Crete Labyrinth Experience

On arrival at Heraklion Airport, you are directed to the bus for the drive of around 22 km (roughly 30 minutes) to your accommodation. It's in the Hersonissos area, which takes in Kokkini Hani, Gournes, Gouves and Stalida. After checking in, the rest of the day is free to explore the delightful surroundings on your own, and dinner tonight is included.

After breakfast, you are collected from your accommodation for a full-day excursion that combines the natural beauty, history and seaside charm of eastern Crete. It covers around 130 km over 9 to 11 hours.

You start in Agios Nikolaos, boarding a boat to sail across the beautiful waters of Mirabello Bay. You head for the historic island of Spinalonga, with the scenic coastline and crystal-clear water alongside you all the way. On the island, a guided tour leads you through the fascinating remains of one of the world's last leper colonies. You hear the history and stories behind this remarkable Venetian fortress and former settlement.

Next, the cruise carries on to Kolokytha Bay, where you can swim in its crystal-clear waters before lunch on board by the beach. The excursion ends with a visit to Agios Nikolaos and its picturesque Lake Voulismeni, then you return to your accommodation.

Please note: The entrance fee for the Spinalonga archaeological site is not included and costs 20 euros per person, payable locally.

This morning, after breakfast, you leave for Heraklion, the capital of Crete and a city with deep roots in history and culture. The day covers around 42 km over 7 to 9 hours. It begins at Knossos, the legendary centre of Minoan civilisation and one of the island's most important archaeological sites. Here you can explore the remains of the ancient palace and learn about the fascinating history of the Minoan world, whose origins date back more than 5,000 years.

From here, you continue into Heraklion city centre for a guided walking tour through the historic heart of the city. Its lively streets lead you to landmarks including the Venetian Harbour and the atmospheric Old Town.

You also have the chance to visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion on your own, home to an exceptional collection tracing the history of Crete. You could instead wander the city's old market and enjoy some free time. Once the tour is over, you return to your accommodation.

Please note: The entrance fee for the Knossos Palace is not included and costs 20 euros per person, payable locally.

Today, after breakfast, a Land Rover tour takes you into the central landscapes of Crete, covering around 120 km over 7 to 8 hours. It combines mountain scenery, traditional villages and local flavours with fascinating glimpses into the island's history and rural way of life.

Your first stop is Aposelemis Dam, where you can see the remarkable remains of the submerged village of Sfendili. From here, you head through the countryside on paths surrounded by olive trees, reaching the ancient ruins of Lyttos and the remains of its Roman aqueduct. Next comes the traditional village of Kastamonitsa, with the chance to try some local flavours at a tasting of raki and Cretan olive oil.

The adventure then climbs into the mountains, following an ancient Minoan route through the rugged Cretan landscape. Along the way, you meet a local shepherd to see the animals and taste homemade cheese. You then carry on to a spectacular mountain viewpoint overlooking the ancient Minoan path, with the first views of the Lassithi Plateau and its characteristic farms and windmills.

After taking in the mountain scenery, you enjoy a traditional lunch with unlimited wine before moving on to the picturesque village of Krasi. The last stop of the day is famous for its impressive ancient plane tree and natural spring, a peaceful place to end your journey through the heart of Crete.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we transfer you to Heraklion Airport to continue with your onward travel arrangements.

Travel time and distance for the day: 25km; 30 minutes