The Vai Palm Forest in Lasithi is a uniquely beautiful corner of Crete, as well as of the entire Mediterranean. It is the largest natural palm forest in Europe with more than five thousand trees creating an exotic and strikingly impressive landscape.
Cosmopolitan resorts, characterful villages, mythical caves, Minoan palaces, impressive gorges and exotic beaches come together uniquely inLasithi, the easternmost prefecture of Crete. Get ready for a journey filled with discoveries and fascinating explorations.
Here you will have the chance to admire unique landscapes. About 25 km east of Sitia, you will encounter the Vai Palm Forest, one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Crete and the entire Mediterranean: an exotic beach with fine sand and crystal-clear waters, and the impressive palm forest with 5,000 Theophrastus palms stretching out in the background. It is the largest natural palm forest in Europe.
Vai Palm Forest: A wonder of nature in Crete
Legends say that pits from dates eaten by pirates on the golden beach created the famous palm forest. However, according to scientists, the palms at Vai belong to the species Phoenix Theophrasti (Theophrastus palm) and are endemic to Crete. Its name derives from the Greek word vagia, meaning palm trees.
The Vai Palm Forest is one of the 19 Aesthetic Forests of Greece,to which it was added in 1973. This exotic corner was one of Cretes first small travel paradises, once enjoyed by hippies who were expelled from Matala in the early 70s and later by free campers from all over the world. It is located at the eastern tip of Crete, a little north of the village of Palekastro, and is the largest palm forest in Crete, covering about 250 stremmas.
The wonderful, sandy beach that unfolds before it is among the islands most beautiful. The centuries-old palms along the shore compose an exotic landscape of incomparable beauty. The beach is organized with umbrellas and sun loungers, and you can also enjoy water sports there. The palm forest is protected and staying on the beach overnight and wandering in the fenced-off areas without permission are strictly prohibited.
If you find yourself in the area it is also worth visiting the nearby Toplou Monastery. It is one of the most historic and best-preserved monasteries in Crete, with a rich history that begins in the 15th century. The monastery impresses from afar as it looks like a small fortress encircled by a high wall within an almost desert landscape.
