Crete’s Hidden Bays
Itinerary
Day 1 – Start of your Crete holiday
Star your holiday with a flight to Chania, approximately a four-hour journey from the UK. Once outside, you can easily arrange a taxi to the city centre. You’ll stay in a hotel just outside the centre with spacious rooms and a refreshing swimming pool. A short 10-minute walk leads you to the old Venetian harbour, where you can enjoy the view on one of the charming terraces. You’ll see why Chania is such a delightful city, with its old centre blending Venetian, Ottoman, and Jewish heritage. The historic buildings now house small shops, bars, restaurants, and studios, creating a wonderful atmosphere for a leisurely stroll.
Day 2 – Explore Chania
Wake to blue skies and breakfast on the terrace before heading out to explore. The day is yours to enjoy – take a refreshing dip in the pool, stroll along the waterfront, relax on one of the Venetian harbour terraces, and browse the covered market hall. We’ll include a booklet with information and walks to discover Chania, uncovering the hidden spots and local haunts.
Day 3 – Head to Vamos
After breakfast, pick up your rental car and head to Vamos, approximately an hour’s drive away. This authentic village, nestled in a mountainous, green valley in the heart of Crete, is dotted with old stone houses. En route, you’ll pass by Almyrida beach, where you can take a short detour to take a dip in the sea. Arriving in Vamos, you’ll step back in time, exploring narrow alleys, a local village square, and stone houses with thick walls to keep the heat at bay. Spend a few days in this tranquil setting.
Day 4 & 5 – Cooking workshop and exploring Vamos
Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for a delightful breakfast of fresh pastries, and strong Greek coffee before exploring the village at your own pace, wandering through the small streets and taking in the stunnnig views. In the afternoon, join a local chef for a cooking workshop in an old olive oil mill. Utilise local ingredients to create a delicious dinner, which you’ll then enjoy together with your intructor.
The rest of your time in Vamos is free to spend as you wish. If your family are beach lovers, you can reach beautiful beaches north of Vamos in about 20 minutes. There are plenty of spots with loungers and beach cafes for a day of playing in the sand and splashing in the sea!
Day 6 – Head to Chora Sfakion
Embark on an hours drive to Chora Sfakion, with stops at Spili to admire the beautiful fountain with lion heads and Frangokastello for its castle and beach. The rugged environment with inhospitable mountain peaks and barren plains sets the stage for Chora Sfakion, a small village built almost into the sea. Car-free, you’ll park your car near the harbor and walk to your hotel, situated on the other side of a narrow passage. Enjoy a spacious, modern room with a sea view from your (small) balcony. Indulge in fresh cakes baked by the owner’s grandmother.
Day 7 – Hike the Imbros Gorge
Prepare for an active day out with a hearty breakfast. Today you will transverse the Imbros Gorge, a less crowded and slightly less challenging alternative to the famous Samaria Gorge. A taxi will take you to the starting point and a hiking map and picnic lunch will be provided for your 8-kilometre descent through the gorge. Freshen up at one of the small tavernas at the gorge’s exit before the 5-kilometre journey back to Chora Sfakion, of course you can take a taxi for the final stretch if you prefer!
Days 8 – 10 – Relax in Agia Galini
Travel through the interior of the island to the south coast. The winding roads offer glimpses of sheep herds, and after approximately an hour, you’ll reach Agia Galini. Stay in a resort with family rooms and a swimming pool, providing a panoramic view of the distant sea. Agia Galini, a white village built on a cliff, is adorned with colourful fishing boats, statues of Icarus and Daedalus, and beautiful beaches. Spend the next two days relaxing by the hotel’s pool, playing on the beach or exploring the picturesque village.
Day 11 – Head home
On your last day, savour one more delicious breakfast, soak in the morning sun on the clear sea, and enjoy a final swim. Head back to Chania or Heraklion airport for your international flight home. If you have an early morning flight, we’ll arrange an overnight stay 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.
Accommodation
