A lake, a palm forest, and a monastery with long history
On the southern coast of Rethymno lies the magnificent Lake Preveli and the palm forest that surrounds it, one of the most photographed landscapes of Crete. Megalos or Kourtaliotis river runs through the gorge and forms a natural lake, before pouring out into the South Sea of Crete. You will encounter a rare combination of mountains and sea, with exotic landscapes and cool waters. The area is protected as part of the Natura 2000 network.
The Preveli palm forest is the second largest in Crete after Vai and is a natural refuge for the endemic Cretan date palm (Phoenix theophrastii). Start exploring at the beach and walk along the riverbanks in the shade of the palm trees, all the way to the waterfalls formed by the river.
Built at a higher, imposing location, with a view of the sea, the Monastery of Preveli is a reminder of its long history and significant contribution during difficult times. Its small museum houses icons and relics of great value.
Preveli enchants visitors with breathtaking natural landscapes — from the impressive descent overlooking the South Sea of Crete, to exploring the exotic palm forest and swimming in the refreshing water of the lake.
The Preveli palm forest is the second largest in Crete after Vai and is a natural refuge for the endemic Cretan date palm (Phoenix theophrastii). Start exploring at the beach and walk along the riverbanks in the shade of the palm trees, all the way to the waterfalls formed by the river.
Built at a higher, imposing location, with a view of the sea, the Monastery of Preveli is a reminder of its long history and significant contribution during difficult times. Its small museum houses icons and relics of great value.
Preveli enchants visitors with breathtaking natural landscapes — from the impressive descent overlooking the South Sea of Crete, to exploring the exotic palm forest and swimming in the refreshing water of the lake.
