BIG BLUE WEST SOUTH CRETE TOUR – 8 DAYS B&B (from 4)

Crete: A Land of Timelessness

Discover the history of Crete, its mythologies, and its exceptionally well-preserved sites, nestled between mountains and sea where nothing has changed since the beginning of time, with the Crete Grand Bleu tour (Southwest).

Soleil de Crête Voyages offers the Crete Grand Bleu tour to discover the Crete of the Gods, ancient sites, legends, and myths, but also a land where nature remains untouched, in its purity and original beauty, both pastoral and maritime.

The Crete Grand Bleu trip is organized over two weeks: the Northwest tour and the Southwest tour, which can be taken consecutively or separately.

You can choose either the SELF-GUIDED option with a road book provided, or the GUIDED option, with a local French-speaking guide for customized excursions (full or half day).

The guide also knows the best restaurants and dishes and how to order them. They will share with you the Cretan way of life. They can tell you about Greek myths and legends and introduce you to the arts of the ancient civilization.

An opportunity for genuine encounters with the country and its people, a moment of sincere friendship.

ACCOMMODATION

In small 3-star hotels near Chania (to be customized according to the season).

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1

ARRIVAL IN CHANA

Arrival at the airport and pick-up of the rental car.

Check-in at your hotel in Chania

Stroll and dinner at the port

Overnight in Chania

DAY 2

Free time or guided tours: Explore the old city of Chania on foot, including its port, Venetian arsenals, and imposing lighthouse. Wander through its picturesque alleyways. Visit the Archaeological, Byzantine, and Maritime Museums. Enjoy an evening in a lively taverna under the shade of jasmine and orange trees.

Recommended guided tours: We recommend hiring a guide for your visit to Chania and its contemporary art galleries. You can also opt for a Greek philosophy course if you’re interested!

Departure for the southwest of the Chania region.

Overnight in Paleochora

DAY 3

BOAT TRIP AND EASY ACCESS TO THE SAMARIA GORGE

Along your route, you’ll find the ancient city of Tara, which once housed a temple of Apollo, some remains of which still exist.

You’ll also discover a Turkish fortress overlooking the village, built between 1866 and 1869 on the site of a former Venetian wall, of which an old church still stands.

Easy access to the Samaria Gorge for a short hike to the abandoned village of Samaria (a very impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site, the deepest in Europe).

Overnight in Agia Roumeli

DAY 4

BOAT TRIP AND ACCESS TO THE SMALL FISHING PORT OF ANCIENT PHOENIX

Discover a wild and deserted coastline by boat, where mountain water rushes down into the gorge. The water is crystal clear; it’s the Libyan Sea. The air is hot; it’s the Sirocco wind blowing in from the desert.

You’ll arrive by boat in the small port of Loutro, accessible only by boat (ancient Phoenix). No roads or cars, just absolute tranquility.

Meals and swimming. Beautiful tavernas and a warm welcome.

Overnight in Loutro.

DAY 5

BOAT TRIP TO THE LANDS OF THE HIGH RESISTANCE AND VENETIAN CASTLE

SFAKIA, also known as Hora Sfakion, is a village famous for its struggles against occupiers, particularly the Turks and Germans.

A Venetian castle dating from 1371 will stand on your route.

Night in Sfakia

DAY 6

END OF THE WORLD CIRCUIT: FORGOTTEN MINOAN AND VENETIAN SITES

Discover remote villages built on the sites of Minoan, then Venetian (1204-1669), and later, during the early years of the Ottoman Empire (1645-1898).

Some are perched on magnificent plateaus at altitudes of over 700 meters.

Return to Chania

DAY 7

CHANIA CITY

Last day in Chania before departure. Time to shop for local products and souvenirs, and explore the many trendy fashion boutiques and lively bars with their stylish and sophisticated decor.

Dinner in Chania

DAY 8

DEPARTURE

Departure for the airport and return of the rental car.

THIS PRICE INCLUDES:

3-star accommodation with breakfast (4-star hotel option + €250 per person).

Category A rental car at the airport with basic insurance included (full insurance option + €8 per day).

The CRETE GRAND BLEU road book, featuring a circuit in the southwest of the Chania region, the most beautiful ancient sites, the most beautiful beaches and natural sites, and a guide to good restaurants and tavernas along the way.

A 5% discount on the second consecutive week of the discovery tour (15 days total).

IMPORTANT: This price does not apply during peak season (July, August, September) or requires a 20% surcharge. This price is applicable for groups of 4 or more adults (over 12 years old). If only 2 adults add 25% of the price.

THIS PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

Round-trip flights from France to Crete

Lunch and dinner at the tavernas along the tour route.

Boat tickets between Sougia, Agia Roumeli, Loutro, and Hora Sfakion

Tour guide (upon request)

PS: Those arriving at Heraklion Airport can visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Palace of Knossos, and the Palace of Phaistos near Rethymno.

Additional information

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