3.8.14

Visiting Palaikastro Crete - The Exotic Natural Palm Forest of Vai


Summer holidays, is that period of the year that everyone is waiting for. After a long period of work, pressure, deadlines, things to do and routine, finally that magical time of the year arrives, during which, you can relax, have fun, explore, discover, experience!

One of the best places in the world for your summer holidays, is the amazingly beautiful island of Crete. Crete is a beloved place, since the very early days of human civilization and until nowadays provides the people who visit or stay uniquely experiences that barely can someone find anywhere else in the world. 

The natural palm forest of Vai, Crete


If you are the kind of person who like to spend some carefree and relaxing holidays, then the small settlement of Palaikastro, about 17km away from Siteia, is the ideal place that you are looking for. Small, original, simple, traditional. These are only few of the adjectives that someone can use in order to describe the feelings that this beautiful place creates to its visitors. Palaikastro is the perfect place where you can experience the traditional warm hospitality and taste the original Cretan cuisine that the last couple of decades has become popular worldwide with an ever growing number of nutritionists suggesting it as the ideal diet for a healthy and balanced way of living.

The picturesque settlement of Palaikastro, Crete


In case you will decide to choose Palaikastro for your summer holidays, then you are strongly suggested to check in at the Olive Coast Suites in Palekastro.

The luxury complex of Olive Coast Suites in Palekastro is the ideal accommodation for those who are expecting high quality suites and apartments that can offer autonomy to their guests. Every single one, of the five in total suites and apartments, is designed according to the traditional Cretan architectural style, where the stone is the most evident building material creating high standards of accommodation where you can enjoy a comfy and relaxed stay surrounded by serene landscapes.

Olive Coast Suites in Palekastro, Crete


Another great thing about the Olive Coast Suites in Palekastro complex is that is situated close to many amazingly beautiful landscapes and beaches, one of which is the famous and unique palm forest of Vai.


The Palm Forest of Vai....the biggest natural palm forest in Europe

Situated just a little bit less than 9kms North of  Olive Coast Suites in Palekastro (about 16 minutes driving distance), the natural palm forest of Vai is a place that you should definitely visit, since it will offer you visual experiences of a lifetime.

The natural palm forest of Vai, Crete ... just 15 minutes driving distance from Palaikastro


It is a protected habitat (by the Barcelona Convention) that consists of  rare flora and fauna, with endemic Cretan palm being in the epicenter of attention. Due to its unique natural beauty, the natural palm forest of Vai was a popular destination since the ancient times of the Minoan era. 

The natural palm forest of Vai covers an estimated area of ​​20 hectares and its name comes from the local Cretan dialect, in which the palm is called Valles or Vaya (Vai). It is the biggest natural palm forest in Crete. There are other similar areas on the island (about 10), but are rather small. It is said, that the natural palm forest of Vai was discovered accidentally by "hippies", who were looking for places of natural beauty to spend their holidays. It is being protected as a place of rare natural beauty and is being considered as one of the most beautiful natural locations in Crete.

The natural palm forest of Vai, Crete ... the exotic beach !


Nowadays, the natural palm forest of Vai attracts thousands of tourists every summer, not only for its natural beauty, but also for its magnificent sandy beach that stretches in front of it. It is a certainty that when you will visit Crete you will fall in love with this place. Palaikastro is an ideal place to stay since it is close to so many beautiful places, such as the natural palm forest of Vai. You are strongly suggested to check in to Olive Coast Suites in Palekastro for an unforgettable accommodation experience!