Get picked up at Souda port and venture away from the busy streets of Chania spending a day exploring traditional Cretan villages, as Kalyves and Gavalochori, on this full-day excursion. With our private guide, discover what makes Crete special as you learn about its ancient history, warm hospitality and see its beautiful landscapes. Round out your day with a wine tasting at a local vineyard.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Pick Up at Souda Port or hotel
✔ Licensed Tour Guide - Approved by the Greek ministry of Tourism
✔ Entry/Admission - Agios Georgios Monastery
✔ Private transportation. Air-conditioned vehicle.
✔ Entry/Admission - Winery Dourakis - WINE TASTING
✔ Olive oil mill tour and oil tasting
✖ Shopping expenses at local shops
✖ Gratuities
✖ Historical and Folklore Museum of Gavalochori Ticket. Cost 2€
Pickup Locations
1. Porto Platanias Beach Luxury Selection
2. Panorama
3. Eden Beach Hotel
4. Aloni Suites
5. Hotel Stellina Village
6. Hotel Aegli
7. Lagon - Life Spirit Boutique Hotel
8. La Maison Ottomane
9. Samaria Hotel
10. Triton Apartments
11. Domes Zeen Chania, A Luxury Collection Resort, Crete
12. Hotel Christina
13. Hotel Lissos
14. Royal Sun Hotel
15. Hotel Belmondo
16. Tina Hotel
17. Hotel Irene
18. Elektra Beach Hotel
19. Gaia Kreta Hotel
20. Kalimera
Additional Info: Cruise passengers: we will be waiting for you at the pier with a sign with your name on it.
Itinerary
1
Ottoman Fortress
The day starts with a visit to the strategically located Ottoman Fortress, and its commanding position overlooking Souda and the valley of Apokoronas. While we learn about the historical significance of the fortress and the myths about the area, we will enjoy the breath-taking views of the White Mountains, Souda Bay and Fort Intzedin below.
Duration: 30 minutes
2
Kalyves
Our next stop will be at an olive oil mill, where we will discover everything about this staple of Greek life and tradition! We will look at how it’s cultivated and processed, its nutritional and health benefits, and its role in our everyday life and impact on our civilization. After the tour, we will try different olive oils and learn how to identify the different qualities.
Duration: 60 minutes
3
Historical & Folklore Museum of Gavalochori
Ticket not included. Cost: 2€
As we step into the Folklore Museum of Gavalochori, we’ll be transported back in time. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of the village’s rich cultural heritage. From tools and utensils to household items and textiles, every exhibit in this museum is carefully curated to give visitors a glimpse into the Cretan past.
Duration: 40 minutes
4
Gavalochori
Gavalochori is 25 km east of Chania which takes about 20 minutes to drive. In this officially protected, traditional village a lot of interesting buildings can be found, such as the 18th century two-roomed, arched olive oil press, the temples of Panagia and Agios Sergios, the old school, and many residences. We will drink coffee at a local traditional coffee shop.
Duration: 35 minutes
5
Agios Georgios Monastery
Religion is a fundamental part of the real Crete. So, at our next stop we will visit the Monastery of Saint Georgios at Karydi. The monastery is unique not only for its history, but also for the local Venetian-influenced architecture. However, the real hidden treasure here are the stunning 12 stone-built arches in the ruins of the monastery’s old olive oil factory.
Duration: 40 minutes
6
Winery Dourakis
Our next stop will be a local winery, where we will indulge in some of the finest wines and learn about the process of winemaking from the vineyards to the bottle. We will taste different glasses of wine, each with its unique flavor and aroma. To make your experience even more memorable, enjoy a local lunch full of Cretan specialties as part of our tour.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Additional info
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
