Heraklion Areas : Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Full-Day Tour

This tour offers a refreshing escape from the buzz of Crete’s towns, taking you to one of the island’s most breathtaking spots. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal it’s a well-rounded experience perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

What really excites us about this trip are the spectacular scenery, from lush palm forests to dramatic cliffs; the opportunity to walk through the river surrounded by palms, creating an almost surreal environment; and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters—all within an 8-hour window.

That said, a consideration for some travelers might be the 20-minute descent on steps to reach the beach, which requires comfortable, stable shoes. If you’re up for a moderate walk and love nature, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy scenic hikes, authentic natural spots, and a peaceful day immersed in Crete’s wild beauty.

Who would love this?

It’s best suited for active travelers or those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes. It’s also a good choice for those wanting a day away from busy tourist spots to relax in a more natural setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: The tour showcases some of Crete’s most impressive natural sights, including cliffs, rivers, and lush palm forests.
• Authentic Nature Experience: Walking through the river and exploring the palm forest offers a genuine connection to Crete’s wilderness.
• Relaxing Swim: The crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea provide a perfect spot to cool off after your walk.
• Scenic Hiking: The route by Kourtaliotis Gorge is a highlight, offering impressive views and photo opportunities.
• Comfortable Transportation: The tour includes convenient pick-up and drop-off from numerous locations, making planning straightforward.
• Value for Money: The package includes guided commentary, a packed lunch, and free time, making it a balanced day of exploration.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Journey: Pick-up and Departure

The tour begins with a pick-up from a variety of locations—including main hotels and central spots around Heraklion, Hersonissos, Malia, and more. This flexibility is a big plus, helping you avoid the hassle of organizing transport. The driver and guide are described as professional and friendly, setting the tone for a relaxed day.

Once aboard, you’ll settle into a comfortable bus ride that lasts about 105 minutes, during which you’ll get a glimpse of Crete’s rural landscape. These rides are often appreciated for the scenic views en route, offering a preview of what’s to come.

Stop 1: Scenic Photos and Nature’s First Impressions

The first stop is a brief photo break at the springs, a chance to admire the landscape’s raw beauty. Reviewers note that the landscape here is quite distinctive—vertical cliffs, lush river greenery, and the promise of an exotic palm forest ahead. It’s the perfect introduction before descending into the main attractions.

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Stop 2: The Drive to Preveli

The bus then takes you closer to the area, with about 105 minutes of scenic travel. This part of the journey is often appreciated for the views of Crete’s diverse terrain—rocky gorges, olive groves, and rugged cliffs fill the window.

Stop 3: Walking to the Palm Forest

Next, a 20-minute walk on foot gets you into the heart of Preveli’s natural environment. The walk involves descending steps—about 20 minutes—and requires comfortable, stable shoes. Some reviews highlight the importance of wearing suitable footwear, as the descent involves uneven terrain and steps.

Stop 4: Exploring the Palm Forest and Lake of Preveli

The highlight here is the Palm Forest, which is considered one of Crete’s most romantic spots. The unique landscape — with towering palm trees, the river flowing into the sea, and the surrounding cliffs — creates a magical atmosphere. You’ll get a guided tour, with plenty of time to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Reviewers mention that the scenery is simply breathtaking—the combination of the river, palms, and cliffs offers a surreal backdrop. One reviewer describes it as “almost like stepping into a jungle paradise,” emphasizing the lush greenery and serenity.

The 20-Minute Walk Down to the Beach

After exploring the forest, you’ll descend another set of steps to reach the beach area. The walk down is about 20 minutes, and travelers recommend wearing sturdy shoes for this part. Once at the bottom, you’ll be rewarded with the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, right next to the river.

People often comment on how refreshing and clear the water is, with some describing it as the perfect spot for a peaceful swim after the walk. The beach itself is characterized by a mix of pebbles and sand, with natural surroundings adding to its untouched appeal.

Free Time and Scenic Views

The long scenic drive back (another 105 minutes) provides opportunities to relax, reflect, and admire the changing landscape. The guide often shares interesting tidbits about Crete’s geology and history, enriching the experience.

Transport, Pace, and Group Size

Transportation is by air-conditioned coach, with pick-up and drop-off from multiple locations—making it flexible and convenient. The group size appears manageable, ensuring you get personalized attention from the guide. The overall pace balances walking, sightseeing, and relaxation, making it accessible for most fitness levels—though the descent requires good shoes and moderate stamina.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour package covers pick-up and drop-off, a professional driver and guide, and a lunch box with water, juice, praline croissant, and toast with cheese and turkey. Vegetarian options are available, though only by request.

Important to note: the walk involves steep steps, so comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential. The walk to the beach is about 20 minutes, so packing sun protection and swimwear is advisable.

This experience isn’t suited for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or people with certain health conditions, given the physical elements involved.

How Does It Value Out?

At roughly 8 hours, the tour offers a comprehensive taste of Preveli’s natural environment. The inclusion of transportation, a guide, and a meal adds convenience and value, especially considering the scenic beauty and unique natural features you’ll encounter.

While the price might seem significant, the combination of transport, guided commentary, and the chance to see multiple key sites makes it a worthwhile investment for nature lovers and adventurers.

What Reviewers Say

One reviewer highlighted the stunning views as the main highlight, describing the scenery as “almost surreal,” with the palm forest being a “romantic and magical place.” Others appreciated that the tour was well-organized, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop and avoid feeling rushed.

Several mentioned the scenic walk down to the beach as a highlight but stressed the importance of wearing proper shoes. Many felt the guide’s commentary added value, offering insights into the local landscape and flora.

Summary and Final Thoughts

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who crave a day immersed in Crete’s natural beauty. It balances scenic drives, gentle walks, and relaxing swims, making it suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.

The highlight—without question—is the unique palm forest and the scenic gorge walk, which create memorable visual moments. It’s a good option for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots.

The tour’s structure ensures you experience the highlights of Preveli without feeling overwhelmed, making it a good value for the price. However, be prepared for the physical aspects of walking on steps and uneven terrain.

FAQs

Is the walk to the beach difficult?
The descent involves about 20 minutes on steps, so comfortable shoes and some stamina are recommended. The walk is manageable for most, but not ideal for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable, stable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, a towel, and a camera to capture the scenery. A garbage bag is suggested to keep the environment clean.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the lunch box can be requested with a vegetarian option—replacing toast with two croissants if desired.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey from pick-up points to Preveli takes about 105 minutes each way, providing scenic views and a chance to relax during transit.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back or mobility issues, or those with certain medical conditions. It involves walking and physical activity.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The Palm Forest and the walk through the river surrounded by palms are standout moments, offering one of Crete’s most photogenic and peaceful natural environments.

Can I swim in the sea?
Absolutely. After the descent, you’ll have time to swim in the clear waters right next to the palm forest, which many reviews praise as a highlight of the day.

To sum it up, the Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Full-Day Tour offers an immersive experience into some of Crete’s most captivating landscapes. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic walks, and authentic natural beauty. With its well-organized structure, engaging guides, and stunning vistas, it’s a memorable way to connect with Crete’s wild side—if you’re prepared to walk and wear your sturdy shoes.

You can check if your dates are available here: