A Taste of Crete
Itinerary
Days 1-4 – Golden Chania
As you arrive into Chania you will feel something special. The influence of the Venetian, Ottoman and Egyptian periods are everywhere – brightly colored mansions, Turkish minarets and the picturesque harbor. Within the old city walls you walk under arches through a maze of cozy narrow streets and alleys eventually arriving at The Giali Tzamisi Mosque. Check into your hotel and drop your bags off. There’s a gorgeous pool if you fancy a refreshing dip before you head out to explore.
Prepare to lose yourself in the labyrinthine charm of Chania’s winding streets, as you stroll into the old town filled with colourful shops selling locally crafted goods. After a walk through the colourful market hall, grab yourself a frappé (Greek iced coffee) in one of the cafes on the boulevard and enjoy the view of the city’s iconic Egyptian lighthouse at the harbour. If you’d like to explore the area beyond the city walls, venture into the picturesque landscapes of Kolymbari, where endless olive groves and lemon plantations blanket the rolling hills. The olive oil that comes from here is known throughout Europe and we’d recommend tasting it if you have a chance.
Days 4-6 – Hiking the Imbros Gorge
You’ll have already picked up your hire car at Chania airport on arrival, so you’re ready and set for the open road! After your stay you’ll drive from Chania to Chora Sfakion. The driving time is approx. 1.5 hours, but you may wish to make stops along the way. Today you will travel over mountains and along gorges, spotting the Lefka Ori mountains in the distance. The scent of pines and tamarisk will let you know you have arrived in Chora Sfakion. This is the perfect base for a few active days and you will sleep in a small hotel with a balcony and sea view that is walking distance to the two main streets, taverns and the beach. Take the evening to relax and build up some energy for your active day tomorrow!
After a hearty breakfast this morning, you’ll put on your hiking boots and head to the Imbros Gorge. It’s less known than its bigger sister, Samaria, so it is quieter and allows you to go at your own pace. We’ll arrange a taxi to take you to the entrance of the gorge, then equipped with a hiking map and a picnic lunch you will hike through the five-mile canyon. At the exit of the gorge you can freshen up in one of the small taverns before embarking on the more relaxing 5kms back to Chora Sfakion.
Days 6-9 – Positive vibes at Agia Galini
Today you’ll drive from Chora Sfakion to Agia Galini. The journey time is approx. 2 hours. Arrive in the small fishing village of Agia Galini, ready to relax for a few days. Spend your mornings deciding how to spend your day over a delicious breakfast at your boutique hotel. After checking in today you can walk straight onto the beach or head to the small streets of the village walking up the hill finding a table at one of the local restaurants tasting the fresh produce of the day.
The next few days are free for you to do as you please. You could take a trip to nearby Matala. In the 1960s, this seaside resort was popular with hippies drawn here by the chalk cliffs with deep caves that surround the beach. Using these caves as a place to sleep many called this beach home. The old centre of the village is still car-free so it’s nice and quiet with souvenir shops, cosy bars and a wide choice of restaurants. It’s also worth the drive to Preveli Beach, one of the two remaining primeval palm forests that you will find on Crete. Walk through the palm grove over rocks and along a river that flows straight into the sea. About a short drive or walk from the beach are the beautiful ruins of Preveli Monastery, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bay.
Today you’ll drive from Agia Galini to Chania. The journey time is approx. 2 hours. You’ll drop off your hire car at Chania airport and head to the terminal for your flight home.
Accommodation
