Private Tour to Cretan Villages of Apokoronas and Prophet Ilias

Craving an immersive cultural experience on the enchanting island of Crete? Look no further than the private tour to the traditional villages of Apokoronas and Prophet Ilias. This exclusive journey promises to whisk you away from the beaten path, where you’ll uncover the authentic charm of shepherd’s huts and savor local delicacies. With premium off-road vehicles and complimentary hotel transfers, you’ll embark on an unforgettable adventure, exploring Crete’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes. But the best part? There’s more to discover beyond the tour’s itinerary, leaving you intrigued and eager to delve deeper into this captivating corner of the world.

Key Points

• This private tour showcases the traditional Cretan villages of Apokoronas and Prophet Ilias, providing an immersive cultural experience.
• Premium off-road vehicles accommodate up to 9 passengers, ensuring comfortable travel through scenic landscapes.
• The tour includes a visit to an authentic shepherd’s hut (Mitato) for sampling local treats, offering insight into Cretan rural life.
• Complimentary services like hotel pick-up/drop-off, liability insurance, and lunch enhance the overall convenience and value of the experience.
• The tour is not recommended for individuals with car sickness, mobility issues, or those above the specified height and weight limits.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a captivating glimpse into the traditional Cretan villages of Apokoronas and Prophet Ilias.

Guests will be transported in premium off-road vehicles, seating 7 or 9 passengers, and driven by multilingual escort-drivers.

The highlights include a visit to an authentic shepherd’s hut, known as a "Mitato", where visitors can savor local treats and refreshments like coffee, tea, or juice.

Complementing the culture, the tour provides liability insurance, local taxes, and a complimentary lunch.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are available, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for travelers exploring these charming Cretan enclaves.

Inclusions

The tour includes a free hotel pick-up and drop-off service, ensuring a seamless experience for travelers. Plus, the cost of liability insurance, local taxes, and lunch during the tour are all included in the package. To provide a rundown, here’s a table outlining the inclusions:

Inclusion	Details
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off	Free service
Liability Insurance	Covered
Local Taxes	Included
Lunch	Provided during the tour
Gratuities	Covered

This all-inclusive approach allows guests to focus on enjoying the tour without worrying about additional expenses.

Pickup Information

Typically, the tour pickup time is scheduled between 8:30 and 9:00 am, though alternative times can be accommodated upon request.

The tour provides free hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it convenient for participants. To arrange the pickup, visitors need to provide their accommodation details when booking the tour. If direct pickup from the accommodation isn’t possible, a nearby meeting point will be suggested instead.

The key pickup information includes:

1. Scheduled pickup time: 8:30 – 9:00 am
2. Provide accommodation details when booking
3. Pickup from accessible accommodations or nearby meeting point

Participant Guidelines

This private tour to Cretan villages isn’t wheelchair accessible and is located near public transportation.

The tour isn’t recommended for individuals prone to car sickness, mobility issues, or back problems. Pregnant women and children under 7 years old are also discouraged from participating, as no baby seats are provided.

Plus, those taller than 195 cm or heavier than 130 kg may find the trip challenging. Alcohol consumption is prohibited for minors under 18.

Participants should consider these guidelines carefully before booking this tour to ensure a comfortable and safe experience exploring the villages of Apokoronas and Prophet Ilias.

Booking Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this private tour to Cretan villages.

Prices start from $420.26 per group (up to 4 passengers).

There’s a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Plus, a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is available, providing flexibility for travelers.

The tour offers:

1. Confirmation upon booking
2. Flexible cancellation policy
3. Convenient payment options

Exploring Apokoronas

Nestled in the heart of Chania’s Apokoronas region, the private tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of Crete’s rural communities.

Guests will explore traditional shepherd’s huts, known as "mitato," and learn about the ancient practices of pastoral life.

The tour’s premium off-road vehicles, driven by multilingual escort-drivers, provide a comfortable and informative journey through the picturesque countryside.

Along the way, travelers will enjoy local treats and refreshments, savoring the flavors that have sustained these communities for generations.

This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with the authentic essence of Cretan village life, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the region’s enduring traditions.

Visiting Prophet Ilias

Perched atop a picturesque hilltop, the historic Church of Prophet Ilias commands breathtaking views of the surrounding Cretan countryside.

Visitors can expect to:

1. Explore the well-preserved Byzantine architecture and intricate frescoes adorning the church’s interior.
2. Learn about the site’s rich history, dating back to the 13th century, and its significance in the local community.
3. Appreciate the serene ambiance and take in the panoramic vistas overlooking the rolling hills and distant sea.

This captivating stop on the tour offers a glimpse into Crete’s cultural heritage and the enduring traditions that continue to shape the island’s identity.

Authentic Shepherd’s Hut

The tour’s visit to an original shepherd’s hut, known as a "Mitato," offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy Crete’s pastoral heritage. These traditional structures, built from stone and wood, have been used for centuries by shepherds to shelter themselves and their flocks while grazing in the island’s mountainous regions. Visitors can explore the interior of a Mitato, learning about the daily lives and customs of Cretan shepherds. The experience also includes the opportunity to sample local treats, further enhancing the authentic cultural encounter.

Mitato Features
Stone and wood construction	Shelter for shepherds and their flocks
Located in mountainous regions	Centuries-old pastoral tradition
Insight into shepherds’ daily life	Opportunity to sample local treats

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 4 passengers. The private tour uses premium offroad vehicles that can accommodate up to 7 or 9 passengers, but the price is based on a group of up to 4 people.

Do We Have the Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended upon request. The tour operator offers flexible start times and is willing to customize the experience to meet the customers’ needs and preferences.

Can We Make Stops for Local Shopping During the Tour?

Yes, the tour typically includes stops for local shopping. Guests can browse traditional Cretan handicrafts, olive oil, and other local products at select villages along the route, though the exact itinerary is at the discretion of the tour guides.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Requests Accommodated?

Yes, dietary restrictions and special meal requests can be accommodated. The tour operator will work with guests to ensure their dietary needs are met during the included lunch. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Is Photography Permitted Throughout the Tour Experience?

Photography is permitted throughout the tour experience. Guests are encouraged to capture the scenic landscapes, traditional shepherd’s hut, and other highlights along the way to preserve their memories of the journey.

Recap

This exclusive tour of Crete’s charming villages in Apokoronas and Prophet Ilias offers a unique opportunity to take in the island’s rich cultural heritage. Guests will explore authentic shepherd’s huts, savor local treats, and bask in the region’s stunning natural beauty. With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as a delicious lunch included, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the enchanting essence of Crete.