Preveli Beach Crete

Preveli beach is found in the southern part in the center of the island of Crete about eleven kilometers from the Plakias village and thirty five from the characteristic city of Rethymno.

Protected area, it is distinguished by two characteristics, the first is the crossing by the Megas Potamos river (meaning large river) which from the Kourtaliotikos gorge creates a delta and then flows into the sea, the second for the palm grove behind the beach, which runs along the river transforms the landscape into an exotic place.

The palms are of an indigenous species the Phoenix Theophrasti also known as "Cretan dates", the same ones found in the Vai forest which, unlike the other species, do not produce any type of fruit.

It owes its name to the monastery which is located in the upper part of the coast just above the beach. In truth, there are two, one called Kato Moni (kato means lower) and the other Piso Moni (piso means higher), a couple of kilometers apart. Kato Moni is now just a ruin, while Piso Moni welcomes a community of monks and is still active today. It dates back to the 16th century and is located on a rocky hill with a breathtaking view.

From the 60s until about twenty years ago it was one of the favorite destinations of the hippie community from all over the world as the landscape and the atmosphere combine a sense of absolute peace and freedom.

A coast of soft light sand mixed with some pebbles, with a palm grove on the sides, surrounded by lush vegetation and a transparent and crystalline sea with emerald colored waters. Acting as a real watershed, the water is a little cold but the particular thing is the fact that you can swim both in the sea and in the river.

It is not an equipped beach so 'bring everything you need if you want to spend a day in this Eden, but the presence of a bar/tavern will guarantee you at least something fresh to drink or eat. During the summer season it is very crowded because it is beautiful and everyone absolutely wants to see it, so if you aspire to enjoy it in peace it is better to get there early in the morning.

On the left side of Preveli beach, as if by magic, a rock appears that some say looks like a mushroom, others a heart.

To enliven your day, you can rent a pedal boat and go up the river or the canyon where there are some natural ponds. Or swimming from the left side, it is possible to reach some caves to explore and an intimate and reserved beach (always if you are the first to get there ).

Let's say that the most comfortable means is certainly the boat which, starting from the Plakias village or Agia Galini, arrives directly on the shoreline through various stages.

It can also be reached by land of course and if you have your own vehicle you will have to head south towards Agia Galini, turn and follow the signs for Asomatos and Moni Preveli. After passing the ruins of Kato Moni Preveli you will find a sign pointing to the beach (it says Limni Preveli). Once you get to the car park, one last effort: 500 steps down and you have reached your destination.

Last option if you don't have your own transport, a bus every day from Plakias and Agia Galini. Always consult the timetables to organize yourself better.

Do not miss the beach of Preveli, mark it in the things to do in Crete, you will spend an unforgettable day.