Crete’s premium SUV tour takes travelers on a captivating exploration of the island’s hidden gems. From the historic Milatos Cave to the family-run olive mill in Neapolis, the journey immerses visitors in Crete’s rich cultural heritage. The tour’s highlight is a poignant visit to the former leper colony of Spinalonga, where visitors can explore the site’s somber history and marvel at its well-preserved remnants. As they discover the charming fishing village of Plaka and savor the flavors of locally produced olive oil, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s enduring traditions. But the true allure of this tour lies in the unexpected twists and turns that await those who embark on this remarkable adventure.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Plaka Village.
Key Points
- Explore the hidden gems of Crete, including the captivating Milatos Historic Cave and a family-run olive mill in Neapolis.
- Discover the poignant history of Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony, and gain insights into the resilience of its residents.
- Visit the charming fishing village of Plaka, immerse in traditional Greek culture, and enjoy a boat ride along the azure waters.
- Explore Crete’s spiritual past at the Agios Georgios Monastery Museum, admiring its exquisite icon paintings and liturgical objects.
- Sample a variety of locally produced olive oils, learning about the traditional methods and the importance of olive oil in Cretan culture.
Tour Highlights
The Crete Tour offers travelers a chance to discover the hidden gems of the island, featuring a premium SUV excursion that showcases the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
One highlight is a boat ride to Spinalonga Island, the last leper colony in Europe, where visitors can enjoy history and explore the charming fishing village of Plaka.
The tour also includes a visit to the Agios Georgios Monastery Museum, providing an opportunity to explore the island’s rich heritage.
Plus, travelers can sample local olive oil and other products at a family-run mill in Neapolis, gaining an authentic taste of Crete’s culinary offerings.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Plaka Village.
Discover Hidden Gems
Crete’s premium SUV tour offers travelers a chance to uncover the island’s hidden gems, showcasing its diverse landscapes and cultural treasures beyond the typical tourist trail.
On this journey, visitors will marvel at the Milatos Historic Cave, a captivating natural wonder that tells the story of Crete’s rich history.
The tour also includes a visit to a family-run olive mill, where guests can enjoy the age-old traditions of olive oil production and sample the island’s renowned liquid gold.
With its carefully curated itinerary, the tour provides an authentic and immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore Crete’s off-the-beaten-path gems and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s unique charm.
Visit Spinalonga Island
Beyond exploring Crete’s hidden gems, the tour offers visitors a chance to journey to the captivating island of Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe. Guests will embark on a boat ride to this historic site, where they’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the poignant stories and remnants of the island’s past as a leprosy treatment center.
Visiting Spinalonga provides a profound experience, allowing visitors to:
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Gain a deeper understanding of the island’s somber history and the hardships faced by those who were exiled there.
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Explore the well-preserved remnants of the former leper colony, including abandoned buildings and infrastructure.
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Reflect on the resilience and humanity of the people who lived and endured on this isolated island.
Explore Plaka Fishing Village
Amid the picturesque coastal scenery of Crete, visitors can explore the charming fishing village of Plaka, where traditional Greek life and culture are on vivid display.
Strolling through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter quaint whitewashed houses, local fishermen mending their nets, and seaside tavernas serving up fresh seafood.
Take a boat ride along the sparkling azure waters, and you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the nearby island of Spinalonga.
Back on land, you can browse the local shops for handmade crafts, savor the flavors of authentic Greek cuisine, and soak up the relaxed, laid-back atmosphere that makes Plaka a true highlight of any Crete adventure.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImmerse in History
Visitors can enjoy the rich history of Crete by exploring the Agios Georgios Monastery Museum, which houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts and Byzantine-era relics.
The museum offers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual past, showcasing:
- Rare ecclesiastical vestments and liturgical objects that date back centuries.
- Exquisite icon paintings that embody the region’s deep-rooted Orthodox traditions.
- Historic documents and manuscripts that provide insights into the monastery’s role in Crete’s cultural heritage.
Through this captivating journey, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring influence of faith and tradition in shaping Crete’s identity over the ages.
Sample Local Olive Oil
Sampling local olive oil is a highlight for many visitors to the family-run mill in Neapolis.
Here, they can explore the process of olive oil production and taste the rich, flavorful results of the region’s centuries-old traditions.
The mill offers a unique opportunity to learn about the importance of olive oil in Cretan culture and its role in the local economy.
Visitors can observe the traditional methods used to extract the oil, from harvesting the olives to pressing them and bottling the final product.
They’ll also have the chance to sample a variety of olive oils, each with its own distinct aroma and taste profile, and learn about the subtle nuances that distinguish the different varieties.
Tour Details and Inclusions
Spanning 7.5 hours, the Crete tour takes participants on a premium SUV journey to uncover the island’s hidden gems.
Offering live English-language guidance, the small-group experience is limited to 6 attendees, ensuring personalized attention.
The tour includes several highlight attractions, such as:
- A boat ride to the last leper colony in Europe on Spinalonga Island
- Exploration of the charming fishing village of Plaka and a scenic boat excursion
- A visit to the Agios Georgios Monastery Museum to immerse in local history
Along the way, guests will also sample olive oil and other products at a family-run mill in Neapolis.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, free cancellation, and admission fees covered, this comprehensive tour provides an enriching Cretan experience.
Important Information
This tour may not be suitable for certain individuals, as it involves activities that could pose challenges. Pregnant women and those with back problems are advised against participating due to the nature of the tour’s activities.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes to ensure their safety and enjoyment during the various stops, including the Milatos Historic Cave and the Spinalonga Island boat ride. Bringing a camera is recommended to capture the stunning scenery and historical sites.
Sunscreen and water are also essential, as the tour takes place in the beautiful Mediterranean climate. By considering these important details, travelers can ensure they’ve a safe and memorable experience on this comprehensive Crete tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour’s inclusions do not mention bringing one’s own food or drinks. However, the exclusions state that meals and drinks are not included, so participants are likely allowed to bring their own. It’s best to check with the tour provider for their specific policies.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour is available in English only. While other language options are not mentioned, it’s best to check with the tour provider if you require a tour guide who speaks a language other than English.
How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Stop During the Tour?
The tour allots specific time frames for each stop, allowing guests to explore thoroughly. Visitors typically have 1-2 hours at key sites like Spinalonga Island and the olive mill. The schedule provides a balanced experience across the tour’s highlights.
Can I Make Any Changes to the Itinerary During the Tour?
Travelers can typically request minor changes to the tour itinerary, subject to the tour provider’s approval and availability. However, major changes may not be possible during the tour. It’s best to discuss any desired itinerary adjustments with the tour guide beforehand.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour to Operate?
The tour has a small group size limit of 6 participants. There is no minimum number of participants required for the tour to operate. The small group size ensures a more personalized and intimate experience for the travelers.
Recap
Crete’s premium SUV tour offers a captivating exploration of the island’s hidden gems, from the historic Milatos Cave to the family-run olive mill in Neapolis.
Visitors can enjoy Spinalonga’s somber history, discover the charming fishing village of Plaka, and savor the flavors of locally produced olive oil, gaining a deeper appreciation for Crete’s enduring traditions.
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