The palm forest of Vai is, indeed, one of the greatest attractions in Crete
Τhe island of Crete is full of contradicting landscapes and it is not surprising that in driving from county to county, we come across exotic beaches resembling to the Maldives, huge mountains, gorges looking very much like the Grand Canyon, large cities, a vibrant nightlife and a wealthy culture and tradition. Crete combines absolutely everything. One of the most unique sceneries one will encounter while visiting the island, is certainly the palm forest of Vai in the county of Lassithi.
This tropical paradise consists of a dense forest of palm trees and a stunning sandy beach and is a pole of attraction for Greeks and tourists alike. It covers an area of about 250 acres and accounts as the largest palm forest in Europe. Many stories are trying to justify the existence of palm trees in this particular area of Crete. According to the most commonly circulated story, it was due to Arab pirates who approached the island with their ships, ate dates which they had brought with them and threw the seeds on the beach. The seeds of those dates yielded around 6.000 palm trees, 4.500 of which still remain. A similar story gives credit to the Phoenicians who inhabited this area of Crete during their travels.
How to approach Vai:
Vai is located at 24 km east of the town of Sitia and about 6 km from the area of Palaekastro. The road from Sitia is a good one - in general terms - and will lead you there at ease. Starting off from Heraklion it will take you 2 hours to reach Sitia and from there another 30 minutes to Vai. The palm tree forest is at 4 hours driving from Rethimno and at 4.5 to 5 hours driving from Chania.
As far as your stay on the island of Crete is concerned, a multi-star holiday paradise of villas and suites caressed by the sea’s big blue and destined for eclectic travellers awaits you in the county of Lassithi. Select to stay at Elounda Gulf Villas & Suites, indulge in luxury and also get to know the opposite coast to that of Vai and the palm forest.
For reservations call us at +302108981884 or send us your request via e-mail at callcenter@tresorhotels.com
