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Waterfall to Sea
- Start your day at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, hiking to the spring source — ticket required from 2025 (up to €15).
- Continue south to Preveli Beach, where the same river reaches the sea through a palm forest and freshwater lagoon.
- End with lunch by the sea at a local taverna in Damnoni, no reservations, just real food and local pace.
- Follow the full route on Google Maps here.
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Begin at Kourtaliotiko Gorge: Where the river starts.
Start your journey inland from Rethymno with a drive through olive groves and up into the hills. At the northern mouth of Kourtaliotiko Gorge, follow the stepped trail down into the canyon to reach the springs of the Megas Potamos River. As of 2025, a ticket is required (up to €15) — part of a conservation effort to protect this unique ecosystem. The hike is short but rewarding, with cold river pools and natural stone walls on either side.
Preveli Beach: Where the river meets the sea.
From the gorge, drive south to Preveli, where the same river empties into the Libyan Sea. You’ll arrive before most crowds if you keep your pace. Park east of the beach for an easier walk down. Swim where the river and sea meet, snorkel along the rocks, or walk inland into the palm forest, which stretches back through the base of the gorge. It’s a full natural experience — freshwater, saltwater, trees, and cliffside views all in one place.
Damnoni: Your last stop for a real local lunch.
A short drive west brings you to Damnoni, a peaceful beach with a handful of small tavernas, none fancy, all genuine. Find a spot with a view, and you’ll likely be served by the owner. Expect simple Cretan food: grilled meat, dakos, olive oil from nearby groves, and house wine served in pitchers. No bookings, no set menus — just sit, eat, and rest.
This route doesn’t work on public transport — but it’s perfect by car.
Public buses don’t connect these sites efficiently. Driving yourself lets you explore the full course of a river, from spring to sea, and stop wherever you like. AUTOWAY provides full insurance, pickup in Rethymno, Heraklion, or Chania, and cars suited for mountain roads and coastal drives.
See Crete one river at a time.