Rugged mountains and hidden coves shape the landscape of Crete’s south coast.
Tours from Plakias into the surrounding region:
+ If you cannot or do not wish to hike the
Samaria Gorge in full for health reasons, you can take the ferry from Sfakia to the exit at Agia Roumeli. Agia Roumeli is a car-free village accessible only by boat and marks the end of the Samaria Gorge. From there it is easy to walk to the famous narrowest section of the gorge. This short hike from the exit to the narrowest point and back to Agia Roumeli takes about 2½ hours. During this tour you will also see the rugged mountains dropping steeply into the sea from the water – truly impressive. The Samaria Gorge is the longest and narrowest gorge in Europe. The oldest national park of Crete is a true natural wonder.
The south of Crete is not very well connected by public transport. If you want to explore Crete, a rental car on the south coast is practically a must. Hiking enthusiasts can use the ferry as transport between the villages along the south coast. However, if you use the ferry frequently, it becomes more expensive than renting a car. Even the one-way transfer to the south coast can cost as much as a rental car for a full week.
+ Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of
Rethymno. The history of Rethymno dates back to the Neolithic period. The symbols of the town are the two playing dolphins, which were already depicted on Hellenistic coins, and the Fortezza fortress.
+ Boat trip from Plakias to the
Palm Beach of Preveli. Boats depart regularly several times a day from Plakias to the mouth of the famous palm gorge.
+ From Plakias to the mountain village of
Spili and from there down to the south coast to the beaches of
Agios Pavlos,
Triopetra and
Ligres Beach.
+ The mammoth tour: For this tour you should start very early if you want to see everything.
From Plakias drive southeast towards
Agia Galini, then to the archaeological site of
Gortys, where Europe’s oldest law code will impress you. Continue south to the excavations of
Phaistos and then to the south coast to Matala. In the small coastal village of
Matala you will discover the famous hippie caves and more. Let yourself be inspired by the history of this unique place and enjoy swimming in its beautiful bays.
+ Off-road tour to
Agiofarago Beach. This tour should only be done with a jeep or 4x4 vehicle – alternatively by boat from/to Plakias. This gorge is especially popular with climbers and mountaineering clubs.
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The Hotel Alianthos Beach is a true feel-good hotel for everyone who wants to experience Crete in an authentic, relaxed way right by the sea. Located directly on the long sandy beach of Plakias, it combines the pleasant tranquility of a small, personally run hotel with the liveliness of a Cretan coastal village.
The warm and welcoming atmosphere is especially appreciated: here you are treated with genuine hospitality, attentive service and made to feel at home from the very first moment. The bright, well-maintained rooms – many with direct or side sea view – offer exactly what you need for a relaxing holiday: comfort without excess and the soothing sound of the waves included.
Another highlight is the beachfront terrace with restaurant, perfect for a relaxed breakfast or dinner at sunset. Tavernas, cafés and small shops in Plakias are all within easy walking distance – a rental car is possible, but not essential.