Preveli with its riverside palm groves is one of Crete’s most famous beaches
Preveli is located about 35km south of Rethymno and 10km east of Plakias. The beach of Preveli, also known as Lake Preveli or Phoenix, is located at the exit of the imposing Kourtaliotikos Gorge, where the river Megas Potamos is flowing.
It is certainly the most famous beach in southern Crete, accepting thousands of visitors every summer. During the ‘60s and ‘70s, it was a favorite destination for hippies. On the banks of Megas Potamos there is a large colony of Theophrastus palm trees, which give the region a sense of an African landscape.
Stay nearby to Preveli beach , a beach with a character
The river forming a large 500 m long lake before emptying into the sea, has water all year round. You can walk along the river, under the shade of palm trees and other trees, and start ascending in the beautiful canyon. At the exit of the river, a sandy beach with pebbles and sand is formed, with sea water being very cool due to the river.
In the eastern part of the beach, there is a beautiful rock reminding of a mast. It is poorly organized because the area is protected, without any umbrellas, but with a few restaurants and snack bars nearby. Moreover, you could rent pedal boats for a ride in the river.
