This location is #59 on our Best Travel Destinations In Greece & Greek Islands Map!
The Preveli Palm Forest, located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece, is a stunning natural oasis centered around Preveli Beach and the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Spanning approximately 40 acres, the forest is situated about 24 miles south of Rethymnon, where the Megalos Potamos (Grand River) meets the Libyan Sea.
The area is characterized by a lush grove of Cretan date palms (Phoenix theophrastii), which grow along the riverbanks, creating a tropical contrast to the surrounding dry, rocky Mediterranean terrain. The beach itself, roughly 1,300 feet of sandy shoreline, is sheltered by cliffs, offering a serene environment even in windy conditions. Access to the forest and beach requires a steep descent of about 500 steps from the parking lot, a hike that takes around 15 minutes, or visitors can arrive by boat from nearby towns like Plakias or Agia Galini. The forest’s trail, stretching 0.8 to 1.2 miles along the river, is an easy out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of about 105 feet, offering scenic views of the sea and lush greenery.
The Preveli Palm Forest is renowned for its unique ecosystem and breathtaking scenery, often described as a tropical paradise. It is the second-largest palm forest in Crete, after Vai, and is home to the endemic Cretan date palm, alongside osiers, reeds, oleanders, and locust trees. The forest forms a lush corridor along the Megalos Potamos, where the river creates a small lagoon near the beach, ideal for families or those looking to rinse off saltwater. The area is protected under the Natura 2000 program, safeguarding its rare flora and fauna, including wildlife like Bonelli’s and Golden Eagles. Visitors can explore creeks, small waterfalls, and a heart-shaped rock on the beach’s east side, a popular spot for photos. The forest’s vibrant greenery, clear river waters, and proximity to the sea make it a standout destination for hiking, snorkeling, and soaking in Crete’s natural beauty.
Historically, the Preveli Palm Forest and its nearby monastery have played significant roles in Crete’s cultural and environmental narrative. The forest, named after the Preveli Monastery located about 1.2 to 1.9 miles uphill, was a haven for hippies in the 1960s and 70s, drawn to its secluded, bohemian vibe. The monastery, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, has a storied past, notably aiding Allied troops during World War II. The forest faced a major setback on August 22, 2010, when a fire devastated about 70% of the palm grove. Contrary to early reports suggesting decades for recovery, the resilient ecosystem began regenerating within months, with new palm shoots sprouting from charred trunks. By a few years later, the forest had largely recovered, showcasing nature’s remarkable resilience. Today, it remains a protected area with minimal development, preserving its pristine character, though it can get crowded in peak summer months.