Discover one 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 landscapes and the springs of the river Preveli that flow inside the gorge and which result in the river at Preveli Beach.
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.
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 beach, 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 along the beach. 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.
10:45 Arrival at Preveli – free time
15:00 Departure from Preveli
16:50 Arrival in Heraklion
Route: 210 km
Duration: app. 7hours
See traditional villages, churches, mountains, gorges and beaches on this full-day tour from Rethymno.
Stop at Kournas, Crete’s only fresh-water lake. Enjoy a short drive through the countryside to the traditional village of Argyroupoli, where you can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee.
As the drive continues toward the island’s southern coast, notice the changes in the landscape. Just before the first glimpse at the Libyan Sea, stop at the Kotsifou Gorge and visit a beautiful old stone church.
Take a break at the Bay of Plakias and enjoy some time relaxing on the beach or exploring the village. On the way back to Rethymno, drive through the Kourtaliotis Gorge and admire the natural wild landscape.
Embark on a thrilling river trekking through the biggest gorge in Rethymnon, right in the center of the island of Crete.
Follow the river’s shore through special paths away from crowds with our experience guide and get the chance to explore the hidden forest of the gorge, splash into natural pools, and witness the huge waterfall that falls into the canyon.
Once we arrive above the gorge we will provide you with neoprene suits, helmets, walking sticks and after a short briefing about the route that we follow, we immediately start the adventure!
The first part includes an amazing view of the great waterfall! The flow never stops and the amount of water coming down from the mountains is simply amazing!
A small and safe jump will cool you up as the place is perfect for some instagramik pictures
We continue down the river by splashing into natural pools and having fun next to the river’s shore. Passing by the amazing route down the gorge, you will see some plane trees around us, which create the perfect scenery – A place away from crowds – you will love.
After walking for about 2 more hours into the gorge, we finally reach an old olive grove, which is our exit point from the gorge. There we will go at a hidden paradise on earth called “Banana Garden” to have a refreshment and talk about our experience!
Overall, the Kourtaliotiko Gorge trek is a moderate hike that is suitable for most fitness levels. It offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most stunning natural wonders of Crete and is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Embark on a thrilling river trekking through the biggest gorge in Rethymnon, right in the center of the island of Crete.
Follow the river’s shore through special paths away from crowds with our experience guide and get the chance to explore the hidden forest of the gorge, splash into natural pools, and witness the huge waterfall that falls into the canyon.
Once we arrive above the gorge we will provide you with neoprene suits, helmets, walking sticks and after a short briefing about the route that we follow, we immediately start the adventure!
The first part includes an amazing view of the great waterfall! The flow never stops and the amount of water coming down from the mountains is simply amazing!
A small and safe jump will cool you up as the place is perfect for some instagramik pictures
We continue down the river by splashing into natural pools and having fun next to the river’s shore. Passing by the amazing route down the gorge, you will see some plane trees around us, which create the perfect scenery – A place away from crowds – you will love.
After walking for about 2 more hours into the gorge, we finally reach an old olive grove, which is our exit point from the gorge. There we will go at a hidden paradise on earth called “Banana Garden” to have a refreshment and talk about our experience!
Overall, the Kourtaliotiko Gorge trek is a moderate hike that is suitable for most fitness levels. It offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most stunning natural wonders of Crete and is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Situated 36km to the south of Rethymno city, Plakias is a charming tourist haven nestled at the mouth of a fertile valley just beyond the Kouroupa range, where the Kotsifos river meets the sea. It owes much of its popularity to the impressive Gialia beach, stretching for 1.3km from the edge of the town to the east, ending at Cape Mouri. This fully-equipped beach, characterized by its crystal-clear, cool waters, is an ideal location for leisurely walks or cycling along the adjacent road. It features numerous hotels and restaurants, as well as beach essentials such as umbrellas, water sports facilities, beach volley courts, snack bars, changing rooms, and showers.
Paligremnos, the eastern portion of the beach, boasts fine sandy shores and is well-appointed with various amenities close to local accommodation and eateries. Noteworthy are the tall, vertical cliffs nearby that prove to be a magnet for climbing enthusiasts. This spot, also known as “Gonates” (knees), is steeped in local lore; it’s said that the epic hero Digenis knelt here to drink from a local spring. An intriguing phenomenon takes place here every full moon from September to January, as the moon’s reflection on the sheer cliffs draws large squids to the beach, which locals catch with long sticks. A few meters south of Paligremnos, you can also discover tunnels once used for transporting coal to waiting cargo ships.
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.
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 37km south of Rethymno, nestled between Plakias and Souda’s beach, Fotinari (also known as Foteinari) offers two serene beaches resting in a compact bay rich with vegetation. The rocky seabed provides a perfect spot for fishing and snorkelling activities.
These adjoining pebbly beaches lack organisation, however, you can easily find accommodation and dining options nearby. As you approach from Plakias, heading towards Souda beach, the first beach you’ll encounter is the Small Fotinari, also referred to as Fotinaraki, due to its smaller size compared to the following beach, the Big Fotinari.
Both beaches are conveniently located near the main road, which runs directly over them. Two brief stone paths cut through a pair of small woods, leading straight to the beach. Additionally, Big Fotinari offers shade beneath the towering rocks that surround it.
Ancient Lappa was built near the present-day town of Argyroupolis, situated 27km south of Rethymno. The area is now renowned for its springs with waterfalls, its old mills, and the lush green landscape that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Lappa, later known as Lappi or Lambi, is one of the towns believed to have been founded by Agamemnon in Crete. The citizens of Lyttos fled to Lapa after the massacre of Lyttos by Knossos. In 193 BC, Lappa became an ally with Teos, and in 183 BC with Pergamon.
The city thrived until 68 AD when the Roman general Quintus Caecilius Metellus destroyed it. It was later revived as a Roman town with special privileges at the end of the Roman Era. Its glory is reflected in the magnificent monuments that have been discovered and the coins minted. In the area, Roman baths and basilicas with mosaics have been identified, as well as inscriptions and statues of Zeus, Aphrodite, and Dionysus. The Cave of Agia Dynami also appears to have played a significant role, with its essential spring that gushes through the rock.
Additionally, near the village is the temple of the Five Virgins (Thekla, Marianna, Ethane, Martha, and Mary), who are believed to have died there. Beside it lies the Roman necropolis with carved tombs, in a green area with a water spring and a plane tree that has been designated as a natural monument.
After the arrival of the Arabs in Crete, the town and the Diocese founded by Apostle Titus were destroyed. During the Venetian period, the city passed from the hands of the Hortatsis family to Alexios Kallergis. It then thrived once more, which is strongly reflected in the splendid Venetian buildings of the village. The Turks called the town Gaidouropoli (i.e., Donkey Town) until 1822 when the rebels renamed it Argyroupolis. The General Assembly of Crete took place in Argyroupolis in 1867 and 1878, the year that Cretans declared the Union of Crete with Greece, though the attempt ultimately failed.
Located near the quaint village of Fylaki in the Apokoronas region of Chania, you’ll discover the vaulted tomb of Fylaki. Constructed during the post-Minoan times (after 1200 BC), it shares many similarities with the domed grave of Stylos at the Azogyres site.
This well-preserved and clean tomb features a lengthy entrance aisle, and its pyramid-like roof is truly striking. One particularly fascinating element is the massive carved boulder situated at the upper part of the entrance.
Finding the tomb can be somewhat challenging. Just 30 meters past the turnoff to Kastelos village, you’ll spot a small group of cypress trees near the tomb.
The Armeni Minoan necropolis is located 9km south of the town of Rethymnon, on the main road leading to the south coast of Crete. This significant Late Minoan III A-B (c. 1400-1200 BC) cemetery was found on a shallow hill called Prinokefalo, which translates to “hill of the wild oaks.”
Systematic excavations began in 1969, and by 2012, 231 tombs, including one tholos (domed grave), had been uncovered. A unique feature of the Armeni necropolis is that it initially had an overall plan, with specific areas designated for wealthy noblemen and the less fortunate. However, this plan was abandoned during the Late Minoan III B Period (1300-1200 BC), resulting in a mix of large and small tombs throughout the cemetery.
All the tombs were carved into the rock and consisted of a corridor and a chamber. The corridor was either a staircase or a ramp. Some tombs were left incomplete, with only a corridor and no burial chamber. The more affluent tombs had tombstones of varying sizes, with eleven found away from their original locations.
Each tomb likely represented a family group. Osteological (bone) analysis revealed that the average age at death for adult males and females was approximately 31 and 28 years, respectively. Most female deaths occurred between the ages of 20 and 25, likely due to the dangers of childbirth. Chemical analysis of bones indicated that the people buried at Armeni did not consume marine food, but their diet generally consisted of a fair amount of animal protein and plants. They suffered from various infectious and nutritional/metabolic diseases, as well as dental caries.
The primary discoveries in the tombs included clay larnakes, finely decorated pottery, bronze arms, utensils and ornaments, sealstones, and necklaces made from semi-precious stones. Among the most notable finds were a boar’s tusk helmet, a basket made of reeds and adorned with small bronze pins, a steatite pendant with Linear A script, and a stirrup jar with Linear B script (mentioning the name wi-na-jo).
At the location of the chapel of Agio Pnevma (the Holy Spirit) on top of Mount Vrysinas, with an elevation of 858m, archaeologists have discovered what is likely the most significant Minoan Peak Sanctuary in West Crete, the peak sanctuary of Vrysinas. From this vantage point, one can see the northern coast of Rethymnon and the province of Agios Vasilios to the south.
Excavations at this open-air sanctuary have uncovered extremely important findings dating from 1900-1050 BC. The Minoans offered hundreds of zoomorphic and anthropomorphic clay offerings to their goddess. In 2011, a red steatite seal was discovered, engraved with the oldest known Minoan language, the hieroglyphic script. This is the only known example of this script in West Crete.
Preveli Monastery (also known as Prevelis Monastery) can be found 37km south of Rethymnon, nestled in a stunning natural landscape on the western slopes of Megalos Potamos (the end of Kourtaliotiko Gorge) and the nearby palm grove. The monastery complex consists of two separate monasteries situated 1.7km apart: the Kato (Lower) Monastery of Agios Ioannis Prodromos and the Piso (Back) Monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos.
When approaching from Rethymnon, visitors first encounter the Kato Monastery of Agios Ioannis Prodomos (St. John the Baptist), which now lies in ruins. It is situated near the Megalos Potamos river and the region’s arched bridge. The monastery features an irregular arrangement of buildings centered around a courtyard, with the church of Saint John the Baptist at its heart. Surrounding the church are various structures that once housed the dining room, kitchen, abbot’s quarters, monks’ cells, an olive oil press, and storage rooms. The monastery was once in use year-round, as the surrounding land was ideal for cultivation and agriculture. However, it was eventually abandoned after being repeatedly destroyed and plundered by different conquerors of Crete.
The Agio Pnevma (Holy Spirit) Monastery likely dates back to the 12th century and had already achieved autonomy and prosperity by the end of Venetian rule. Tragically, on June 15, 1821, local Turks slaughtered the monks and set fire to the monastery.
Subsequently, the damaged monastery became a subsidiary of the Preveli Monastery, and by 1836 it functioned as a widely known school throughout Crete and Gavdos, drawing thousands of students from all over the island.
In the present day, the monastery is home to a monument dedicated to the 200 volunteers led by Demetrios Petropoulakis, who lost their lives in a battle against the Turks on December 5, 1868. The monastery has since been restored and has resumed operations.
The Profitis Elias Monastery, situated on a hill with sweeping views 20km south of Rethymno and adjacent to Roustika village, is a relatively lesser-known monastery in Crete. Founded during the Venetian Era, it is among the island’s most historic convents.
Throughout its history, the monastery was repeatedly destroyed by the Ottomans, with the last instance occurring during the 1866 revolution. The monastery played an active role in the resistance against Turkish rule. Consequently, the monastery’s buildings, aside from the temple, were constructed in their present form after 1866. Additionally, Profitis Ilias made a significant contribution to preserving Cretan history by housing the Historical Archive of Crete during the German Occupation.
The monastery features a fortress-like architectural design. At the center of the courtyard, visitors will find a three-aisled basilica with a dome dedicated to Prophet Elijah (celebrated on July 20), the Holy Trinity, and Agia Zoni (August 31). The belfry of the monastery, along with that of Arkadi Monastery, are the only surviving Venetian bell towers in Crete. Surrounding the courtyard are the two-story monks’ cells, an incomplete guest house, and the refectory.
Within the temple, visitors can admire the ancient wooden iconostasis, the throne (dated 1843), and the pulpit. Additionally, numerous relics are housed in the sanctuary, including sacred vessels, vestments, gospels, crosses, relics of various saints, a brocade epitaph, old books (dating back to 1640), and manuscripts (from 1620).
Located at Katevati, 6 km from Akoumia village and at an altitude of 525m, the Holy Monastery of St. Anthony (Agios Antonios) can be reached by a 15-minute car drive on a dirt road from Akoumia.
Constructed after liberation from the Germans in 1945, the monastery was rebuilt by Theodosius Damvakerakis, who spent around 50 years living as a hermit in the area. Until 1974, the location was home to a small chapel. The current monastic complex, complete with temples, monk cells, a courtyard, and ancillary areas, was established by Father Theodosius. Situated on his property at Katevati, the monastery houses the churches of Saint Anthony, Saint Nektarios, and Panagia (Virgin Mary). The most recent addition, the church of Saint Nektarios, features a massive icon representing all Saints. Meanwhile, the church of Panagia, built within a rock, contains the “Unwithering Rose” icon. The monastery’s celebration takes place on January 17.
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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!
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.
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 Twin Ravines, or Kollita Gorges, are situated near the scenic village of Argyroupolis, approximately 22km southwest of the city of Rethymnon. The name derives from two adjacent canyons that conclude near the village of Kato Poros. The eastern canyon, Moundros Gorge, is bordered by the Vigla peak (567m) to the east and Nissiani hill to the west, which houses the deserted Nissi settlement. West of Moundros gorge lies the Vilandredo gorge, named after the village at its entrance and more commonly referred to as Kollita Gorge.
These gorges are perfect for casual hikers due to their ease and stunning beauty. They are particularly suitable for groups of friends who can park in Kato Poros or Argyroupoli, explore the Moundriano canyon, and return via the second Kollita Gorge.
Suggested Two Gorges Route
Starting from the verdant Argiroupoli, built on the ancient city of Lappa, we journey east to the village of Moundros, known for its springs and fountains. The village is home to many beautiful Venetian structures (old courts, prisons, and noble houses) and the churches of Saint Constantine, Saints Anargyri (11th century), and Saint Nicholas are well worth a visit. Don’t forget to wander the narrow streets of Moundros. Close to Moundros, the deserted Nissi settlement, famous for its stunning stone structures, can be found.
From the village, the entrance to the verdant Moundros gorge is accessible, leading to the village of Velonado. A well-defined path descends to the riverbed, which is usually filled with water. The canyon is filled with towering plane trees and several fresh water ponds. After roughly 1.5 hours of walking, we reach the southern entrance of Moundriano Gorge, near Velonado.
Upon exiting the canyon, we follow the asphalt road west to the entrance of the second canyon, Kollita Gorge, near Vilandredo. This canyon, more magnificent than Moundriano, is lush with plane trees, and the path follows the riverbed. The most beautiful section of the canyon is where the high walls nearly touch, forming a narrow passage. Fig and holly trees can be seen on the gorge’s slopes, hanging overhead. After approximately four hours, we exit the canyon, which once provided water for the Roman baths of Lappa, now Argyroupolis.
Following the ancient stone path through laurels, myrtles, and hollies, we reach Kato Poros and the area of Pente Parthenes (Five Virgins). Here, one can find the spring beneath the perennial plane tree of Pente Parthenes, the chapel of the Five Virgins, and the Hellenistic and Roman tombs of Lappa. From here, the trail broadens and leads us back to the lush green Argiroupoli. In Argiroupoli, the Venetian buildings, churches, and picturesque alleys are worth a visit. A popular attraction is the springs of Argyroupolis, with the most notable spring located in the cavernous chapel of Agia Dynami. The area is lush with several small waterfalls and numerous restaurants.
Boasting pool views, arismari cretan holiday home offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 20 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. This property offers a rooftop pool, free WiFi and free private parking.
The holiday home with a terrace and mountain views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a bath. Towels and bed linen are offered in the holiday home.
The holiday home offers a picnic area. A an indoor play area is also available for guests at arismari cretan holiday home.
Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 43 km from the accommodation, while Psiloritis National Park is 46 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 82 km from arismari cretan holiday home.
Villa Eleana is located on the outskirts of Agouseliana village, built on a 4000 sq.m. private land and features mountain views. In Agouseliana nearby village there are a couple of traditional taverns and a mini market.
The villa features 3 bedrooms, fireplace, cable TV, WiFi and a fully equipped kitchen. Other facilities include a private swimming pool with sunbeds and umbrellas, children playground and a stone built BBQ.
The property is 25km from Rethymno town, 87 km from Chania city and 10 km from the famous Plakias village and its sandy beaches.
Set amidst a blossomed garden and covering an area of 800 sq.m., the stone-built Kefali Villa, eco tourism experience, By ThinkVillage is a villa situated in Atsipádhes. It features a private, outdoor pool, a hot tub and a furnished sun terrace. Free WiFi is provided throughout.
Boasting views of the mountains, the traditionally decorated villa has 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a living room. Facilities include a dishwasher, a microwave, a flat-screen TV and a washing machine.
Guests can relax at the sun loungers by the pool or use the BBQ facilities available in the garden and enjoy al fresco dining.
Rethymno Town is 16 km from Kefali Villa, eco tourism experience, By ThinkVillage, while Georgioupolis is 36 km away. Preveli Beach lies within a 30-minute drive and Plakias Beach is a 20-minute drive away. Chania International Airport is 85 km from the property.Free private parking is available on site.
from
€336
/night
Located in Koxaré, 19 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and 41 km from Psiloritis National Park, Sun Moon Suite with Pool provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. This holiday home also has a private pool.
The holiday home features 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 42 km from the holiday home, while Municipal Garden is 19 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 86 km from Sun Moon Suite with Pool.
from
€132
/night
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