Embark on an adventure that takes you deep into the mountainous landscapes surrounding Platanias. This guided half-day tour promises stunning vistas, culture, and a delightful snack break. Discover the charming Meskla village, admire the breathtaking Sarakina Gorge, and explore the historic Therisso town. With a maximum of 6 participants, this intimate experience offers a chance to connect with the region’s natural and cultural wonders. What secrets will these mountain paths unveil? The journey awaits those ready to step off the beaten path and uncover the hidden gems of this captivating corner of Crete.
Good To Know
- Enjoy a 4-hour guided mountain tour from Platanias, with a scenic drive through Orange Valley, Meskla, and Zourva, and a 40-minute snack break in Zourva.
- Visit Sarakina Gorge, Therisso village, and Therisso gorge, with opportunities to explore the villages, take photos, and learn about local culture.
- Transportation provided in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, with hotel pickup and drop-off at select Platanias locations.
- Tour available in English and Finnish, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights throughout the journey.
- Flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Activity Overview
The Guided Mountain Half Day Trip from Platanias offers a 4-hour exploration of the area’s natural wonders.
The tour is priced from $72.27 per person and is limited to a small group of up to 6 participants. It’s available in English and Finnish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can also choose the reserve now and pay later option.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a knowledgeable guide. Participants will enjoy a scenic drive, visit the Sarakina Gorge, take a snack break in Zourva, and explore Therisso village.
The trip operates in most weather conditions, and travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, and water.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Platanias.
Itinerary Highlights
The Guided Mountain Half Day Trip whisks participants on a scenic drive through the Orange Valley, Meskla village, and winding roads to Zourva.
Along the way, guests:
-
Stop for 20 minutes at the Sarakina Gorge to marvel at the impressive rock walls.
-
Enjoy a 40-minute snack break in Zourva, savoring local treats while taking in the breathtaking views.
-
Explore the charming Therisso village for 30 minutes, capturing photos at the scenic viewpoints.
The return journey follows the Therisso gorge, providing more opportunities to admire the vertical cliffs and stunning landscapes.
Included Features
As part of the Guided Mountain Half Day Trip, travelers enjoy a host of included features to enhance their experience.
First, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at select Platanias locations, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.
Next, air-conditioned minivan transportation provides a comfortable ride through the scenic mountain landscape. A knowledgeable tour guide leads the small group, sharing insights along the way.
Liability insurance offers peace of mind, while a Cretan snack fuels explorers during their stops.
For those staying outside Platanias, an optional pickup from the Chania Area is available for an additional fee.
Important Information
Travelers will need to bring a few essential items for the Guided Mountain Half Day Trip, including comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
The activity operates in most weather conditions, so visitors should be prepared for varying temperatures and elements. While the tour includes a snack, it’s recommended to bring additional water to stay hydrated throughout the adventure.
Plus, guests should be aware that:
- The tour starts at select locations in Platanias, with an optional pickup from the Chania area for an additional fee.
- Check availability for specific starting times, as the tour operates on a schedule.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
Traveler Reviews
Glowing reviews from past participants paint a picture of the Guided Mountain Half Day Trip as a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 4 reviews, travelers highlight the stunning landscapes, friendly and knowledgeable guide, and delightful Cretan snacks.
One reviewer raved about the "beautiful villages and gorges," while another praised the "friendly and informative guide."
Participants consistently recommend the tour, describing it as a highlight of their visit.
The combination of scenic drives, breathtaking viewpoints, and culture make this half-day adventure a must for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Crete’s mountain landscapes.
Pickup and Transportation
The tour provides convenient pickup and transportation for participants. Guests can choose to be picked up at select locations in Platanias, ensuring a hassle-free start to the adventure.
The tour utilizes an air-conditioned minivan, providing a comfortable ride through the scenic countryside. Additionally:
- The knowledgeable tour guide accompanies participants throughout the journey, sharing insights and information along the way.
- Pickup from the Chania area is available for an additional fee, catering to a wider range of travelers.
- The transportation is included in the tour price, allowing participants to relax and enjoy the experience without additional costs.
Scenic Drives and Stops
The guided mountain half-day trip takes participants on a scenic drive through the picturesque Orange Valley, Meskla village, and winding roads leading to the Zourva area.
Along the way, the group stops for 20 minutes at the Sarakina Gorge to admire the impressive rock walls.
The tour then continues to Zourva, where travelers enjoy a 40-minute snack break with local treats and stunning views.
Next, the group explores Therisso village, with photo stops for 30 minutes.
The return journey follows the Therisso gorge, allowing participants to take in the dramatic vertical cliffs.
Therisso Village Exploration
After the group enjoys a refreshing snack break in Zourva, they proceed to explore the charming Therisso village.
The guide leads the way through the picturesque streets, sharing insights into the village’s history and culture.
Visitors can:
- Admire the traditional Cretan architecture, with its stone buildings and narrow alleyways
- Capture stunning photos of the surrounding mountains and gorge
- Interact with friendly locals and learn about their daily lives
The 30-minute visit allows travelers to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Therisso before embarking on the return drive along the Therisso gorge, offering breathtaking views of the vertical cliffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Trip?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks on the trip. The activity information states that a Cretan snack is provided, but it doesn’t prohibit bringing additional snacks if desired.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
While the guided mountain trip is a half-day experience, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The itinerary and inclusions are fixed as described, though travelers could explore the area further on their own after the tour.
Do I Need to Purchase Any Permits or Tickets?
No, the tour package includes all necessary permits and tickets. Travelers just need to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to fully enjoy the guided mountain exploration and scenic stops along the way.
Are There Any Physical Fitness Requirements for This Activity?
There are no specific physical fitness requirements for this activity. However, participants should be able to walk on uneven terrain for up to an hour. Comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of mobility are recommended.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?
Yes, customers can request a private tour instead of a small group. The tour operator offers private tours at an additional cost, allowing for a more personalized experience tailored to the customer’s preferences.
The Sum Up
Embark on an unforgettable mountain adventure from Platanias. Discover the stunning landscapes of Orange Valley and Meskla village, explore the breathtaking Sarakina Gorge, and indulge in local treats in Zourva. Then, explore the rich history and culture of Therisso village. This intimate 4-hour tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the natural beauty and heritage of the region.
You can check availability for your dates here: