Tours & tickets

Melidoni Cave

Our adventure begins from our base in Bali, after a security update and a little practice. We drive away from the main traffic through provincial and country roads, which only locals know and we cross one of the biggest olive groves of the island. We explore 10 small traditional villages with narrow streets, meet local people and admire Venetian and Ottoman stone buildings of the 17th and 18th century, which will take us back in time to another era. In one of our stops we explore one of the most important caves of Crete, Melidoni cave, which is located on top of a mountain. We enjoy the amazing panoramic view of the beautiful valley, with dozens of villages and the highest mountain of Crete called Psiloritis - Idi. We have much fun on the dirt roads, passing through the fields as we discover unique picturesque landscapes of the beautiful wildlife of Crete. We'll make enough stops during our safari, offering excellent opportunities for amazing pictures and breathtaking landscapes.

Explore the northeastern part of Crete on a guided half-day trip from Rethymno. Encounter sights like the Fragma Potamon Dam as you soak up the local atmosphere. Climb onboard the bus and start your trip by heading east to your first stop at iconic Melidoni Cave. Visit the fascinating site and perhaps enjoy a coffee (own expense) while admiring a magnificent view of the valley of Melidoni village. Then, move south to Margarites village and make a stop at a pottery workshop. Have the opportunity to observe how traditional handmade pottery is made. Next, move on to the famous Arkadi Monastery, where you have time for coffee or lunch (own expense). Finally, pause at a vantage point with a magnificent view at the well-known Fragma Potamon Dam for a photo stop. Return to your hotel in the early afternoon.

After you are picked off in the morning from your hotel in Rethymnon, this unique village tour begins from Arkadi. There you will visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, renowned for its pivotal role in the resistance against the Turks. You will learn a lot about local history from the icons and the weapons there. After this enriching visit, you will enjoy a majestic route towards Eleutherna where you will stop to glaze the landscape and enjoy the view. The next station will be the village of Margarites, in which you can learn about the art of pottery and create your ceramic in their local pottery workshop. The tradition of pottery goes back many generations in this village and the ladies there will be more than happy to introduce you to the Cretan pottery art. Afterward, discover the breathtaking beauty of Sfendoni Cave, one of Crete’s hidden gems! Located near the traditional village of Zoniana, this impressive cave stretches over 1,400 meters and offers a magical journey through illuminated chambers filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours reveal the cave’s fascinating geological formations and legends, making it a must-visit destination for nature and adventure lovers alike. You will have an hour to explore the cave. Before heading back to Rethymno, you will stop at Axos Village, where you will have the chance to experience firsthand the production process of fresh cheese. Along with the local people you can take part in the milking process, witness the production of local cheese pies and cheese and of course taste the fresh traditional handmade snacks. After the relaxed time for snacks and resting you are ready to depart and get dropped off at your hotel in Rethymno, with a full experience of Crete's history, art, and flavors.

Experience the ultimate cross-country adventure with Nostos Safari. This unique cross-country real-off-road experience takes you from the coast to the mountains. Drive through off-road routes and pass through breathtaking landscapes, from traditional village alleys to stunning mountain passes. With Nostos Safari, you'll have the freedom and adventure of a quad bike to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Crete. Discover the unforgettable experience of cross-country living and book your quad safari today with Nostos Safari.

Benefit from pick-up at your hotel in the Rethymno area, and then explore the traditional lifestyle and historical legacy of Crete. Learn the Neolithic history of the Melidoni Cave and discover the pottery traditions of the village of Margarites. Discover the oldest monastery in Crete at the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, and then go to the village of Apostoli to visit an old olive oil factory. Enjoy lunch in a traditional tavern ( lunch not icluded in the price) and listen to the beautiful sound of live folk music before making your way to St. Antonios Gorge. Stop at the Fragma Potamon dam before making your way back to Rethymno.

On this excursion you will have the opportunity to see many places that represent the traditional lifestyle and of course some historical facts of Crete.The first stop is at Melidoni Cave which is a cave full of history and dates back to the Neolithic Period based on toold and items found it the cave. The second stop is at the village of Margarites. Margarites is famous for its pottery that goes back many generations. The third stop is at Arkadi Μonastery. Arkadi Monastery is the oldest monastery in Crete.

See Crete on a guided tour that combines history and craft for a hands-on experience. Visit the most historical spots on the island, learn their history, and enjoy a pottery lesson and olive oil tasting. Visit the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, Melidoni Cave, and more. Start by getting picked up from your accommodation in Rethymno, then arrive at the most important monastery of Crete: the Monastery of Arkadi. Explore the museum where many icons, monastic relics, and weapons reveal the monastery’s history. Enjoy an hour of free time. Next, visit the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna with its historical findings from Homer’s era. This is the first archaeological site museum in Crete. The museum hosts the whole history of Eleftherna from 3000 B.C. to 1300 A.D. Afterward, enjoy a tour of the pottery workshop “TSIKALARIO” in the village of Margarites to learn about the art of pottery and create your own ceramic. The tradition of pottery goes back many generations in this villa. Later, visit Margarites village where you will have free time for lunch or a walk. Next, head to an olive oil manufactory. Learn how Cretan people made olive oil in the past and see the evolution up to today. Take part in an olive oil tasting before heading to the next stop, Melidoni Cave. Lastly, arrive at Melidoni, also called “Gerodospilios,” a historic cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites. This 220-meter altitude cave was used for religious ceremonies and as a place of worship. Learn the cave's archaeological and historical significance before heading back to Rethymno.

From Rethymno: Day trip to Arkadi Monastery, Eleutherna Museum, Tsikalario Pottery, Margarites Village, Melidoni Cave, and Olive oil mill. Starting our excursion early in the morning we will pick you up from your hotel or the nearest suitable pick up point with one of our air conditioned and comfortable buses so that we lead you at first to Arkadi Monastery 8 km southwest is the sacred Monastery of Arkadi, where you will have 45 minutes to explore one of the Orthodox monasteries that accentuate the catholic and ecumenical character of the Church. Next stop to visit is the Museum of Eleutherna, it is located 3km from the ruins is an on site Museum of Greece in the Archaeological park. Next stop Margarites The village is known for its unique pottery tradition. Visitors can visit the local workshops and witness the potters at work, using traditional techniques to create exquisite pieces of art. In Margarites you can also enjoy the local cuisine which is based on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Our last stop for about 50 minutes will be Melidoni Cave. It is located about 1800 metres northwest of the village. It has an extremely interesting history and amazing archaelogical findings. Melidoni Cave is this stunning evocative underworld of stalactites and stalagmites. A place of worship since Neolithic times. Our last stop Olive oil mill it is located in the picturesque village of Melidoni visitors have the chance to see how olive oil is produced. After the Olive oil mill we will take our way back to Rethymno where our day trip will come to an end.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning wonders of Crete. Visit the Melidoni Cave, the village of Margarites, the Arkadi Monastery, and the Fragma Potamon Dam. Head east to the Melidoni Cave. Here, you’ll have time to explore this awe-inspiring site and savor a coffee while soaking in breathtaking views of the serene Melidoni Valley. Next, journey south to the charming village of Margarites, a hub of traditional craftsmanship. At a local pottery workshop, witness the art of handmade pottery and perhaps even try your hand at it. The third stop is the renowned Arkadi Monastery, a place steeped in history and beauty. Take time to wander its grounds, enjoy a delicious coffee, or indulge in a delightful lunch. Finally, make your way to the stunning Fragma Potamon Dam, a perfect spot to capture incredible photos with its panoramic views.

Embark on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Western Crete, where you'll experience the region's rich history, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes. With our expert guide, uncover the authentic Crete and its unique selling points, ensuring a memorable adventure. Begin by venturing into the captivating Melidoni Cave, filled with fascinating geological features and ancient legends. Then, wander through the picturesque Margarites village, renowned for its traditional pottery. Participate in a pottery-making show with a local artisan and explore the charming alleys. Head to Kournas Lake, Crete's only natural freshwater lake, and marvel at its serene beauty. Take the opportunity to spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds this unique location. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rethymno, the main western town, boasting stunning Venetian architecture and a rich historical past. Stroll through its enchanting streets, taking in the sights and sounds of local life. After a day of exploration, you'll be dropped off at your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Crete's hidden treasures.