From Rethymno: Arkadi, Margarites, Melidoni Cave, and Axos

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, you will be heading to Melidoni cave, also called “Gerodospilios,” which is a historic cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites. This 220-meter altitude cave was a place of worship for Talos the bronze giant guardian of Crete who protected the island of Crete from enemies. 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.