One of Crete's quietest coastlines — the south the mountains kept to itself.
01
Preveli Beach & Palm Grove
A rare endemic palm forest where the river meets the sea — protected, no sunbeds, with freshwater pools among the reeds a short walk inland.
02
Kourtaliotiko Gorge
Walls to 600 metres and a year-round waterfall on the road down to the coast — the natural divide between the west and south shores of Crete.
03
Plakias & Damnoni
Wider beaches, a fishing harbour, boat hire, and a dozen seafront tavernas — fifteen minutes west along the coast road.
04
Rethymno Old Town
Venetian harbour, fortress and minaret, market lanes and bakeries — around forty-five minutes north through the gorge.





