The Palm Grove of Vai is a unique natural oasis located on the northeastern coast of Crete, Greece. It is the largest palm grove in Europe, with over 5,000 palm trees. The grove is home to the Cretan date palm (Phoenix theophrasti), which is a rare and endangered species.
The palm grove is believed to have been created by Phoenician sailors over 2,000 years ago. The sailors planted the palm trees to provide shade and food for their long journeys. Over time, the palm trees thrived and created the lush grove that can be seen today.
The Palm Grove of Vai is a popular tourist destination, and it is easy to see why. The grove is a beautiful and peaceful place, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the sandy beach, or explore the palm grove itself.
The Palm Grove of Vai is also an important ecological area. The palm trees provide a habitat for a variety of birds and other animals. The grove also helps to protect the coastline from erosion.
It is one of the most unique locations in the entire Mediterranean and one of the most famous beaches in Crete. If you don’t have your own vehicle, choose the day trips organized by the local tourist offices. Calculate that with your own vehicle you will need more than 2 hours to get there.
