About this experience
The goal of this tour is to help you see Crete without the complicated historical combinations and archaeological details. In my program, I included the places where the island truly reveals its charm and authenticity. You will visit a winery, a craft workshop, drop by for a local shot of raki, have lunch in a cozy tavern by a high-mountain lake, swim at the beach, learn the most important facts about the famous Minoan civilization, and discover a hippie-style settlement.
What to Expect
Wine Tasting at a Cretan Winery
Winemaking is one of the main activities of local residents, so getting familiar with this art will help you better understand the contemporary culture of Cretans. In the heart of Crete - its geographic center - you will visit a winery where a professional sommelier will explain the nuances of producing local wine, and you will taste several varieties of the most popular Cretan wine and take a walk through the vineyards. The program also includes a beautiful mountain village where at a family production you will be introduced to the ancient tradition of distilling Cretan grape vodka 'raki'. Here you can also take a stroll, stop by a traditional cafe - a place where local men gather to discuss the main news of the day, play backgammon, and have a cup of Greek coffee.
Crete from Within
Walking through the highland village, you will find unusual shops and many cozy bakeries where you will get acquainted with the variety of Cretan bread and pastries. In the local craft workshop, you will be shown the technique of traditional production of national costumes and 'stivania' boots. And in a smaller village, you will get to see the real life of the islanders - you will examine in detail what the everyday life of simple residents is woven from. Along the way, we will even drop by to visit our friends, where you can have a shot of raki and chat about modern life in Crete.
Natural and Historical Treasures of the Island
Our program also includes beautiful olive plantations, family vineyards, and windmills. After that, you will head along a beautiful mountain road to a picturesque lake, to a trout farm where you will be served lunch in the shade of trees with a scenic landscape. Along the way, we will stop near significant historical sites of Crete: you will see the ruins of the Festos palace, learn about one of the oldest civilizations in Europe - the Minoan civilization, visit an ancient women's monastery housing a miraculous icon, and Orthodox churches. In the end, you will visit the famous beach, which was once a haven for hippies, and then relax on a secluded beach by the Libyan Sea coast.
Who is the Tour for
- Families with children from 3.5-4 years old, small groups, and couples.
- Food and wine connoisseurs, nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who simply want to get acquainted with the life of authentic Crete.
- In my tours, I focus more on the modern life of Crete, but the historical-cultural component is definitely present in my storytelling.
Organizational Details
How the Tour Goes
- In a comfortable 2019 minivan with air conditioning. Child seats are provided free of charge if needed.
- You will be accompanied by a driver and a guide on the tour
- We will pick you up at the hotel if you stay in the following towns: Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Malia, Stalida, Heraklion, Karteros, Amoudara, Agia Pelagia, Lassiti region, Agios Nikolaos. By agreement - Ierapetra, Elounda, Sitia, Bali, Rethymno, Chania
- When planning routes for walks around Crete, I carefully choose only the most interesting places, only the places I love myself
- What to bring: comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear
What's Included, What's Not Included
- Transportation expenses are included
- Additional expenses: lunch at the tavern - 10-20 euros/person; entrance tickets to museums, archaeological and historical sites; wine tasting - starting from 8 euros/person; cave entrance; donkey riding
- Conducting excursions in luxury transport is available for an additional fee by arrangement
