Tucked away on the southern coast of Crete, Preveli Beach and the surrounding Plakias region offer a captivating escape from the ordinary. This full-day trip from Rethymno promises to immerse travelers in the island’s natural splendor, from the turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling to the dramatic Kourtaliotis Gorge. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the chance to savor traditional Cretan cuisine in the charming village of Plakias adds a delightful culinary component to this unforgettable experience. With stunning scenery, opportunities for relaxation, and a taste of local culture, this excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of southern Crete.

Key Points

  • This full-day guided tour from Rethymno takes visitors to explore the stunning Preveli Beach and Kourtaliotis Gorge on the southern coast of Crete.
  • The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and an optional boat ride along the Preveli River for an additional fee.
  • Participants can enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in the seaside town of Plakias at their own expense, featuring fresh seafood and authentic Cretan specialties.
  • The tour is accommodated for up to 50 travelers and is led by English and German-speaking guides, ensuring a comprehensive and comfortable experience.
  • The tour company offers flexible booking and cancellation policies, with immediate confirmation and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option for convenient planning.

Tour Overview and Highlights

Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno - Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day guided tour from Rethymno takes travelers to the stunning Preveli Beach on the southern coast of Crete, where they can swim and relax in the clear waters.

Along the way, the tour also includes a stop at the picturesque Kourtaliotis Gorge to admire its dramatic waterfalls.

Visitors have the opportunity to take a boat ride for an additional 10 euros.

After enjoying the beach, the tour continues to Plakias for a traditional Greek lunch at your’ own expense.

The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers and is led by professional English and German-speaking guides.

Inclusions and Transportation

Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno - Inclusions and Transportation

The tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off from central locations in the region, including Panormo, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, Rethymno town, Atsipopoulo, Kavros, and Georgioupoli.

Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle and accompanied by professional English and German-speaking guides.

Infant seats are available, and infants can sit on laps during the journey.

This comprehensive transportation package ensures a comfortable and convenient experience for all participants, allowing them to focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and activities without worrying about getting to and from the various destinations.

The tour’s inclusions cater to the needs of a diverse group of travelers, making it an accessible and inclusive excursion.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can receive confirmation of their booking immediately after completing their reservation.

Customers have the flexibility to cancel their tour up to 24 hours prior to the experience’s start time without incurring any fees.

On top of that, a convenient ‘Reserve now, pay later’ option is available, allowing participants to secure their spot on the tour and settle the payment at a later date.

This policy provides ample time for travelers to make any necessary adjustments to their plans while also offering the convenience of reserving their spot in advance.

The free cancellation policy and deferred payment options make booking this Preveli Beach and Plakias full-day trip a straightforward and hassle-free process for all interested travelers.

Pickup Details

Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno - Pickup Details

Pickup for the tour begins up to 60 minutes before the scheduled start time, ensuring participants are transported to the destination with ample time.

The pickup locations include central points in Panormo, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, Rethymno town, Atsipopoulo, Kavros, and Georgioupoli.

Specific pickup information is sent via email after booking, so customers should check their spam folder for the details.

To accommodate all travelers, pickups aren’t available from remote hotels like Grand Rimondi, but the closest accessible point will be provided instead.

The tour company is committed to making the experience as seamless as possible, so they encourage guests to review the pickup information carefully and reach out with any questions prior to the tour.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno - Traveler Reviews and Feedback

With 37 reviews and an average rating of 4.0 stars, the tour company has received generally positive feedback from previous participants.

Customers have highlighted the well-organized nature of the tour, the amazing scenery, clear water, and the beautiful Preveli Beach as standout experiences.

However, some negative comments have been made regarding communication and missed pickups.

The tour company has shown responsiveness to the reviews, providing clarifications and assistance to address these concerns.

The tour seems to offer a great opportunity to explore the stunning southern coast of Crete, with the majority of travelers enjoying the experience.

As with any tour, it’s essential to pay attention to pickup details and communication to ensure a smooth journey.

Exploring Preveli Beach

Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno - Exploring Preveli Beach

One of the highlights of the Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip is the opportunity to swim and relax at the stunning Preveli Beach, situated along Crete’s picturesque southern coastline. This remote and idyllic location offers visitors a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Some of the key features of Preveli Beach include:

  1. Crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

  2. A lush, palm-fringed river delta that flows into the sea, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

  3. The option to take a boat ride along the river, offering a unique perspective of the coastline.

  4. The opportunity to explore the nearby Kourtaliotis Gorge and its stunning waterfall.

Visiting Kourtaliotis Gorge

Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno - Visiting Kourtaliotis Gorge

The Kourtaliotis Gorge, a natural wonder located along the tour route, offers visitors a chance to witness the area’s stunning waterfalls and rugged landscape.

After exploring the tranquil shores of Preveli Beach, the tour makes a stop at this picturesque gorge, allowing participants to admire the cascading waters and take in the serene ambiance of the surrounding environment.

As travelers wander through the gorge, they’ll be awestruck by the towering cliffs and the refreshing flow of the waterfall.

This brief respite from the beach offers a glimpse into the diverse natural beauty that Crete has to offer, making the Kourtaliotis Gorge an integral part of the full-day adventure.

Dining in Plakias

Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno - Dining in Plakias

After exploring the scenic Preveli Beach, the tour makes a stop in the charming town of Plakias, where travelers can enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch at their own expense. During this respite, they’ll have the opportunity to savor the local cuisine and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal community.

Some highlights of dining in Plakias include:

  1. Indulging in fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus or spaghetti with clams, showcasing the region’s bounty from the Libyan Sea.

  2. Savoring authentic Cretan specialties like dakos (a rustic barley rusk with tomatoes, feta, and olive oil) or moussaka, a hearty eggplant and ground meat casserole.

  3. Sipping on local wines or raki, the iconic Cretan spirit, to complement the flavors of the meal.

  4. Experiencing the lively atmosphere of the seaside tavernas, where locals and visitors mingle and enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring for the Beach Visit?

For a beach visit, one should bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, beach towel, swimsuit, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget to pack water and snacks to enjoy during the day at the beach.

Are Food and Drinks Available at the Beach?

There are no food or drink vendors at Preveli Beach. Visitors should pack their own snacks, meals, and beverages to enjoy during their beach visit. A traditional Greek lunch is available at Plakias, but it’s at the traveler’s own expense.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s generally no strict dress code for this type of beach tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and swimwear are recommended. Visitors should bring sun protection and appropriate footwear for walking. The tour allows flexibility for participants to dress suitably for the beach activities.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour allows time for participants to explore local shops and purchase souvenirs at Preveli Beach and Plakias. However, the schedule is focused on the main tour activities, so ample time for shopping may not be guaranteed.

What Is the Weather Typically Like on the Tour?

The weather is typically warm and sunny during this tour, with average temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C). Visitors can expect clear skies and mild breezes, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beautiful beach and coastal scenery.

Recap

The Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip from Rethymno offers a delightful exploration of Crete’s natural beauty.

Visitors can enjoy the stunning turquoise waters of Preveli Beach, marvel at the dramatic Kourtaliotis Gorge, and savor traditional Cretan cuisine in Plakias, creating an unforgettable experience filled with scenic views, relaxation, and local flavors.