Villa Erofili Plakias south Rethimno Crete features mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Asómatoi, 27 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with bath and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also featured, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
At Villa Erofili Plakias south Rethimno Crete you will find a restaurant serving Greek cuisine.
The accommodation offers a hot tub.
Guests at Villa Erofili Plakias south Rethimno Crete can enjoy fishing and hiking nearby, or make the most of the garden.
Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 45 km from the villa, while Psiloritis National Park is 46 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 88 km from Villa Erofili Plakias south Rethimno Crete.
Ασώματος 74060, Ασώματος Ρέθυμνο
Find below list of things to do near Villa Erofili Plakias south Rethimno Crete:
Set off on an enthralling expedition across the splendid landscapes and ancient marvels of Crete, beginning in the lively city of Rethymno. This full-day escapade merges the island’s profound historical roots with its breathtaking scenic vistas.
Arkadi Monastery: A Testament to Independence
The journey commences at Arkadi Monastery, a pivotal symbol of the island’s fight for freedom. We explore the moving history of 1866, with its vivid imagery and symbols that recount the sacrifices made for independence. The monastery’s design and relics epitomize the spirit of perseverance and the struggle for liberty.
Enchanting Path to Fragma Potamon
We proceed along an off-the-beaten-path to the captivating Fragma Potamon dam. Here, the sweeping vistas promise awe-inspiring tranquility, presenting an ideal chance for creating lasting memories with fellow travelers.
Saint Antonios Gorge: A Secluded Haven
A brief but magical off-road journey leads us to the tranquil Saint Antonios Gorge, a haven for rare natural ecosystems. Explore the trail to a hallowed temple set against a backdrop of remarkable geological formations. We pause to take in the lush visuals and hues, indulging in authentic local treats and coffee in this magical locale.
Spili: A Village Carved in Harmony
Our adventure navigates through charming hamlets to reach Spili, famed for its natural springs. Wander through its idyllic alleyways, under the shadow of ancient plane trees, and past the celebrated lion head fountains, where the cool spring waters flow incessantly.
Gastronomy in a Traditional Setting
The journey pauses for a gastronomic delight in a classic tavern, where an assortment of Cretan appetizers, entrees (with vegetarian alternatives), and local wines are served to tantalize your taste buds.
Preveli: Echoes of an African Vista
Our route takes us to the Preveli palm forest, offering landscapes akin to those of Africa. Marvel at the ancient stone bridge and follow a short trek to experience the dominance of palm trees among incredible rock structures, a river blending into the Libyan Sea, and expansive views of the coastline. The trail concludes at a pristine beach, perfect for swimming and unwinding.
Kourtaliotis Gorge: A Spectacular Natural Wonder
We then explore the majestic Kourtaliotis Gorge, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and a river nourished by five springs, allegedly formed by the touch of St. Nikolaos. Descending to the river’s edge, we immerse in the gorge’s invigorating atmosphere, observing its flora and fauna, and possibly sighting the elusive vultures.
On our return, we traverse the imposing Kotsifos Gorge and pass through a series of traditional villages, each contributing to Crete’s rich historical narrative.
This exploration into the heart of Crete transcends a mere journey; it’s an immersive voyage that intimately connects you with the essence of the island, leaving behind a collection of cherished memories and a refreshed sense of awe.
Following pick-up at your hotel. Sit back and enjoy the dramatic scenery of the Kourtaliótiko Gorge as you make your way to the beautiful beach of Preveli.
Get breathtaking views of the blue waters of the Aegean Sea contrasting with the lush green of the palm forest and lagoon.
The first stop is Damnoni beach. From here you will take the boat over to Palm beach. Take some free time to soak in all the beauty of the clear blue waters combined with the lagoon and palm forest.
Enjoy time to purchase lunch and refreshments in Damnoni and admire its beautiful clean beach. After Damnoni we will visit the small fisher village Plakias. Journey back to Rethymno and get dropped off at your hotel on arrival.
Start your day at Spili, a small and beautiful village very popular for the lion head fountains, by relaxing under the trees while enjoying a Greek cup of coffee. Try honey and olive oil from local producers. Visit the folks museum and learn about the Cretan history.
Then explore the breathtaking Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Walk through the rising rock walls and admire the incredible natural scenery, before you reach the lonely chapel of Agios Nikolaos. Listen to the ethereal sound of the wind, created by its movement through the gorge. Reach the springs of Kourtaliotis, where you swim under the waterfalls.
Arrive at the exotic coastal resort of Kalypso, an old pirate shelter. Relax on Karavos beach, which has recently become a national park. Walk across the towering rocks and dive into the turquoise water of the Libyan Sea.
Experience Cretan nature with a local guide on this day tour. Pass through olive groves and traditional villages, smell wild flowers and herbs, and admire the natural beaches of the South Cretan Sea.
Commence your tour by departing from Rethymno after meeting your guide. You’ll soon arrive at the dam that gathers water from the gorge of Patsos. There, take amazing photos of one of the most important lakes in the southeast Mediterranean, which also boasts many species of birds and animals.
Next, stop at the magnificent gorge of Patsos itself. See a small church in a rocky cave and pass through traditional villages before heading over to a higher point for a panoramic view of Rethymno and the two highest mountains of Crete. Afterwards, visit a botanical garden and discover Crete’s medicinal plants and flowers.
Take a break from walking and enjoy some tea as you bask in Cretan nature. Then, proceed to Spili, a village famous for its natural springs. Lastly, visit the Folklore Museum and end your tour by going to Plakias Beach for a swim with a view of the South Cretan Sea.
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.
Discover 3 of the most famous beaches on the south coast of Crete. Travel through the wild Kourtaliotis Gorge where you will stop to see the magnificent waterfalls and the springs of the river Preveli that flow inside the gorge and which result in the river at Preveli Beach.
The first stop in the south is at the sandy beach Damnoni, where the boat is waiting to take you to Palm Beach Preveli at the south-end of Kourtaliotis Gorge, at the mouth of the river Preveli.
Enjoy some time for a splendid swim in the crystal clear waters of the Libyan Sea, sunbathe and relax, and embark on a short hike through the tropical forest.
Visit the south of Crete and stop at the viewpoint above where you will be able to enjoy a breathtaking view and take some fantastic pictures.
Hop on the boat to take you to Preveli, a unique mixture of the sandy beach and the green river which is flanked by palm forests and rocky surroundings. Here you will have time to enjoy the refreshing Libyan sea and the Cretan Sun.
Continue to the sandy beach of Damnoni, where the boat is waiting to take you to Palm Beach Preveli at the south-end of Kourtaliotis Gorge, at the mouth of the river Preveli.
Enjoy some time for a splendid swim in the crystal clear waters of the Libyan Sea, sunbathe and relax, and embark on a short hike through the tropical forest.
Hop back on the boat and return back to the sandy beach of Damnoni. The next stop is the small resort Plakias, situated in a natural bay. Here you can have lunch, go for another swim or do some shopping. We will take another road to return to Rethymno, driving through the impressive Kotsifou Gorge.
Find below list of beaches near Villa Erofili Plakias south Rethimno Crete:
Ammoudi beaches are located 32 kilometers south of Rethymno and 5 kilometers east of Plakias village. Ammoudi beaches are accessible via a paved road from the village of Lefkogia. This road leads you directly to the first beach, Ammoudi, recognizable by its distinctive green slippery rock. Ammoudi beach has a slight organization, with available amenities such as umbrellas, nearby taverns and rooms, and even a scuba diving centre. Ammoudi Beach offers white sand, rocky seabed, and bright green waters, making it ideal for diving and snorkelling. There’s also the option to find shade and camp under the many tamarisk trees located next to the beach.
Heading west from Ammoudi, a dirt road begins that will take you towards Damnoni, passing by towering cliffs and impressive rocks. Just 200m west of Ammoudi, along this dirt road, you’ll discover a parking plateau that offers an unrestricted view of Damnoni. Here, you’ll see an enchanting miniature sandy beach, featuring turquoise waters and a unique rock in the sea. Known as Klisidi, this beach is an attractive choice when not crowded, though this is rare during peak season.
Adjacent to Klisidi, you’ll encounter the stunning nudist beach of Small Ammoudi or Ammoudaki. This small beach is popular among nudists for its turquoise waters and exceptional white coarse sand. It also has a small canteen offering umbrellas and sunbeds. On the beach’s west side, you can swim in a marine cave, where the sunlight turns the water a vibrant blue. You can easily walk on the sandy seabed. There’s also an underwater hole connecting Ammoudaki with Klisidi, allowing you to travel between the two beaches with just a dive. If you wish to reach the Ammoudi beaches on foot, simply walk east of Damnoni until you reach Ammoudaki.
Situated 35km south of Rethymnon and 5km east of Plakias on Crete island, Damnoni beach is a well-known tourist destination. The resort is fully developed and well-structured, featuring a wide bay with turquoise waters and coarse, whitish sand. Visitors can enjoy numerous facilities including umbrellas, snack bars, showers, changing rooms, and water sports. Additionally, there’s a scuba diving centre, top-notch hotels, restaurants, and a horse-riding centre.
The westernmost part of the beach, which is highly organized, is home to a small river that maintains water nearly all year round. The eastern end of the beach is more serene and connects to the neighbouring Ammoudakii beaches via a short unpaved road. Beyond the western end of the beach, you’ll find several secluded small coves with sand and rocks, located right next to the area’s small harbour.
Skinaria Beach (also spelled Schinaria or Shinaria) is a small, secluded beach on the south coast of Crete, 33 km south of Rethymno and 3 km south of the village of Lefkogia, in the eastern part of the Plakias area. It is best known for exceptionally clear water over a rocky, marine-rich seabed, which makes it one of the finest snorkelling and scuba-diving spots in the region.
The beach has soft grey-beige sand mixed with fine pebbles and deep, turquoise water. The seabed is mostly rocky, while the northern part of the beach is sandy. Small freshwater ponds sit on the shore, fed by springs that carry water down from the surrounding mountains, and the lush vegetation around them gives the area a tropical feel. The bay is framed by rock on either side, so the sea surface usually stays calm and the entry is gentle.
Skinaria is quieter than Crete’s headline beaches. It sees far fewer visitors than nearby resorts, though the single tavern and the small car park can fill on peak-season afternoons.
Skinaria has one of the richest seabeds on the island, and its water is clear enough to see more than 40 metres horizontally. Snorkellers and divers share the water with morays, blackfish and octopuses, and divers often describe the rocky seabed as being like an aquarium. A scuba-diving centre operates in the area and draws visitors from across Crete, which makes the beach a reliable choice for a day in the water rather than only on the sand.
A narrow road runs down to Skinaria from Lefkogia, roughly 2 km, and the beach is signposted from the village. Along the way, look for a cylindrical cave set inside a rock on your left. There is no direct public bus to the beach, so most visitors arrive by rented car or taxi. A small parking area sits beside the beach; it is enough for beachgoers but gets cramped at peak times, so arriving earlier in the day helps. A rented car is also the most flexible way to reach Skinaria if you want to combine it with other stops in the Plakias area, and you can rent a car in Crete for the trip.
Skinaria is only slightly organised. A local tavern serves refreshments and traditional Greek dishes and offers a few umbrellas and sunbeds, which on our last visit were free with a purchase. There is little natural shade, so bringing water and sun protection is sensible. The calm, shallow-entry bay is safe for children, and naturists tend to use the left-hand side, which leaves the rest of the beach for families and other visitors.
Two nearby beaches are within a short drive: the Ammoudi beaches to the west, and the larger, better-organised Damnoni beach a little further along the coast.
Skinaria Beach is on the south coast of Crete, 33 km south of Rethymno and 3 km south of the village of Lefkogia, in the eastern part of the Plakias area. It faces the Libyan Sea.
To reach Skinaria Beach, drive the narrow road, roughly 2 km long, down from Lefkogia; the turn is signposted from the village. There is no direct public bus, so most visitors arrive by rented car or taxi. A small parking area sits beside the beach.
Yes. The water is exceptionally clear, often more than 40 metres horizontally, and the rocky seabed holds abundant marine life, including morays, blackfish and octopuses. A scuba-diving centre operates in the area, and snorkellers can see plenty from the surface.
Skinaria is only slightly organised. A single tavern serves refreshments and traditional Greek dishes and offers a few umbrellas and sunbeds. There is little natural shade and no large resort infrastructure, so bring water and sun protection.
Yes. The bay is sheltered by rock on both sides, so the water stays calm and the entry is gentle, which suits children. Note that naturists tend to use the left-hand side of the beach.
Skinaria is popular with naturists, who usually gather on the left-hand side. Other visitors and families settle on the rest of the beach.
The swimming season runs roughly from May to October, when the water is warm and the weather is settled. Spring and early autumn are quieter than the July-to-August peak.
Yes, there is a small parking area beside the beach. It is enough for beachgoers but fills up during peak season, so arriving earlier in the day is wise.
Ammoudi beaches lie a short distance to the west, and the larger, better-organised Damnoni beach is a little further along the coast. Preveli Beach, with its palm-lined river, is another well-known stop in the wider Plakias area.
Preveli Beach is a palm-fringed beach and freshwater lagoon on the south coast of Crete, where the Megalos Potamos river meets the Libyan Sea at the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko gorge. It sits about 35 km south of Rethymno and 10 km east of Plakias, and is also known as Lake Preveli, Phoenix, or Finikas. Recognised as the most celebrated beach in southern Crete, it drew hippie travellers in the 1960s and 1970s and remains one of the island’s signature summer spots.
A colony of Theophrastus date palms (Phoenix theophrasti) lines the banks of the Megalos Potamos, one of the few natural palm forests in Europe. The river carries water all year and widens into a long lagoon before it reaches the sea, so the water stays fresh and cool. At the river mouth a beach of pebbles and sand meets the Libyan Sea, and the seawater runs cooler than usual because of the incoming river. A heart-shaped rock, known to locals as the Stone of Lovers, marks the eastern side of the beach.
In August 2010 a major fire burned most of the palm grove, destroying close to 70% of the forest. The Theophrastus palm proved unusually fire-resistant, and the grove regenerated over the following seasons. The beach stays unspoiled, with no umbrellas or built-up shoreline, because it lies within a protected Natura 2000 reserve.
To reach Preveli Beach, choose one of 3 routes, because there is no road directly to the sand and every option ends with a walk:
The stepped path on the west side is in full sun with no shade, and the climb back up is strenuous. Bring water, sun protection, and proper shoes, and set off early in the day. Renting a car is the simplest way to reach this part of the south coast; see car rental in Crete.
The beach has no sunbeds or umbrellas because the area is protected, though a small seasonal taverna near the river mouth serves drinks and snacks. The sand gives way to slippery rocks and stronger currents once you are in the sea, so take care when swimming. The river side is calm and shallow, and it is good for snorkelling.
A footpath follows the river upstream from the beach, winding through the palm grove to shallow pools where you can cool off when the water level allows. The trail leads into the Kourtaliotiko gorge and stays easy enough for families.
The quieter months of May, June, September, and October are the best time to visit, with warm weather and thinner crowds. Preveli is popular through July and August, so arrive early to find a parking space and beat the heat on the steps.
The beach takes its name from the nearby Preveli Monastery, a men-only monastery founded in the 16th or 17th century and dedicated to St John the Theologian. There are 2 monasteries in the area, the older Piso Monastery and the newer Kato Monastery, near the old Preveli stone bridge. According to local legend, Odysseus, king of Ithaca, stopped in the wider Preveli area on his way home from the Trojan War.
Yes. Preveli pairs a rare natural palm forest and a freshwater lagoon with a south-coast beach on the Libyan Sea, a combination you will not find at most Cretan beaches. It takes effort to reach, but the scenery and the river walk reward the trip.
Drive from Plakias towards Preveli Monastery, park at the cliff-top car park, and walk down the steps to the beach. For an easier approach, drive to Drimiskiano Amoudi and take the short 5-minute path, or take a boat from Agia Galini, Plakias, or Damnoni.
From the west car park, a long flight of steps leads to the beach in roughly 15 to 40 minutes each way, depending on your pace. The path is in full sun with no shade, so carry water and wear proper shoes. The east route from Drimiskiano Amoudi is a flat 5-minute walk.
Yes. There is a guarded car park on the cliff-top above the west side of the beach, and a small daily fee applies. A second car park serves the easier eastern approach from Drimiskiano Amoudi.
No. Because the area is a protected reserve, there are no sunbeds or umbrellas on the sand. A small seasonal taverna near the river mouth serves drinks and snacks.
The sea is blue and usually calm, but currents and waves can pick up, and the sandy shore turns to rock underfoot in the water. The river side is cooler and fresher, calm, and good for snorkelling.
May, June, September, and October are the calmest, with warm weather and fewer visitors. In the peak of July and August, arrive early for parking and shade.
Yes. A footpath follows the river upstream from the beach into the palm forest and gorge, leading to shallow pools you can dip in when the water level allows. It is an easy walk suited to families.
Find below list of gorges near Villa Erofili Plakias south Rethimno Crete:
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.
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.
The gorge of Kotsifos starts at Kannevos village and ends at Plakias. The starting point is very narrow with a width of about 10m, which gradually increases and reaches 600m. The total length is 1800m, and the almost vertical sides that reach a height of 600m. Inside the gorge, there is a small temple built inside a rocky cavity dedicated to Saint Nicholas.
Hiking in the upper part of the gorge (Kanevos – Bridge of Sellia).
Starting from the village Kanevos you can start hiking on the riverbed and reach the bridge that connects villages Selia and Myrthios (after about one hour of course). Along the way, there are large boulders that block the passage, but with a little attention, you can overcome them. At one point the side-gorge of Boutsinas meets Kotsyfos with an impressive waterfall of 20 meters. In summer the riverbed is dry.
Course in the upper part of the gorge (Bridge of Sellia – Plakias)
At the location of the bridge that heads to Selia, the canyon gradually turns into a wide valley. You can continue our course at the bottom of the gorge, along the riverbed. After meeting a modern temple, after 3-4 minutes you meet a dirt road that heads backwards (opposite the flow of the river). If you follow this road in a few minutes you will meet the springs of Kotsifos where a pond is formed (surrounding villages get water from here). From here onwards, the river has a water flow throughout the year emptying on the beach of Plakias.
Kakoperatos Canyon, situated near the village of Agios Vasilios in the province of the same name, is a tributary of the Megalos River (Kourtaliotis). Its name, which translates to “bad passage” in Greek, indicates the necessity of technical equipment for human access. This stunningly scenic and rugged canyon is perfect for canyoning. It is endowed with water for most of the year and features 7-8 remarkable waterfalls. These create deep ponds filled with clear turquoise waters, making them ideal for jumping.
It’s likely that no other canyon in Crete boasts such vibrant turquoise waters. The canyon’s exit is located adjacent to the last residences of Agios Vasilios, with its stream flowing through the village courtyards!
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