Complete Crete

Itinerary

Itinerary:
Mochlos - Lassithi - Agia Galini - Chora Sfakion - Imbros Gorge - Chania
Duration:
13 days / 12 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 1,199.- per adult (excluding flights)
From £ 799, - per child (up to 11 years)

Take two weeks to explore the charms of Crete - from hiking the Imbros Gorge to relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Agia Galini, this itinerary has everything for a memorable family holiday. We've included a bunch of exciting activities and family-friendly accommodation so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

Day 1 – Start of your Crete holiday

Today you’ll start your holiday on the eastern end of Crete as you step into sleepy villages with vibrant flowers creeping up the white-washed walls. The quaint village of Mochlos is a fishing village, unchanged for centuries with a deep-rooted connection with the sea. You’ll stay in a cosy hotel with breathtaking views over the bay. Spend time on the nearby beach, playing in the warm sea or stroll through the narrow streets, stopping for an ice cream to cool off!

Day 2 & 3 – Explore Spinalonga island and the beaches of Vai

Today you’ll drive to the seaside town of Agios Nikolaos where you’ll jump aboard a boat to the island of Spinalonga. This small island was once inhabited by those with leprosy in the first half of the 20th century and this unusual history makes for a fascinating few hours. Walk through the former village, see the homes people made here and imagine what life would have been like away from family and friends in this new community. Afterwards you’ll return to Agios Nikolaos where you can spend time at Lake Voulismeni or take a dip at Voulisma Beach. The following day you can explore the captivating northeast coast, where you will find the palm beach of Vai, home to one of the last remaining primeval palm tree forests on the island.

Day 4 – Head to Lassithi Plateau

As you climb into the Dikte Mountains towards the Lasshiti plateau you’ll notice the temperature cool, and the pace of life slow down. You’ll find yourself in amongst Crete’s rural life, in a protected nature reserve, where traditional customs are still prominent. You’ll stay in a village guest house made out of local stone and homely touches. There are a few restaurants nearby to try some local delicacies – this is the place to immerse yourself in true rural Greek hospitality.

Day 5 – Mountains & Windmills of Lassithi

Today, you can explore what is believed to be the first wind farm in Europe. Centuries ago, this plain had approximately 15,000 windmills. When the Venetians inhabited Crete, they recognised its agricultural potential and initiated the cultivation of grain. They implemented an innovative irrigation system that harnessed the power of the windmills, shaping the landscape into the remarkable windmill park you see today. Some mills from the 15th century still stand, offering a glimpse into the past. As you wander through the lush countryside, the fresh mountain air makes for a welcome change to the heat of the seaside towns and villages.

Days 6 – 8 – Chill by the sea in Agia Galini

Agia Galini, nestled in the southern part of the island, is a picturesque village with white houses built against the mountainside and an elevated vantage point offering breathtaking views over the azure sea. Due to its popularity, we’ve arranged accommodation outside the bustling centre – a modern hotel with a pool perfect for some downtime. Your time here is free to do as you wish. Beach enthusiasts will find paradise on the pebble beaches flanking both sides of the village, whilst those drawn to history can learn the significance of the village as the place where Icarus and Daedalus escaped the wrath of King Minos. Statues commemorating their flight stand proudly on a rock, gazing out over the sea. Adjacent to this historical site is an amphitheater where summer performances take centre stage.

Day 9 – Drive to Chora Sfakion

Crete is renowned for its sun, sea, and beaches but it also has impressive gorges, ideal for a spot of hiking. The island has three mountain ranges, each featuring deep gorges. In our opinion, Chora Sfakion is the best destination for an adventure. Situated by the sea, the location offers a perfect blend of relaxation and active exploration. The village is virtually car-free, so you can park just outside and stroll through to reach your hotel. Your accommodation is spacious and modern and most rooms have sea views. The beach is conveniently located within a five-minute walk.

Day 10 – Hike the Imbros Gorge

Today it’s time to grab the family and lace up your walking shoes. Crete is renowned for its stunning gorges, with the Samaria Gorge being the most famous. Since it is a relatively challenging trek spanning 18 kilometres, we recommend its little brother, the Imbros Gorge. This option is slightly less popular, resulting in fewer crowds and you can stroll at your own pace, this is particularly advised during the warmer summer months. We will arrange a taxi to transport you to the gorge’s entrance where you’ll be given a hiking map and a picnic lunch, before setting off on the 8-kilometre descent through the gorge, passing impressive rock formations along the way. The walk will take you around 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop of course, but the path is generally easy underfoot and good for children.

Day 11 & 12 – Head to Chania, your final stop

Today you will head to your last stop, Chania. You’ll stay in a modern hotel, with spacious rooms and a pool, located a fifteen minute walk from the old port. You’ll notice the colourful buildings, narrow streets, and local tavernas serving up tasty Greek dishes before arriving at the harbour, complete with lighthouse. The city is a wonderful mix of cultures with influences from the Venetian, Ottoman, and Egyptian eras.

Chania is best seen on foot so grab the family and take in the influences of the diverse cultures that have made Chania what it is today. We will provide you with a booklet with three walks through the city, taking in the highlights and hidden gems of this historical city. Within the maze of alleyways in the old city walls you’ll be transported back in time as you make your way towards the captivating Giali Tzamisi Mosque, set against the vibrant blue sea.

Day 13 – Head home

On your last day, savour one more delicious breakfast, soak in the sun or enjoy a final swim, before heading back to the airport for your international flight home. If you have an early morning flight, we’ll arrange an overnight stay nearby for your convenience.

Best travel period for your holiday to Crete

The best time to visit Crete is from April to October. Autumn offers pleasant weather with a warm sea, sunshine, and temperatures around 25 degrees. if you prefer fewer crowds, the May holidays ensures warm weather too. Keep in mind that the sea temperature might not have reached an ideal temperature early in the season though.