How will we entertain ourselves?

There are so many amazing things to do and see on Crete. The goal is to have the perfect mix of adventure, cultural exploration, delicious food, and time together relaxing and taking in the beautiful surroundings and stunning blue of the Cretan Sea…scroll to see some of the available activities!

Samaria Gorge

Day trip to Samaria Gorge National Park. Traverse diverse terrains including ancient forests, rivers, and freshwater springs. After being picked up at early, an hour away the adventure will begin with breakfast at the beginning of the hike. After breakfast, commence a self-guided hike through the Samaria Gorge. The 18 kilometer (11 mile) trail features rocky paths, ancient trees, and the serene AgiaRoumeli River. The hike typically takes 4 to 6 hours. Arrive at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, where you can relax and swim in the Libyan Sea, as well as enjoy local tavernas before catching the 5:30pm ferry to Chora Station. The 1 hour ferry ride will include stunning coastal views. After disembarking, the driver will be waiting to take us back to the villa (estimated arrival back 8p).

What to bring: Sturdy shoes, lots of water, food for the hike, sunglasses, sunscreen, bathing suit and beach towel

Elafonisi and Falasarna Beaches

Spend the day checking out one of the most famous beaches in the world, and a top 10 rated beach. Elafonisi is about 90 minutes from the villa. There is a unique sandbar that allows you to basically walk all the way out to an island. Falasarna beach is 80 minutes from Elafonisi, and is known for its powdery white and pink sand, stunning views, and tranquil atmosphere. The ride from Falasarna beach is about an hour back to the villa. The town of Kissamos is on the way and could be a great place for dinner before heading back for the evening.

What to bring: Change of clothes, swimsuit, towels, snacks, water, and lots and lots of sunscreen!

Knossos and Heraklion

The Knossos palace traces its origins back to the Neolithic era, with its most notable development phase occurring during the Minoan period. The sprawling ruins of Knossos Palace are captivating, offering history aficionados a wealth of insights. Its remarkably preserved state provides an enchanting window into the everyday life of the Minoans. Besides being an architectural marvel, Knossos also housed the mythical Minotaur, according to legend, lending it an aura of enchantment. It was considered a mystical location by King Minos, who purportedly kept the Minotaur within a labyrinth here.

Heraklion is steeped in history, with strong Minoan and Venetian influences. Besides the incredible Knossos palace, the city also has the Heraklion Archaeological Museum with its Minoan artifacts, and Koules Fortress at the Venetian harbor. 

Rethymno

Rethymno, or Rethimno, is a city on the north coast. In the old town, the Venetian Harbor is filled with fishing boats and lined with tavernas. 16th century buildings are filled with shops and restaurants with incredible food. Rethymno Lighthouse was built in the 1830s. West, the hilltop Fortezza is a star-shaped, 16th-century citadel. The Historical and Folklore Museum preserves local crafts like textiles and ceramics. Long, sandy Rethymno Beach stretches to the east.

Olive Grove & Mill Tour & Tasting

Walk among the olive trees, learn about cultivation and harvesting methods. Deep dive into olive oil quality and learn how to understand olive oil labels. See how production is done. Experience an olive oil tasting of different olive oils and a lesson in how to taste olive oils! Depending on the tour, end with lunch or a delicious Cretan snack!

Surf School

Surfing Crete is the only official surf school in Chania that gives you the chance to learn how to Surf, or Stand up paddle at the best spots and at the most beautiful beaches of the island guided by local instructors. They will check the forecast , search for the best surf days, according to your level and arrange a surf lesson that will make your holidays in Crete a lifetime experience!


Note - anyone can try it! This pic is of Pierce and Cate when they were 9 and 7 - and both of them caught some waves with the help of the instructor.

Chania

Of course, we will also explore the beautiful and historic city of Chania - which is very close to the villa.


Chania is a city on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete. It’s known for its 14th-century Venetian harbor, narrow streets and waterfront restaurants. At the harbor entrance is a 16th-century lighthouse with Venetian, Egyptian and Ottoman influences. Opposite, the Nautical Museum has model ships, naval objects and photographs. The former monastery of St. Francis houses the Archaeological Museum of Chania.

Katamaran to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island

Embark on an exclusive sailing experience aboard a brand-new tailor-made catamaran. Enjoy breathtaking views from the flying bridge and take advantage of the water slide for easy access to the sea.

Sail to the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon. Swim in the pristine water, while enjoying delicious local snacks.

Next, depart to Gramvousa Island, where you can swim more, eat more, and if you’d like, take a short hike to the historic Venetian fortress for breathtaking views.

For more details - https://www.getyourguide.com/kissamos-l1840/kissamos-gramvoussa-balos-all-inclusive-catamaran-cruise-t974144/?ranking_uuid=e6d11333-796e-48cf-b6fb-56de384280db