From Rethymno: Kourtaliotiko, Preveli Palm Beach, & Damnoni

A Day Exploring Crete’s Natural Beauty: Kourtaliotiko Gorge, Preveli Palm Beach & Damnoni

When you think about Crete, the image of rugged cliffs, lush palm groves, and crystal-clear waters often comes to mind. This full-day tour from Rethymno hits all those marks, taking you to some of the island’s most breathtaking spots — Kourtaliotiko Gorge, Preveli Palm Beach, and Damnoni Beach. At just $29 per person, it promises a chance to see Crete’s wild side without breaking the bank.

Our guides, Anastasia and Kostas, kept the day lively and informative, sharing stories and tips along the way. We loved how flexible the itinerary was, giving us ample free time in each location for swimming, relaxing, or snapping photos. We particularly enjoyed the scenic boat ride to Preveli and the stunning views of the gorge from above. One thing to consider is that some of the more adventurous walks, like the descent into the waterfalls, require athletic shoes and a bit of stamina — so come prepared if you want to explore every corner.

If you’re looking for a day full of natural sights, scenic boat rides, and a taste of local beaches, this trip is perfect. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of gentle walking, stunning views, and some free time to soak it all in. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, beach-only day, you might find the waterfall hike a bit too energetic.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery — from the dramatic Kourtaliotiko Gorge to lush palm forests at Preveli.
• Great value for money — includes transportation, guides, and boat trips, with plenty of free time.
• Knowledgeable guides — Anastasia and Kostas offered friendly, informative commentary in multiple languages.
• Flexible itinerary — with free time at beaches and optional exploration in the gorge.
• Accessible for most — but requires athletic shoes for the waterfall walks, and not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.
• Perfect for nature lovers — those wanting a taste of Crete’s wild landscapes and scenic coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Rethymno: Comfortable Transportation and Warm Welcome

The trip kicks off early in the morning, with everyone picked up from their hotel or designated meeting points in air-conditioned vehicles. We appreciated how the buses avoided double-decker models, opting instead for comfortable, spacious transport. This makes a difference on the winding roads of Crete, especially when navigating narrow mountain passes or seaside cliffs.

The guides greeted us with friendly enthusiasm, quickly setting a relaxed tone for the day. They spoke excellent English, German, and French (on Saturday trips), making sure everyone felt included and well-informed.

First Stop: Damnoni Beach

Our first stop was Damnoni Beach, where we had about 2.5 hours to relax, swim, or enjoy a laid-back lunch at one of the nearby tavernas. Many travelers, including us, found this to be a highlight — this beach is known for its beautiful, clean sands and inviting waters.

Some reviews mention that Damnoni is a “lovely beach,” with many tavernas offering tasty local food, perfect for refueling after the boat ride and morning walk. The water here is clear, and the stretch of shoreline isn’t overly crowded, giving a sense of peace and space. The gentle waves and soft sands are ideal for unwinding, though if you plan to snorkel, bring your water shoes as the shoreline is pebbly in parts.

Scenic Boat to Preveli Palm Beach

From Damnoni, we boarded a scenic boat ride lasting about 20 minutes to Preveli Palm Beach. This part of the trip is often praised for its stunning coastline views — the cliffs, coves, and the lush palm forest create a postcard-perfect scene. As one reviewer put it, “The boat ride offers scenic views of the southern coastline that are worth every minute,” and others echo that sentiment.

Once ashore, you’re free for 2 hours to explore the unique palm forest, relax on the beach, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. The palm grove at Preveli is one of the most distinctive sights in Crete — a lush oasis at the edge of the sea, fed by a river, with the famous Preveli Monastery nearby (though not part of this trip).

Many travelers find this free time the most captivating part of the tour. We loved strolling through the palms, listening to the gentle surf, and snapping photos of the natural beauty. Some reviews mention that the small café and beach feel like a step back in time, adding to the charm. The walk here is mostly dry until you venture into the water, which is pebbly but perfect for a swim.

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Return to Damnoni & Free Time at the Beach

After the boat ride back to Damnoni, you get another 2.5 hours to enjoy at your leisure. Many use this time to swim, sunbathe, or explore more of the surrounding area. Some opt for a relaxed lunch in one of the tavernas, which are highly praised for their local, fresh offerings.

Final Stop: Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Waterfalls

Our last stop was Kourtaliotiko Gorge, a dramatic natural feature with impressive waterfalls and springs. We spent about 40 minutes here, walking down steps into the gorge and marveling at the rugged landscape.

The gorge is famous for its powerful currents and wind, which makes the walk more adventurous. Be aware that there’s a small entrance fee of 5 euros if you want to walk down into the gorge and visit the waterfalls. For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, the guides are accommodating, and some travelers choose to stay above the gorge, enjoying the views from above.

The rocky, uneven paths do require athletic shoes — so leave your flip-flops at the hotel if you plan to hike down. The waterfalls are famously cold and a bit windy, which many say is worth the effort despite the chill.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Scenic Experiences – The boat ride, the lush palms, and the waterfalls give you a genuine connection to Crete’s rugged natural beauty. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge add context and stories that deepen the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Flexibility and Free Time – Unlike many group tours, this trip offers enough free time to relax, swim, or explore on your own. Reviewers repeatedly mention how the free hours allow for a personalized experience, whether lounging at the beaches or wandering inland.

Value for Money – For just $29, you get transportation, guides, boat rides, and multiple stops in a day packed with natural beauty. Additional costs like entry fees and the boat ticket (13 euros) are reasonable, especially considering the quality of sights and guides. Many reviewers feel this is a fantastic deal for a full day of exploring.

Guides Who Care – Anastasia and Kostas, as mentioned in reviews, are friendly, fluent in multiple languages, and eager to ensure everyone has a good time. Their local knowledge and helpfulness make the trip smooth and enjoyable, even when navigating tricky terrain or busy spots.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes — especially if you plan to walk down into the gorge or waterfalls. The paths can be uneven and rocky. Pack swimwear and water shoes if you wish to swim or snorkel, plus sunglasses and sun protection. It’s wise to carry cash for entry fees and snacks, although many places accept cards.

Plan to eat at the seaside tavernas during your free time at Damnoni or Preveli — you’ll find delicious local options, often praised for their freshness and simplicity. While the trip covers a lot, keep in mind that the early start (7:35 am pickup) means you’ll hit the ground running, but it’s worth it to beat the crowds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for nature lovers and adventurers eager to see Crete’s wild side. If you want a mix of scenic boat rides, lush forests, and rocky gorges, this will satisfy. It’s also great for those who appreciate having free time to relax or explore at their own pace.

However, it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or are pregnant, given the walking involved and uneven paths. Also, if you’re looking for a leisurely beach day with minimal walking, this might be more activity-packed than you prefer.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, and the fact that they avoid double-decker buses means you’ll be in a more comfortable setting for the journey.

How much time do we spend at each location?
You’ll have around 2 hours at Preveli Palm Beach, 2.5 hours at Damnoni Beach, and about 40 minutes at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, with additional travel time in between.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of seaside tavernas at Damnoni and Preveli where you can buy lunch.

What’s the cost for the boat ride?
The boat ticket costs around 13 euros and is not included in the base price.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, English and German are standard, with French offered on Saturdays. Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Can I go into the waterfalls?
Yes, but there’s a 5 euro entrance fee to access the springs and waterfalls, and you’ll need athletic shoes for the walk down.

Is the trip suitable for children or older travelers?
It depends. The free time and scenic boat rides are suitable for most ages, but the hike into the gorge may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In essence, this tour offers a rich taste of Crete’s natural splendors, combined with expert guides and good value. Whether you’re after a scenic day of exploration or simply want to relax on beautiful beaches, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: