Palm forest of Vai, Palm forest and beach in eastern Crete, Greece
The palm forest at Vai is a beach area with dense growth of Phoenix palms distributed across sandy ground. The collection spans several hectares and forms a protected landscape with shallow shore areas and forest sections.
The area emerged in the 1970s as a camping destination, which led to environmental problems and prompted the creation of a protection system. The formal protected status was established to preserve the vegetation and coastal zone.
The place takes its name from the palm species that grows here and shapes the landscape. Visitors experience a rare vegetation that sets this location apart from the rest of the island.
The area lies east of Sitia and is accessible via a direct road with parking spaces. Visitors should expect sunny and open terrain, so sun protection is advisable.
The palms belong to a native species found only in Crete and nowhere else in the wild. This particular botanical population has drawn the attention of natural scientists and makes the site a subject of study.
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