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Immerse yourself in the spirit of Crete on this 12-day journey through sun-kissed shores, ancient myths, and welcoming culture. Explore Chania’s charming old town, Rethymno’s historic streets, Heraklion’s archaeological wonders and the serene beauty of Elounda, discovering the island’s rich landscapes and timeless traditions.
The flight duration to Chania is a swift 50 minutes. The driver will be waiting for you right outside the arrival's hall of Chania airport holding a sign with your name to transfer you to the hotel.
Explore the picturesque province of Apokoronas, extending from the foothills of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) to the northern coast, where dynamic water routes carve a lush landscape. Preserving the traditional essence of its villages, Apokoronas stands as a vibrant core of modern rural life, reflecting the historical tapestry of its countryside and the evolution of Christian worship. Our tour delves into the churches that embody this rich legacy, offering exceptional examples of art and architecture set against the backdrop of unique natural beauty. Our first enchanting stop brings us to a secluded Byzantine church nestled amidst vineyards and rare Cretan oak. Almost hidden by surrounding trees, this typical example of pure Byzantine architecture testifies to the enduring influence of Constantinople’s tradition even in the distant corners of the Empire. Venturing to a nearby village, we encounter another church steeped in history. While the standing structure dates to the 15th century, recent excavations reveal traces of worship dating back to the 8th century. Explore the excavations within, discussing the church’s connections to Greece’s great monasteries and the burgeoning monastic tradition in the area. A symbol of Cretan resilience against the Venetians awaits us at the foothills of the White Mountains. Founded by the emperor of Nicaea, John Vatatzis, this glorious church boasts exceptional 13th-century frescoes, showcasing the island’s enduring spirit. Continue our journey in the exceptional beauty of a hidden 13th-century church in a charming Apokoronas village. Marvel at frescoes crafted by a renowned artist, attesting to the enduring faith in this sacred place. Our tour concludes with a sensory delight—indulging in traditional local cuisine at a local “kafeneion” (tapas taverna) nestled in the unique square of a typical Cretan village, where the essence of local daily life unfolds. Let the flavors and ambiance be the perfect conclusion to this enriching exploration.
Experience a captivating journey as we explore the enchanting beauty of Elafonisi, one of Greece’s most renowned beaches, nestled in the southwestern part of the island. Our adventure begins with a seamless pick-up from your hotel’s lobby, setting the tone for a day filled with awe-inspiring sights. As we traverse through quaint traditional villages and admire the picturesque Topolian gorge, our first stop awaits – the mesmerizing cave of Agia Sofia. Adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and a charming chapel at its entrance, this natural monument promises to leave you breathless. The highlight of our tour unfolds as we reach Elafonisi, a small island seamlessly connected to the beach. Immerse yourself in the crystalline turquoise waters and stroll along the fine white and coral-red sands, basking in the exceptional beauty of the landscape. You’ll have a generous three hours to unwind and absorb the breathtaking surroundings. On our return journey, consider an optional stop at the charming village of Elos, where a traditional tavern beckons with delectable Cretan dishes. As we make our way back to your hotel, reflecting on the day’s discoveries, you’ll find yourself pleasantly surprised and thoroughly satisfied. Join us on this immersive experience that seamlessly blends tradition with relaxation, leaving indelible memories of Greece’s coastal splendor.
The duration of the journey from Chania to Rethymno will be 1 hour.
Embark on a captivating journey through time as we guide you through the historic marvels of Rethymnon, a gem in the heart of Greece. Unveil the secrets of an ancient Cretan civilization, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of traditions and culture. Our adventure commences at the Arkadi Monastery, an Eastern Orthodox masterpiece dating back to the 16th century, adorned with Renaissance influences. A national sanctuary commemorating Cretan resistance, its hallowed halls resonate with the echoes of Greek-Turkish wars. Venturing further, discover Eleftherna, an archaeological wonder 25 km southeast of Rethymno. This ancient city-state, nestled on the northern spur of Mount Ida, unfolds its splendor from the Dark Ages to Byzantine times. The hauntingly beautiful dead-city of Eleftherna will leave an indelible impression. Our journey continues to Margarites, a picturesque Cretan village adorned with charming stone paths and traditional pottery shops. Following this sensory delight, our journey pauses for a delectable lunch at a unique restaurant. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of a unique restaurant boasting a private folklore collection, offering an unforgettable taste of traditional Cretan delicacies. Join us on this immersive experience and let the treasures of Crete unfold before you, weaving tales of history, culture, and gastronomic delight.
The duration of the journey from Rethymno to Heraklion will be 1 hour and 15 minutes. Just relax and enjoy your trip to the capital of Crete!!!!
Step into the world of one of Ancient Greece's most fascinating treasures, “The Palace of Knossos”. This architectural marvel, with origins dating back to 1900 BC, served as the epicenter of Crete's illustrious Minoan civilization, where the mythical Minotaur was once said to have lurked in a labyrinth. Prepare to be transported back in time as you immerse yourself in the ancient tales and legends of Europe's oldest civilization while exploring its famous palace, which includes the throne room, royal apartments, and remarkable frescoes. After your palace exploration, journey to the charming old town of Heraklion for a guided tour, an opportunity to stroll along the picturesque old harbor, and a chance to peruse the market for unique souvenirs. If you seek a cultural and historical adventure, look no further—this tour promises an extraordinary experience! According to Greek mythology, King Minos dwelt in the Palace of Knossos and constructed a vast labyrinth to confine his son—the Minotaur, a beastly fusion of half-man and half-bull. As you explore this captivating archaeological site, you'll unravel the enthralling legend of the Minotaur and discover how the Athenian hero Theseus killed this fearsome creature. Roam through the corridors of history, visit the throne room that once echoed with the decrees of ancient rulers, traverse the royal apartments that once cradled monarchs and their families from centuries past, and be awestruck by the beautifully preserved frescoes that have defied the sands of time. This journey through time and myth promises an experience that's as fascinating as it is enlightening. The next point of your adventure is the capital of Crete, the enchanting city of Heraklion. Enjoy a concise guided tour that includes the city walls and the historic harbor, where a 16th-century Venetian fortress still stands as a commanding presence. After the tour, you'll have the freedom to explore the city at your own pace, wander through the local market stalls and boutique shops, or unwind with a refreshing beverage at one of the inviting waterfront cafés.
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel for a journey to the countryside of Heraklion area and the wine roads of Crete. En route, you will have the chance to admire the countryside of the area of Heraklion. Our next stop will be a famous Cretan winery, where you will attend a guided tour of the vineyards, the cellar, and the vine museum. You will enjoy a guided tasting of 8 premium wine labels of a single Cretan area range, where the indigenous grape varieties express their finest character through selected privileged terroirs. Of course a premium wine tasting is not completed without the a premium pairing. Along with the 8 premium wines you will have the chance to taste some of the most authentic Cretan dishes like: Cretan Olive Trilogy (Variety of cretan olives); Marathopites (Fennel pies); Ntolmadakia (Stuffed vine leaves with Feta cheese spread); Dakos (Carob rusk, tomato, cream cheese and wild oregano); Greek Salad (Tomato, cucumber, green pepper and Feta cheese). Following a visit to an olive mill, where you will have the chance to talk about organic olive tree farming, you will taste the area's freshest organic extra virgin olive oils, one flavored oil, olives, Cretan sweet vinegar, and petimezi for a unique olive oil experience. The driver will return you to the hotel after the completion of the tour.
The duration of the trip to Elounda will be 1 hour and 15 minutes!!!
Embark on a scenic journey along the northeast coast and St. George’s Gorge, as you make your way to the cosmopolitan city of Agios Nikolaos, nestled on the Gulf of Mirabello. Famous for its myth-laden deep lake, Agios Nikolaos invites you to explore its charm at your own pace – wander through inviting shops or unwind in a café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The adventure continues to Elounda, where breathtaking views of Crete unfold. Gaze across the Elounda Lagoon to the captivating islands of Spinalonga and Kolokitha. Spinalonga’s historical significance ranges from protecting ancient Olous to serving as a fortress for the Venetians and later as a leper colony. Delve into its storied past as you enjoy the picturesque drive to Plaka, a quaint fishing village opposite Spinalonga. A brief boat ride takes you to the island, revealing the captivating history documented in a book and Greek television series. Explore filming sites, stroll around, or take a refreshing swim in this unique setting. Concluding the day in Elounda, a former fishing village turned premier holiday resort with numerous 5-star hotels, indulge in a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbor. Enjoy a cup of coffee before heading to Agios Nikolaos for a traditional Cretan lunch (optional), culminating in a seamless return to your accommodation. Immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and gastronomic delights of this memorable Cretan experience.
Experience a leisurely day in Elounda, a charming village that has gracefully transformed from its humble origins as a fishing community in the idyllic Mirabello Bay. In the past, life here revolved around agriculture, fishing, salt extraction from Venetian saltpans, and the mining of a unique Greek mineral called "akonopetra" or whetstone. Nestled in the hills surrounding Elounda, akonopetra is a fine emery used to craft whetstones and emery paper, essential for honing tools across various trades. Historically known as "Turkey stones" or "Naxos stone" in Europe, the emery of Elounda has a rich heritage. As tourism discovered this gem, Elounda evolved into a renowned resort destination celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and the continuous development of luxurious hotels. Notably, it boasts the highest concentration of five-star hotels in Greece. Embark on a day of exploration and relaxation in this picturesque setting, where the echoes of a bygone era blend seamlessly with the modern allure of world-class accommodations. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the historical charm, bask in the natural beauty, or indulge in the opulence of the resort experience, Elounda invites you to savor every moment. Enjoy the tranquility, the history, and the luxury that define this enchanting destination – a perfect retreat for those seeking a delightful escape.
The duration of the trip to Heraklion will be 1 hour and 15 minutes!!! Embark on a 50-minute flight to Athens, where you can savor the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea from your window. Take in the breathtaking views before bidding farewell to the divine land!!!
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