Excursions

SANTORINI

Many reasons have made this - island famous globaly and most of us have seen a picture of this dream island ( picture of Santorini has been used in the world promotion of Greece as a turistic attraction ).Scientist relate this island with the mythical Atlantis. Santorini is a mysterious island, where the traces of life on the volcano have influenced the structure and the process of people on it. Another reason that has made known the island is the view of "Caldera" which is the most fascinating in the planet.

1st stop: Oia. Spend some free time and enjoy the unique view

2nd stop: Firostefani. A comfortable downhill walk to Fira (apporox. 1,5km)

3rd stop: Fira. explore the picturesque little alleys, shop or simply gaze over the volcano and magnificent cliffs of the Caldera

4th stop: Perivolos. Visit the magnificent black beach of Perivolos

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SPINALONGA

The island of Spinalonga (Kalidon) has captured the imagination of so many over it s long history. From the depths of the past to the present day people, artists, musicians and authors have imagined and wrote about this island. One of the most visited tourist attraction on Crete, thousands of visitors every year walk along the narrow streets through the village on Spinalonga. Actually the name Spinalonga is Venetian, meaning "Long Thorn" the official name is Kalidon, but so well known as its former name Spinalonga not even the sign posts and the boats that take you the the island will call it anything but by its Venetian name. The Venetians called it Spinalonga after a small island near Venice called the same. This Venetian island has now been renamed Giudecca.

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KNOSSOS, LASSITI, ZEUS CAVE

Step back in time 2000 BC and learn about the Minoan civilization. The Palace of Knossos was the monumental symbol of Minoan civilization and culture, due to its construction, use of luxury materials, architectural plan, advanced building techniques and impressive size. It was built gradually between 1700 and 1400 BC, and was discovered in 1878 by Minos Kalokerinos and excavated by Sir Arthur Evans in 1900s.
Leaving Knossos the first stop on the scenic route towards central Crete is the Monastery of "Kera Kardiotissa", which is inhabited by nuns and famous for its frescoes.
Driving south and up to the mountain, we venture inland, where we reach the fertile Plateau of Lassithi. The plateau is like the land that time forgot. This fertile plain high up in the mountains is breathtaking. Snow laden in the winter and sun drenched in the summer, much of Crete’s fruit and vegetables come from here. As you reach the plateau you will see the dramatic splendor of Lassithi. Tiny villages surround edge of the plateau and you will see true Cretan village life. The Greek mythological Zeus was said to have been born here in the Diktean cave, which is 1000 meters above sea level. A visit into this cave is a must, the stalactites and the stalagmites are spectacular!

CRETAN NIGHT

Music and dancing are a traditional part of the Cretan people's life. Kato Karouzanos traditional village, nestled in the rolling hills of central Crete is the setting for this fascinating, fun night out. A glass of raki (the illegal fire water distilled all over Crete) provides a warm start to your exciting evening. You will have time to wonder through the village, seeking out the locals, sharing a drink or two in a cafenion, lighting a candle in the Greek Orthodox Church or trying to find a bargain in the handicraft shop. Your evening meal is then taken in the local tavern, where you will be treated to a typical Cretan dinner, free-flowing wine. A performance of traditional Cretan and Greek dances in colorful costumes, the fire dance and of course a very special performance of Sirtaki Dance, 'Zorbas the Greek'

SAMARIA GORGE

The gorge of Samaria is the second most visited tourist attraction on Crete (following the Minoan palace of Knossos) and by far the most popular walk. More than a quarter million people walk through the gorge every year from May to October. In winter the gorge is closed to visitors due to danger posed by water and falling stones.

The Samaria gorge is the longest one in Europe. It is an area of stunning natural beauty. Rare flora and fauna have survived in this area and are protected. The mountains that have formed it are wild, high and steep. One will pass through forests of ancient cypresses and pines and descend between vertical cliffs. The path starts from Xyloskalo (near Omalos) in the White Mountains at an altitude of 1230 meters and comes to an end at the village of Agia Roumeli at the Libyan sea. Walking through the gorge usually takes anything from 3 to 5 hours (excluding the breaks).

If you would like to avoid the crowds, you could choose to start your walk towards the middle of the day. This way you could reach Agia Roumeli in the evening, having enjoyed the gorge all to yourself. You could spend the night in Agia Roumeli and then have a wonderful day at the beach before you leave.

Nevertheless beware: the Samaria gorge is not just an easy stroll. The path is 16km long and although it is maintained and in good condition, it is quite stony and also steep at times. If you are not used to this type of exercise you may find it pretty heavy going and will certainly feel your legs for days afterwards.

For more details about the Samaria walk and the best way to do it visit