Full day tour to Arkadi-Margarites-Melidoni Cave-Axos

Introduction

This full-day tour exploring the mountains of Rethymon offers an authentic taste of Crete’s rural charm and historic sites. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews paint a vivid picture of what to expect — and it definitely sounds like a rewarding experience for those wanting more than just beaches and tourist hotspots.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit historical landmarks like Arkadi Monastery—a symbol of resistance—and to see how traditional crafts like pottery are still alive in Margarites. Plus, the experience of tasting fresh cheese in Axos captures that genuine local vibe. One potential drawback is the cost of entrance fees, which are not included, so budget accordingly.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, craftsmanship, scenic drives, and authentic villages. If you’re after a deeper connection with Crete’s rural side, this journey offers rich opportunities to learn, observe, and participate.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete experience: Combines history, traditional crafts, and local foods.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicle and pickup service for convenience.
• Flexible itinerary: Includes stops for sightseeing, tastings, and hands-on activities.
• Cost considerations: Entrance fees are not included, so plan for additional expenses.
• Small group feel: Up to 50 travelers, with insights from knowledgeable guides.
• Value for money: At around $48, it offers a comprehensive day out with multiple highlights.

The Itinerary in Detail

Visiting Arkadi Monastery – A Symbol of Resistance

Starting the day with a visit to Arkadi Monastery sets a meaningful tone. This historic site played a pivotal role in Crete’s resistance during Ottoman rule, symbolizing Greek resilience. The monastery’s architecture combines medieval and Venetian influences, nestled within a peaceful landscape.

Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the history and taking photos of the fortress-like walls and lush surroundings. While admission fees are not included, many travelers find the experience worthwhile for its cultural significance. One review highlights how the guide’s knowledge brought the site to life, adding depth to the visit.

Scenic Drive and the View at Archea Eleftherna

Next, the tour takes a short drive to Archaeological Site of Eleftherna, or rather, a scenic overlook where you’ll pause for about 15 minutes. Here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the countryside — a chance to breathe in the rural beauty of Crete. It’s a quick stop, but it offers a moment of tranquility amidst the busy day.

Crafting in Margarites – Pottery and Tradition

The village of Margarites is a highlight for many. Known for its centuries-old pottery tradition, it’s a place where you can see artisans at work and even try creating your own ceramic piece. This hands-on activity lasts about an hour and a half.

Several reviews mention how the pottery artisans shared their craft with enthusiasm—adding a personal touch to your Crete experience. While the pottery shop’s admission is free, engaging in pottery might come with optional costs if you purchase souvenirs. Travelers are often enchanted by the artistry and the opportunity to take home a handcrafted memento.

Exploring Melidoni Cave – Nature and History Collide

Next up is Melidoni Cave, also called Gerodospilios, a fascinating natural formation at about 220 meters altitude. This 220-meter-long cave features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, but it’s also historically significant as a site of worship and resistance.

While entrance fees are not included, the cave’s size and stalactite formations make it a captivating stop. Visitors often find the mixture of natural beauty and historical stories compelling. Expect a one-hour visit, with a guide explaining its significance as a sacred and historic site.

Axos Village – A Taste of Local Life

The final stop before returning to Rethymon is Axos, a small village famous for its cheese production. Here, you’ll get a chance to participate in the cheese-making process, witnessing firsthand how local cheeses are crafted using traditional methods.

A highlight noted in reviews is the delicious food and local wine, which make the two-hour stop particularly memorable. The tour includes a tasting of fresh cheese and homemade snacks, providing a delicious and authentic end to the day. The friendly local atmosphere adds to the charm, making this a favorite for many travelers.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Comfort

The tour offers air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the approximately 9-hour journey. Pickup from your hotel in Rethymon is included, simplifying logistics and saving you time. With a group size capped at 50 travelers, it strikes a good balance between social atmosphere and personal space.

Cost and Value

At $47.89 per person, this tour provides access to several major sites and activities, though with the caveat that entrance fees are not included. When considering the cost, the value lies in the convenience of a guided day, transportation, and the chance to explore multiple sites without the hassle of planning separately. If you’re interested in crafts, history, and local culture, the included experiences and stops make this a reasonable spend.

Booking and Cancellation

Most travelers book around 12 days in advance, which suggests good availability if you plan ahead. The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours before, adding flexibility and peace of mind if your plans change.

Tour Reviews and Insights

While the overall rating hovers around 3.3 to 3.5 out of 5, the reviews reveal specific strengths: a knowledgeable guide and engaging activities like pottery demonstrations and cheese tasting. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s expertise, saying, “Such a knowledgeable tour guide. Truly covered some of the best of Crete history and traditional gems.”

Some travelers also mentioned how enjoyable the food and wine in Axos were, highlighting the tour’s local flavor. The mixed reviews suggest that the experience depends on expectations—those looking for a deeper cultural connection will likely find it rewarding, especially with the hands-on activities and storytelling.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and authentic village life. It’s ideal if you want a well-rounded day that combines scenic drives with meaningful stops, rather than just sightseeing from afar.

It’s a good choice for those comfortable with a full day on the move, and who are happy to pay a bit extra for entrance fees and personal souvenirs. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you won’t feel lost in the crowd, making it suitable for curious travelers eager to learn and participate.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour to Arkadi, Margarites, Melidoni Cave, and Axos offers a meaningful way to explore crete’s mountainous interior beyond its beaches. It combines cultural highlights like Arkadi Monastery and pottery with natural wonders and local food experiences, giving you a well-rounded taste of rural Crete.

While the cost excludes entrance fees, the convenience and variety of experiences make it a worthwhile option for those wanting a comprehensive day out. Expect engaging stories, hands-on activities, scenic views, and delicious local flavors — all delivered with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and a friendly guide.

For travelers who love history, traditional crafts, and authentic rural life, this tour provides a genuine window into Crete’s soul. It’s a good pick for curious explorers ready to see a different side of the island—one that’s full of stories, artistry, and warm local hospitality.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Rethymon, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time and stops.

What’s the cost per person?
The tour is priced at about $47.89 per person, but entrance fees are not included, so budget for those separately.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, receiving a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s especially good for those interested in history, crafts, and scenic drives.

How many people typically book this tour?
It has a maximum group size of 50 travelers, balancing intimacy and social atmosphere.

Will I see local artisans?
Yes, especially in Margarites, where pottery demonstrations and hands-on creation are part of the experience.

Are there food or drink tastings?
Yes, in Axos, you’ll enjoy local cheese and possibly wine, making it a delicious part of the day.

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a pleasant journey through the mountains.

What are the main highlights?
Arkadi Monastery, pottery in Margarites, Melidoni Cave, and cheese tasting in Axos are the key attractions.

This tour packs a lot into a single day, making it a worthwhile choice for those eager to experience the authentic, rural side of Crete with plenty of stories and flavors to take home.