Hidden South Crete Adventure

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

7h 30m

Group size

1-14 tourists,
over 1 y.o.

Embark on a journey into Southern Crete’s authentic landscapes and heritage. Discover an experience shaped by natural scenery and centuries of history across the island’s inland routes.

The route leads south across the Messara Plain to the Odigitria Monastery, where you step into a fortified monastic complex and explore its historic tower, connecting with the island’s spiritual heritage. Continue to Grammeni Fortress and walk up to the hilltop viewpoint to enjoy sweeping 360-degree views from Psiloritis to the Libyan Sea. Unwind by the natural springs, stroll along the water of Zaros Lake, and optionally enjoy a traditional local lunch in a peaceful setting. In Gergeri village, experience local life at a traditional kafenio and discover the Roman-era springs still flowing today.

Travel is carried out in a comfortable premium vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver, ensuring a smooth and informative journey. The experience follows a relaxed pace with scenic drives, short walks, and cultural stops, offering a balanced blend of history, nature, and local atmosphere in a semi-private setting.

Semi-Private Tour: €135 per person

Private Tour Rates:

2 Guests: €490 total

3 Guests: €580 total

4–7 Guests: €175 per person

8–11 Guests: €115 per person

Rallou P. is the provider of this trip

The provider speaks: English

Hi, I was born and raised in Heraklion, Crete, and like many generations of Greeks before me, grew to love the great history and culture of my country. My father has been involved in tourism for the past 40 years, and he has shared his passion for providing wonderful travel adventures in Greece – with me! This has inspired me to study tourism myself. My experiences and knowledge, combined with my love of my country and the desire to share it with others, have led me to follow in my father's footsteps.

View Rallou`s tours

Tour highlights

Zaros Lake Relaxation

Unwind by natural springs, stroll around the lake, and optionally enjoy a traditional local lunch setting

Odigitria Monastery Exploration

Step inside a fortified 14th-century monastery and connect with its historic tower and spiritual heritage

Traditional Cretan Cuisine

Optional lakeside lunch featuring fresh trout or “Antikristo” lamb served under the shade of plane trees

Route details

09:30 Departure from Heraklion
The journey begins as you leave the city and head south across the Messara Plain, passing into the rural landscapes of Crete.

10:45 Odigitria Monastery
Arrival at a historic fortified monastic complex with the Tower of Xopateras, reflecting centuries of local religious and cultural heritage.

12:15 Grammeni Fortress
Continue with a short drive and walk to a hilltop fortress in Magarikari, offering wide panoramic views over Psiloritis and the Libyan Sea.

13:45 Zaros Lake
Time at Votomos Lake, with the option to enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch by the water or walk around the natural surroundings.

15:30 Gergeri Village
Stop in a traditional village to visit a local kafenio for Greek coffee and experience the historic Roman-era springs still active in the area.

16:30 Return Journey
Drive back through the countryside, passing vineyards and olive groves across inland Crete.

17:15 Arrival in Heraklion
Drop-off at the Archaeological Museum or your hotel, marking the end of the tour.

Difficulty

Easy

Minimal physical activity. Suitable for everyone regardless of fitness and age

Conditions

Included

Luxury Transportation: Air-conditioned premium vehicle adapted to group size
English-Speaking Driver & Local Host
Round-Trip Transportation from the Meeting Point
Chilled Bottled Water
All Taxes & Local Fees (24% VAT)

Extras

Traditional Lunch: Optional authentic Cretan lunch at Zaros Lake (+€25 per person)
Entrance Fees: Monastery and site entrance fees
Personal Expenses: Extra drinks, souvenirs, and shopping
Gratuities (Optional)
Anything Not Mentioned Above