- Region
- East of Rethymno
- Distance
- About 20 km from Rethymno
- Beaches
- Limanaki, Limni, a small east cove
- Facilities
- Organised, Blue Flag
The beaches
Limanaki, inside the harbour, is sandy and calm thanks to the pier. Limni beach, 200 m west, is sandy too and also has a rock pier. A smaller cove lies east of the village. The beaches are organised and have been awarded the Blue Flag.
History in the village
Panormo was the ancient port of Panormus. About 500 m south-west stand the remains of the early Christian basilica of Agia Sofia, from around the 6th century and among the largest in western Crete. By the harbour are the remains of the Milopotamos fort, built by the Genoese in 1206 and later held by the Venetians.
Evenings
The village keeps its character, with tavernas around the harbour and lanes of old houses. A restored carob mill is used as a cultural centre.
Nearby
Melidoni cave is about 5 km away. Buses link Panormo with Rethymno and Heraklion.
Questions before you go
Is Panormo good for small children?
Yes. The harbour beach is shallow and sheltered by the pier.
What is the basilica at Panormo?
The early Christian basilica of Agia Sofia, from around the 6th century, 500 m from the village.
How far is Melidoni cave from Panormo?
About 5 km.
