Crete, the largest Greek island, boasts a fascinating cultural tapestry that captivates visitors. This tour invites you to explore the island’s rich heritage, from the historic Spinalonga Island to the serene Agios Nikolaos Lake. Along the way, you’ll learn about the local traditions, indulge in the renowned Cretan olive oil, and witness the breathtaking natural beauty that has enchanted travelers for centuries. Prepare to embark on a journey that not only educates but also inspires, as you uncover the essence of Crete’s remarkable past and present.
Good To Know
- Full-day tour covering highlights of Crete, including an olive oil farm, the historic Spinalonga Island, and the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos.
- Tour priced at $534.40 for up to 3 participants, with hotel pickup/drop-off, English-speaking driver, and private air-conditioned van.
- Explore cultural sites like Kritsa village and Panagia Kera Church, along with scenic coastal viewpoints and a boat tour to Spinalonga.
- Spend 1.5 hours exploring the abandoned buildings and panoramic vistas of Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony.
- Final stop at Agios Nikolaos allows for strolling around the lake and enjoying local dining options.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s highlights, the Crete: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Olive Oil Farm Tour provides a full-day experience at a cost of $534.40 for up to 3 participants.
The 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and a private air-conditioned van. Travelers will visit an olive oil farm, the picturesque Kritsa village, Spinalonga Island, and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. With included entrance fees and a licensed guide, this tour provides a seamless and enriching way to discover the natural and cultural gems of Crete.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from Heraklion, followed by a visit to the Vasilakis Olive Oil Farm, where guests can explore the olive oil production process and sample the farm’s renowned products.
Next, visitors will discover the charming Kritsa village and the Panagia Kera Church.
The tour then moves on to scenic viewpoints, including a photo stop at the stunning Mirabello Bay and a visit to the picturesque town of Elounda.
The highlight of the day is the scenic boat tour to the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony, where guests can explore the island’s rich history and captivating views.
The tour concludes with a visit to the beautiful Agios Nikolaos Lake.
Pickup and Initial Stops
After guests are picked up from their accommodation in Heraklion, the tour begins with a visit to the Vasilakis Olive Oil Farm. Here, they’ll learn about the traditional olive oil production process and have the opportunity to sample the farm’s high-quality products.
The next stop is the charming village of Kritsa, where visitors will explore the Panagia Kera Church, known for its well-preserved Byzantine frescoes.
This initial leg of the tour allows guests to enjoy Crete’s rich cultural heritage and savor the island’s natural beauty before moving on to the coastal highlights.
Scenic Views and Coastal Exploration
From the farm and village, the tour continues along the picturesque coastline.
First, there’s a photo stop at Mirabello Bay, offering stunning views of the sparkling azure waters.
The journey then leads to Elounda, where another photo opportunity awaits, capturing the charming seaside town.
The highlight of this leg is the scenic boat tour to Spinalonga Island, which takes around 30 minutes.
This former leper colony is now a fascinating historical site, with its well-preserved fortress and scenic vistas providing a glimpse into the island’s captivating past.
Spinalonga Island Experience
Upon arriving at Spinalonga Island, visitors can explore the former leper colony at their own pace, seeing its captivating history.
The entrance fee is €8 for adults, and the scenic boat tour from Plaka costs €12, departing every 45 minutes.
Visitors can wander through the island’s streets, visiting the abandoned houses, churches, and administrative buildings that served as the colony’s infrastructure.
The panoramic views from the island’s highest points offer a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding Mirabello Bay.
With 1.5 hours allocated for the Spinalonga experience, guests can explore the island’s poignant past and appreciate its natural beauty.
Final Stop and Return
With the Spinalonga Island exploration complete, the tour’s final stop takes visitors to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos.
Travelers will have 1.5 hours to stroll along the shores of the lake, admiring the scenic views and enjoying a lunch option at one of the local restaurants.
After the time in Agios Nikolaos, the tour will return to the starting point in Heraklion.
Throughout the day, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, a private air-conditioned van, entrance fees, and complimentary water.
Guests are advised to bring a hat, camera, and comfortable clothes for the day’s activities.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes several key components to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. It covers hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking professional driver, and a private air-conditioned van.
Plus, the package includes fuel, tolls, taxes, fees, handling charges, complimentary water, and a licensed guide. The entrance fees for the various sites are also covered, providing excellent value for the price.
However, the package doesn’t include personal expenses, tips and gratuities, meals, beverages, or alcohol.
Guests are encouraged to bring appropriate attire, a camera, and water to make the most of the tour.
Important Information
What should visitors bring to make the most of this tour? Be prepared by packing a hat, camera, water, and comfortable clothes. The tour is designed for your comfort and convenience, but some considerations are important. Pets are not allowed, except for assistance dogs. Check in advance if you have any specific accessibility needs. This tour supports sustainable tourism practices and is Climate Neutral Certified, showcasing the operator’s commitment to eco-friendly experiences.
| What to Bring | Not Allowed | Accessibility | Environmental |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hat | Pets | Check in advance | Supports sustainable practices |
| Camera | Climate Neutral Certified | ||
| Water | |||
| Comfortable clothes |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book the Tour for a Different Group Size?
Yes, you can book the tour for a different group size. The tour is priced from $534.40 per group (up to 3 participants), so you can adjust the number of people in your group when making the booking.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour offers accessibility accommodations, but recommends checking in advance for specific needs. The tour provider supports sustainable tourism and is committed to being inclusive, though some areas may have limited accessibility.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options Available?
The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions or options. Travelers should check with the tour provider in advance about any special dietary needs they may have. Meals and beverages are not included in the tour price.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary to fit your interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to modify the stops based on your preferences, ensuring you have an enjoyable and personalized experience.
What Is the Typical Weather Like During the Tour Season?
The tour season in Crete typically features warm, sunny weather. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, with little rainfall. It’s an ideal time to explore the island’s historic sites and natural beauty.
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The Sum Up
This captivating Crete tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the island’s cultural and natural wonders. From the picturesque olive oil farm to the historic Spinalonga Island, and the stunning Agios Nikolaos, it’s an unforgettable day filled with fascinating insights and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience.