From Rethymno: Arkadi, Melidoni, and MargaritesTourEXCLUSIVE

The ‘From Rethymno: Arkadi, Melidoni, and Margarites TourEXCLUSIVE‘ offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Crete. Embarking on this 10-hour journey, visitors will discover the iconic Arkadi Monastery, explore the captivating Melidoni Cave, and witness the intricate pottery craftsmanship in the charming village of Margarites. With personalized attention from knowledgeable guides and a comfortable transportation experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that’ll leave you with a deeper appreciation for Crete’s remarkable past and present.

Key Points

• This 10-hour tour from Rethymno explores the historic Arkadi Monastery, the Melidoni Cave, and the pottery village of Margarites.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, knowledgeable local guides, all entrance fees, a hearty lunch, and refreshments.
• Participants can learn about Cretan history, culture, and craftsmanship, and have the opportunity to purchase traditional pottery.
• The tour has an intimate group size of approximately 17 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 138 evaluations, the tour offers exceptional value for money and positive customer feedback.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Rethymno tour explores the historic Arkadi Monastery, the captivating Melidoni Cave, and the charming pottery village of Margarites over a 10-hour journey.

Priced from €88 per person, the tour is available in English and German. Pickup is included from designated locations in the Rethymno area.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. The tour also offers a reserve now, pay later option.

With a group size of around 17 participants, the tour provides an intimate and engaging experience, according to reviews.

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun hats are recommended for the activities.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour explores the historic Arkadi Monastery, the captivating Melidoni Cave, and the charming pottery village of Margarites throughout its 10-hour journey.

Visitors will learn about the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, a significant site in Cretan history.

The tour then leads to the Melidoni Cave, which boasts Neolithic artifacts and a poignant past.

Guests will also discover Margarites, renowned for its traditional pottery workshops, where they can observe skilled artisans at work.

Along the way, the group will stop at an old olive oil factory in Apostoli village and enjoy a lunch with live Cretan music at a family-run tavern.

The tour also includes a visit to the scenic St. Antonios Gorge and the Fragma Potamon dam.

Inclusions

This tour includes air-conditioned bus transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable local guide, and all entrance fees.

It also covers the cost of a hearty lunch and refreshing drinks at a family-run tavern featuring live Cretan music.

Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the rich cultural experiences without having to worry about logistics or extra expenses.

The tour provides a seamless and enjoyable way to explore the historic landmarks, picturesque villages, and natural wonders of the Rethymno region.

Whether you’re interested in pottery, cave formations, or traditional Greek cuisine, this comprehensive package has it all covered.

Participant Information

For this tour, participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun hats to ensure a pleasant and safe experience.

Pets, oversized luggage, and smoking aren’t allowed.

Plus, an extra charge of €18 applies for pickups from the Georgioupolis and Kavros areas.

The tour is designed to immerse visitors in the cultural and historical richness of the region, with a group size of approximately 17 participants, providing an engaging and comfortable atmosphere.

Travelers can expect a well-organized and informative tour, led by knowledgeable local guides who offer valuable insights into the destinations visited.

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Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews have praised the Rethymno tour, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 138 evaluations.

Reviewers have highlighted the tour guides’ exceptional knowledge and local insights, providing a rich cultural experience.

Participants appreciated the diverse itinerary, from the historic Arkadi Monastery to the charming pottery village of Margarites.

The group size of around 17 people was noted as ideal, fostering engagement and comfort throughout the day.

Customers also commended the tour’s value for money, with the included transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and refreshments exceeding expectations.

Discover Margarites Village

Margarites village, known for its rich pottery tradition, offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s centuries-old ceramic artistry.

The quaint village is home to numerous pottery workshops, where skilled artisans craft intricate terracotta pieces using techniques passed down through generations. Visitors can watch the potters at work, learn about the history and process of pottery making, and even try their hand at the potter’s wheel.

The village’s charming streets are dotted with shops selling a wide range of pottery products, from functional tableware to decorative art pieces.

Exploring Margarites is a highlight of the tour, providing a unique cultural experience and the opportunity to bring home a piece of Cretan craftsmanship.

Explore Melidoni Cave

Next, the tour explores Melidoni Cave, a site rich in Neolithic history. Visitors can descend into the cavernous chamber, marveling at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia.

The cave played a significant role in the island’s past, serving as a refuge during ancient conflicts. Guests learn about the cave’s dark history – in 1824, over 370 locals were killed by Ottoman forces who set the cave entrance ablaze. Today, the cave is a poignant reminder of Crete’s tumultuous past.

Stepping back in time, travelers can envision the Neolithic people who once inhabited this sacred space, leaving behind their tools and artifacts. This captivating stop offers a glimpse into the island’s remarkable heritage.

Tour Arkadi Monastery

After exploring the Melidoni Cave‘s rich history, the tour continues on to the iconic Arkadi Monastery, one of the oldest on the island dating back to the 16th century.

Visitors will be captivated by the monastery’s impressive architecture, featuring a stunning Renaissance facade and a charming inner courtyard.

The guide will provide insights into the site’s significance, recounting its pivotal role in the Cretan Revolution against Ottoman rule in the 19th century.

Guests can wander through the intricate Byzantine-style church, admire the exquisite frescoes, and learn about the monastery’s important religious and cultural legacy.

This stop offers a deep dive into Crete’s storied past, leaving participants with a profound appreciation for the island’s heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary doesn’t appear to be customizable. The overview indicates it’s a set tour with a predetermined schedule. Customers can’t modify the stops or activities. However, the tour does provide a range of cultural experiences for participants.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Cave Visit?

For the cave visit, comfortable shoes and proper lighting are recommended. The tour provides a local guide who can provide any necessary equipment and guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the Melidoni Cave.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour has a set 10-hour duration and does not offer an option to extend it. However, travelers can inquire about adding extra activities or customizing the itinerary for an additional fee when booking the tour.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted for Exploring the Villages?

The tour provides ample free time for exploring the villages. Approximately 1-2 hours is allotted at each stop, allowing visitors to wander, shop, and enjoy the local culture and traditions at their own pace.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for This Tour?

There are no age or fitness requirements for this tour. It’s suitable for most participants, though the tour involves some walking. Comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour operator does not specify any age or fitness restrictions.

Recap

This comprehensive tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Crete’s rich history and cultural heritage.

From the iconic Arkadi Monastery to the captivating Melidoni Cave and the charming Margarites Village, you will embark on an enriching 10-hour journey that promises an unforgettable experience.

With comfortable transportation, a hearty lunch, and knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers exceptional value for an immersive exploration of Crete’s most captivating attractions.

You can check if your dates are available here: