An endless golden sandy beach, a huge forest with palm trees and crystal clear waters. This is not something you’ll see in Florida and the United States, but in Greece and Crete; it’s the renowned palm tree forest of Vai, one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island, just a few hours away by car from Heraklion. And how can it not be a sought after attraction, when it can take pride in one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, that is accompanied by the largest natural palm tree forest in Europe? When it was discovered in the 70s by the hippies, it was a place of free expression and carefree thinking. However, that took its toll on the natural environment and since the 80s the forest at Vai has been protected by the authorities and regularly maintained, thus making it one of the most popular beaches. It also has (paid) parking spaces, beach bar, sunbeds, umbrellas and will also offer you the opportunity to practice your water sports skills. If you’re in Crete, then you can’t miss the chance to visit the palm tree forest of Vai, not just for the beach, but for the forest itself that seems to belong in tropical, exotic destinations in the middle of the oceans. During the tourist period, you should expect to meet large crowds, but the weather there is in any case ideal for swimming from the end of spring to the middle of autumn. Crete Hotels – AKS Minoa Palace
