- Agia Sofia Cave - Within 1 hour and 45 min of Rethymno we reach the tree-lined gorge of the Village of Topolia. There is a 300-meter-high wall and the little chapel of Agia Sofia built in a cave.
Here you will be able to explore the many stalactites and the unique view of the gorge. ‘The Romanza’ canteen is the place to refresh with an array of Cretan specialties and delights. You will spot the local men wearing traditional Cretan clothing from decades ago.
This stop lasts about 30 minutes and then we continue south.
- Chrisoskalitissa Monastery - A visit to the Monastery of Chrisoskalitsa is a must. Tradition has it that one of the 90 stairs to the top is a Golden Stair, from where the monastery gets its name. It is said that only a person without sin can see the Golden Stair. The monastery is still cared for by its faithful nuns. The surrounding view is exceptional. This stop takes half an hour, then we head straight to the beach.
- Elafonissi Beach - We arrive at Elafonissi around noon. By far one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Elafoissi is situated on the south-west coast. A tropical effect is created by its white and pink coral sands. Head to the right for shallow water in a small enclosed lagoon ideal for the children.
A walk through the lagoon to the islet is most worthwhile as you will discover this unique coastline.
The coral sands and warm shallow waters attract swimmers, spear fishermen, and windsurfers from the world over.
- Elos - Our journey will end with a traditional meal at a Cretan tavern in the village of Elos.
Return to Rethymno, travel time 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Luxury vehicle with a professional driver
- Wi-Fi on board and bottled water from White Mountains “Samaria”
- Admission to the Monastery Hrisoskalitissa included
- Beach umbrellas provided upon request
- Personalized accompaniment
- Convenient pick-up/drop-off at your hotel
- All fees and taxes covered
- Personal expenses, drinks, lunch / dinner.
- Customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts.
We embark on a picturesque drive across the magnificent landscapes from the North shore to the South West, passing through quaint mountain villages, leading us to the stunning Elafonissi beach in Crete, famed as one of its most beautiful coastlines.
Elafonissi is a small island situated so near to the seashore that it’s easily accessible by foot. The beach is characterized by spectacularly transparent, turquoise waters and fine grains of white and coral-red sand, creating a vista of rare beauty!
You’ll witness the splendid natural scenery of Crete and visit traditional villages that will offer you a glimpse of the unique Cretan way of life.
Another noteworthy stop on our journey is the Agia Sofia Cave, renowned for its striking stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the Hrisoskalitissa monastery.
A tasting session of olive oil, thyme honey, and the local vodka-like spirit, raki, is also on our itinerary.
The excursion concludes with a authentic meal at a local tavern.
NOTE: The time taken for this private tour to Elafonissi beach from the Rethymnon region is estimated to be 9–10 hours.
- To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
- Important to have; Sun Cream (a lot!), Sunglasses and Hat, Long-Sleeved Shirt for Sensitive skin, Swim Suit, and a Beach Towel! Money for drinks, lunch/dinner.
- Elafonisi is a Natura 2000 protected area, it is strictly forbidden to remove any plants, animals, shells, and sand from the area.
- NOTE: The total duration of the private tour to Elafonisi beach from Rethymnon region is 9–10 hours.
- If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated and we exercise all discretion.
- Moysidis Travel is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before travelling to Crete.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
