Connecting with Crete
12 days: (April 29 to May 10)
On this leisurely 12-day, 2-centre tour, take time to experience what makes this ruggedly-beautiful island so special as, enjoying the uniqueness of both East and West, you are truly able to connect with Crete.
ITINERARY
Day 1
Fly from the UK, meet your Tour Manager and transfer to the 4∗ Magda Hotel . This comfortable hotel, a few minutes’ stroll from the sea at tranquil Kato Gouves, has 2 swimming-pools, fitness suite, well-tended gardens and attractive restaurant, bar and lounge areas.
 Day 2
Afternoon visit to the Lasithi Plateau, one of the most beautiful areas of Crete, its fields and orchards sheltered by the dramatic Dikti mountains. Here, see how the traditional methods of agriculture blend seamlessly with the new.
Day 3
Around Elounda: Jewel-bright frescoes in the church of the Panagia Kera at Kritsa; the coast road around spectacular Mirambellou Bay. The island of Spinalonga. Inspiration for “The Island”. Charming Elounda, setting for “Who Pays the Ferryman?”
Day 4
Treasures of Eastern Crete. Scenery of breathtaking beauty along the Northern coastline, visiting historic Toplou Monastery, which played a leading role in the turbulent history of Crete and is now home to a famous collection of icons, the attractive port of Siteia, and the unique Palm Beach at Vai.(optional excursion)
Day 5
Transfer West to Rethymno, stepping back into the heart of the Minoan world at the Palace of Knossos, and Heraklion's famous Archaeological Museum, en route.
Day 6
A relaxing half-day excursion taking in Rethymno’s surrounding countryside with free time in the city itself to explore the honey-coloured Venetian Harbour and picturesque Old Town.
Day 7
West through luxuriant scenery to Chania, with its lovely Harbour, Maritime and Archaeological Museums and colourful market. En route we visit Souda Bay and the Akrotiri Peninsula. On our way back we leave the “beaten track” for a relaxing break in lovely surroundings.
Day 8
South through the beautiful Imbros Gorge, where you may, in addition to enjoying the many species of Spring flowers for which Crete is famous, catch a glimpse of rare birds such as Lammergeiers, to Hora Sfakion on the Libyan Sea, from where so many Allied servicemen were evacuated to Egypt after the Battle of Crete of May 1941.
Day 9
Relax and enjoy the charming villages of Almirida and Kalo Chorio on this half-day included tour.
Day 10
Day at leisure.
Day 11
Jewels of the South Coast: Explore the remarkable Minoan necropolis of Armeni; travel through the dramatic Kourtaliotiko Gorge to the beautiful and historic Preveli Monastery, which sheltered many Allied servicemen during World War 2, for superb views over the Libyan Sea. After a relaxing lunchtime break in the fishing-village of Plakias, return to your hotel through stunning scenery, enjoying a short break at the lovely village of Spili which is renowned for its greenery and many fountains of crystal-clear water
Day 12
Transfer to Heraklion Airport for your homeward flight.
Your holiday includes
Direct flights between London Gatwick/Manchester*, departing at 18:40/10:20* and arriving back at 17:30/16:40, 20 kgs hold-luggage and in-flight meals are included.
4 Nights’ Half board, Magda Hotel, Kato Gouves, Crete
7 Nights’ Half Board, Theartemis Palace hotel, Rethymno, Crete
Transfers and excursions as described below.
Porterage in hotels.
Services throughout of Living Crete Tour Manager, plus specialist local guide for some visits.
Pricing
April 29 : CONNECTING WITH CRETE 12 days £985
Single Supplement £10 pppn
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