Psiloritis, Crete

This excursion takes you to the west side of the island. It includes a visit to the towns of Rethymnon and Chania, as well as to the well – known Lake of Kournas. Going west on the northern axis of Crete, first we will pass the Ida range that includes the highest mountain of Crete, Psiloritis (2453m high), then our tour will take us to the beautiful town of Rethymno. A graphic Cretan town, so characteristic and unique, that nothing similar is met anywhere else on the island of Crete. We will have time to relax at the beautiful scenery at the old port of Rethymnon. Our next stop , the town of Chania is the capital city of the prefecture of Chania , which comes second in size on the island and is the sixth biggest city in Greece having approximately 65.000 residents. It's Venetian walls and harbor , narrow streets , and old buildings from the Venetian and Ottoman period are mostly intact and take you directly to the past . The old harbor , where the small fishing boats can moor , is a perfect place to enjoy a coffee and observe the liveliness of the city . Here you can see the cross-shaped closed Marketplace and the leather Market Street . Next stop and last is the lake of Kournas, the only natural sweet water Lake outside Chania, where you will have your lunch. For those who want, there is a possibility to make a tour in the lake on pedals, or just walk around the lake and swim before we take the way back to Heraklion.

Cretan Wine Secrets: Begin the excursion with a visit to Klados Winery in Panormos. Delight in a personalized wine tour guided by the owner, unlocking the mysteries behind Cretan wines and experiencing an enticing wine tasting that reveals the region's longevity secrets. Historic Vosakos Monastery among Stunning Landscapes: Travel along the coastline, passing through villages like Sisses and Aloides. Enjoy panoramic views of Psiloritis and Mylopotamos area. Explore the historic Vosakos Monastery, known for sheltering Cretan rebels during civil wars, amidst the captivating landscapes. Olive Oil Discovery: Embark on a journey through picturesque villages like Doxaro, Apladiana, and Agia, nestled amid lush greenery, vineyards, and olive groves. Visit a traditional and modern olive mill in Melidoni village. Learn about the olive oil production process, from ancient handmade methods to modern techniques, and savor the flavors of local olive oil. Cretan Cuisine Delights: Indulge in the flavors of Cretan cuisine at a charming village tavern in Melidoni, and embrace local hospitality with an array of delicacies. This unique wine and olive escape offers not just an exploration of culinary traditions but an adventure embracing Greek hospitality. Enrich your senses with breathtaking sights, professional yet relaxed service, and an unforgettable immersion into the heart of Cretan culture.

Combine some of the most unique panoramic views, visit a honey factory and taste, drive through traditional Cretan villages and find out all about the lifestyle of a Cretan shepherd by exploring an original shepherd’s hut called ‘’Mitato’’ with a small group of 6-8 people in each vehicle. Learn about the history and the traditions of the Island, meet the locals, explore the wildlife of Crete, embrace the renowned Cretan hospitality and taste the delicious Cretan cheese and cuisine. Our day starts from Rethymnon city heading south east through coast line road until Melidoni Village and Apithano Honey factory where we make our first stop for a guided tour in the factoiry and tast some honey. After our morning stop and driving through the traditional villages of Milopotamos (Melidoni, Apladiana, Doxaro, Agridia Tsaxiana) and areas with dense vegetation, fresh aromas and unique views. The amazing route and views continue until we reach the historic Halepa Monastery, that used to be a refuge for Cretan rebels during civil wars where we make our second stop. The unique view from the monastery will inspire you to take pictures, combining the highest mountain tops of Crete with the beautiful valley. Afterwards our amazing off-road route continues and on the way up to the shepherd’s hut called “Mitato” the panoramic views will take your breath away. If we are lucky, we will get to marvel up close some wild eagles and goats and take some photos. The road will lead us up to a traditional Shepherd’s hut where you will find out all about the lifestyle of a shepherd and the cheese making process. Leaving the shepherd’s hut and already working up our appetite we will soon arrive at a traditional Cretan tavern in Axos village, where we are going to introduce you to Cretan cuisine and heartfelt hospitality with plenty of local platters. Enough time will be provided after lunch for those who wish to enjoy a cup of coffee. On our way back we will follow an asphalt road that will lead us to the city of Rethymnon. Embark on semi private safari tour for up to 6 or 8 persons per vehicle

Paragliding is an activity directing at all ages, all people, even people with special needs, as it is absolutely safe and no experience is required. The suitable equipment is given to the passengers from the experienced pilot/instructor! It is called paratriking because it includes a three-wheel vechicle(trike) with two seats which help the passenger and the pilot be comfortable and enjoy their flights. They both wear helmets wired so they can speak to each other all the time! With the powerful engine and the parachute it only takes 1 minute to get up in the air! You can admire the mountains filled with snow and at the same time you can feel the sun and the clouds on your skin, while watching the sea underneath!Undoubtedly It's an experience worth to live!

Learn more: https://transfer-plus.gr/tour/faistos-palace-tour-matala/ Embark on a journey through time to explore the Palace of King Radamanthys, a stunning relic of the Minoan Civilization nestled amidst the fertile plains of Messara. Located between the imposing peaks of Psiloritis and Asteroysia Mountain, this archaeological gem offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Crete. As you wander through the well-preserved ruins of the palace, you'll be transported back to a bygone era, where Minoan kings ruled over vast territories and flourishing cities. Learn about the intricate trade routes that connected Crete to distant lands, fostering a thriving economy and cultural exchange. Marvel at the architectural marvels of Phaistos, renowned for the discovery of the enigmatic Phaistos disc - an ancient artifact inscribed with mysterious symbols in Linear A script, the meaning of which continues to elude scholars to this day. Housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, this iconic relic serves as a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of the Minoan civilization. Immerse yourself in the art and culture of ancient Crete as you explore the palace's storied halls and chambers, adorned with vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings that offer a window into Minoan life. From religious rituals to everyday activities, each mural tells a story of a society steeped in myth and tradition. As you soak in the atmosphere of this ancient site, don't forget to capture the moment with your camera - the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. A visit to the Palace of King Radamanthys is more than just a journey through history - it's an opportunity to connect with the legacy of one of the world's most fascinating civilizations. So come, explore the wonders of the Minoan past, and discover the secrets of a bygone era that continue to captivate and intrigue us today. And then, Matala invites you to immerse yourselves in its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and bohemian charm. Renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and crystalline waters, this coastal village beckons sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike to bask in the Mediterranean sunshine and take a refreshing dip in the azure sea. But Matala is more than just a beach destination. The iconic caves carved into the cliffsides serve as a reminder of the village's storied past, once famously inhabited by hippies seeking refuge in the 1960s. Today, these caves offer a glimpse into a bygone era, while the vibrant waterfront promenade buzzes with life, lined with cozy tavernas, lively bars, and colorful shops offering a taste of local culture. Whether you're exploring the ancient Roman ruins, marveling at the breathtaking views from the cliffs above, or simply soaking in the laid-back atmosphere, a visit to Matala promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Crete's coastal charm.

Combine the visit of traditional villages, caves, plateaus, mountain sites with the tasting of local products and get to know the local life here in Crete. Starting our journey from Gazi we head to the village of Krousonas where we have the opportunity to taste local products such as Olive Oil and Raki. Here we have free time for a coffee to relax and enjoy the stunning views. Continuing our journey towards Livadi Plateau we see some of the many apple orchards in the area, olive trees and wild herbs whose aroma is in the air and without doubt meet some friendly local goats along the way to the cave of Sfendoni. The cave features rich decoration with stalactites, stalagmites, as well as several fossilized waves and is the home of not just different types of bats, but also dozens of species of invertebrates. There is a 6€ entrance fee including a guide and walking shoes are recommended. Building up an appetite we make our way to the restaurant where we have a delicious Traditional lunch with unlimited wine (vegetarian option available). Once refreshed we visit the famous village of Anogeia which is perched on the slopes of Psiloritis, you can go for a short walk where you can visit the center of Anogia and meet the locals. Before we slowly make our journey back off road to stop for a magnificent view over the northern coast of Heraklion where you have the chance to make some amazing pictures before we head home.

See Crete from a different angle on this all-day Land Rover safari tour. Begin the day in Heraklion, where you will get to know your guide and listen to a short presentation of the excursion before heading to the Livadi Plateau. Enjoy the incredible views of Heraklion and the Cretan as the Land Rover climbs through the mountainous, provincial road to the eastern slopes of Psiloritis. Marvel at the breathtaking atmosphere of the plateau, including the thousands of apple and pear trees that are scattered throughout the area. Drive through the off-road route to the plateau of Nida, where you will visit Idaion Andron, the cave where Zeus was born. On the way back, stop at Ancient Zominthos, which was only discovered in 1982 but is considered one of the most important archeological discoveries in Crete. Have lunch in a local tavern in the village of Anogia.

Explore the ancient city of Eleutherna, visit the Melidoni Cave, and learn about the production of honey and olive oil on a full-day tour from Rethymno. Discover the history of Crete and taste some of the local produce. Start your journey with Eleutherna, an archaeological site located in the foothills of Mount Ida (Psiloritis) in Crete. Eleutherna is an ancient city with a history dating back to the Geometric Period (9th century BCE). It was continuously inhabited from the Geometric Period through the Roman era and later periods, making it an important archaeological site for understanding the evolution of Cretan civilization. The archaeological site of Eleutherna has been the focus of systematic excavations since the early 1980s. The results of the excavations are displayed in the Museum of Eleutherna, officially opened in 2016. Eleutherna is situated approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Rethymno. Next, visit Melidoni Cave, also known as Gerontospilios, a notable cave located in the northern part of Crete. Melidoni Cave is situated near the village of Melidoni, approximately 30 kilometers east of Rethymno town. According to local legend, Melidoni Cave is associated with the ancient Greek god Zeus. It is said that this cave was one of the locations where Zeus was hidden and nurtured as an infant to protect him from his father, Cronus. The cave itself is known for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, creating a stunning underground landscape. Explore the fascinating world of beekeeping and honey production at the Apithano beekeeping lab in Melidoni village. Delve into the rich history and traditions of this ancient craft as you uncover the secrets behind Cretan honey. With interactive exhibits and informative displays, learn about the different varieties of honey, their unique properties, and the intricate process of honey extraction. Immerse yourself in the sights, scents, and tastes of this natural wonder as you embark on a sweet and unforgettable adventure. Lastly, visit Paraschakis Olive Oil, where you will take a journey through the rich history of olive oil production as you reveal the secrets of their ancestral methods. Marvel at the charm of their old olive mill, once powered by the steady rhythm of a donkey. Transport yourself to a bygone era and witness the age-old techniques that have been passed down through generations. Taste the exquisite flavors of their freshly pressed olive oil, crafted with care and expertise by their family. From delicate nuances to robust notes, each drop tells a story of dedication and passion.