horizon Anatoli:

        • Preveli Beach

        This day trip crosses Crete from Georgioupolis to the south coast, then reaches Preveli by water taxi rather than by the cliff staircase. The day gives you two hours at the palm beach, free time in the village of Plakias and a photo stop at the Kourtaliotiko gorge on the return. BALLOS TRAVEL AGENCY run it from €28, with a 4.25 rating across 121 reviews.

        What this day trip actually does

        The route runs south by coach, switches to a boat, and comes back through the gorge. Four stages make up the day.

        First is the coach, roughly an hour from Georgioupolis across the island to a small bay on the Libyan Sea. Second is the water taxi, a 20 to 30 minute crossing to Preveli. Third is Preveli itself, about two hours at the beach where the Megalos Potamos river runs out through a wild palm forest into the sea. Fourth is the return: free time in Plakias, then a stop above the Kourtaliotiko gorge, where small churches are built into the cliff face.

        Arriving by boat is the point. The overland route to Preveli ends in a long staircase down the cliff and the same climb back in full sun; the water taxi puts you on the sand.

        Places this tour visits

        The route crosses from the north coast to the Libyan Sea and back through the mountains.

        • Preveli, the destination is Preveli beach, where the palm-lined river meets the sea.
        • Georgioupolis, pick-up covers Georgioupolis, which makes this the shortest Preveli run from the north coast.
        • Kourtaliotiko Gorge, the return passes Kourtaliotiko gorge, the cliff-walled canyon the Preveli river flows out of.

        What’s included and what isn’t

        The €28 covers the coach and the guide. The boat is paid separately on the day.

        Included:

        • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
        • Air-conditioned coach
        • Informative driver and guide
        • Free time at Preveli, Plakias and the gorge viewpoint

        Not included:

        • Water taxi ticket, €14 per adult
        • Food and drinks
        • Gratuities

        Budget €14 per adult in cash on top of the ticket.

        Why we recommend this experience

        We recommend this one because it solves the hard part of Preveli for €28. The beach is the reason people come to the south coast, and the cliff path is the reason many regret it. Putting the boat in the middle of the day turns a strenuous trip into an easy one, and at this price it is the cheapest way we know to reach the palm forest from the Georgioupolis side.

        The reviews are unusually consistent about the running of it. Guides are named again and again, Elena, Alexandra, Alicia, Paul, Jannes, which is what a well-staffed operation looks like rather than a one-good-guide fluke. A German guest praised the timing specifically, saying the stops were not too short and not too long at each location. Transportation scores 4.7 out of 5, the strongest of the three dimensions, and several reviewers single out the driver on the mountain roads.

        Adding Plakias and the gorge to the return makes it a day rather than a beach transfer. A German visitor called the Plakias stop a highlight in its own right.

        Three things to weigh, because this rates 4.25 rather than higher.

        There is nothing at Preveli. A British reviewer put it plainly: there is not a great deal to do there, and there are no loungers or umbrellas. They still rated it five stars and enjoyed lying on the sand, but if a sunbed is essential to your beach day, this is the wrong trip.

        Guiding is the weakest score at 4.1 out of 5. The guide commentary is the part reviewers are least uniform about, even while praising individuals by name.

        The boat is not guaranteed. The operator states that in strong wind you may be asked to walk to the beach instead, which means the cliff path, the very thing the boat exists to avoid. Check the forecast.

        CreteLocals insider tips

        Carry the boat fare in cash, bring your own shade, and check the wind.

        1. Bring €14 per adult in cash for the water taxi, which is charged at the bay and is not part of the ticket.
        2. Check the wind forecast the day before, since a windy morning can cancel the boat and leave you with the cliff path.
        3. Pack an umbrella or a sunshade, because Preveli has no loungers, no umbrellas and very little natural shade.
        4. Walk up the river under the palms rather than staying on the sand, which is what makes this beach different from every other one on the coast.
        5. Wear water shoes for the riverbed, which is stony where the fresh water meets the sea.
        6. Keep your camera ready on the return, as the gorge stop is where the cliff churches come into view.

        What to know before you go

        Pick-up and drop-off are included from Georgioupolis hotels. The coach leg runs about an hour each way and the boat crossing about 20 to 30 minutes.

        Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and water shoes. Temperatures on the south coast run high, so sun protection matters more here than on the north side. Pets are not permitted, though assistance dogs are allowed.

        Frequently asked questions

        How do you get to Preveli beach on this trip?

        You travel by coach to a small bay, then by water taxi to the beach, which avoids the cliff staircase the overland route uses.

        How much is the boat to Preveli?

        The water taxi costs €14 per adult, paid separately on the day and not included in the ticket price.

        How long do you get at Preveli beach?

        Reviewers report about two hours at the beach, plus free time later in Plakias.

        Are there sunbeds at Preveli?

        No loungers or umbrellas are available, so bring your own shade if you need it.

        What else does the trip include?

        Free time in Plakias village and a photo stop above the Kourtaliotiko gorge, where churches are built into the cliff.

        What happens if it is windy?

        The operator may ask you to walk down to the beach instead of taking the boat, so check the forecast before you travel.

        Check dates and prices for the Preveli palm beach day trip from Georgioupolis.

        • Preveli Beach

        This day trip crosses Crete to Preveli, the south-coast beach where the Megalos Potamos river runs out of the Kourtaliotiko gorge under a stand of Theophrastus palms before reaching the sea. The river forms a 500-metre freshwater lake behind the sand, which is why Preveli is known as Lake Preveli or Phoenix. ETHERION runs the trip over 7 hours from €40 with free pick-up along the Heraklion coast.

        What this day trip actually does

        The coach crosses the island and the rest of the day is spent at one beach. Three parts make it up.

        First is the drive south to the parking area above Preveli, which sits below steep rock faces that are worth the photograph on their own. Second is the descent: roughly 300 steps and a 15-minute walk down the path to the beach. Third is around four hours at Preveli itself, swimming in the sea, walking up the freshwater river between the palms, or following the gorge inland as far as you want to go.

        The beach is sand and rock where the river mouth meets the sea, with a rock formation on the eastern side shaped like a heart.

        Places this tour visits

        The day is spent at one beach on the south coast of the Rethymno regional unit.

        • Preveli, the whole trip is built around Preveli beach, where the palm-lined river meets the Libyan Sea.

        What’s included and what isn’t

        The €40 covers the coach, the guide and the pick-up.

        Included:

        • Professional multilingual guide
        • Professional driver
        • Air-conditioned coach
        • Free pick-up from anywhere between Malia and Agia Pelagia
        • Liability insurance

        Not included:

        • Tips and personal expenses

        Why we recommend this experience

        We recommend Preveli as one of the two genuinely unusual beaches in Crete, Vai is the other, and this trip is the way to reach it without driving the mountain road yourself. Theophrastus palms grow wild in only a handful of places in Europe, and at Preveli they line a freshwater river running down a gorge into the sea. Walking up that river with palms overhead and the Libyan Sea behind you is not an experience the rest of the island offers.

        The practical case is the same as every south-coast trip: it is a long way from the north coast resorts, the road is mountainous, and letting somebody else drive it turns a tense morning into a sit-down.

        What review evidence exists is positive on the operator. A German guest praised the communication, quick answers to questions and a smooth pick-up, and made the point we would emphasise most, you can hike a long way up the river into the gorge, and it is worth doing.

        Three things to weigh, and the first is the one to think hardest about.

        The review base is two reviews. That is not enough to judge an operator on, and we say so rather than dressing up a 4.57 across two bookings as a track record.

        The ratio of coach to beach is poor. A Belgian reviewer rating it four stars put it precisely: almost 8 hours of coach for 3 to 4 hours on site. Preveli is far from the north coast and there is no way around that, but go in knowing the split.

        The walk back up is the part people underestimate. The operator states it plainly: 120 metres of climb taking 20 to 30 minutes in direct sunlight. There are around 300 steps. If anyone in your group would struggle with that in August heat, this is not the beach for them.

        CreteLocals insider tips

        Walk up the river, keep water for the climb back, and leave the beach before the hottest part of the return.

        1. Walk up the freshwater river rather than staying on the sand, since the palm gorge is what makes Preveli different from any other beach.
        2. Save at least a litre of water for the climb back, given it is 300 steps and 20 to 30 minutes in full sun.
        3. Wear proper shoes for the path, which is stepped and uneven rather than a beach walkway.
        4. Start the return walk early, because the coach will not wait and the climb takes longer than people expect.
        5. Photograph the rock faces from the car park, which sit directly above it and are the best shot of the day.
        6. Look for the heart-shaped rock on the eastern side of the beach, which is easy to miss from the main stretch of sand.

        What to know before you go

        Free pick-up covers Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, Limenas Chersonisou, Koutouloufari, Anissaras, Analipsi, Gouves, Kato Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion and Ammoudara. The operator emails your exact pick-up location within 24 hours of booking.

        Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes and beachwear. The return climb to the bus is 120 metres of ascent, taking at least 20 to 30 minutes in direct sun.

        Frequently asked questions

        How long is the Preveli day trip?

        The trip runs 7 hours door to door, with about four hours at the beach.

        How hard is the walk down to Preveli beach?

        The path has around 300 steps and takes about 15 minutes down; the climb back is 120 metres of ascent over 20 to 30 minutes in direct sunlight.

        Why is Preveli called the palm beach?

        A stand of Theophrastus palms lines the Megalos Potamos river where it runs out of the Kourtaliotiko gorge to the sea, one of very few wild palm groves in Europe.

        Can you swim in the river?

        The river forms a 500-metre freshwater lake behind the beach, and walking or swimming up it between the palms is what most visitors come for.

        Where does pickup cover?

        Free pick-up runs from anywhere between Malia and Agia Pelagia, covering the whole Heraklion north coast.

        Is lunch included?

        No food or drink is included, and personal expenses are your own.

        Check dates and prices for the Preveli beach day trip.

        • Preveli Beach

        This day trip reaches Preveli the good way, by boat. The coach runs from Chania across the island with a stop at the Kourtaliotiko gorge, then you board at Damnoni for a short cruise along the Libyan Sea to Preveli, where the Megalos Potamos river meets the sea under a forest of palms. Allcretetours run it over 10 hours from €43, with a 4.38 rating across 16 reviews.

        What this day trip actually does

        The route crosses to the south coast, sees the gorge, then takes to the water. Four stages fill the 10 hours.

        First is the pick-up and the drive through the Cretan countryside towards the south coast. Second is the Kourtaliotiko gorge, where towering cliffs and the wind that funnels through them make the photo stop, about an hour is allowed. Third is Damnoni, where the boat waits for a short cruise across the Libyan Sea, and Preveli appears from the water as a river mouth wrapped in palms and mountains. Fourth is Preveli itself: swimming in the emerald water, walking the riverbank under the palms, or following the river inland to the springs and small waterfalls in the gorge.

        Arriving by boat is the difference. The overland route ends in roughly 300 steps down a cliff and the same back up; the boat puts you on the sand.

        Places this tour visits

        The route runs from the north-west coast to the Libyan Sea.

        • Preveli, the destination is Preveli beach, where the palm-lined river runs into the sea.
        • Kourtaliotiko Gorge, the photo stop is at Kourtaliotiko gorge, the cliff-walled canyon the Preveli river runs out of.
        • Damnoni, the boat leaves from Damnoni beach, a short hop east along the coast.
        • Chania, pick-up covers the Chania coast, which makes this the western departure for Preveli.

        What’s included and what isn’t

        The €43 covers the coach and the guide; the two site fees are paid on the day.

        Included:

        • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
        • Guiding throughout
        • Air-conditioned coach
        • Full liability insurance

        Not included:

        • Boat ticket from Damnoni to Preveli, €13
        • Kourtaliotiko gorge entry, €5
        • Food and drinks

        Budget €18 per person in cash on top of the ticket.

        Why we recommend this experience

        We recommend this version of Preveli specifically because of the boat. Every other way in involves the cliff staircase, roughly 300 steps down and a 20 to 30 minute climb back in full sun, which is the single most common complaint about Preveli trips. Coming in from Damnoni across the Libyan Sea removes all of it and gives you the approach shot as the palm forest opens up ahead of the boat.

        The reviews describe a well-run day. A Dutch guest noted the guide made clear at the start where food and toilets were and built in a bakery stop, small things that decide how a ten-hour day feels. A Swiss reviewer called it perfectly organised from start to finish, and a German guest rated it the highlight of their holiday, singling out the pick-up and the guide.

        Preveli itself needs little argument: Theophrastus palms grow wild in only a handful of places in Europe, and here they line a freshwater river running into the sea.

        Three things to weigh, since this scores 4.38 and the criticisms are consistent.

        The gorge stop divides people. An Australian reviewer loved Preveli but not the gorge, where the wind was strong enough that they abandoned the walk to the water, and they objected to paying €5 per person to enter. A Polish reviewer rating it three stars said there was too little specific information about the gorge for the hour allowed.

        The extra costs are not in the headline price. €13 for the boat and €5 for the gorge add 40% to a €43 ticket, and both are cash on the day.

        The gorge is genuinely windy. Kourtaliotiko is named for the clattering sound the wind makes through it, so treat the walk down as optional rather than assumed.

        CreteLocals insider tips

        Carry €18 in cash, read up on the gorge first, and follow the river inland at Preveli.

        1. Bring €18 per person in cash, covering the €13 boat and the €5 gorge entry.
        2. Read about Kourtaliotiko before you arrive, since reviewers report the on-site commentary being thin for the hour you get.
        3. Skip the gorge descent if the wind is up, which reviewers describe as strong enough to turn people back.
        4. Walk up the river at Preveli rather than staying on the sand, because the palm gorge and its springs are what make the beach unusual.
        5. Sit at the front of the boat from Damnoni, where the approach to the palm forest is the best view of the day.
        6. Check your voucher the day before at 123voucher.eu/voucher, which is where the pick-up time and point appear.

        What to know before you go

        Your voucher with the pick-up time and point arrives by email one day before, and can also be viewed at 123voucher.eu/voucher with your booking reference.

        Bring sunglasses, beachwear, comfortable shoes and cash. Pets, alcohol and large bags are not permitted on the coach.

        Frequently asked questions

        How long is the Preveli day trip?

        The day runs 10 hours from pick-up to drop-off, including the drive, the gorge stop and the boat to Preveli.

        Do you reach Preveli by boat?

        Yes, a short cruise from Damnoni across the Libyan Sea, which avoids the roughly 300-step cliff path used by the overland route.

        What extra costs are there?

        The €13 boat ticket and the €5 Kourtaliotiko gorge entry are both paid separately, in cash on the day.

        What is Preveli known for?

        Preveli has a wild palm forest lining the Megalos Potamos river where it meets the sea, one of very few such groves in Europe.

        Is the gorge stop worth it?

        Opinions divide. Reviewers praise the cliffs but report strong wind and thin commentary, and the €5 entry is charged separately.

        Where does the tour depart from?

        Pick-up covers the Chania area, making this the western departure point for Preveli.

        Check dates and prices for the Preveli palm beach tour with Kourtaliotiko gorge.

        • Preveli Palm Forest

        Discover three famous beaches along the southern coast of Crete. Traverse the wild beauty of Kourtaliotis Gorge, stopping to admire its stunning waterfalls and the springs of the Preveli River that flow into Preveli Beach.

        Begin your journey at Damnoni beach, where a boat awaits to take you to Palm Beach Preveli. Enjoy a swim in the clear waters of the Libyan Sea and take a short walk through the forest.

        Head to a scenic viewpoint for breathtaking views and then board a boat to Preveli. Experience the mix of sandy beaches and lush greenery surrounded by palm trees and rocky cliffs.

        Return to Damnoni beach for more relaxation before heading to the small resort town of Plakias for lunch, swimming, or shopping. Finally, make your way back to Rethymno via the impressive Kotsifou Gorge.

        • Kourtaliotiko Gorge

        Visit Preveli beach, the Kourtaliotiko gorge, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Rethymno or Chania. Cruise aboard a boat on the Libyan sea, swim in crystal-clear waters, and relax on a sandy beach. 
        Start your tour from your accommodation where your guide will meet you. Take a short scenic drive through to Damnoni beach where your personal boat driver awaits. Find yourself in Preveli after a short, picturesque boat ride.
        Enjoy a swim in the Libyan Sea at Preveli beach and feel free to explore the Kourtaliotiko gorge and marvel at the mountainous terrain. Connected to Preveli beach is a series of springs and waterfalls that lead into the gorge which can also be visited.
        Discover a mixture of sandy beaches, lush forest, and mountains. Return to your accommodation on a route through the Kourtaliotiko gorge.

        • Kourtaliotiko Gorge

        This river trek takes you into Kourtaliotiko gorge from Rethymno, wading and swimming down the riverbed to the waterfall that pours into the canyon’s cave. Kourtaliotiko is the biggest gorge in the Rethymno regional unit, and the route runs below the roadside viewpoint where most visitors stop. Cretan Explorer supplies wetsuits, helmets and poles over 5 hours from €67.50, and this Rethymno departure carries the largest review base of the two, 4.89 across 324 reviews, with guiding at a perfect 5.0.

        What this river trek actually does

        The van meets you at a parking area above the gorge, and the route follows the water down to an olive grove at the exit. Four stages fill the 5 hours.

        First is the equipment and briefing, a neoprene short-sleeve suit, a helmet, walking poles and a safety talk covering the whole route. Second is the great waterfall, which never stops flowing and is reached by a swim into the cave beneath it. Third is about two hours descending the river, dropping through natural pools under plane trees on a path away from the marked trail. Fourth is the Banana Garden, a small farm near the exit where a light lunch is served.

        The operator rates it as a moderate hike suitable for most fitness levels.

        Places this tour visits

        The trek runs south from Rethymno into the mountains behind the coast.

        • Kourtaliotiko Gorge, the whole route is inside Kourtaliotiko gorge, which carries the largest water flow of any gorge in this part of Crete.
        • Rethymno, optional pick-up covers hotels around Rethymno, which makes this the version to book if you are based on the north coast rather than at Plakias.

        What’s included and what isn’t

        The price covers the kit, the guiding, the internal transfers and lunch, and it excludes the gorge ticket.

        Included:

        • Experienced guide
        • Short-sleeved neoprene wetsuit
        • Helmet and hiking poles
        • Waterproof phone case and waterproof backpack
        • Light lunch after the trek
        • All transfers between the gorge entrance and the exit point
        • Skip-the-line entrance handling
        • Optional hotel pick-up around Rethymno

        Not included:

        • Gorge entrance fee of €5 per person, paid in cash
        • Drinks at lunch

        Why we recommend this experience

        We recommend this departure specifically for people staying on the north coast, and the number that matters is 324. This Rethymno version has run three times as many bookings as the Plakias one, which means the pick-up logistics from the busier side of the island are well worn rather than improvised. If you are in Rethymno town or along that coast, this is the version built for you.

        What the reviews describe is a well-drilled operation. One Swiss guest described the safety briefing explaining the entire river trekking process clearly before anyone got wet, and the guide flagging slippery and uneven ground throughout the walk. Another praised the pace: never rushed, time to look at things, time to ask questions. The guide, Yiannis, is named by German, Dutch, French and Irish reviewers alike.

        Two details from the reviews worth repeating. One reviewer who had previously visited Kourtaliotiko with a large operator, a brief stop, a look at the waterfall, back on the coach, described this as a completely different experience. And several mention the Banana Garden by name, one noting it is still beautiful despite fire damage, with the plants explained in detail by the people who grow them.

        Three things to weigh.

        The water is genuinely cold. One reviewer described being up to the neck in it, another said the wetsuit made it manageable rather than warm. This is shaded mountain water, and the swim to the waterfall is not optional.

        Pre-tour communication is the one recurring gap. GetYourGuide’s own review summary says travellers would like clearer information on the meeting point and start time beforehand. Confirm both directly with the operator rather than assuming.

        Footwear is specified for a reason. Soft-soled water shoes are stated as unsuitable, and sure footing matters more here than fitness does.

        CreteLocals insider tips

        Confirm the meeting point in writing, send your measurements, and bring cash for the ticket.

        1. Confirm your meeting point and start time with the operator directly, since that is the one thing reviewers say could be clearer.
        2. Send your height and weight after booking, so the wetsuit that arrives actually fits.
        3. Wear firm-soled sports shoes you do not mind soaking, because soft-soled water shoes are unsuitable on this rock.
        4. Carry €5 per person in cash, given the gorge entrance is the only cost left out of the price.
        5. Pack a towel and flip-flops for the lunch stop, as the trek ends with you wet.
        6. Book ahead in summer, since the tour is flagged as likely to sell out.

        What to know before you go

        You meet the van at a parking area above the gorge, or take the optional pick-up from around Rethymno. Send your height and weight after booking for the wetsuit, and your hotel name if you have chosen pick-up.

        Bring swimwear, sports shoes, a towel, flip-flops, snacks, water and €5 cash. Soft-soled water shoes are not suitable for this activity.

        Frequently asked questions

        How long is the river trek at Kourtaliotiko gorge?

        The trek runs 5 hours, including the waterfall section, roughly two hours down the riverbed and lunch afterwards.

        Is the water cold?

        The water is cold year-round. The gorge is shaded and fed from the mountains, which is why a neoprene wetsuit is provided rather than optional.

        What is included in the price?

        The price covers the guide, wetsuit, helmet, poles, waterproof bags, lunch and all internal transfers, plus skip-the-line entrance handling.

        Do you need previous hiking experience?

        No experience is needed, the operator rates the route moderate and suitable for most fitness levels, though sure footing on wet rock matters.

        Is hotel pickup available from Rethymno?

        Optional pick-up covers hotels around Rethymno, which is the main reason to choose this departure over the Plakias one.

        How much is the gorge entrance fee?

        The entrance fee is €5 per person, paid in cash and not included in the tour price.

        Check dates and prices for the Kourtaliotiko gorge river trek from Rethymno.

        Beaches near Blue Horizon Anatoli

        Find below list of beaches near Blue Horizon Anatoli:

        • 1.0 km
        Triopetra beach is located 1.0 km away.

        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.

        • Triopetra beach
        • Fine Pebbles, Pebbles, Sand
        • Normal
        • Blue
        • 2.1 km
        Ligres beach is located 2.1 km away.

        Situated 51km to the south of Rethymno and 7km below the village of Kerames, Ligres is nestled at the base of the grand Siderotas mountain. It forms the northern segment of the Akoumiani Gialia beachfront, which runs from the cape of Mellissa to the south.

        Ligres is an expansive beach graced with rough sand and a spectacular deep sea. Its somewhat challenging access has thankfully deterred the encroachment of tourism, preserving it as one of the most serene, secluded and pristine beaches on the island. Although the beach is not developed, there are a few taverns and rooms available on its western side accessible via a poorly maintained asphalt road. At the beach’s western tip, there is a stunning waterfall that boasts a year-round water supply, cascading right next to the sea.

        Beyond the northern end of the beach, also known as Katsouni, lies a secluded beach favored primarily by nudists. Despite its seclusion, there are numerous spots along this vast, uninhabited beach where nude swimming is possible. It’s worth venturing along the beachfront to Triopetra, up to the Xiromilia area, to marvel at the astonishing rock formations. In the heart of Ligres, a remarkable reddish boulder stands out near the sea.

        • Ligres beach
        • Fine Pebbles
        • Normal
        • Blue
        • 2.6 km
        Agios Pavlos Sandhills (Melissa Cape) is located 2.6 km away.

        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.

        • Melissa Cape Sandhills
        • Rocks in places, Sand
        • Deep
        • Blue
        • 2.7 km
        Agios Pavlos beach is located 2.7 km away.

        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.

        • Agios Pavlos beach
        • Rocks in places, Sand
        • Normal
        • Blue

        Gorges to hike near Blue Horizon Anatoli

        Find below list of gorges near Blue Horizon Anatoli:

        • 7.5 km

        The Swallow Gorge, situated 33km south of Rethymnon city, is in close proximity to the renowned Preveli beach, known for its magnificent palm grove and breathtaking river. The gorge begins from Kenda peak (881m altitude), passes through Drymiskos village, runs nearly parallel to the Kourtaliotiko canyon, and concludes at Drymiskiano Ammoudi beach. It gets its name from the swallows that flock here every summer.

        Unlike Kourtaliotiko, this lesser-known canyon is dry during the summer but is still worth a visit. The vertical, awe-striking rocks and the verdant riverbed (which flows in winter) are a sight to behold. The winding Swallow Canyon is relatively easy to hike and doesn’t require any specific skills, despite not being marked.

        A significant portion of the canyon runs parallel to the road leading to Amoudi beach, which is where the easy trail to Preveli begins. To find this road, take a left at the picturesque arched bridge of Megalos Potamos that you’ll come across en route to the Preveli monastery. Therefore, even if you’re not much of a walker, you can still enjoy the beauty of the gorge during your visit to Preveli.

        • Swallows' Gorge
        • 8.6 km

        Located just 1km north of Kissos village in Agios Vasilios province and 34km southeast of Rethymnon, Kissano Gorge serves as a link between Kambos Kissou settlement and the small Gious Kambos plateau. The gorge’s river is a primary tributary of the Gorge Frati. The canyon, though not lush with vegetation, boasts small waterfalls, the tallest of which measure between 5-7m. These waterfalls make it an ideal location for canyoning, but it’s also possible to bypass them carefully from the sides without any specialized equipment.

        The journey begins at the Gious Kambos plateau, a small haven of diverse flora. A 0 to 30-minute walk along or beside the riverbed leads you to a point where the river intersects the road connecting Kissos with Gerakari. Here, you’ll find a striking reddish rock peppered with numerous caverns known as Kokkinos Detis, leading locals to also refer to this area as the Kokkinos Detis Gorge.

        While this marks the end of the main part of the canyon, the river continues its descent, creating more small waterfalls. It then passes through the 60-hectare artificial pine forest of Vatolakki, before continuing towards Spili and eventually to Frati.

        • Kissos Gorge
        • 9.0 km

        Approximately 1 km to the east of Spili, in the Agios Vassilios province, you’ll find the church of Agia Fotini, also known as Saint Photini. Like many places in Crete, it’s often referred to as Agia Fotia. Situated on the main road leading to Agia Galini, the church is adjacent to a spring that flows with water throughout the year. Nearby, you’ll see a large, old watermill. This area marks the end of the picturesque Agia Fotia gorge, which is small but incredibly lush.

        The gorge begins at the Gious Kambos plateau, which is 750m above sea level, and concludes at the spring, which sits at an altitude of 500m, after a 1.5km journey.

        Close to the gorge’s starting point, you’ll discover waterfalls of unparalleled beauty. In the springtime, these falls are abundant with water, creating a unique and breathtaking landscape filled with plane trees. The easiest way to reach the waterfalls is by walking from the spring along the gorge. Alternatively, you can access them from Gious Kambos, though this route is more challenging. It requires bypassing the waterfalls from the sides and descending the steep slope to the riverbed.

        • Agia Fotia Gorge
        • 11.2 km

        Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a hiking gorge 22km south of Rethymno, Crete, Greece, known for its waterfall, its year-round springs, and the chapel of Agios Nikolaos at the base of the cliffs. Kourtaliotiko Gorge runs for 3km between the Kouroupa and Koules mountains, and a paved road cuts through the canyon so you can reach the main viewpoints and the trailhead without a long approach. This guide covers what the gorge is, the waterfall and chapel, how to get there and park, the difficulty, what to see, and the tips worth knowing before you go.

        What is Kourtaliotiko Gorge

        Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a river gorge in the Rethymno region of southern Crete, set within the Xiro Oros range. The gorge originates from the village of Koxare and drops between the Kouroupa and Koules mountains, with dramatic cliffs that reach heights of up to 600 meters and hold numerous caves. Its walls are among the tallest in the area, which is why the road through it feels so enclosed.Water is the reason the gorge stays green all year. The Kourtaliotiko River flows down through the canyon, then merges with the Frati Gorge and continues toward Lake Preveli as the Megalos River. Springs near the chapel feed the riverbed even in summer, so there is water in the gorge throughout the year. Downstream the same river system reaches the coast at Preveli, where the palm forest is one of the largest on Crete, and you can read about the beach and estuary on our Preveli beach page.

        The waterfall and the chapel of Agios Nikolaos

        The waterfall sits at the base of the gorge, fed by the springs that keep the river running. From the lower river levels the waterfall can be reached along the riverbed, and the pools below it are the main draw for anyone hiking down. Bring water shoes if you plan to get close, because the rock is smooth and the flow depends on the season.The chapel of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas) Kourtaliotis stands at the foot of the cliffs beside the springs. A stone stairway from the Koxare to Asomatos road leads down to the chapel and the gorge base, so the descent to the water starts right at the top of these steps. The chapel, the springs, and the waterfall are clustered together at the bottom, which makes the short climb down worthwhile even if you do not walk the full trail.

        Getting there and parking

        Kourtaliotiko Gorge is easy to reach because a paved road runs straight through the canyon on the route between Koxare and the south coast. The drive from Rethymno takes you south past Koxare village and into the gorge itself, where roadside pull-ins mark the viewpoints and the top of the descent. Getting here is far simpler with your own vehicle, and you can compare options on our rent a car in Crete page.Follow these steps to reach the gorge base:
        1. Drive to the paved road between Koxare and Asomatos, which passes through the gorge.
        2. Stop at the roadside area where the stone stairway begins.
        3. Descend the steps toward the chapel of Agios Nikolaos and the springs.
        4. Continue along the riverbed to reach the waterfall and pools.
        The nearest town for supplies, fuel, and a base for the day is covered on our Rethymno page.

        Difficulty and what to expect on the trail

        Kourtaliotiko Gorge has a difficulty level of 3 out of 10, which makes it approachable for most walkers with a basic level of fitness. The full route is about 7km long and takes approximately 4 hours, with an altitude difference of 210 meters over its length. The low difficulty rating reflects the gentle grade, though the steps down to the base and the rocky riverbed still call for sturdy footwear.You do not have to walk the whole gorge to enjoy it. Many visitors only descend the stairway to the chapel, the springs, and the waterfall, which takes far less than the full 4 hours. If you want the water without the long walk, a guided river trekking trip is the easiest way to do it, and you can see the options on our river trekking at Kourtaliotiko Gorge experience.

        What to see

        Kourtaliotiko Gorge rewards visitors with a mix of water, rock, and wildlife in a short stretch. The main sights are grouped near the base of the cliffs, so you can take in most of them on the descent from the road.
        • Waterfall and pools, fed by the springs at the base of the gorge.
        • Chapel of Agios Nikolaos, set beside the springs at the foot of the cliffs.
        • Springs, which keep water in the riverbed all year.
        • Cliffs up to 600 meters, riddled with caves along the 3km canyon.
        • Wildlife, including tortoises and freshwater snakes near the river.
        The river continues past the gorge toward the coast, and the Megalos River bridge marks the point where the water heads on to Preveli.

        Tips for visiting

        Kourtaliotiko Gorge is best treated as a half-day stop rather than a rushed roadside photo. Follow these tips to get the most out of it:
        1. Wear sturdy shoes or water shoes for the stone steps and the rocky, often wet riverbed.
        2. Bring water and sun protection, since the base of the gorge has little shade in summer.
        3. Start early in the day to have the springs, chapel, and waterfall to yourself.
        4. Take care on the steps and rocks near the pools, which stay slick from the year-round flow.
        5. Pair the visit with nearby gorges or the coast, since the road links straight to the south.
        The wider area holds several more canyons worth a detour, and you can browse them all on our gorges of Crete hub. Two of the closest are the Kotsifos Gorge and the Swallows’ Gorge, both an easy drive from Kourtaliotiko.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        Where is Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Waterfall located?Kourtaliotiko Gorge is located 22km south of Rethymno, Crete, Greece.What type of gorge is Kourtaliotiko Gorge?Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a hiking gorge.Is there water in Kourtaliotiko Gorge?Yes, there is water all year round in Kourtaliotiko Gorge, thanks to the springs.How accessible is Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Waterfall?Kourtaliotiko Gorge and waterfall is accessible via a paved road.How long is Kourtaliotiko Gorge?Kourtaliotiko Gorge is 7km long.How difficult is Kourtaliotiko Gorge?Kourtaliotiko Gorge has a difficulty level of 3 out of 10.How many hours does it take to hike Kourtaliotiko Gorge?It takes approximately 4 hours to hike Kourtaliotiko Gorge.What is the altitude difference in Kourtaliotiko Gorge?The altitude difference in Kourtaliotiko Gorge is 210 meters.Where does the Kourtaliotiko River lead?The Kourtaliotiko River merges with the Frati Gorge and flows on to Lake Preveli as the Megalos River.

        • Kourtaliotis Gorge at Preveli

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