Authentic Crete Heart of the Island: A Journey Through Timeless Villages and Lush Olive Groves
5.0
6 Ratings
Rethymnon
Embark on an authentic journey through the heart of Crete, exploring timeless villages, lush olive groves, and immersing yourself in the fascinating culture and hospitality of the locals.
Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Monastery of Arkadi - Admire the history and Venetian baroque architecture of Arkadi monastery, located in the scenic surrounding of vineyards
  • Archea Eleftherna - Learn about the ancient Greco-Roman town of Eleftherna at Crete.
  • Margarites - A village with Venetian roots, mentioned by sixteenth-century travellers and  the most important and well-known pottery center of Crete since Minoans era .
  • Meronas - Meronas village built amphitheatrically, it offers an unobstructed view into the high green oasis of the Amari Valley and the mountainous bulk of Psiloritis. 

have a special tour in one of the village chapels to see the unique frescoes from 13th century. Meet the village lady in traditional cafeneio.
Lunch at a hand-picked, truly authentic family tavern 

  • Spili - Spili  built at the foot of Voriza Mountain.Due to its fabulous location offers an astonishing view to the sea and the entire surrounding filled with trees, fountains, springs and chapels and churches with wonderful murals.
What's Included
  • Private transportation
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
What's Not Included
  • Entrance fees in Arkadi monastery and Eleftherna .
Additional Information

Find yourself amidst the intriguing labyrinth of stone-paved paths and pristine barriers, encountering the captivating residents and customs of Crete. Traverse through the untouched hamlets concealed in the time-lost mountainsides, where you can gaze upon and inhale the sweet aroma of citrus blossoms, olive plantations, cypresses, pines, and a plethora of indigenous flora. Bask in the hospitable arms of the natives, their expression of ‘philoxenia’ invariably extending to an offer to join in a communal meal.

Location
Monastery of Arkadi
Arkadi
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(6 Ratings)
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1 star
594temii
Apr 10, 2024
Great experience - Had a lovely experience. Had a coach pick us up from our hotel and went to Heraklion (beautiful city). The owner of the company (Magda) met us and showed us around. She was so helpful and kind. One of our group had an accident and was taken to the hospital and Magda stayed with her also till she was done. I would recommend 100 times.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bitanh2024
Mar 13, 2024
Simply Heartfelt experience - Stunning views, small little vilages, exceptional hospitality, a memorable meal, in a family owned tavern, between flowers and trees.Simply Heartfelt Highly recomended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Juniebee1
Jun 20, 2022
Excellent Knossos Tour and Trip to Dia Island - We booked a private tour and private yacht to Dia Island going with three teens. Magda was the most lovely charming vibrant host ! She tailored our trip and was kind to book last minute excursions. The guide and boat crew were great , lunch was fabulous even catered to our gluten free child ! Highly recommend and excellent quality !
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Annick
Nov 1, 2020
A wonderful mix of nature, culture and friendliness - We had a wonderful day, sightseeing beautiful mounty landscape and nature, as well as nice villages and touching monuments (Arkadi monastery...). Eleftherna was our most beloved moment, it deserves at least one hour-break. The taverna chosen by the agency is charming, typical and served delightful meal. We spent the day with two nice people, the driver Michael and the guide Eleanna. The guide spoke a perfect French, was very learned and interesting, answered all our questions, and had a pleasant tone and voice. Michael was very friendly, and kindly took some photos of us. As a whole, it will remain as a wonderful remembering to us! I warmly recommend this excursion.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Seangilhoolie
Sep 12, 2020
Fantastic experience - Thank you for an amazing experience and memories during our holiday. The booking was extremely easy and the staff couldn’t have been more friendly. We look forward to booking our next trip with them. Thank you once again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
C3515jwdanielv
Aug 16, 2020
Wonderful to get away from the usual tourist spots - I really enjoyed the day, both my guide and driver were lovely to talk to and very well-informed. It was such a pleasure to get away from the usual tourist spots and see something authentic and Greek, such as the paintings and frescoes in the small village temples. My highlight was seeing the potter doing his work, a knowledgeable man indeed!
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up to 15 guests
1
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June 2024
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