“There is a kind of flame in Crete – let us call it ‘soul’ – something more powerful than either life or death. There is pride, obstinacy, valor, and together with these something else inexpressible and imponderable, something which makes you rejoice that you are human being, and at the same time tremble.”
Nikos KazantzakisParadise is closer than you think!
ALTERA Cave Villas stand on a hillside in Finikidia - Agios Pavlos, a tranquil spot about 60km south of Rethymnon city, while its location in a rural, almost untouched by time, area of Southern Crete, surely ensures seclusion and privacy, and makes it an ideal destination.
Resolution to rest.
Embody the intention of well-being.
Finikidia beach in Agios Pavlos, on the southern coast of Rethymnon – the secluded beachfront of the Altera Cave Villas – is a quite unknown bay of thick sand, pebble, and stone with blue waters, next to the impressive rock formations reminiscent of a ‘dragon-protector’, eerie, unfrequented but as well as seductive, mystic, strongly combined of the elements of nature.
This is a place to greet the day with a sun salutation, to dive into the blue clear waters and feel the unique energy of the wild Cretan landscape.
Agios Pavlos is just 1km west from Finikidia hillsides, also situated on a seaside slope leading to a lovely small beach surrounded by rocky capes – a partially organized beach of rough sand and beautiful green waters with rocky seabed.
Travelers and nature lovers prefer this pretty location as a few meters further there’s another wild but enchanting beach, known as the Akoumiani Gialia, where the sand dunes of Cape Melissa are considered an amazing landmark of the area, as nothing compares to a stunning sunset over these sandy hills, let alone when the rays reflect on the magic rocks… a truly unforgettable experience! This gorgeous beach with crystal waters features a deep rocky bottom ideal for diving and snorkeling lovers.
Visitors in further Agios Pavlos area may find several accommodation options, traditional taverns, bars, water sports and mini market.
Get ready for an authentic Cretan experience!
Although the secluded beachfront of the Altera Cave Villas is pretty, as well as the astonishing beaches of Agios Pavlos that feature a deep beautiful seabed, there are many lovely sandy and pebbly beaches in the area, each one with its own charm and features.
Towards the west, in a short distance from Agios Pavlos, is the staggering Triopetra – named after the three majestic rocks – which consists of two endless beaches with spectacularly clear waters, an idyllic scenery of peaceful surroundings and natural beauty far from madding crowd and fast-paced cities. The beaches are ideal for relaxation and visitors are welcome to also enjoy a wide variety of local food and delicacies at the area’s restaurants and taverns.
Further along, the quiet and undisturbed Ligres is a stupendous beach of the South and well known for the serene vibes of the area. This long beach with thick sand and wonderful blue waters is secluded and not organized with a few accommodation options and taverns. Nearby is also the village of Kerames, a traditional settlement of the district.
Following this amazing coastline there are other splendid beaches, such as Katsouni, Agia Fotini (known as Agia Fotia), Gialopotamos and the exquisite Preveli beach, with its river flowing into the sea surrounded by palm trees, also emphasizing the indisputable worth visiting attraction of the Monastery of Preveli which consists of two separate monasteries, the Lower (Kato) Monastery of the Baptist, and the Rear (Piso) Monastery of Theologos.
The famous Preveli beach, with its turquoise waters and lush vegetation full of luscious palm trees, can simply be described as a perfect exotic setting with a stunning natural beauty tucked into the delta of the river Kourtaliotis. Walking along the river, under the shade of palm trees, it is quite exciting and challenging to start hiking in the magnificent Gorge of Kourtaliotis which leads near the town of Spili where the gorge begins.
Τhe closest town to Preveli is Plakias with its long captivating sandy – well organized – beach, quite a popular tourist attraction well chosen for tranquil sunsets. Nearby, there are many hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops with local products, as well as a diving center for water sports enthusiasts.
It is worth mentioning that continuing west on the south coast – between Preveli and Plakias – there are also the remote astonishing small beaches of Ammoudi, Damnoni, Klisidi and Schinaria, all beautiful coves with clear turquoise waters, thick white sand, rocky seabed ideal for snorkeling, fishing, and diving. Most amenities such as hotels, taverns etc. are available in the area.
To the east, at about 20 km from Agios Pavlos, is Agia Galini, a small traditional cosmopolitan fishing village with two impressive well-organized beaches, a small harbor, and picturesque alleys full of taverns serving exquisite and delicious flavors, bars and tourist shops that make it a tempting attraction for travelers.
